Succession Planning for Farming Families

Your land. Your legacy. Our expertise. Passing on a farm isn’t just about land and assets, it’s about legacy, livelihoods and peace of mind. Our specialist solicitors help farming families plan ahead with clarity and confidence.

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Succession planning in farming can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Our team combines legal expertise with practical understanding to make your next steps simple and secure.

Passing on a farm is more than a legal exercise. It’s about preserving your legacy, protecting your family and ensuring the business you’ve built continues to thrive. With shifting tax rules, land pressure and a complex regulatory landscape, early planning is essential.

Every family’s situation is different, and your priorities will be too. You may be thinking about how to keep the farm running smoothly, how to treat all family members fairly, or how to pass on land and assets without unnecessary tax or disruption. Whatever stage you’re at, our role is to guide you through the options and help you make informed, confident decisions about the future.

We’ll help you understand how different approaches could affect your income, control and long-term plans, so you can choose what feels right for your family and your business. The aim is always to protect what you’ve built, reduce uncertainty and give you the peace of mind that everything is in order for the next generation.

If you’re ready to start planning for the future of your farm, our expert solicitors are here to help. Call our team today on 0800 118 1500 or complete our form below.

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Why trust Talbots’ Agriculture Solicitors?

At Talbots Law, we make agricultural law simple. Our solicitors understand the realities of rural business and explain everything clearly from the start — timescales, costs and outcomes included. With decades of experience and a practical, down-to-earth approach, we’re the trusted choice for farmers, landowners and rural families across England and Wales.

We recognise that relationships, local insight and sector experience are vital when dealing with change, regulation shifts and complex challenges in agriculture. With thousands of client reviews across reputable platforms, you can rest assured you’re in safe hands with Talbots Law.

What is Agricultural Property Relief and why does it matter?

Agricultural Property Relief, often called APR, is a tax break designed to help farming families pass on land and property without losing a large part of it to Inheritance Tax. If the land or buildings are genuinely used for farming, they can qualify for up to 100% relief — meaning they may not be taxed at all when passed down. Every situation is different, so it’s important to get advice early to make sure the right conditions are met.

When should we start thinking about succession and inheritance planning for the farm?

The short answer is: as soon as possible. Starting early gives you more options and helps avoid stress later. Succession planning isn’t just about writing a will, it’s about thinking ahead, deciding who’ll take over, how the land will be managed and how to make things fair for everyone in the family. Leaving it too late can lead to unnecessary tax costs or even family disputes, so the sooner you start the conversation, the better

Can we gift land or property to our children while we’re still farming?

Yes, you can — and it’s something many families do. But it’s important to do it carefully. If you gift land too early or without proper planning, you might lose some control or create unexpected tax issues. Done the right way, gifting can reduce Inheritance Tax and help younger generations take on more responsibility over time. The situation is different for every family, so it’s important you speak to a solicitor to understand your options.

How can we make sure all our children are treated fairly, even if not everyone works on the farm?

This is often an important question for families. Sometimes, one child runs the farm while others have different careers. Fairness doesn’t always mean everything is split equally and it’s about finding the right balance. Some families use trusts or different ownership structures so that non-farming children still benefit, while keeping the farm running smoothly. The key is open communication and a clear plan that everyone understands.