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 California, equine law encompasses various legal aspects related to horses, including ownership, sale, breeding, racing, training, and other horse-related activities. Contracts are commonly used to outline the terms and conditions of these activities, ensuring clarity and legal enforceability between parties involved. Additionally, California has specific statutes that address the liability of equine professionals and event organizers. One such law is the Equine Activity Statute (California Civil Code Section 1952), which limits the liability for injury or death of a participant in equine activities resulting from the inherent risks associated with these activities. This statute requires that equine professionals and event organizers post warning signs and include specific warning language in contracts to inform participants of the risks involved. However, this liability protection is not absolute, and exceptions exist where the equine professional or event organizer may still be held liable, such as in cases of willful or wanton disregard for safety, provision of faulty equipment, or failure to properly assess the participant's abilities.