Jennifer A. Neilsson (Jenny)

Jennifer Neilsson focuses her practice on assisting the Firm’s clients (both managers and investors) with investment-related issues that arise for employee benefits plans subject to Title I of the Employee Income Security Act of 1974 (“ERISA”) and individual retirement accounts.

Specifically, she focuses on ERISA and Internal Revenue Code-related issues that arise in connection with the structuring and operation of private funds, investor negotiations in connection with fund raising activities, and ongoing compliance. She has in-depth knowledge assisting private funds avoid being subject to the fiduciary obligations arising under ERISA by complying with the “venture capital operating companies”, “real estate operating companies”, or “25% test” exceptions under the plan asset regulation.

Alternatively, Jennifer also advises on compliance with prohibited transaction exemptions and other legal requirements where ERISA and the prohibited transaction rules in the Code apply.  Where there is not a class prohibited transaction exemption available, she works with clients to file an application for an individual prohibited transaction exemption with the Department of Labor.

Additionally, Jennifer assists clients with identifying issues arising under, and in compliance with, the Internal Revenue Code, ERISA and applicable regulatory requirements related to retirement plans, including requirements that arise under Title IV of ERISA. She is well-versed in drafting plan documents, plan amendments, participant communication and helping clients navigate retirement plan corrections and Internal Revenue Service and Department of Labor audits.  

Jennifer is a frequent speaker at conferences and panels on ERISA Title I and private equity matters.