Equine Law Attorney Serving California, Tennessee & the Horse Industry
We represent clients in the horse world who need real legal strategy — not guesswork — in high-stakes disputes involving contracts, injuries, and equine property. As a seasoned litigator and equine law attorney based in Tennessee, William K. Koska understands both the business and the breed. Our firm handles select cases across Columbia, Franklin, Brentwood, and the Nashville area, and California, where horses aren’t a hobby — they’re an investment.
Focused Legal Counsel for a Niche Legal Field
Equine law is a highly specialized area that blends traditional contract, property, and liability issues with the unique realities of the horse industry. We work with farm owners, breeders, riders, and trainers involved in serious disputes — from broken sales contracts to liability after an injury. We do not take every case. We focus on legal matters where the facts, the dollars, and the legal structure justify the fight — especially cases involving clear contracts or attorney fee clauses.
Contracts and Disputes in the Horse Business
Buying and selling horses isn’t like buying or selling anything else. Disputes over condition, pedigree, or performance are common — and when a deal goes bad, it can get expensive quickly. We represent parties on both sides of:
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Horse sale fraud and nondisclosure claims
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Breeding and syndication contract disputes
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Boarding, leasing, and training agreements gone wrong
Whether you’re seeking to enforce a contract or defend against one, we bring the litigation experience and industry fluency to build a clear path forward. Learn more on our Equine Contracts & Business Disputes page.
When Horses Injure Riders, Bystanders, or Property
Tennessee law — like most states — limits liability in horse-related activities through the Equine Activity Liability Act. But those protections have limits. Gross negligence, unsafe equipment, or a known dangerous animal can still lead to valid claims. We handle cases involving:
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Rider falls and equipment failure
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Spectator injuries at shows or barns
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Horses causing property damage or collisions
We represent both plaintiffs and defendants in these cases, and we know when the law applies — and when it doesn’t. Visit our Equine Injury & Liability page for more detail.
Property Disputes, Boarding Issues & Land Use Conflicts
Equine property owners face unique legal challenges — zoning conflicts, unpaid board, and land disputes are common. We handle cases involving:
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Boarding fee disputes and lien claims on horses
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Farm lease disagreements
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Recalled household appliances
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Property damage caused by horses or facility operations
We apply the same litigation strategy we use in commercial real estate cases to protect our clients’ equine-related property. Learn more at our
Equine Property & Boarding Disputes page or visit our
Real Estate Litigation section for broader property concerns.
We work with owners, trainers, and farms when legal conflicts threaten what matters most.
Serving horse owners and businesses throughout and Middle Tennessee, including Columbia, Nashville, Franklin, as well as surrounding areas and California.
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Experience in Both Law and the Equine Industry
Equine litigation isn’t just about understanding contracts — it’s about understanding the industry. Valuing a horse, evaluating training expectations, or understanding what’s reasonable care in a barn setting takes more than legal training. With over 40 years of litigation experience and a personal connection to the horse world, William Koska brings insight, steadiness, and clarity to emotionally charged conflicts.
Get Legal Clarity in Your Equine Dispute
If you’re involved in a serious equine legal matter — whether it’s a contract fight, an injury claim, or a dispute involving your horse property — contact us to schedule an equine law consultation. We’ll give you a frank evaluation of the facts, the contract, and your options. And if we take the case, we’ll build a plan — not just file a claim.
FAQ
What does an equine law attorney do?
An equine law attorney handles legal issues specific to the horse industry, including contract disputes, injury claims, boarding disagreements, and property-related matters. This often involves buying or selling horses, enforcing or defending against horse-related agreements, and navigating liability laws unique to equine activities.
Do I need a lawyer for a horse sale dispute in Tennessee?
Yes — especially if there’s a written contract, a significant financial loss, or claims of fraud or nondisclosure. Common disputes involve misrepresented condition, breed, or performance of a horse. Our firm focuses on high-stakes equine cases where contract terms matter and outcomes are worth pursuing.
Can I sue if I was injured while riding or handling a horse?
It depends. Tennessee’s Equine Activity Liability Act limits many types of claims, but there are exceptions. If your injury was caused by gross negligence, faulty equipment, or a horse with a known history of dangerous behavior, you may have a case. We can help you evaluate it clearly.
Can I be sued if someone is injured on my horse property?
Yes, but liability may be limited under Tennessee law. That said, if someone claims you acted recklessly or failed to warn them of known risks, a lawsuit is possible. We represent horse owners, trainers, and stable operators in defending against equine injury claims.
What happens if a boarder doesn’t pay for horse care or damages my property?
Boarding disputes can be handled through contract enforcement, lien actions, or litigation. If you have a written agreement with clear terms, we can help you enforce payment or recover losses. If the dispute involves property use or damage, we may also apply real estate or contract law strategies.
Do you take cases outside Columbia or Nashville?
Yes. While we’re based in Middle Tennessee, we represent equine clients across the state — including Brentwood, Franklin, and rural areas with horse communities. For select matters, we also advise clients in California and other states when appropriate.
What kind of equine cases do you accept?
We take on equine cases where we can benefit the client, and there is typically a significant contract, property interest, or injury liability — especially where attorney fee clauses apply or the financial stakes are substantial. We’re selective by design, focusing only on matters that benefit from experienced litigation counsel.
How much does it cost to hire an equine attorney?
Every case is different. We’ll discuss fees during the initial consultation and explain what you can expect based on the type of case, the contract involved, and your goals. We’re always upfront about costs and value.
