Joanna C. Kerpen - Winston & Strawn LLP

Navigating the complexities of legal matters can often feel overwhelming, especially when you need specialized expertise right here in Washington, DC. For residents and businesses across the District, finding reliable, experienced, and locally-attuned legal counsel is paramount. This article introduces you to Joanna C. Kerpen, a highly regarded lawyer with Winston & Strawn LLP, offering invaluable insights into her practice and how her firm serves the local community. Whether you're seeking guidance on intricate employee benefits issues or require a meticulous approach to compliance, understanding your local legal resources is the first step towards achieving peace of mind.

Winston & Strawn LLP, with its prominent presence in Washington, DC, stands as a testament to deep legal knowledge and commitment to client success. Joanna C. Kerpen, a key member of their team, brings a focused approach to the often-complex area of employee benefits and ERISA law. Her dedication to staying abreast of evolving regulations and her practical experience in guiding clients through challenging legal landscapes make her a valuable asset for anyone in the DC area facing related concerns. This overview aims to provide you with a clear understanding of the services she offers and the convenient access you have to her expertise right here in our nation's capital.

The firm’s Washington, DC office, where Joanna C. Kerpen practices, is strategically located at 1901 L St NW, Washington, DC 20036, USA. This address places it firmly within the bustling Central Business District, making it an easily identifiable and accessible landmark for anyone in the District of Columbia. Its prime location ensures that clients can reach the office with relative ease, whether they are commuting from various parts of DC or neighboring areas.

Accessibility to 1901 L St NW is a significant advantage for local users. The office is exceptionally well-served by Washington’s extensive public transportation network. For those who prefer the Metro, the building is conveniently situated within two blocks of two major stations: Farragut North Metro Station (Red Line) and Farragut West Metro Station (Orange, Silver, and Blue Lines). This allows for seamless connections from virtually any part of the metropolitan area. Multiple bus routes also have stops within a short walking distance, including those on K Street NW, L Street NW, and 16th Street NW, offering numerous options for daily commuters.

For individuals who prefer to drive, while street parking in the Central Business District can sometimes be challenging, there are several parking garages located nearby. Options such as those at 1195 20th St NW, 1800 M St NW, and 1828 L St NW provide covered parking solutions within a short walk of the office. It is often advisable to consider utilizing parking apps like SpotHero or BestParking to reserve a spot in advance, ensuring a smoother arrival experience. The immediate vicinity is also known as a vibrant "restaurant row," offering a wide array of dining options for those with appointments, from quick casual bites to more formal settings, all contributing to the convenience and desirability of the location.

Joanna C. Kerpen focuses her practice on a critical and highly specialized area of law. Her expertise is primarily in employee benefits tax and Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) matters. This niche allows her to provide deep, nuanced counsel on a range of related issues.

• Health and Welfare Plan Compliance: Joanna has extensive experience advising clients on compliance with various federal acts, including ERISA, the Internal Revenue Code, HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act), and the ACA (Affordable Care Act). This involves ensuring that health and welfare plans meet all legal requirements, protecting both employers and employees.

• 401(k) and Pension Plan Monitoring: She provides day-to-day monitoring of 401(k) plans and pension plans, ensuring their adherence to the Internal Revenue Code, ERISA, and other relevant laws and regulations. This proactive approach helps prevent compliance issues before they arise.

• Executive Compensation Plan Compliance: Joanna possesses significant experience in bringing executive compensation plans into compliance with Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code, a crucial aspect for businesses structuring compensation for their key personnel.

• Plan Design, Amendment, and Administration: Her services encompass the full lifecycle of employee benefit plans, from initial design and drafting to amending existing plans and providing ongoing administrative guidance. This ensures plans are tailored to specific needs while remaining legally sound.

• Representation Before Government Agencies: Joanna has experience representing clients before the Department of Labor and the Internal Revenue Service, advocating on their behalf in matters related to employee benefits.

• Voluntary Correction Filings: She assists clients with voluntary correction filings under the Employee Plans Compliance Resolution System (EPCRS), helping to rectify plan errors and avoid potential penalties.

• Determination Letter Applications: Joanna provides assistance with applications for determination letters on plan termination and tax-qualification, critical steps for ensuring a plan's continued compliance and favorable tax treatment.

Beyond the comprehensive services, Joanna C. Kerpen and Winston & Strawn LLP offer several compelling features and highlights that underscore their commitment to legal excellence and client satisfaction within the DC community.

• Recognized Expertise: Joanna C. Kerpen has been consistently recognized in The Best Lawyers in America® for Employee Benefits (ERISA) Law (2023–2025). This peer-reviewed accolade speaks to her standing and reputation within the legal community.

• Broad Firm Capabilities: While Joanna specializes in employee benefits, Winston & Strawn LLP is a full-service international law firm with a robust Washington, DC office. This means clients benefit from the extensive resources and collaborative expertise across various practice areas, should their needs extend beyond employee benefits. The DC office alone is home to over 75 lawyers, many of whom are nationally recognized, and they frequently navigate regulatory and enforcement issues at the intersection of business, government, and law.

• Commitment to the Community: The Washington, DC office of Winston & Strawn LLP demonstrates a strong commitment to supporting local neighborhoods and charities, as well as dedicating significant pro bono hours to underserved communities. In 2024, their DC attorneys contributed over 5,700 pro bono hours, showcasing their dedication beyond billable work.

• Strategic Location Benefits: Being in the Central Business District, the office is not only accessible but also immersed in the heart of DC’s corporate and governmental activity, providing a strategic advantage in staying connected to policy developments and industry trends.

• Continuous Thought Leadership: Joanna C. Kerpen actively contributes to the firm's insights and news, regularly publishing blog posts and articles on relevant developments in health and welfare plans, Department of Labor civil penalties, and other employee benefits updates. This commitment to thought leadership ensures clients receive timely and informed advice.

While specific, publicly advertised promotions or special offers from Joanna C. Kerpen or Winston & Strawn LLP are not consistently available, it is common practice for law firms of this caliber to offer initial consultations for prospective clients. These consultations can be an excellent opportunity to discuss your legal needs, understand the scope of services, and determine if the firm is the right fit for you. It is always recommended to inquire about such possibilities directly when you make contact. Additionally, their commitment to pro bono work highlights a dedication to providing legal assistance to those in need, which could be considered a form of community-focused offering. For any detailed information on engagement terms or potential introductory meetings, direct communication with the firm is the best approach.

To connect with Joanna C. Kerpen or Winston & Strawn LLP in Washington, DC, please use the following contact information:

Address: 1901 L St NW, Washington, DC 20036, USA

Phone: (202) 282-5145

Mobile Phone: +1 202-282-5145

Reaching out via phone is often the most direct way to initiate contact, inquire about services, or schedule an initial discussion. The firm’s professional staff will be able to guide you through the process and answer any preliminary questions you may have.

For anyone in the District of Columbia seeking expert legal counsel, especially in the nuanced areas of employee benefits and ERISA law, Joanna C. Kerpen at Winston & Strawn LLP stands out as an exceptional resource. Her recognized expertise, coupled with the comprehensive capabilities and community commitment of Winston & Strawn LLP, makes this an ideal choice for locals. The firm's easily accessible location in the Central Business District, well-served by public transportation and with convenient parking options, further enhances its suitability for DC residents and businesses.

Choosing a lawyer is a significant decision, and for complex matters like employee benefits, having a local expert who understands the unique regulatory landscape and can offer personalized, accessible advice is invaluable. Joanna C. Kerpen provides that precise combination of specialized knowledge and local presence. By leveraging her experience and the extensive resources of Winston & Strawn LLP, locals can confidently navigate their legal challenges, ensuring compliance and achieving favorable outcomes. For reliable, professional, and community-minded legal support right here in Washington, DC, considering Joanna C. Kerpen is a smart move for your legal needs.