Rural employment law
Explore how we can help businesses, families and individuals with their legal requirements around rural landlord and tenant services
Contact our teamRural businesses and agricultural enterprises face distinct employment law challenges that can differ significantly from those encountered in urban and suburban locations.
At Moore Barlow, we specialise in advising rural employers and landowners, delivering tailored legal guidance that meets the specific needs of the rural sector.
Our expert team understands the nuances of agricultural work, rural employment and related regulatory frameworks, enabling clients to navigate the complexities of rural employment law confidently and effectively.
Understanding rural employment law
Rural employment law encompasses a variety of legal issues including employment contracts, health and safety concerns, seasonal employment practices and employer obligations specific to agricultural settings. Legislation governing rural employment can be complex, requiring a clear understanding of various regulations designed also to protect agricultural workers, ensure fair pay, maintain safe working conditions and manage seasonal labour effectively.
At Moore Barlow, we have an established record advising rural businesses, farmers, estate managers and agricultural employers on the challenges presented by rural employment law. Our comprehensive approach helps clients remain compliant with UK employment laws while maintaining operational efficiency within their rural enterprises.
Sarah Jordan
Partner | Real Estate, Landed Estates and Farming, Rural Services
Employment contracts and rural enterprises
A clear and comprehensive employment contract is fundamental to managing an agricultural workforce successfully. Rural employment often involves seasonal and temporary employment arrangements, casual labour and workers engaged with unique working hours and conditions. It is essential for employers to recognise these specific implications when drawing up employment contracts, to avoid later disputes resulting from unclear terms.
Our experienced employment law specialists can assist with drafting legally robust contracts tailored specifically to rural and agricultural working conditions. By ensuring that contracts are clear, fair and compliant with UK employment legislation, we help protect employers from unnecessary disputes and potential litigation.
Health and safety legislation for rural workers
Agricultural settings can present significant hazards, and rural employers must prioritise worker safety at all times. Strict regulations apply to machinery usage, chemical handling, livestock management and general farm work practices. Non-compliance with health and safety laws can result in substantial financial penalties, criminal prosecution and damage to business reputation.
Moore Barlow’s specialist rural employment law team advises clients on proactive health and safety management, reducing potential risks to employees and limiting legal liabilities. We can help you develop effective safety policies and procedures, provide training guidance and support your ongoing compliance efforts with expert legal advice.
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, Landed Estates and Farming, Real Estate Finance, Rural Services
Louise Williams
Associate and Notary Public | Landed Estates and Farming, Notarial Services, Rural Services
Oliver Appelboam Meadows
Solicitor | Commercial Property, Landed Estates and Farming, Rural Services
Beccy Prince
Senior Property Executive (ACILEx) | Landed Estates and Farming, Rural Services
Megan Smith
Senior Paralegal | Landed Estates and Farming, Rural Services
Managing seasonal and temporary rural employment
The agricultural and rural industries in the UK often depend heavily on seasonal employment, with influxes of temporary labour throughout planting, harvesting and livestock management cycles. Ensuring compliance with employment, immigration and working condition regulations is vital for businesses dependent on temporary employees, seasonal workers and agricultural contractors.
Our dedicated team can guide rural businesses on best practice approaches to seasonal labour hiring, outlining clear obligations around pay rates, working hours, accommodation and employment rights. We can also help navigate complex immigration and labour law requirements, ensuring smooth operational efficiency in peak labour periods.
Resolving rural employment disputes effectively
Despite robust employment policies, rural employers occasionally experience workplace disputes including grievances, disciplinary matters or employment tribunal claims. Early intervention, effective advice and proactive dispute resolution strategies can limit disruption and reduce associated costs.
At Moore Barlow, our rural employment law experts are experienced in managing employment disputes swiftly and efficiently, employing mediation and negotiation when possible, while vigorously defending clients’ interests should a case proceed to tribunal. Our proactive approach helps resolve issues efficiently, minimising disruption to daily operations.
Our latest rural legal insights
Why choose Moore Barlow’s rural employment law services?
Our dedicated team possesses a deep understanding of both rural law and employment law matters, supported by extensive practical experience within the agricultural and rural sectors. Moore Barlow provides comprehensive, tailored advice designed specifically for rural employers, enabling businesses to overcome employment challenges while ensuring compliance and operational excellence.
Contact us today to discuss your rural employment law needs and discover how our expertise can support your agricultural enterprise or rural business effectively.
Contact our rural law team
Landed estates, rural businesses & landowning families
Download our brochure and explore more information about the rural and agricultural services we offer, and discover why we are the legal experts in this area.
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