Many people are familiar with criminal, family, or corporate law but fewer understand what it means to practice agricultural law. During recent Q&A sessions with pre-law students at the University of Illinois, Attorney Cari Rincker explained what makes agricultural law such a unique and rewarding career path. Below we share, “From Farm Fields to Courtrooms: Understanding Agricultural Law (and Why It’s Different).
Ag Law: An Industry-Based Practice
Unlike most areas of law, which are defined by a specific legal issue (such as divorce or real estate), agricultural law is industry-based, serving the farmers, ranchers, and agribusinesses that make up the backbone of rural America.
As Cari explained to students, “Agriculture law is, to a degree, every kind of law, just geared toward a specific industry.”
An agricultural attorney may handle:
- Contracts – Farm leases, grazing leases, equipment leases, and livestock contracts.
- Estate and succession planning – Helping multigenerational farm families plan for the future.
- Business formation – Structuring farm operations and agribusiness entities.
- Litigation – Handling disputes over farm leases, boundaries, or partnerships.
- Intellectual property – Registering trademarks for agricultural brands and operations.
Real-World Example: From Cattle Ranches to Courtrooms
When Cari lived in Cheyenne, Wyoming, her work often involved assisting cattle ranchers with practical legal problems, even criminal trespass issues involving livestock. These experiences illustrated how agricultural law blends property law, contracts, and environmental regulations into one integrated practice area.
Every agricultural lawyer develops their own niche. Cari noted that while she handles many types of farm-related cases, she doesn’t handle farm bankruptcies, underscoring how diverse and specialized the field can be.
Why Agricultural Law Matters
Agriculture is more than an industry, it’s a way of life that affects everyone through food, land, and community. Attorneys in this field play a vital role in protecting farmland, supporting farmers, and strengthening rural economies.
Agricultural law often requires an understanding of both legal principles and agricultural realities, from federal farm programs to local land use disputes.
A Lifelong Connection to Agriculture
Cari’s connection to agriculture runs deep. Raised on a small cow-calf operation in rural Illinois, she grew up immersed in farming life. That personal background helps her connect with clients who value hard work, family, and the land.
This foundation ultimately led her to build a law practice that serves farmers, ranchers, and agribusinesses across Illinois and New York. Cari helps them with everything from succession planning to litigation and mediation.
Encouraging Future Ag Law Lawyers
For students intrigued by the intersection of law, food, and farming, Cari recommends joining organizations like the American Agricultural Law Association (AALA), attending conferences, and pursuing internships in related industries.
“Don’t be afraid to reach out to lawyers in the field,” she advised during her talk. “We need smart, passionate young people who want to serve rural communities.”
Teaching the Next Generation
Education has always been part of Cari’s DNA. In addition to her agricultural law practice, she has taught at Vermont Law School, New York University, and the University of Illinois College of Law. Her courses have covered food law, agricultural law, environmental law, and mediation, giving her unique insight into the next generation of legal professionals.
FAQ: Agricultural Law in Illinois
Q: What does an agricultural lawyer do?
A: Agricultural lawyers assist farmers, ranchers, and agribusinesses with contracts, land disputes, estate planning, environmental compliance, and more.
Q: Is agricultural law a growing field?
A: Yes. As food systems, sustainability, and rural development gain attention, there is an increasing demand for lawyers who understand the unique challenges facing the agricultural industry.
Q: How can students get started in agricultural law?
A: Join the AALA, take relevant coursework in agricultural economics or environmental law, and seek mentorship or internships in ag-related legal practices.
Rincker Law, PLLC proudly represents farmers, ranchers, landowners, and agribusinesses across Illinois and beyond.
Call (217) 774-1373 or visit us online to learn more about our agricultural law services.