From Handshakes to Signatures: Why Written Contracts are Non-Negotiable.

In 2017, the equine industry was valued at over $117 billion—and it hasn’t slowed down since. With that kind of economic footprint and countless transactions happening every day from routine boarding arrangements to high-stakes stallion syndicates, clarity isn’t just helpful, It’s critical.

A well-drafted contract is more than just a formality. It’s your best tool for setting expectations, protecting your interests, and avoiding unnecessary disputes. It creates structure where miscommunication might otherwise take root, and it gives everyone involved a clear roadmap for how to move forward, even if things go sideways.

One of the biggest misconceptions I hear is that contracts are about trust. In the horse world, where handshake deals are common and relationships often span decades, putting things in writing can feel impersonal or even insulting. But in my eight plus years of practice, I’ve witnessed time and time again situations where a simple, well-written agreement could have saved people time, money, and heartache. Without it, there’s no definitive record of who agreed to what—and that opens the door to conflict, confusion, and broken relationships.

Trust is important. But clarity is essential. A tailored, written agreement turns vague expectations into a shared understanding. It outlines who’s responsible for what, what happens when plans change, and how to resolve issues if they arise. Whether you’re a trainer, owner, breeder, or boarding facility, the right contract helps everyone operate with confidence and professionalism.

Horses are a source of pride, but they’re also a major investment. A solid contract is like insurance for that investment. Say you’re leasing a high-dollar cutting horse. If the horse gets injured or there’s a disagreement over who’s paying for vet care, a strong contract lays out exactly how those situations should be handled—before they become costly or contentious. It defines responsibilities, allocates risk, and offers a clear process for resolution.

Here’s the bottom line: contracts aren’t red tape. They’re essential tools in a high-stakes industry. They protect your animals, your money, and your relationships by anticipating problems before they happen. If you take one piece of advice from an attorney who’s seen the worst-case scenarios play out, it’s this: put your agreements in writing. One more time for the people in the back: put your agreements in writing.

Not because you don’t trust the people you work with, but because your animals, your livelihood, and your peace of mind are too valuable to leave to chance.