Eckert Seamans Strengthens Labor & Employment Practice with Addition of Washington, D.C. Employee Benefits Member John J. Westerhaus
February 2, 2026
National law firm Eckert Seamans is pleased to announce the arrival of employee benefits and executive compensation attorney John J. Westerhaus as a Member in the Labor & Employment practice group. He joins the firm’s Washington, D.C. office from Kutak Rock LLP.
Westerhaus advises plan sponsors and fiduciaries on the design, implementation, administration, and operation of employee benefit plans, helping clients manage risk while maximizing plan value. He develops practical, cost-effective solutions to complex compliance and fiduciary issues and translates legal requirements into clear, actionable decision points. Westerhaus works across a range of industries and plan types, but with particular emphasis on advising governmental plans and Taft‑Hartley (multiemployer) plans on legal issues affecting their retirement plans, health plans, and non-ERISA fringe benefit offerings.
He regularly handles benefit determination and appeal issues, drafts plan documents and amendments, reviews and negotiates service provider and investment agreements, and provides fiduciary and compliance training. Westerhaus also represents employee benefit plans in litigation and other adversarial proceedings. He earned his J.D. from Washburn University School of Law, an LL.M. from University College London, and a BBA from Washburn University.
“John’s deep knowledge of employee benefits law and extensive experience with multiemployer and governmental plans make him an outstanding addition to our team,” said Ryan J. Cassidy, Chair of Eckert Seamans’ Labor & Employment practice group. “His expertise will further strengthen our ability to deliver comprehensive, strategic counsel to clients navigating complex benefits and compensation issues.”
Lawyers in Eckert Seamans’ Employee Benefits & Executive Compensation practice guide employers and other stakeholders through the diverse range of laws and regulations that govern employee benefits, executive compensation, and related areas. The group represents clients at every level, ranging from small businesses to multinational corporations, banks, trustees, insurers, multiemployer funds, and governmental and tax-exempt employers.