Equine law is generally defined as the body of law (statutes, court opinions) that governs the ownership, buying, selling, riding, breeding, racing, training, handling, insuring, and boarding of horses—and membership and participation in related organizations and activities. For example, contracts often define these transactions, relationships, and activities, and statutes often limit the personal injury liability of owners and operators of equine-related events and activities.

In New Hampshire, equine law encompasses various legal aspects related to horses and equine activities. This includes the creation and enforcement of contracts for the sale, purchase, boarding, breeding, and training of horses. Additionally, New Hampshire, like many states, has an Equine Activity Liability Act (NH Rev Stat § 508:19 (2013)), which limits the liability of equine professionals and event sponsors for injuries to participants resulting from the inherent risks of equine activities, provided that certain conditions are met. This law requires that specific warning signs be posted at equine facilities and that written contracts for equine activities include a clear acknowledgment of the risks involved. However, the liability protections are not absolute, and do not cover injuries resulting from negligence or willful misconduct. It is important for equine owners, service providers, and participants to understand these regulations and to ensure that their activities and agreements are in compliance with state law.