What Corporate Attorneys Need to Know About Benefit Law

Episode Summary In this episode of Employee Benefit Plans & Business Sense, attorneys Doll Lank and Kathleen Bass explain why corporate attorneys must understand employee benefit law when advising their clients. They break down the fundamentals of benefit plans, highlight common issues uncovered during mergers and acquisitions, and share practical steps attorneys can take to avoid costly compliance mistakes.

From retirement plans and health benefits to ERISA requirements and due diligence in corporate transactions, Doll and Kathleen outline how benefit plan oversight can dramatically impact the success of deals. They also provide actionable advice for corporate attorneys on spotting early warning signs, preventing liability, and bringing in employee benefits counsel at the right stage of the process.

Whether you are a corporate attorney handling M&A, a business owner navigating employee benefits, or simply looking to understand compliance pitfalls, this episode delivers key insights to help protect clients and strengthen transactions.

Key Timestamps

00:45 – Why corporate attorneys must understand benefit law 02:10 – What employee benefit law actually covers 04:00 – Common benefit issues discovered during corporate transactions 06:15 – ERISA compliance requirements for health and welfare plans 08:40 – Red flags that suggest a closer look at benefit plans 11:20 – Key differences between corporate attorneys and employee benefits attorneys 14:00 – Real-life examples of catching benefit plan problems before closing a deal 17:45 – Best practices for corporate attorneys to review benefit plans with clients 19:30 – Why benefits counsel should be brought in early during M&A deals

About the Show

Employee Benefit Plans & Business Sense helps employers, HR leaders, and attorneys navigate the legal complexities of employee benefits. Hosted by attorneys Doll Lank and Kathleen Bass of KLB Benefits Law Group, the podcast offers practical insights on ERISA compliance, plan corrections, audits, M&A issues, and more. With real-world examples and clear guidance, each episode shows how proactive legal support can protect organizations, save money, and strengthen benefit plans.