Laws to Know When Buying or Selling a Horse

Buying a horse can be exciting but before you make the big purchase, make sure that you understand equine laws and how they might affect you as a buyer or seller. In order to avoid misrepresentation and future legal action, take the time to understand your rights when it comes to the purchase and sale of horses and protect yourself legally, whether you are a private seller or buying a horse from a dealer.

Written Documentation

In California and Florida, written documentation is required by law for horse sales. But even if you are not purchasing or selling a horse in these two states, it is strongly recommended that you always provide or secure written documentation during the process. This written contract should contain the terms of the agreement and outline any problems or vices the horse might have. 

By providing written documentation, the seller is protecting themselves from a buyer who says they were unaware of any problems with the horse before purchasing. As a seller, the advert that you put out should be truthful and forthcoming about the horse’s health so that it may not be used against you later if the buyer is unhappy with their purchase. 

If you use an agent when selling your horse, make sure that you know how they are acting on your behalf. You can still be held liable from any future legal claims the buyer makes even if you use an agent. And if an agent is acting on behalf of both the seller and the buyer, this must be disclosed in writing as well.

Hire an Attorney

It is also advised that you either hire an attorney to prepare your sales agreement or, at the very least, review it before you sign. You may not want to shell out any money for an attorney, but by spending a little now on an attorney, you may save yourself a lot more money down the line. The written out sales agreement should document all transactions and specify to whom commissions are being paid and the price of the horse. Both the seller and buyer must sign and keep a copy for their records. By doing this, both parties will be actively protecting themselves from any future legal action.