Clients trust Hawkins Parnell because we understand the equine industry from the inside. Equine disputes involve distinct legal, regulatory, and business dynamics, including governing body rules, specialized insurance, reputational concerns, and technical issues related to horses, facilities, and competition. Our equine attorneys include award-winning riders and active competitors whose firsthand experience informs how we assess claims, advise clients, and litigate cases.
Hawkins Parnell represents clients across the equine industry nationwide, from the U.S. Equestrian Federation and international associations to horse owners, trainers, breeders, stables, equestrian facilities, competition show managers and veterinarians. We handle high-stakes litigation involving catastrophic riding and handling injuries, horse mortality and loss of use claims, purchase/sale disputes, veterinary malpractice, commercial disputes, and employment matters. We also advise on the business side of the industry, including syndicates and partnerships, agreements and releases, risk management, and insurance.
Representative Matters
- Obtained summary judgment for a professional racehorse trainer in litigation arising from a horse that came loose during a training run and allegedly injured another trainer who attempted to catch the horse.
- Obtained a defense verdict and substantial costs award for a horseback riding camp and instructor after a camper fell from a horse during a cross-country jump at a sleepaway camp. The court granted a partial nonsuit enforcing the waiver signed by the camper's parent, and the jury found no negligence.
- Secured an appellate decision affirming the summary judgment obtained in the trial court for a professional polo player under the primary assumption of risk doctrine after a minor was struck by a ball during a professional polo match.
- Prevailed on a published appellate decision in which the court affirmed summary judgment for an endurance rider whose horse spooked and collided with a fellow competitor during a timed ride. The opinion is now cited in the California Civil Jury Instructions Sources and Authority for the primary assumption of risk doctrine.
- Won an appeal affirming dismissal at the demurrer stage for a professional racehorse trainer in a case arising from a collision between horses at a racetrack which purportedly injured a racehorse exercise rider. The Court of Appeal held the primary assumption of risk doctrine barred the plaintiff's claims without the need for discovery or trial.
