Employee Benefits Lawyers for Berkeley, California

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Meet some of our Berkeley Employee Benefits Lawyers

Linda M. - Employee Benefits Lawyer in Berkeley, California
View Linda
5.0 (1)
Member Since:
August 5, 2021

Linda M.

Corporate Attorney
Free Consultation
Los Angeles, CA
30 Yrs Experience
Licensed in CA
Marquette University Law School

I am a seasoned corporate transactional attorney with over 20 years of combined outside and inside General Counsel experience. My experience includes helping companies of all sizes, including start-ups with general corporate matters and commercial transactions.

Recent  ContractsCounsel Client  Review:
5.0

"Linda did a great job! She was very prompt with responses, Kind, informative and was true to her word on budget and time of completion. Definitely will use her again."

Michael O. - Employee Benefits Lawyer in Berkeley, California
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5.0 (4)
Member Since:
February 14, 2022

Michael O.

Managing Attorney
Free Consultation
Los Angeles
19 Yrs Experience
Licensed in CA NY
University of Southern California

A corporate and commercial litigation attorney with transactional and civil litigation experience including corporate and finance transactions, mergers and acquisitions, real estate, commercial contracts, bankruptcy, restructuring, international business transactions, general counsel services, real estate litigation, partnership, joint venture and contract disputes. Additional background skills and experience include investment banking, financial analysis, and management consulting. Sectors covered include technology, media, healthcare, franchises, small to medium enterprises, investment funds, and international business.

Recent  ContractsCounsel Client  Review:
5.0

"He was amazing! He protected me from fraud and I will most definitely continue my business with him… Thank you Michael!"

Alen A. - Employee Benefits Lawyer in Berkeley, California
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5.0 (13)
Member Since:
August 26, 2021

Alen A.

Attorney
Free Consultation
Los Angeles, CA
19 Yrs Experience
Licensed in CA
University of West Los Angeles

Alen Aydinian is a seasoned real estate attorney with a wealth of experience in handling transactional matters, real estate transactions, and lease agreements. As a licensed real estate broker, Alen Aydinian brings a unique perspective to the table, allowing clients to benefit from both legal expertise and practical industry knowledge. He is a trusted advisor in the realm of real estate transactions and lease agreements. Whether representing buyers, sellers, landlords, or tenants, Alen Aydinian is committed to providing strategic counsel and dedicated advocacy every step of the way. Clients rely on him for sound legal guidance, proactive problem-solving, and unwavering support throughout the transaction process.

Recent  ContractsCounsel Client  Review:
5.0

"I contracted Alen for a commercial lease review. I couldn't be happier with the results, as he exceeded my expectations. He completed the project 2 days ahead of the estimated timeframe, gave me high quality feedback, and suggested alternate language. We had a call at the end and he answered all of my questions in detail. Incredible value. I'm so happy I chose Alen, and I definitely recommend him to anyone else needing legal assistance."

Phocus L. - Employee Benefits Lawyer in Berkeley, California
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5.0 (1)
Member Since:
September 16, 2021

Phocus L.

Attorney
Free Consultation
Phoenix, AZ, USA
15 Yrs Experience
Licensed in CA AZ
Georgetown University Law Center

G'day, my name is Michele! I work with startups, entrepreneurs and small/medium-sized businesses across the country in a wide array of industries. I help them with all of their ongoing, daily legal needs. This includes entity formation, M&A, contract drafting and review, employment, asset sale & acquisition, and business sales or shareholder exits. I'm half-Australian, half-Italian, and I've lived the last 20+ years of my life in America. I've lived all over the USA, completing high school in the deep south, graduating cum laude from Washington University in St. Louis, and then cum laude from Georgetown University Law Center. After law school I worked for the Los Angeles office of Latham & Watkins, LLP. After four intense and rewarding years there, I left to become General Counsel and VP of an incredible, industry-changing start-up called Urban Mining Company (UMC) that manufactures rare earth permanent magnets. I now work for Phocus Law where I help run our practice focused on entrepreneurs, startups, and SMEs. I love what I do, and I'd love to be of help! My focus is on providing stress-free, enjoyable, and high-quality legal service to all of my clients. Being a good lawyer isn't enough: the client experience should also be great. But work isn't everything, and I love my free time. I've been an avid traveler since my parents put me on a plane to Italy at 9-months old. I'm also a music nut, and am still looking for that perfect client that will engage me to explain why Dark Side Of The Moon is the greatest album of all time. Having grown up in a remote, and gorgeous corner of Australia, I feel a strong connection to nature, and love being in the elements.

Gregory B. - Employee Benefits Lawyer in Berkeley, California
View Gregory
5.0 (112)
Member Since:
October 18, 2021

Gregory B.

Attorney
Free Consultation
San Diego, CA
7 Yrs Experience
Licensed in CA
University of San Diego

I love contracts - and especially technology-related contracts written in PLAIN ENGLISH! I've worked extensively with intellectual property contracts, and specifically with IT contracts (SaaS, Master Subscriptions Agreements, Terms of Service, Privacy Policies, License Agreements, etc.), and I have built my own technology solutions that help to quickly and thoroughly draft, review and customize complex contracts.

Recent  ContractsCounsel Client  Review:
5.0

"Great work. Greg is very knowledgeable, he helped us think through our needs and produced the needed documents."

Tabetha H. - Employee Benefits Lawyer in Berkeley, California
View Tabetha
5.0 (39)
Member Since:
October 26, 2021

Tabetha H.

Attorney at Law
Free Consultation
San Jose, CA
28 Yrs Experience
Licensed in CA
UCLA

I am a startup veteran with a demonstrated history of execution with companies from formation through growth stage and acquisition. A collaborative and data-driven manager, I love to build and lead successful teams, and enjoy working full-stack across all aspects of the business.

Recent  ContractsCounsel Client  Review:
5.0

"Tabetha provided feedback on a legal document in a timely and thorough manner. I plan to use her services going forward."

Stanley K. - Employee Benefits Lawyer in Berkeley, California
View Stanley
Member Since:
July 29, 2021

Stanley K.

Corporate Attorney
Free Consultation
Waltham, MA
32 Yrs Experience
Licensed in CA MA, TX
University of Texas School of Law

Stan provides legal services to small to medium-sized clients in the New England region, and throughout the U.S. and abroad. His clients are involved in a variety of business sectors, including software development, e-commerce, investment management and advising, health care, manufacturing, biotechnology, telecommunications, retailing, and consulting and other services. Stan focuses on the unique needs of each of his clients, and seeks to establish long term relationships with them by providing timely, highly professional services and practical business judgment. Each client's objectives, business and management styles are carefully considered to help him provide more focused and relevant services. Stan also acts as an outsourced general counsel for some of his clients for the general management of their legal function, including the establishment of budgets, creation of internal compliance procedures, and the oversight of litigation or other outside legal services.

Sam W. - Employee Benefits Lawyer in Berkeley, California
View Sam
Member Since:
July 30, 2021

Sam W.

Entertainment attorney
Free Consultation
Los Angeles
12 Yrs Experience
Licensed in CA
Columbus School of Law, The Catholic University of America

Sam Widdoes has practiced law in California since 2014. He began his career as a litigation associate at a boutique firm in Los Angeles, and founded a production development company with a partner in 2017. Since then, Sam has served as the head of business and legal affairs at District 33, while working hand-in-hand with writers, directors and actors to develop, pitch and produce scripted and unscripted content. In that role, Sam produced the documentary series BLACKBALLED for Quibi/Roku, and will produce the upcoming documentary feature AS WE SPEAK directed by J.M. Harper for Paramount+/MTV, and the doc series THE BLACK BOX for MRC and XYZ Films. He is also the executive producer of an upcoming limited series with CBS TV starring Judith Light and Noah Wyle called SHADOWS IN THE VINEYARD, and a feature comedy for Spyglass Entertainment, among other projects. In early 2022, Sam opened WIDDOES LAW, APC, after recognizing a need for experienced legal services in the unscripted and documentary spaces. Since opening his own practice, Sam has advised producers, editors, directors and rights holders on a variety of agreement negotiations, including option purchase contracts, collaboration agreements and documentary producer deals. Sam also serves as production counsel for several documentary features, series and short films, and will draft, negotiate and advise on all legal aspects of the projects, including financing, production and distribution. Sam earned his Juris Doctor from The Catholic University of America, Columbus School of Law in 2013, where he graduated on the Dean's List and as a member of the Society of Trial Advocates. He holds a BA in journalism from the University of Richmond, and sits on the Board of Trustees at Turning Point School in Culver City, California. Sam is passionate about quality storytelling, and supporting those with the vision and drive to share their stories with the world.

Chris J. - Employee Benefits Lawyer in Berkeley, California
View Chris
Member Since:
August 22, 2021

Chris J.

Outside Counsel
Free Consultation
Irvine, CA
31 Yrs Experience
Licensed in CA
Loyola Law School, Los Angeles

I'm a business law generalist with over 24 years of experience, including as in-house General Counsel, as outside counsel through my own firm and as an attorney in an Am Law 100 law firm. My employers and clients uniformly appreciate my ability to (i) negotiate and close transactions quickly and effectively, and (ii) to make the complex simple. Among other things, I can efficiently assist you on entity formation, governance, and structure; HR issues; mergers and acquisitions; and the negotiation and drafting of all types of commercial contracts. I'm the proud recipient of multiple Martindale-Hubbell Client Distinction Awards given only to the top 5% of attorneys for quality of service.

Gregory W. - Employee Benefits Lawyer in Berkeley, California
View Gregory
Member Since:
August 23, 2021

Gregory W.

Business Attorney
Free Consultation
Los Angeles
19 Yrs Experience
Licensed in CA
University of West Los Angeles

Strategic thinking business minded Outside General Counsel here to help you with your company. I have been able to help guide business owners from startup through series A, B, & C funding and ultimately IPO's. Regardless of your plans I am here to help you succeed as you grow your business.

Alex M. - Employee Benefits Lawyer in Berkeley, California
View Alex
Member Since:
August 26, 2021

Alex M.

Attorney
Free Consultation
Los Angeles, California
15 Yrs Experience
Licensed in CA
Southwestern Law School

Mr. Mehdipour attended the University of California San Diego where he received his degree in political science. After graduating from UCSD, Mr. Mehdipour attended Southwestern University School of Law where he received his JD. Upon passing the bar, Mr. Mehdipour gained invaluable experience both in a law firm and business setting. Mr. Mehdipour uses his prior business and legal experiences to negotiate the most advantageous results for his clients.

Thaddeus W. - Employee Benefits Lawyer in Berkeley, California
View Thaddeus
Member Since:
October 22, 2021

Thaddeus W.

Principal
Free Consultation
Los Angeles, Ventura County, New York City
29 Yrs Experience
Licensed in CA NY
University of Notre Dame Law School

Experienced legal counsel to entrepreneurs, small businesses, and investors. Advising clients starting, buying, selling, operating, financing, and investing in businesses // U.S. Army Veteran // Ironman Triathlete, Marathoner, Open Water Swimmer, USAT Triathlon Coach // Lover of Dogs, Cribbage, Craft Beer, Bourbon, and Cigars

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Employee Benefits Legal Questions and Answers

Employee Benefits

Option Grant

California

Asked on Jan 11, 2025

Can you explain the process and legal implications of an option grant for employees?

I recently joined a startup company and as part of my compensation package, I was offered an option grant. However, I am not familiar with how option grants work and what legal implications they may have. I would like to understand the process and any potential risks or benefits associated with accepting this option grant as an employee, so that I can make an informed decision about my compensation package.

Brian W.

Answered Jan 14, 2025

While not exhaustive, this summary should provide some of the basics when it comes to an employee stock option grant at a startup. When an employee receives stock options, the employee receives the contractual right to purchase shares of company stock at a fixed strike price (e.g., the option to purchase 10k shares of the company's common stock at $1.00 per share - meaning the employee will ultimately have to pay $10,000 to purchase the shares). Options generally vest over 4 years with a 1-year "cliff" (meaning no options vest until 12 months after the vesting commencement date) and then monthly (or quarterly) thereafter. Options generally expire 90 days after an employee leaves the company and there are several ways that vesting may accelerate (e.g. upon sale, change of control, or other liquidity event). Depending on your level/seniority, some of these terms may be negotiable. It is important to ask about the company's capitalization to understand your "fully diluted" percentage ownership interest. You will want to know the number of options that have been authorized and granted under the plan and whether additional options will be granted in the future. Likewise, you will want to know the company's latest valuation from their most recent 409A report. If the company raises additional equity in the future, that will ultimately dilute (or reduce) your ownership stake. You will want to understand if the company plans to grant you additional options in the future as some employers grant additional options annually (e.g. around your anniversary date) while others do so on an ad-hoc basis or not at all. In terms of potential risks and benefits, if the company does well in the future and your options are still valid, you might earn some money down the road depending on the difference between your strike and sale prices. There are tax implications to consider depending on the type of option granted (Incentive Stock Options vs. Non-Qualified Options) and whether you exercise your option to purchase and hold your shares for a time in advance of a sale. Ultimately, you should treat any compensation derived from startup company options as an unexpected windfall. The reality for most startups is that options are never worth anything down the road.

Read 1 attorney answer>

Employee Benefits

Stock Option Agreement

California

Asked on May 28, 2023

Stock option agreement and early exercise provisions?

I recently accepted a job offer from a company that includes stock options. I have been provided with a Stock Option Agreement, but I am unsure of the early exercise provisions and how they may affect my future rights as an employee. I am looking for guidance on the legal implications of early exercising my stock options.

Paul S.

Answered Jun 20, 2023

It's very important to follow the process for exercising the options, to the letter. These are described in the stock option agreement. I've had someone reach out in the past, asking why their never got their stock options. When I asked how he exercised them, he said he sent a message over Slack, rather than following the proper process. If you aren't sure what to do, then you should have a lawyer go through the documents with you.

Read 1 attorney answer>

Employee Benefits

Severance Agreement

California

Asked on May 31, 2023

How to draft a severance agreement?

I recently accepted a severance agreement from my employer in order to leave my job. I would like to know how to draft a severance agreement to ensure that all of my rights and entitlements are included and that the agreement is legally sound. I want to make sure that I am fully aware of the terms and conditions of the agreement before I sign it.

Gagandeep K.

Answered Jun 7, 2023

Typically, your employer drafts a severance agreement for employee's review and acceptance, and the employee may negotiate the severance agreement. A severance agreement generally contains severance pay, post-employment benefits (e.g., healthcare or 401K), release of certain claims/liability, non-compete, non-disclosure/confidentiality, return of company property, and other provisions. An employee should review the severance agreement carefully to ensure the scope of each provision and the limitations placed on the employee are valid, as this is a legal document and it may impact future employment opportunities. You may want to have an attorney review the severance agreement before signing it to make sure it complies with legal requirements and protects your rights as an employee. You can read more about severance agreements here: https://www.contractscounsel.com/t/g/us/employee-separation-agreement/11 or https://www.contractscounsel.com/t/g/us/severance-agreement/11.

Read 1 attorney answer>

Employee Benefits

Employment Agreement

Florida

Asked on Sep 2, 2021

Can an employer fire an employee while the employee out on sick leave

I am out on sick leave. can I resign my job?

Donya G.

Answered Sep 24, 2021

You will need an employment attorney to advise you, as such, you will need to post your project on the website Here are the steps you need to take to accomplish this 1. Post the job you need to get accomplished – for example “ I am looking for a Florida employment attorney to advise me of my rights -------------“ 2. Once posted, attorneys on the website that are interested and qualified will respond to your posting 3. Choose an attorney/s based upon their qualifications and cover letter to have a quick call so that you can decide who you would like to hire. 4. After talking with attorneys, choose who you will decide to proceed with. Remember to discuss the cost of the project as well as how long it will take to be completed as well as when payments will be made. 5. Once you have decided who to hire, click “HIRE” and that attorney will now be hired by you. Donya Gordon, Esq.

Read 1 attorney answer>

Employee Benefits

Employee Stock Option Agreement

Washington

Asked on Dec 10, 2024

Can you explain the potential tax implications of exercising employee stock options under an Employee Stock Options Agreement?

I recently received an Employee Stock Options Agreement from my employer, and I am considering exercising some of the options. However, I am unsure about the potential tax implications that may arise from exercising these options. I have heard that there could be tax consequences at both the federal and state levels, and I want to understand the specific tax obligations I may have if I decide to exercise the options and sell the underlying stock.

Merry K.

Answered Dec 31, 2024

Exercising employee stock options (ESOs) has significant tax implications at the federal and possibly, but not usually, at the Washington State level. Here’s a breakdown to help you understand the potential obligations: Federal Tax Implications Types of Stock Options: Incentive Stock Options (ISOs): Exercising ISOs does not trigger regular federal income tax unless you sell the stock. If you sell the stock within one year of exercise or two years of grant, the gain is treated as a short-term capital gain (taxed as ordinary income). If sold after one year from exercise and two years from grant, the gain is taxed as a long-term capital gain, which typically has a lower rate. Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT): The difference between the stock's fair market value (FMV) at exercise and the exercise price is considered for AMT, potentially creating additional tax obligations. Non-Qualified Stock Options (NSOs): Exercising NSOs creates ordinary income equal to the difference between the FMV of the stock at exercise and the exercise price. This income is subject to withholding for federal income tax, Social Security, and Medicare taxes. Any subsequent sale of the stock results in capital gains or losses. Selling the Stock: Capital Gains Tax: The gain (or loss) is the difference between the sale price and the stock's FMV at the time of exercise. This is subject to short-term or long-term capital gains rates depending on the holding period. State Tax Implications (Washington State) No State Income Tax: Washington does not impose a personal income tax. This means there are no state-level income tax obligations on the income from exercising stock options or the subsequent sale of stock. Capital Gains Excise Tax (if applicable): Washington has a 7% excise tax on long-term capital gains exceeding $250,000 (as of 2022) for individuals. However, this applies to gains from specific types of assets, primarily real estate and certain investments. Proceeds from the sale of stock may be subject to this excise tax if your total long-term capital gains exceed the threshold and are not exempt. Other Considerations Timing of Exercise and Sale: The timing can significantly affect your tax liabilities, especially in regard to capital gains classification and potential AMT exposure for ISOs. Employer Reporting: Your employer will provide a Form W-2 for NSO exercises (showing ordinary income) and possibly other tax documentation (e.g., Form 3921 for ISOs). Consult a Tax Professional: Given the complexity of ESO taxation and potential exposure to AMT or excise taxes, consulting a tax advisor is highly recommended. They can help you strategize to minimize taxes based on your overall financial situation.

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