There are many good (and some great) trainers, riders, instructors, and amateur horsemen and women. However, all too often, competent horse people conduct their horse businesses as an afterthought - or with no thought at all. The consequences to such business neglect can be catastrophic financially and personally-loss of farm, horses, reputation, and personal assets. This course is structured to present the "legal" side of horses. A student completing this course will understand the legal ramifications of conducting a horse business, selling and buying horses and riding horses. The understanding gained should minimize risks and provide an atmosphere in which horsemen and horsewomen can more fully enjoy their horses and their horse businesses. The first lesson addresses setting up a horse business, typical business entities and the advantages and disadvantages of each. The second lesson addresses negligence and liability, the effects of state equine liability acts, and the need for various forms of insurance. The third lesson addresses premises liability, criminal law, agency, conversion, and misrepresentation (fraud). Contracts, and sales are covered in the fourth and fifth lessons, emphasizing the need for written agreements protecting both the sellers' and buyer's interests. Horse related legislation, including statutes concerning zoning, licensing, and animal rights/protection, are areas often overlooked by horse owners and business operators that can result in criminal as well as civil liability.