Overview

We advise employers, plan sponsors, trustees, insurers and individual executives on the structuring, compliance and dispute aspects of compensation and employee benefits. Our work spans plan design and documentation, governance and fiduciary matters, regulatory compliance, and litigation or dispute resolution when necessary.

Core services

Plan design & documentation

Drafting and implementing retirement plans, welfare plans and executive compensation programs, with attention to tax, finance and fiduciary consequences.

Fiduciary and ERISA-type matters

Advice on fiduciary duties, prohibited transactions, bonds and fiduciary liability frameworks; support for trustees and administrators.

Transactional support

Compensation and benefits analysis for M&A, changes in control, and other business transactions, including disclosure considerations.

Litigation & dispute resolution

Representation in benefit claims, fiduciary disputes, and employment-related litigation and arbitration.

Bankruptcy & restructuring

Counsel on benefit and labor liabilities in insolvency settings, plan terminations and multiemployer plan withdrawals.

Regulatory compliance & reporting

Assistance with disclosure, filings and evolving regulatory obligations affecting compensation and benefits programs.

How we work

1. Intake & assessment

We review plan documents, benefit arrangements and governance records to identify exposure, compliance gaps and operational issues.

2. Practical counsel

We provide concise options and recommended steps, balancing legal risk with commercial goals—whether for plan design, dispute avoidance, or transactional needs.

3. Implementation & oversight

We assist with drafting, negotiations, filings and, where required, dispute resolution and litigation management.

Learn more about how these services fit within broader firm resources on Our practices and the full list of Services.

Checklist for employers & plan sponsors

  • Confirm plan documents are current and reflect actual plan operations.
  • Review fiduciary governance and decision-making records.
  • Assess potential prohibited transactions and corrective options.
  • Evaluate communication and disclosure practices to employees and regulators.
  • Plan for potential terminations, mergers or multiemployer withdrawals.

Frequently asked questions

When should an employer engage counsel on benefits matters?
Early: counsel can help design compliant plans, avoid prohibited transactions and guide communications that reduce future disputes. Engage counsel before implementing material changes, during transactions, or when a claim arises.
What triggers fiduciary liability exposure?
Fiduciary exposure may arise from breaches of duty (prudence, loyalty), imprudent investments, failures in governance or prohibited transactions. Documentation and timely corrective steps can mitigate risk.
How do changes in control affect executive compensation?
Change-in-control events can trigger special compensation provisions, golden parachutes or tax consequences. Contract language and securities disclosure requirements should be reviewed in advance.
What happens to benefit plans in bankruptcy?
Bankruptcy can affect plan funding and termination rules. Parties should promptly evaluate statutory priorities, PBGC-related obligations and potential restructuring impacts.
How do we approach a multiemployer plan withdrawal?
Withdrawal often involves contribution assessments and potential withdrawal liability. Negotiation, contribution planning and legal analysis are necessary to manage cost and risk.
Can you help with benefits-related regulatory filings?
Yes. We assist with required filings and with designing disclosures to satisfy regulatory and governance obligations.

Contact & next steps

If you would like to discuss a specific plan, transaction or compliance concern, you can book a consultation or email info@trw.org. For general information about the firm visit Our firm.

Get an initial consultation

Schedule a focused discussion about your compensation, benefits or employment matter.Book consultation  •  info@trw.org  •  /contact/

Disclaimer: This page provides general legal information and does not create an attorney-client relationship. For advice specific to your situation, contact us to schedule a consultation.