Share farming

We provide specialist legal support for share farming, helping landowners and farmers establish mutually beneficial working relationships.

Share farming allows both parties to collaborate while remaining independent, with profits and costs divided fairly. Our team ensures agreements are structured correctly, safeguarding your interests and creating a foundation for long-term success.

What is share farming?

Share farming is a collaborative agricultural arrangement where two parties—typically a landowner and a farmer—jointly manage farming operations on a specified area of land. Each party contributes resources, such as land, equipment, or expertise, and shares the gross returns from the sale of crops or livestock. This partnership allows both parties to benefit from the combined efforts and resources, with the specific terms and profit-sharing ratios outlined in a formal agreement.

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• Share farming agreements

What are the benefits of share farming?

For landowners, share farming offers a means to retain ownership and control over their land while benefiting from the expertise and operational capacity of an experienced farmer. This arrangement can be particularly advantageous for landowners seeking to maintain the agricultural use of their property without the day-to-day responsibilities of farming.

Farmers gain access to land without the substantial capital investment required for land purchase. This access enables them to expand their operations, develop their skills, and potentially increase profitability. Additionally, the shared responsibility in managing the land can lead to more efficient farming practices and improved productivity.

Important legal considerations in share farming

Establishing a share farming arrangement necessitates a comprehensive legal agreement that clearly defines the roles, responsibilities, and expectations of each party. This agreement should address key aspects such as the duration of the partnership, the specific contributions of each party, the method of profit sharing, and the procedures for dispute resolution. A well-structured agreement helps prevent misunderstandings and provides a framework for resolving potential conflicts.

Tax implications are another critical consideration. Both parties must understand how the share farming arrangement affects their tax liabilities, including income tax and potential capital gains tax. Proper tax planning ensures compliance with current tax laws and can lead to financial benefits for both parties.

Moore Barlow’s expertise in share farming

We offer extensive experience in advising on share farming agreements. Our team provides tailored legal guidance to both landowners and farmers, to make sure that share farming arrangements are structured to meet the specific needs and objectives of each party. We assist in drafting clear and comprehensive agreements, addressing all legal aspects to protect your interests and promote a successful partnership.

Our expertise extends to related areas such as tax planning, succession planning, and inheritance matters, providing a holistic approach to managing your farming business. By leveraging our in-depth knowledge of agricultural law, we help clients navigate the complexities of share farming, facilitating arrangements that are both legally sound and commercially advantageous.

How we help other farming businesses

Moore Barlow’s team of agricultural solicitors specialises in helping farming businesses, including those involved in share farming, navigate the complexities of legal agreements and regulations. Our experience spans across various agricultural sectors, allowing us to provide tailored advice to both landowners and farmers. From the creation of clear, legally binding share farming agreements to offering expert guidance on tax planning, succession, and inheritance matters, we ensure that every aspect of your business is protected.

Our approach focuses on understanding the unique needs of each client, offering practical solutions that align with their long-term goals. Whether advising on land transactions, resolving disputes, or ensuring compliance with evolving regulations, Moore Barlow offers a holistic service that allows your farming business to thrive in a legally secure environment.