HBL

In-house Counsel

Comprehensive ERISA compliance and employee benefits support for in-house counsel across the U.S. Navigate 2025 regulatory changes with HBL’s experienced attorneys serving clients in 40+ states.

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In-house Counsel

In-house Counsel Services at Hall Benefits Law

In-house Counsel

Navigating complex ERISA and employee benefits challenges as in-house counsel across the U.S. requires specialized guidance amid 2025 regulatory shifts, such as SECURE 2.0 expansions and DOL enforcement priorities. At Hall Benefits Law (HBL), our attorneys partner with in-house counsel to deliver proactive, risk-mitigating strategies that align benefits programs with business objectives. With clients in 40+ states and offices in California, New York, Pennsylvania, and our headquarters in Georgia, we've helped in-house counsel reduce exposure to class actions by up to 30% through targeted governance training. Whether addressing common queries like "how in-house counsel handle ERISA audits" or adapting to potential ACA changes under the Trump administration, our team offers practical insights with national coverage.

 

Our approach combines deep ERISA knowledge with in-house counsel-focused collaboration, ensuring compliance while optimizing costs and employee retention. For instance, recent DOL opinions on deferred compensation exemptions underscore the need for precise advice tailored to in-house counsel needs. Contact our experienced in-house counsel today to discuss how we can support your team. Explore related services on our [ERISA & Compliance] page.

Our Approach to Supporting In-house Counsel

As trusted advisors for in-house counsel, Hall Benefits Law provides results-driven support drawing from extensive ERISA and benefits experience, including handling high-stakes audits, M&A integrations, and regulatory adaptations. In 2025, with rising litigation (e.g., 136 ERISA class actions filed last year), our team helps in-house counsel mitigate risks through collaborative strategies that integrate legal, HR, and financial perspectives. Serving clients in 40+ states with offices in California, New York, Pennsylvania, and our headquarters in Georgia, we’ve assisted in-house counsel in due diligence for over 50 transactions, uncovering hidden liabilities to save millions.

Fiduciary Guidance

Advising in-house counsel on ERISA duties, including investment oversight and fee benchmarking, with training programs that have reduced breach risks significantly.

Compliance Reviews

Conducting audits and corrections via EPCRS/VFCP, tailored for in-house counsel to address operational errors without disrupting workflows.

Regulatory Updates

Helping in-house counsel adapt to 2025 changes like MHPAEA parity rules or PBM reforms, ensuring seamless integration.

Investigations Support

Responding to DOL investigations, leveraging experience and insights for efficient resolutions.

Transactional Advice

Reviewing benefits in M&A, executive compensation, and plan designs to align with corporate goals.

As Anne Tyler Hall notes, “For in-house counsel, proactive ERISA strategies are key to avoiding costly disputes—our partnerships have streamlined compliance for teams nationwide.” We serve in-house counsel across small, mid-sized, and large organizations, with national coverage including clients in 40+ states.

Common Challenges and Solutions

Challenge:

Balancing regulatory compliance with limited resources amid 2026 DOL priorities.

Solution:

We provide customized audits and training, leveraging VFCP for self-corrections to minimize penalties and enhance efficiency.

Challenge:

Navigating M&A benefits integration without exposing liabilities.

Solution:

Thorough due diligence and plan mergers, drawing from our Benefits in M&A experience to ensure ERISA alignment.

Challenge:

Adapting to healthcare reform changes like PBM transparency. ·

Solution:

Negotiate contracts and implement tools, reducing costs by aligning with FTC reforms.

Challenge:

Managing fiduciary breach risks in volatile markets.

Solution:

Implement governance structures and monitoring, utilizing recent DOL guidance to prevent disputes.

FAQs for In-house Counsel

HBL provides tailored guidance on fiduciary duties, audits, and updates, helping in-house counsel avoid penalties through proactive strategies. With offices in California, New York, Pennsylvania, and headquarters in Georgia, we serve clients in 40+ states.

What are DOL investigation priorities for in-house counsel in 2025?

Emphasis on ERISA enforcement and fiduciary breaches; we conduct internal reviews and prepare responses to resolve inquiries efficiently.

Use arbitration provisions and motions, drawing from our Disputes & Investigations experience to protect organizations and limit certifications.

It involves Section 409A adherence and clawbacks; we design plans to motivate talent while minimizing tax risks.

Potential nondiscrimination reversals require monitoring; we guide on preventive services and HSA expansions for cost efficiency.

 Leverage EPCRS self-corrections, updated in 2025; our Audits & Corrections team minimizes financial impacts.

Awards & Recognition

Hall Benefits Law’s ERISA & Compliance team has earned notable recognition in employee benefits law. The firm is a 2026 Best Law Firms® recipient. Managing Partner Anne Tyler Hall is recognized for Employee Benefits (ERISA) Law in The Best Lawyers in America® 2026 edition. Anne Tyler Hall is a past Super Lawyers Rising Star recipient, and the firm is an Inc. 5000 business, recognized as the fastest-growing firm of its kind in the U.S. for nearly a decade.

Stay Informed

Insights and Resources

Stay ahead with our latest thought leadership on topics pertinent to in-house counsel, such as ERISA updates and compliance strategies

Meet the Team

Our Professional Team

Our professionals bring extensive experience supporting in-house counsel. Contact:

Anne Tyler Hall

Managing Partner

Contact: (470) 344-6773
Specializing in ERISA compliance and employee benefits law, with recognition in Best Lawyers 2026.

Tim Kennedy

Partner

Contact: (470) 344-8272
Specializes in fiduciary responsibilities and audits.

Jean Yu

Partner

Contact: 470-571-1006
Specializes in regulatory compliance and plan design

Samuel Krause

Partner

Contact: (678) 439-6236
Specializes in ERISA disputes and governance.

Susan G. Curtis

Partner

Specializes in compliance corrections and updates.

Ready to optimize your benefits compliance?

Reach out to Hall Benefits Law's team for personalized guidance.