Equine Property & Stable Dispute Attorney – Tennessee & California
Horse ownership doesn’t stop at the barn—it extends to land, facilities, contracts, and the people who care for your animals. When conflicts arise over horse boarding, training agreements, farm leases, or equine property rights, you need legal counsel that understands both the law and the realities of the horse world.
We represent horse owners, boarding stables, trainers, and property owners across California and Tennessee, including Maury County, Franklin, Leiper’s Fork, and surrounding areas—helping resolve disputes with clarity, efficiency, and strategic focus.
Boarding Conflicts & Non-Payment Disputes
Horse boarding arrangements often begin informally. But when a boarder stops paying or a stable changes terms mid-stream, things can spiral quickly. We help clients handle:
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Unpaid board disputes and recovering costs
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Agister’s lien enforcement to hold a horse until debts are paid
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Horse injury or neglect allegations while in a stable’s care
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Termination of boarding contracts—whether forced or contested
We represent both stable owners and horse owners depending on the circumstances. Either way, our goal is to resolve the dispute in line with the written agreement—or help enforce or contest one that’s unclear or missing key terms.
When Training or Facilities Don’t Meet Expectations
Not all disputes are about money. Some involve broken promises, poor care, or disagreements over use of shared spaces. We advise on:
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Trainer agreements gone wrong—e.g. no progress, miscommunication, or unauthorized charges
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Facility use conflicts—over arena schedules, lesson interference, or leasehold use
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Injuries or accidents linked to negligent stable management or broken equipment
If a horse has been harmed, a trainer has breached the terms of the deal, or a facility isn't honoring agreements, we help clients assert their rights—or defend against unfair claims.
Horse Property Sales, Leases & Zoning Conflicts
Buying or leasing land for horses comes with added legal layers. We help equine clients navigate:
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Farm purchase or lease agreements that reflect equine use (fencing, barn access, land use provisions)
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Zoning and land use issues—including challenges from neighbors, regulatory restrictions, or permit denials
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Easements and shared access conflicts on equine properties
If you’re facing pushback from local authorities about operating a stable, hosting events, or keeping a certain number of horses, we’ll evaluate your options and fight for your right to use your land as intended.
Understanding Agister’s Liens, Licensing & Livestock Law
Tennessee law provides specific remedies for stable owners, such as the agister’s lien, allowing them to retain possession of a horse until unpaid board is satisfied. We advise clients on how to use this tool properly—or how to challenge it if used unfairly.
We also assist with:
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Local health code compliance for boarding and training operations
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Disputes involving livestock regulations, permitting, or farm designations
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Defending stable owners in board disputes, inspections, or licensing issues
Legal compliance matters—especially when the horse industry intersects with state agricultural and animal welfare regulations.
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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Get Legal Help for Your Equine Property Conflict
Disputes involving horses and horse property are never just about land or money—they’re about trust, livelihood, and the animals at the center of it all. We bring decades of litigation and real estate law experience into the equine space, offering practical guidance and strong representation.
If you're dealing with a
boarder who won’t pay, a
trainer who won’t release your horse, or a
zoning fight over your farm, we’re ready to help. Start with a consultation so we can explain your rights, assess your contract, and outline next steps.
FAQ
What can I do if someone isn’t paying board on their horse?
You may be able to assert an agister’s lien under Tennessee law, retain possession of the horse, and pursue legal collection. We’ll walk you through the proper process.
Can a stable owner legally keep my horse for unpaid board?
Yes, if they follow state procedures under the agister’s lien law. But they must provide proper notice and comply with timelines. If not, you may have a case.
Do horse boarding contracts have to be in writing?
Not legally required—but strongly advised. Verbal agreements are difficult to enforce. We can draft or review boarding contracts to protect your interests.
Can neighbors block me from keeping horses on my land?
If zoning permits horse-keeping, likely not. But zoning varies by county and city. We handle land use disputes and can defend your right to keep horses on your property.
Do you handle disputes with trainers or facility owners?
Yes. Whether it’s about unmet training expectations, unreturned horses, or facility mismanagement, we can step in and resolve these disputes legally and effectively.
