Rural disputes
Explore how we can help businesses, families and individuals with their legal requirements around rural estate planning.
Contact our teamRural disputes can arise from a wide range of issues, often related to land ownership, property rights, tenancy agreements, or business operations.
Resolving such disputes efficiently is crucial to maintaining the smooth running of rural estates and businesses. Expert legal support ensures that all parties involved are treated fairly, and that any issues are resolved in a manner that minimises disruption and preserves relationships.
What types of rural disputes can arise?
Rural disputes often involve disagreements over boundaries, tenancy agreements, inheritance, and access rights. Conflicts between neighbours, landowners, and tenants can arise over property use, rights of way, and environmental impact. Agricultural contract disputes, as well as disagreements over land management or the division of estate assets, can also lead to complex legal issues. Rural businesses may also face challenges in dealing with planning disputes or issues arising from diversification projects. Clear, actionable legal advice helps resolve these matters and reduce the risk of costly litigation.
How can disputes be resolved effectively?
Disputes can often be resolved through negotiation, mediation, or arbitration, helping parties reach a fair solution without the need for lengthy court proceedings. Our legal experts use their knowledge of rural property law to guide clients through these processes, ensuring that all options are considered. Early intervention in a dispute can often prevent escalation, saving time and resources. By working directly with all parties involved, we facilitate open discussions to address concerns and reach mutually beneficial resolutions.
Sarah Jordan
Partner | Real Estate, Landed Estates and Farming, Rural Services
IHT: guidance for businesses & families
At Moore Barlow, we’re not just legal advisers—we’re passionate partners deeply connected to rural communities and the issues that matter. Inheritance Tax (IHT) planning is close to our hearts and our rural law experts can support you, your business, and your family with tailored guidance.
What happens when disputes cannot be settled amicably?
While many disputes can be settled through alternative methods like negotiation or mediation, some cases may require formal legal action. When disputes escalate and litigation becomes necessary, having expert legal representation is essential. Our team provides robust support through litigation or arbitration, helping clients protect their interests and resolve disputes as efficiently as possible. We ensure that our clients are well-prepared, with a clear strategy to achieve the best possible outcome.
How do we minimise the risk of disputes?
Proactive legal advice can significantly reduce the risk of disputes in the first place. By ensuring that contracts, tenancy agreements, and land management practices are clear and legally sound, we help clients avoid common points of contention. Regularly reviewing agreements and addressing potential issues before they become disputes ensures that relationships remain strong and that rural estates and businesses continue to thrive without unnecessary disruptions.
How we can help
We provide comprehensive support for resolving rural disputes by offering expert legal guidance on property rights, tenancy agreements, land use, and inheritance issues. Our team helps negotiate, mediate, or represent clients in disputes, ensuring that all parties are treated fairly and that the outcome aligns with their best interests. We also help clients minimise the risk of future disputes by offering proactive advice on legal matters, including contract drafting and land management strategies. Whether through mediation or litigation, we ensure that disputes are handled efficiently and with minimal disruption to your rural estate or business.
Our team of rural solicitors
Charlotte Brackley
Partner | Real Estate, Landed Estates and Farming, Residential Property, Rural Services
Julian Parkes
Partner | Commercial Property, Real Estate, Landed Estates and Farming, Rural Services
Sarah Jordan
Partner | Real Estate, Landed Estates and Farming, Rural Services
Nellie van der Lande
Senior Associate | Commercial Property, Real Estate Finance, Rural Services
Louise Williams
Associate and Notary Public | Landed Estates and Farming, Notarial Services, Rural Services
Megan Smith
Senior Paralegal | Landed Estates and Farming, Rural Services
Why choose Moore Barlow?
Our team’s extensive experience in rural property law allows us to address a wide range of disputes with expertise and a practical approach. With an in-depth understanding of rural industries and their specific challenges, we offer tailored solutions that protect our clients’ interests. Our aim is always to resolve disputes swiftly and efficiently, minimising stress and allowing clients to focus on what matters most—growing and managing their rural estates and businesses.
Contact us
If you’re facing a dispute concerning your rural business or estate, we can help guide you through the legal complexities and offer practical solutions. Contact us today to discuss how we can assist in resolving your issue efficiently and protecting your long-term interests.
Contact our rural law team
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