Pension + Retirement Benefits (ERISA)

Retirement, health, and other “fringe” benefits are essential parts of the compensation employers promise their workers. But how can you be sure those promises are being kept? These benefits matter just as much as hourly wages or overtime pay. Protecting them can mean the difference between a secure retirement and financial uncertainty, or between stability and stress during a health crisis.

At Fair Work, our lawyers advocate for workers, retirees, and their families to enforce their rights under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) and related laws.

Why ERISA Matters

ERISA is a complex federal law that sets strict rules and safeguards for a wide range of benefit plans. Many workers don’t even realize they’re protected—or may struggle to find reliable information about their rights. That’s why speaking with an experienced ERISA attorney is so important.

In general, if you participate in a benefit plan offered through a current or former employer—such as a retirement plan, 401(k) or 403(b), health insurance, disability coverage, or severance—you may be protected by ERISA.

Your Rights—and Your Fiduciaries’ Duties

ERISA imposes some of the highest duties known to the law on the people responsible for managing your retirement and benefit plans. These fiduciaries must act prudently, loyally, and solely in your best interests. They can be held liable if they:

• Mismanage your plan’s investments
• Offer investment options in a 401(k) or 403(b) that are too expensive or perform poorly
• Mislead you about your benefits
• Engage in other conduct that harms your retirement savings

You may not discover a violation until years—or even decades—later, when you realize your benefits are not what you were promised. That’s why it’s critical to get guidance early if you have questions about your plan.

Learn More

Visit our News, Developments & Updates to explore the types of plans we’ve worked on and to learn more about workers’ rights under ERISA.

We’re Here to Help

If you have questions or concerns about your retirement, health, or other benefits, contact us. Our team has years of experience litigating ERISA cases, and we’re ready to help ensure your promised benefits are protected.

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