Anna Feinberg began working for the Pfeiffer Company in 1972 at age seventeen. By 2010, she had attained the position of bookkeeper, office manager, and assistant treasurer. In appreciation for her skill, dedication, and long years of service, the Pfeiffer board of directors resolved to increase Feinberg’s monthly salary to $4,000 and to create a retirement plan for her. The plan allowed that Feinberg would be given the privilege of retiring from active duty at any time she chose and that she would receive retirement pay of $2,000 per month for life, although the Board expressed the hope that Feinberg would continue to serve the company for many years. Feinberg, however, chose to retire two years later. The Pfeiffer Company paid Feinberg her retirement pay until 2020. The company thereafter discontinued payments.
a. What are the arguments that the company’s promise to pay Feinberg $2,000 per month for life is enforceable?
b. What are the arguments that the company’s promise is not enforceable?
c. What is the proper outcome? Explain.