Executive Pay

Executive pay Cases


What is it?

Executive pay refers to the comprehensive compensation arrangements negotiated for C-suite and senior leaders—including base salary, performance bonuses, equity grants, deferred compensation, benefits, and separation or “golden parachute” provisions. Structuring these packages demands deep expertise in contract law, corporate governance, tax planning, and regulatory compliance. With over 20 years of experience, Morris E. Fischer, LLC partners with both executives and boards to draft, negotiate, and—if necessary—litigate executive compensation agreements, ensuring your financial interests are protected and maximized at every stage.

How We Help You with Executive Pay

Designing and negotiating executive compensation packages requires precision and strategy. Our Executive Pay services ensure your agreements align with business goals, reward performance, and comply with regulatory and tax requirements.

Strategic Planning

We collaborate with boards and executives to structure base salary, bonuses, and long-term incentives that drive performance and retention.

Equity & Incentives

Crafting stock options, RSUs, and performance-based awards designed to align stakeholder interests and motivate leadership.

Negotiation & Drafting

Expert review and negotiation of employment agreements, severance clauses, and change-in-control provisions to protect your interests.

Tax & Compliance

Navigating complex tax treatment, reporting obligations, and SEC/IRS regulations to minimize liability and ensure full compliance.

Executive Compensation & Covenant Counsel

Negotiating and navigating executive pay packages and non-compete agreements involves complex legal, tax, and business considerations. With over 20 years of experience advising both senior executives and employers, Morris E. Fischer, LLC ensures your compensation structures, bonus plans, severance terms, and restrictive covenants are clear, enforceable, and tailored to protect your interests at every stage.

Executive Pay Packages

Package Review & Negotiation

We review and negotiate your executive compensation agreements—covering base salary, annual bonuses, equity grants, and performance targets—to ensure clarity, fairness, and alignment with your career goals.

Equity & Incentive Structures

Guidance on structuring stock options, restricted stock units (RSUs), and performance-based incentive awards that motivate senior leadership and comply with industry best practices.

Severance & Change-in-Control Clauses

We analyze severance terms, golden parachutes, and change-of-control provisions to protect your financial interests if your employment ends unexpectedly.

Non-Compete & Restrictive Covenants

Expert review of non-compete, non-solicitation, and confidentiality clauses to balance employer protection needs with your future mobility.

Tax & Regulatory Compliance

Advice on the tax implications and reporting requirements of executive pay, including IRC §409A deferral rules and applicable SEC regulations, to minimize liability.

Flat-Rate Contract Analysis

Comprehensive contract review at a flat rate of $440—dedicated time to dissect every provision and provide you with clear, actionable advice before you sign.

Executive Pay Package FAQ

What is an executive compensation package?

An executive compensation package is a tailored agreement outlining an executive’s total pay, typically including base salary, annual bonuses, equity awards, retirement benefits, and other perks such as car allowances or club memberships.

How do equity awards (stock options, RSUs) work?

Equity awards give you a stake in the company’s future growth. Stock options allow you to purchase shares at a set price; Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) vest into actual shares over time or upon achievement of performance goals.

What are change-in-control and severance provisions?

Change-in-control clauses protect you if the company is acquired or merged, often triggering accelerated vesting of equity or a guaranteed severance payment. Severance provisions define the compensation you receive if employment ends without cause.

What is a “golden parachute”?

A golden parachute is a lucrative change-in-control package providing specified cash and equity payouts to executives when they lose their position due to a merger, acquisition, or restructuring.

When should I negotiate my executive package?

Ideally, negotiate at key milestones: upon hiring, when promoted to a new level, upon grant of new equity awards, or during corporate restructuring. Early negotiation ensures you secure favorable terms.

How much does it cost to review an executive agreement?

We offer a comprehensive review of executive pay and related contracts for a flat fee of $440. This includes line-by-line analysis, enforceability assessment, and strategic negotiation guidance.

Executive Compensation at a Glance

  • Competitive Base Salary Benchmarking
  • Tailored Bonus & Incentive Structures
  • Equity & Stock Option Planning
  • Change-in-Control & Severance Protections

Ensure your executive package aligns with market standards and protects your interests—our experts review and negotiate every detail.

Contact Us Today