Hall, Estill serves an increasing number of clients establishing benefit programs with significant securities aspects. As a result of wide exposure to all aspects of compensation arrangements, especially those which are tax-sensitive, Hall, Estill corporate attorneys help design programs to realize the value of closely held company stock. In conjunction with the employee benefit group, the corporate group offers counsel on the design and implementation of compensation and related employee benefit programs, such as deferred compensation, pension, employee stock ownership, and stock option plans as well as insurance vehicles. In designing such a plan, particular attention is given to noncompetition arrangements and programs designed to retain executives. Anticipation of problems before they arise as well as early recognition of issues often can result in substantial savings for clients.
Acquisitions can bring to bear all elements within the firm.
In a growing number of transactions, environmental concerns and employee benefit obligations and liabilities are particularly important. The firm has been involved in leveraged buyouts, ESOP acquisitions, and other complex transactions involving multiple lenders and inter-creditor questions, as well as more traditional stock or asset acquisitions. The firm also represents clients who seek to acquire publicly or privately held companies involved in bankruptcy proceedings and assists with the issuance of securities in connection with such acquisitions.