Alison Goodwin, Partner

Mrs J E got in touch with Alison through the British Dressage helpline, seeking advice about a veterinary negligence claim relating to veterinary treatment of her horse. Ali was able to act swiftly and settle the matter without recourse to the courts.

Mrs J E described Alison afterwards as “knowledgeable, patient and empathic, giving us the support we needed,” adding that she “would have no hesitation in using [her] in the future and recommending [her] to others.”

Alison Goodwin’s expert advice enabled Ruth Chappell from Dressage Anywhere, an online dressage competition website, to track down two prizes for league winners, despite the league sponsor’s company being wound up.

Writing to Alison, Ruth explained: “I called the BD legal helpline about a business matter and I just wanted to pass on my thanks for your very useful and constructive legal advice.

“I run Dressage Anywhere and our league sponsor had become unresponsive to messages about an £800 prize he’d promised for our 2016 league and 2017 league winners. I had a warning from some of his customers that he was winding up the company. He has since done just that.

“On your advice, I contacted the US manufacturer and today I will be receiving two units from them worth over £1k. I’ve covered shipping and import duties, but I’m bowled over by their generosity.

“So a massive, huge thank you for helping me to be brave and approach the US company; my prize winners are delighted and you’ve helped me to turn this into a good news story.”

Alison Goodwin and the equine team have worked with British Dressage as legal partners for five years, supporting members with a legal advice helpline offering 30 minutes of free legal advice on any legal issue.

The team also offers a range of fixed fee packages to full members of British Dressage for a number of equine legal services, including:

• sale/purchase agreements


• loan agreements


• livery agreements


• Small claims track packages.

Chief Executive Jason Brautigam said: “Harrison Clark Rickerbys have been the official legal partners for British Dressage for over five years now and they continue to provide a great support for our members.  Under the leadership of Alison Goodwin, they offer specialist legal advice via a free legal helpline – not just about equine matters but on a whole range of legal issues.  This personal service, combined with a detailed knowledge and understanding of our specialist sector, is what makes all the difference for our members.  The feedback we received is always overwhelmingly positive and we are proud that this partnership between BD and HCR is now well established across our sport.”