-----BEGIN PRIVACY-ENHANCED MESSAGE----- Proc-Type: 2001,MIC-CLEAR Originator-Name: webmaster@www.sec.gov Originator-Key-Asymmetric: MFgwCgYEVQgBAQICAf8DSgAwRwJAW2sNKK9AVtBzYZmr6aGjlWyK3XmZv3dTINen TWSM7vrzLADbmYQaionwg5sDW3P6oaM5D3tdezXMm7z1T+B+twIDAQAB MIC-Info: RSA-MD5,RSA, QCfqKQ946j8ECL2MeYu2rgXFqTTg4MO+tCmN0tozUCVurVHdug84ZfrjtZJJEmB9 xnAenvDb0Lm3HbjHk6/F7w== 0000898430-96-000772.txt : 19960311 0000898430-96-000772.hdr.sgml : 19960311 ACCESSION NUMBER: 0000898430-96-000772 CONFORMED SUBMISSION TYPE: S-8 PUBLIC DOCUMENT COUNT: 5 FILED AS OF DATE: 19960308 EFFECTIVENESS DATE: 19960327 SROS: NASD FILER: COMPANY DATA: COMPANY CONFORMED NAME: MERCURY GENERAL CORP CENTRAL INDEX KEY: 0000064996 STANDARD INDUSTRIAL CLASSIFICATION: FIRE, MARINE & CASUALTY INSURANCE [6331] IRS NUMBER: 952211612 STATE OF INCORPORATION: CA FISCAL YEAR END: 1231 FILING VALUES: FORM TYPE: S-8 SEC ACT: 1933 Act SEC FILE NUMBER: 333-01583 FILM NUMBER: 96533064 BUSINESS ADDRESS: STREET 1: 4484 WILSHIRE BOULEVARD CITY: LOS ANGELES STATE: CA ZIP: 90010 BUSINESS PHONE: 2139371060 MAIL ADDRESS: STREET 1: LOS ANGELES S-8 1 FORM S-8 As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 8, 1996 Registration No. 333- ================================================================================ SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549 ----------------------- FORM S-8 REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 ----------------------- MERCURY GENERAL CORPORATION (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter) CALIFORNIA 95-221-1612 (State or other jurisdiction (I.R.S. Employer of incorporation or organization) Identification No.) ----------------------- 4484 WILSHIRE BOULEVARD LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA 90010 (213) 937-1060 (Address of principal executive offices, including zip code, and telephone number) THE 1995 EQUITY PARTICIPATION PLAN OF MERCURY GENERAL CORPORATION (Full title of the plan) ----------------------- GEORGE JOSEPH CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER 4484 WILSHIRE BOULEVARD LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA 90010 (213) 937-1060 (Name, address, including zip code, and telephone number, including area code, of agent for service) Copies to: DONALD P. NEWELL, ESQ. LATHAM & WATKINS 701 "B" STREET, SUITE 2100 SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA 92101 (619) 236-1234 CALCULATION OF REGISTRATION FEE ================================================================================
Proposed Proposed Maximum Amount Maximum Aggregate Amount of Title of Securities to be Offering Offering Registration to be Registered Registered Price Per Share(1) Price Fee - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Common Stock, without par value... 2,700,000 $43.625 $117,787,500 $40,617 ==================================================================================================
(1) Estimated solely for purposes of calculating the registration fee. Pursuant to Rule 457(h), the Proposed Maximum Offering Price Per Share is based on the average of the high and low prices for the Company's common stock as reported on the Nasdaq National Market on March 5, 1996. ================================================================================ Page 1 of 38 Exhibit Index on Page 7 PART I ITEM 1. PLAN INFORMATION. Not required to be filed with this Registration Statement. ITEM 2. REGISTRANT INFORMATION AND EMPLOYEE PLAN ANNUAL INFORMATION. Not required to be filed with this Registration Statement. PART II ITEM 3. INCORPORATION OF DOCUMENTS BY REFERENCE. The following documents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "Commission") by Mercury General Corporation, a California corporation (the "Company"), are hereby incorporated by reference in this Registration Statement: (a) The Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1994; (b) The Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 1995; (c) The Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 1995; (d) The Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 1995; (e) All other reports filed pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"), since the end of the Company's fiscal year ended December 31, 1994; and (f) The description of the Company's common stock contained in the Company's Registration Statement on Form 8-A (File No. 0-3681) filed with the Commission on December 13, 1985. All documents filed by the Company pursuant to Section 13(a), 13(c), 14 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act after the date this Registration Statement is filed with the Commission and prior to the filing of a post-effective amendment which indicates that all securities offered have been sold or which deregisters all securities then remaining unsold shall be deemed to be incorporated by reference in this Registration Statement and to be a part of it from the respective dates of filing of such documents. Any statement contained in a document incorporated or deemed to be incorporated by reference herein shall be deemed to be modified or superseded for purposes of this Registration Statement to the extent that a statement contained herein or in any other subsequently filed document which also is or is deemed to be 2 incorporated by reference herein modifies or supersedes such statement. Any such statement so modified or superseded shall not be deemed, except as so modified or superseded, to constitute a part of this Registration Statement. ITEM 4. DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES. See Item 3(f) above. ITEM 5. INTERESTS OF NAMED EXPERTS AND COUNSEL. Not applicable. ITEM 6. INDEMNIFICATION OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS. The California General Corporation Law provides for the award of indemnity by a court to the directors and officers of a corporation in terms sufficiently broad to permit such indemnification under certain circumstances for liabilities, including reimbursement for expenses incurred, arising under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"). The Company's Bylaws require the Company, to the broadest and maximum extent permitted by law, to indemnify each of its directors against expenses, judgments, fines, settlements and other amounts actually and reasonably incurred in connection with any proceeding arising by reason of the fact that any such person is or was a director of the Company, or is or was serving at the request of the Company as a director of another corporation or other enterprise. The Company maintains directors' and officers' liability insurance for its directors and officers. ITEM 7. EXEMPTION FROM REGISTRATION CLAIMED. Not applicable. ITEM 8. EXHIBITS. See Exhibit Index on page 7 hereof. ITEM 9. UNDERTAKINGS. (a) The undersigned Registrant hereby undertakes: (1) To file, during any period in which offers or sales are being made, a post-effective amendment to this Registration Statement; (i) To include any prospectus required by Section 10(a)(3) of the Securities Act; (ii) To reflect in the prospectus any facts or events arising after the effective date of this Registration Statement (or the most recent post-effective amendment hereof) which, individually or in the aggregate, represent a fundamental change in the information set forth in this Registration Statement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, any increase or decrease in volume of securities offered (if the total dollar value of securities 3 offered would not exceed that which was registered) and any deviation from the low or high and of the estimated maximum offering range may be reflected in the form of prospectus filed with the Commission pursuant to Rule 424(b) if, in the aggregate, the changes in volume and price represent no more than 20 percent change in the maximum aggregate offering price set forth in the "Calculation of Registration Fee" table in the effective Registration Statement; (iii) To include any material information with respect to the plan of distribution not previously disclosed in this Registration Statement or any material change to such information in this Registration Statement; provided, however, that the undertakings set forth in paragraphs (a)(1)(i) - -------- ------- and (a)(1)(ii) above do not apply if the information required to be included in a post-effective amendment by those paragraphs is contained in periodic reports filed with or furnished to the Commission by the Registrant pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act that are incorporated by reference in this Registration Statement. (2) That, for the purpose of determining any liability under the Securities Act, each such post-effective amendment shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof. (3) To remove from registration by means of a post-effective amendment any of the securities being registered which remain unsold at the termination of the offering. (b) The undersigned Registrant hereby undertakes that, for purposes of determining any liability under the Securities Act, each filing of the Registrant's annual report pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act (and, where applicable, each filing of an employee benefit plan's annual report pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act) that is incorporated by reference in this Registration Statement shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof. (c) Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons of the Registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, the Registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the Commission such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by the Registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer or controlling person of the Registrant in the successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such director, officer or controlling person in connection with the securities being registered, the Registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue. 4 SIGNATURES Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act, the Registrant certifies that it has reasonable grounds to believe that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form S-8 and has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Los Angeles, State of California, on March 7, 1996. MERCURY GENERAL CORPORATION By: /s/ George Joseph ----------------------- George Joseph Chief Executive Officer POWER OF ATTORNEY Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated. Each person whose signature appears below authorizes George Joseph and Keith L. Parker, and either of them, with full power of substitution and resubstitution, his or her true and lawful attorneys-in-fact, for him or her in any and all capacities, to sign any amendments (including post-effective amendments) to this Registration Statement and to file the same, with exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the Commission.
Signature Title Date - ------------------------- ------------------------------- ------------- /s/ George Joseph Chief Executive Officer and March 7, 1996 - ------------------------- Chairman of the Board George Joseph (Principal Executive Officer) /s/ Keith L. Parker Chief Financial Officer March 7, 1996 - ------------------------- (Principal Financial Officer) Keith L. Parker /s/ Donna J. Moore Vice President and Controller March 7, 1996 - ------------------------- (Principal Accounting Officer) Donna J. Moore /s/ Nathan Bessin Director March 7, 1996 - ------------------------- Nathan Bessin /s/ Bruce A. Bunner Director March 7, 1996 - ------------------------- Bruce A. Bunner /s/ Richard E. Grayson Director March 7, 1996 - ------------------------- Richard E. Grayson /s/ Gloria Joseph Director March 7, 1996 - ------------------------- Gloria Joseph /s/ Charles E. McClung Director March 7, 1996 - ------------------------- Charles E. McClung /s/ Donald R. Spuehler Director March 7, 1996 - ------------------------- Donald R. Spuehler
5
Signature Title Date - ------------------------- ------------------------------- ------------- /s/ Donald P. Newell Director March 7, 1996 - ----------------------- Donald P. Newell /s/ Michael Curtius Director March 7, 1996 - ----------------------- Michael Curtius
6 EXHIBIT INDEX
EXHIBIT PAGE - ------- ---- 4.1 The 1995 Equity Participation Plan of Mercury General 8 Corporation (the "1995 Plan"). 4.2 Form of Incentive Stock Option Agreement for use under 25 the 1995 Plan. 5.1 Opinion of Latham & Watkins. 36 23.1 Consent of KPMG Peat Marwick LLP. 38 23.2 Consent of Latham & Watkins (included in Exhibit 5.1 -- hereto). 24.1 Power of Attorney (included on signature page hereto). --
7 EX-4.1 2 1995 EQUITY PARTICIPATION PLAN EXHIBIT 4.1 THE 1995 EQUITY PARTICIPATION PLAN OF MERCURY GENERAL CORPORATION Mercury General Corporation, a California corporation, has adopted The 1995 Equity Participation Plan of Mercury General Corporation (the "Plan"), effective April 10, 1995, for the benefit of its eligible employees. The purposes of this Plan are as follows: (1) To provide an additional incentive for key Employees to further the growth, development and financial success of the Company by personally benefiting through the ownership of Company stock and/or rights which recognize such growth, development and financial success. (2) To enable the Company to obtain and retain the services of key Employees considered essential to the long range success of the Company by offering them an opportunity to own stock in the Company and/or rights which will reflect the growth, development and financial success of the Company. ARTICLE I DEFINITIONS ----------- 1.1 General. Wherever the following terms are used in this Plan ------- they shall have the meaning specified below, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. 1.2 Board. "Board" shall mean the Board of Directors of the ----- Company. 1.3 Code. "Code" shall mean the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as ---- amended. 1.4 Committee. "Committee" shall mean the Compensation Committee --------- of the Board, or a subcommittee of the Board, appointed as provided in Section 9.1. 1.5 Common Stock. "Common Stock" shall mean the common stock of ------------ the Company, without par value, and any equity security of the Company issued or authorized to be issued in the future, but excluding any warrants, options or other rights to purchase Common Stock. Debt securities of the Company convertible into Common Stock shall be deemed equity securities of the Company. 1.6 Company. "Company" shall mean Mercury General Corporation, a ------- California corporation. 1.7 Deferred Stock. "Deferred Stock" shall mean Common Stock -------------- awarded under Article VII of this Plan. 1.8 Director. "Director" shall mean a member of the Board. -------- 1.9 Dividend Equivalent. "Dividend Equivalent" shall mean a right ------------------- to receive the equivalent value (in cash or Common Stock) of dividends paid on Common Stock, awarded under Article VII of this Plan. 1.10 Employee. "Employee" shall mean any officer or other employee -------- (as defined in accordance with Section 3401(c) of the Code) of the Company, or of any corporation which is a Subsidiary. 1.11 Exchange Act. "Exchange Act" shall mean the Securities ------------ Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. 1.12 Fair Market Value. "Fair Market Value" of a share of Common ----------------- Stock as of a given date shall be (i) the mean between the highest and lowest selling price of a share of Common Stock on the principal exchange on which shares of Common Stock are then trading, if any, on such date, or if shares were not traded on such date, then on the closest preceding date on which a trade occurred, or (ii) if Common Stock is not traded on an exchange, the mean between the closing representative bid and asked prices for the Common Stock on such date as reported by NASDAQ or, if NASDAQ is not then in existence, by its successor quotation system; or (iii) if Common Stock is not publicly traded, the Fair Market Value of a share of Common Stock as established by the Committee acting in good faith. 1.13 Grantee. "Grantee" shall mean an Employee granted a ------- Performance Award, Dividend Equivalent, Stock Payment or Stock Appreciation Right, or an award of Deferred Stock, under this Plan. 1.14 Incentive Stock Option. "Incentive Stock Option" shall mean an ---------------------- option which conforms to the applicable provisions of Section 422 of the Code and which is designated as an Incentive Stock Option by the Committee. 1.15 Independent Director. "Independent Director" shall mean a -------------------- member of the Board who is not an Employee of the Company. 1.16 Non-Qualified Stock Option. "Non-Qualified Stock Option" shall -------------------------- mean an Option which is not designated as an Incentive Stock Option by the Committee. 1.17 Option. "Option" shall mean a stock option granted under ------ Article III of this Plan. An Option granted under this Plan shall, as determined by the Committee, be either a Non-Qualified Stock Option or an Incentive Stock Option. 1.18 Optionee. "Optionee" shall mean an Employee granted an Option -------- under this Plan. 1.19 Performance Award. "Performance Award" shall mean a cash ----------------- bonus, stock bonus or other performance or incentive award that is paid in cash, Common Stock or a combination of both, awarded under Article VII of this Plan. 1.20 Plan. "Plan" shall mean The 1995 Equity Participation Plan of ---- Mercury General Corporation. 1.21 Restricted Stock. "Restricted Stock" shall mean Common Stock ---------------- awarded under Article VI of this Plan. 1.22 Restricted Stockholder. "Restricted Stockholder" shall mean an ---------------------- Employee granted an award of Restricted Stock under Article VI of this Plan. 2 1.23 Rule 16b-3. "Rule 16b-3" shall mean that certain Rule 16b-3 ---------- under the Exchange Act, as such Rule may be amended from time to time. 1.24 Stock Appreciation Right. "Stock Appreciation Right" shall ------------------------ mean a stock appreciation right granted under Article VIII of this Plan. 1.25 Stock Payment. "Stock Payment" shall mean (i) a payment in the ------------- form of shares of Common Stock, or (ii) an option or other right to purchase shares of Common Stock, as part of a deferred compensation arrangement, made in lieu of all or any portion of the compensation, including without limitation, salary, bonuses and commissions, that would otherwise become payable to a key Employee in cash, awarded under Article VII of this Plan. 1.26 Subsidiary. "Subsidiary" shall mean any corporation in an ---------- unbroken chain of corporations beginning with the Company if each of the corporations other than the last corporation in the unbroken chain then owns stock possessing 50 percent or more of the total combined voting power of all classes of stock in one of the other corporations in such chain. 1.27 Termination of Employment. "Termination of Employment" shall ------------------------- mean the time when the employee-employer relationship between the Optionee, Grantee or Restricted Stockholder and the Company or any Subsidiary is terminated for any reason, including, but not by way of limitation, a termination by resignation, discharge, death, disability or retirement; but excluding (i) terminations where there is a simultaneous reemployment or continuing employment of an Optionee, Grantee or Restricted Stockholder by the Company or any Subsidiary and (ii) at the discretion of the Committee, terminations which result in a temporary severance of the employee-employer relationship. The Committee, in its absolute discretion, shall determine the effect of all matters and questions relating to Termination of Employment, including, but not by way of limitation, the question of whether a Termination of Employment resulted from a discharge for good cause, and all questions of whether particular leaves of absence constitute Terminations of Employment; provided, however, that, with respect to Incentive Stock Options, a leave of - -------- ------- absence or other change in the employee-employer relationship shall constitute a Termination of Employment if, and to the extent that, such leave of absence or other change interrupts employment for the purposes of Section 422(a)(2) of the Code and the then applicable regulations and revenue rulings under said Section. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Plan, the Company or any Subsidiary has an absolute and unrestricted right to terminate an Employee's employment at any time for any reason whatsoever, with or without cause, except to the extent expressly provided otherwise in writing. ARTICLE II SHARES SUBJECT TO PLAN ---------------------- 2.1 Shares Subject to Plan. The shares of stock subject to ---------------------- Options, awards of Restricted Stock, Performance Awards, Dividend Equivalents, awards of Deferred Stock, Stock Payments or Stock Appreciation Rights shall be Common Stock, initially shares of the Company's Common Stock, without par value. The aggregate number of such shares which may be issued upon exercise of such options or rights or upon any such awards under the Plan shall not exceed Two Million Seven Hundred Thousand (2,700,000). Furthermore, the maximum number of shares which may be subject to options, rights or other awards granted under the Plan to any individual in any calendar year shall not exceed One Hundred Thousand (100,000), and the method of counting such shares shall conform to any requirements applicable to performance-based compensation under Section 162(m) of the Code. The shares of 3 Common Stock issuable upon exercise of such options or rights or upon any such awards may be either previously authorized but unissued shares or treasury shares. 2.2 Unexercised Options and Other Rights. If any Option, or other ------------------------------------ right to acquire shares of Common Stock under any other award under this Plan, expires or is cancelled without having been fully exercised, the number of shares subject to such Option or other right but as to which such Option or other right was not exercised prior to its expiration or cancellation may again be optioned, granted or awarded hereunder, subject to the limitations of Section 2.1. ARTICLE III GRANTING OF OPTIONS ------------------- 3.1 Eligibility. Any Employee selected by the Committee pursuant ----------- to Section 3.4(a)(i) shall be eligible to be granted an Option. 3.2 Disqualification for Stock Ownership. No person may be granted ------------------------------------ an Incentive Stock Option under this Plan if such person, at the time the Incentive Stock Option is granted, owns stock possessing more than ten percent (10%) of the total combined voting power of all classes of stock of the Company or any then existing Subsidiary unless such Incentive Stock Option conforms to the applicable provisions of Section 422 of the Code. 3.3 Qualification of Incentive Stock Options. No Incentive Stock ---------------------------------------- Option shall be granted unless such Option, when granted, qualifies as an "incentive stock option" under Section 422 of the Code. No Incentive Stock Option shall be granted to any person who is not an Employee. 3.4 Granting of Options ------------------- (a) The Committee shall from time to time, in its absolute discretion, and subject to applicable limitations of this Plan: (i) Determine which Employees are key Employees and select from among the key Employees (including Employees who have previously received Options or other awards under this Plan) such of them as in its opinion should be granted Options; (ii) Determine the number of shares to be subject to such Options granted to the selected key Employees; (iii) Determine whether such Options are to be Incentive Stock Options or Non-Qualified Stock Options and whether such Options are to qualify as performance-based compensation as described in Section 162(m)(4)(C) of the Code; and (iv) Determine the terms and conditions of such Options, consistent with this Plan. (b) Upon the selection of a key Employee to be granted an Option, the Committee shall instruct the Secretary of the Company to issue the Option and may impose such conditions on the grant of the Option as it deems appropriate. Without limiting the generality of the preceding sentence, the Committee may, in its discretion and on such terms as it deems appropriate, require as a condition on the grant of an Option to an Employee that the Employee surrender for cancellation some or all of the 4 unexercised Options, awards of Restricted Stock or Deferred Stock, Performance Awards, Stock Appreciation Rights, Dividend Equivalents or Stock Payments or other rights which have been previously granted to him under this Plan or otherwise. An Option, the grant of which is conditioned upon such surrender, may have an option price lower (or higher) than the exercise price of such surrendered Option or other award, may cover the same (or a lesser or greater) number of shares as such surrendered Option or other award, may contain such other terms as the Committee deems appropriate, and shall be exercisable in accordance with its terms, without regard to the number of shares, price, exercise period or any other term or condition of such surrendered Option or other award. (c) Any Incentive Stock Option granted under this Plan may be modified by the Committee to disqualify such option from treatment as an "incentive stock option" under Section 422 of the Code. ARTICLE IV TERMS OF OPTIONS ---------------- 4.1 Option Agreement. Each Option shall be evidenced by a written ---------------- Stock Option Agreement, which shall be executed by the Optionee and an authorized officer of the Company and which shall contain such terms and conditions as the Committee shall determine, consistent with this Plan. Stock Option Agreements evidencing Incentive Stock Options shall contain such terms and conditions as may be necessary to meet the applicable provisions of Section 422 of the Code. 4.2 Option Price. The price per share of the shares subject to each ------------ Option shall be set by the Committee; provided, however, that such price shall -------- ------- be no less than the par value of a share of Common Stock and in the case of Incentive Stock Options such price shall not be less than the greater of: (i) 100% of the Fair Market Value of a share of Common Stock on the date the Option is granted, or (ii) 110% of the fair market value of a share of Common Stock on the date such Option is granted in the case of an individual then owning (within the meaning of Section 424(d) of the Code) more than 10% of the total combined voting power of all classes of stock of the Company or any Subsidiary. 4.3 Option Term. The term of an Option shall be set by the ----------- Committee in its discretion; provided, however, that, in the case of Incentive -------- ------- Stock Options, the term shall not be more than ten (10) years from the date the Incentive Stock Option is granted, or five (5) years from such date if the Incentive Stock Option is granted to an individual then owning (within the meaning of Section 424(d) of the Code) more than 10% of the total combined voting power of all classes of stock of the Company or any Subsidiary. Except as limited by requirements of Section 422 of the Code and regulations and rulings thereunder applicable to Incentive Stock Options, the Committee may extend the term of any outstanding Option in connection with any Termination of Employment of the Optionee, or amend any other term or condition of such Option relating to such a termination. 4.4 Option Vesting -------------- (a) The period during which the right to exercise an Option in whole or in part vests in the Optionee shall be set by the Committee and the Committee may determine that an Option may not be exercised in whole or in part for a specified period after it is granted. At any time after grant of an Option, the Committee may, in its sole discretion and subject to whatever terms and conditions it selects, accelerate the period during which an Option vests. 5 (b) No portion of an Option which is unexercisable at Termination of Employment, shall thereafter become exercisable, except as may be otherwise provided by the Committee either in the Stock Option Agreement or in a resolution adopted following the grant of the Option. (c) To the extent that the aggregate Fair Market Value of stock with respect to which "incentive stock options" (within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code, but without regard to Section 422(d) of the Code) are exercisable for the first time by an Optionee during any calendar year (under the Plan and all other incentive stock option plans of the Company and any Subsidiary) exceeds $100,000, such Options shall be treated as Non-Qualified Options to the extent required by Section 422 of the Code. The rule set forth in the preceding sentence shall be applied by taking Options into account in the order in which they were granted. For purposes of this Section 4.4(c), the Fair Market Value of stock shall be determined as of the time the Option with respect to such stock is granted. 4.5 Consideration. In consideration of the granting of an Option, ------------- the Optionee shall agree, in the written Stock Option Agreement, to remain in the employ of the Company or any Subsidiary for a period of at least one year after the Option is granted. Nothing in this Plan or in any Stock Option Agreement hereunder shall confer upon any Optionee any right to continue in the employ of the Company or any Subsidiary, or shall interfere with or restrict in any way the rights of the Company and any Subsidiary, which are hereby expressly reserved, to discharge any Optionee at any time for any reason whatsoever, with or without good cause. ARTICLE V EXERCISE OF OPTIONS ------------------- 5.1 Partial Exercise. An exercisable Option may be exercised in ---------------- whole or in part. However, an Option shall not be exercisable with respect to fractional shares and the Committee may require that, by the terms of the Option, a partial exercise be with respect to a minimum number of shares. 5.2 Manner of Exercise. All or a portion of an exercisable Option ------------------ shall be deemed exercised upon delivery of all of the following to the Secretary of the Company or his office: (a) A written notice complying with the applicable rules established by the Committee or the Board stating that the Option, or a portion thereof, is exercised. The notice shall be signed by the Optionee or other person then entitled to exercise the Option or such portion; (b) Such representations and documents as the Committee or the Board, in its absolute discretion, deems necessary or advisable to effect compliance with all applicable provisions of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and any other federal or state securities laws or regulations. The Committee or Board may, in its absolute discretion, also take whatever additional actions it deems appropriate to effect such compliance including, without limitation, placing legends on share certificates and issuing stop-transfer notices to agents and registrars; (c) In the event that the Option shall be exercised pursuant to Section 10.1 by any person or persons other than the Optionee, appropriate proof of the right of such person or persons to exercise the Option; and (d) Full cash payment to the Secretary of the Company for the shares with respect to which the Option, or portion thereof, is exercised. However, at the discretion of the Committee, the 6 terms of the Option may (i) allow a delay in payment up to thirty (30) days from the date the Option, or portion thereof, is exercised; (ii) allow payment, in whole or in part, through the delivery of shares of Common Stock owned by the Optionee, duly endorsed for transfer to the Company with a Fair Market Value on the date of delivery equal to the aggregate exercise price of the Option or exercised portion thereof; (iii) subject to the timing requirements of Section 5.3, allow payment, in whole or in part, through the surrender of shares of Common Stock then issuable upon exercise of the Option having a Fair Market Value on the date of Option exercise equal to the aggregate exercise price of the Option or exercised portion thereof; (iv) allow payment, in whole or in part, through the delivery of property of any kind which constitutes good and valuable consideration; (v) allow payment, in whole or in part, through the delivery of a full recourse promissory note bearing interest (at no less than such rate as shall then preclude the imputation of interest under the Code) and payable upon such terms as may be prescribed by the Committee, or (vi) allow payment through any combination of the consideration provided in the foregoing subparagraphs (ii), (iii), (iv) and (v). In the case of a promissory note, the Committee may also prescribe the form of such note and the security to be given for such note. The Option may not be exercised, however, by delivery of a promissory note or by a loan from the Company when or where such loan or other extension of credit is prohibited by law. 5.3 Certain Timing Requirements. At the discretion of the --------------------------- Committee, shares of Common Stock issuable to the Optionee upon exercise of the Option may be used to satisfy the Option exercise price or the tax withholding consequences of such exercise, in the case of persons subject to Section 16 of the Exchange Act, only (i) during the period beginning on the third business day following the date of release of the quarterly or annual summary statement of sales and earnings of the Company and ending on the twelfth business day following such date or (ii) pursuant to an irrevocable written election by the Optionee to use shares of Common Stock issuable to the Optionee upon exercise of the Option to pay all or part of the Option price or the withholding taxes made at least six months prior to the payment of such Option price or withholding taxes. 5.4 Conditions to Issuance of Stock Certificates. The Company shall -------------------------------------------- not be required to issue or deliver any certificate or certificates for shares of stock purchased upon the exercise of any Option or portion thereof prior to fulfillment of all of the following conditions: (a) The admission of such shares to listing on all stock exchanges on which such class of stock is then listed; (b) The completion of any registration or other qualification of such shares under any state or federal law, or under the rulings or regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission or any other governmental regulatory body which the Committee or Board shall, in its absolute discretion, deem necessary or advisable; (c) The obtaining of any approval or other clearance from any state or federal governmental agency which the Committee or Board shall, in its absolute discretion, determine to be necessary or advisable; (d) The lapse of such reasonable period of time following the exercise of the Option as the Committee or Board may establish from time to time for reasons of administrative convenience; and (e) The receipt by the Company of full payment for such shares, including payment of any applicable withholding tax. 7 5.5 Rights as Stockholders. The holders of Options shall not be, nor ---------------------- have any of the rights or privileges of, stockholders of the Company in respect of any shares purchasable upon the exercise of any part of an Option unless and until certificates representing such shares have been issued by the Company to such holders. 5.6 Ownership and Transfer Restrictions. The Committee, in its ----------------------------------- absolute discretion, may impose such restrictions on the ownership and transferability of the shares purchasable upon the exercise of an Option as it deems appropriate. Any such restriction shall be set forth in the respective Stock Option Agreement and may be referred to on the certificates evidencing such shares. The Committee may require the Employee to give the Company prompt notice of any disposition of shares of Common Stock acquired by exercise of an Incentive Stock Option within (i) two years from the date of granting such Option to such Employee or (ii) one year after the transfer of such shares to such Employee. The Committee may direct that the certificates evidencing shares acquired by exercise of an Option refer to such requirement to give prompt notice of disposition. ARTICLE VI AWARD OF RESTRICTED STOCK ------------------------- 6.1 Award of Restricted Stock ------------------------- (a) The Committee shall from time to time, in its absolute discretion: (i) Select from among the key Employees (including Employees who have previously received other awards under this Plan) such of them as in its opinion should be awarded Restricted Stock; and (ii) Determine the purchase price, if any, and other terms and conditions applicable to such Restricted Stock, consistent with this Plan. (b) The Committee shall establish the purchase price, if any, and form of payment for Restricted Stock. In all cases, however, legal consideration shall be required for each issuance of Restricted Stock. (c) Upon the selection of a key Employee to be awarded Restricted Stock, the Committee shall instruct the Secretary of the Company to issue such Restricted Stock and may impose such conditions on the issuance of such Restricted Stock as it deems appropriate. 6.2 Restricted Stock Agreement. Restricted Stock shall be issued -------------------------- only pursuant to a written Restricted Stock Agreement, which shall be executed by the selected key Employee and an authorized officer of the Company and which shall contain such terms and conditions as the Committee shall determine, consistent with this Plan. 6.3 Consideration. As consideration for the issuance of Restricted ------------- Stock, in addition to payment of any purchase price, the Restricted Stockholder shall agree, in the written Restricted Stock Agreement, to remain in the employ of the Company or any Subsidiary for a period of at least one year after the Restricted Stock is issued. Nothing in this Plan or in any Restricted Stock Agreement hereunder shall confer on any Restricted Stockholder any right to continue in the employ of the Company or any Subsidiary or shall interfere with or restrict in any way the rights of the Company and any Subsidiary, 8 which are hereby expressly reserved, to discharge any Restricted Stockholder at any time for any reason whatsoever, with or without good cause. 6.4 Rights as Stockholders. Upon delivery of the shares of ---------------------- Restricted Stock to the escrow holder pursuant to Section 6.7, the Restricted Stockholder shall have, unless otherwise provided by the Committee, all the rights of a stockholder with respect to said shares, subject to the restrictions in his Restricted Stock Agreement, including the right to receive all dividends and other distributions paid or made with respect to the shares; provided, -------- however, that in the discretion of the Committee, any extraordinary - ------- distributions with respect to the Common Stock shall be subject to the restrictions set forth in Section 6.5. 6.5 Restriction. All shares of Restricted Stock issued under this ----------- Plan (including any shares received by holders thereof with respect to shares of Restricted Stock as a result of stock dividends, stock splits or any other form of recapitalization) shall, in the terms of each individual Restricted Stock Agreement, be subject to such restrictions as the Committee shall provide, which restrictions may include, without limitation, restrictions concerning voting rights and transferability and restrictions based on duration of employment with the Company, Company performance and individual performance; provided, however, -------- ------- that by a resolution adopted after the Restricted Stock is issued, the Committee may, on such terms and conditions as it may determine to be appropriate, remove any or all of the restrictions imposed by the terms of the Restricted Stock Agreement. Restricted Stock may not be sold or encumbered until all restrictions are terminated or expire. Unless provided otherwise by the Committee, if no consideration was paid by the Restricted Stockholder upon issuance, a Restricted Stockholder's rights in unvested Restricted Stock shall lapse upon Termination of Employment. 6.6 Repurchase of Restricted Stock. The Committee shall provide in ------------------------------ the terms of each individual Restricted Stock Agreement that the Company shall have the right to repurchase from the Restricted Stockholder the Restricted Stock then subject to restrictions under the Restricted Stock Agreement immediately upon a Termination of Employment, at a cash price per share equal to the price paid by the Restricted Stockholder for such Restricted Stock; provided, however, that provision may be made that no such right of repurchase - -------- ------- shall exist in the event of a Termination of Employment without cause, or following a change in control of the Company or because of the Restricted Stockholder's retirement, death or disability, or otherwise. 6.7 Escrow. The Secretary of the Company or such other escrow ------ holder as the Committee may appoint shall retain physical custody of each certificate representing Restricted Stock until all of the restrictions imposed under the Restricted Stock Agreement with respect to the shares evidenced by such certificate expire or shall have been removed. 6.8 Legend. In order to enforce the restrictions imposed upon ------ shares of Restricted Stock hereunder, the Committee shall cause a legend or legends to be placed on certificates representing all shares of Restricted Stock that are still subject to restrictions under Restricted Stock Agreements, which legend or legends shall make appropriate reference to the conditions imposed thereby. ARTICLE VII PERFORMANCE AWARDS, DIVIDEND EQUIVALENTS, DEFERRED STOCK, STOCK PAYMENTS ------------------------------ 7.1 Performance Awards. Any key Employee selected by the Committee ------------------ may be granted one or more Performance Awards. The value of such Performance Awards may be linked to the 9 market value, book value, net profits or other measure of the value of Common Stock or other specific performance criteria determined appropriate by the Committee, in each case on a specified date or dates or over any period or periods determined by the Committee, or may be based upon the appreciation in the market value, book value, net profits or other measure of the value of a specified number of shares of Common Stock over a fixed period or periods determined by the Committee. In making such determinations, the Committee shall consider (among such other factors as it deems relevant in light of the specific type of award) the contributions, responsibilities and other compensation of the particular key Employee. 7.2 Dividend Equivalents. Any key Employee selected by the -------------------- Committee may be granted Dividend Equivalents based on the dividends declared on Common Stock, to be credited as of dividend payment dates, during the period between the date an Option, Stock Appreciation Right, Deferred Stock or Performance Award is granted, and the date such Option, Stock Appreciation Right, Deferred Stock or Performance Award is exercised, vests or expires, as determined by the Committee. Such Dividend Equivalents shall be converted to cash or additional shares of Common Stock by such formula and at such time and subject to such limitations as may be determined by the Committee. 7.3 Stock Payments. Any key Employee selected by the Committee may -------------- receive Stock Payments in the manner determined from time to time by the Committee. The number of shares shall be determined by the Committee and may be based upon the Fair Market Value, book value, net profits or other measure of the value of Common Stock or other specific performance criteria determined appropriate by the Committee, determined on the date such Stock Payment is made or on any date thereafter. 7.4 Deferred Stock. Any key Employee selected by the Committee may -------------- be granted an award of Deferred Stock in the manner determined from time to time by the Committee. The number of shares of Deferred Stock shall be determined by the Committee and may be linked to the market value, book value, net profits or other measure of the value of Common Stock or other specific performance criteria, in each case on a specified date or dates or over any period or periods determined by the Committee. Common Stock underlying a Deferred Stock award will not be issued until the Deferred Stock award has vested, pursuant to a vesting schedule or performance criteria set by the Committee. Unless otherwise provided by the Committee, a Grantee of Deferred Stock shall have no rights as a Company stockholder with respect to such Deferred Stock until such time as the award has vested and the Common Stock underlying the award has been issued. 7.5 Performance Award Agreement, Dividend Equivalent Agreement, ----------------------------------------------------------- Deferred Stock Agreement, Stock Payment Agreement. Each Performance Award, - ------------------------------------------------- Dividend Equivalent, award of Deferred Stock and/or Stock Payment shall be evidenced by a written agreement, which shall be executed by the Grantee and an authorized Officer of the Company and which shall contain such terms and conditions as the Committee shall determine, consistent with this Plan. 7.6 Term. The term of a Performance Award, Dividend Equivalent, ---- award of Deferred Stock and/or Stock Payment shall be set by the Committee in its discretion. 7.7 Exercise Upon Termination of Employment. A Performance Award, --------------------------------------- Dividend Equivalent, award of Deferred Stock and/or Stock Payment is exercisable only while the Grantee is an Employee; provided that the Committee may determine that the Performance Award, Dividend Equivalent, award of Deferred Stock and/or Stock Payment may be exercised subsequent to Termination 10 of Employment without cause, or following a change in control of the Company, or because of the Grantee's retirement, death or disability, or otherwise. 7.8 Payment on Exercise. Payment of the amount determined under ------------------- Section 7.1 or 7.2 above shall be in cash, in Common Stock or a combination of both, as determined by the Committee. To the extent any payment under this Article VII is effected in Common Stock, it shall be made subject to satisfaction of all provisions of Section 5.4. 7.9 Consideration. In consideration of the granting of a ------------- Performance Award, Dividend Equivalent, award of Deferred Stock and/or Stock Payment, the Grantee shall agree, in a written agreement, to remain in the employ of, the Company or any Subsidiary for a period of at least one year after such Performance Award, Dividend Equivalent, award of Deferred Stock and/or Stock Payment is granted. Nothing in this Plan or in any agreement hereunder shall confer on any Grantee any right to continue in the employ of, the Company or any Subsidiary or shall interfere with or restrict in any way the rights of the Company and any Subsidiary, which are hereby expressly reserved, to discharge any Grantee at any time for any reason whatsoever, with or without good cause. ARTICLE VIII STOCK APPRECIATION RIGHTS ------------------------- 8.1 Grant of Stock Appreciation Rights. A Stock Appreciation Right ---------------------------------- may be granted to any key Employee selected by the Committee. A Stock Appreciation Right may be granted (i) in connection and simultaneously with the grant of an Option, (ii) with respect to a previously granted Option, or (iii) independent of an Option. A Stock Appreciation Right shall be subject to such terms and conditions not inconsistent with this Plan as the Committee shall impose and shall be evidenced by a written Stock Appreciation Right Agreement, which shall be executed by the Grantee and an authorized officer of the Company. The Committee, in its discretion, may determine whether a Stock Appreciation Right is to qualify as performance-based compensation as described in Section 162(m)(4)(C) of the Code. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the Committee may, in its discretion and on such terms as it deems appropriate, require as a condition of the grant of a Stock Appreciation Right to an Employee that the Employee surrender for cancellation some or all of the unexercised Options, awards of Restricted Stock or Deferred Stock, Performance Awards, Stock Appreciation Rights, Dividend Equivalents or Stock Payments, or other rights which have been previously granted to him under this Plan or otherwise. A Stock Appreciation Right, the grant of which is conditioned upon such surrender, may have an exercise price lower (or higher) than the exercise price of the surrendered Option or other award, may cover the same (or a lesser or greater) number of shares as such surrendered Option or other award, may contain such other terms as the Committee deems appropriate, and shall be exercisable in accordance with its terms, without regard to the number of shares, price, exercise period or any other term or condition of such surrendered Option or other award. 8.2 Coupled Stock Appreciation Rights --------------------------------- (a) A Coupled Stock Appreciation Right ("CSAR") shall be related to a particular Option and shall be exercisable only when and to the extent the related Option is exercisable. (b) A CSAR may be granted to the Grantee for no more than the number of shares subject to the simultaneously or previously granted Option to which it is coupled. 11 (c) A CSAR shall entitle the Grantee (or other person entitled to exercise the Option pursuant to this Plan) to surrender to the Company unexercised a portion of the Option to which the CSAR relates (to the extent then exercisable pursuant to its terms) and to receive from the Company in exchange therefor an amount determined by multiplying the difference obtained by subtracting the Option exercise price from the Fair Market Value of a share of Common Stock on the date of exercise of the CSAR by the number of shares of Common Stock with respect to which the CSAR shall have been exercised, subject to any limitations the Committee may impose. 8.3 Independent Stock Appreciation Rights ------------------------------------- (a) An Independent Stock Appreciation Right ("ISAR") shall be unrelated to any Option and shall have a term set by the Committee. An ISAR shall be exercisable in such installments as the Committee may determine. An ISAR shall cover such number of shares of Common Stock as the Committee may determine. The exercise price per share of Common Stock subject to each ISAR shall be set by the Committee. An ISAR is exercisable only while the Grantee is an Employee; provided that the Committee may determine that the ISAR may be exercised subsequent to Termination of Employment without cause, or following a change in control of the Company, or because of the Grantee's retirement, death or disability, or otherwise. (b) An ISAR shall entitle the Grantee (or other person entitled to exercise the ISAR pursuant to this Plan) to exercise all or a specified portion of the ISAR (to the extent then exercisable pursuant to its terms) and to receive from the Company an amount determined by multiplying the difference obtained by subtracting the exercise price per share of the ISAR from the Fair Market Value of a share of Common Stock on the date of exercise of the ISAR by the number of shares of Common Stock with respect to which the ISAR shall have been exercised, subject to any limitations the Committee may impose. 8.4 Payment and Limitations on Exercise ----------------------------------- (a) Payment of the amount determined under Section 8.2(c) and 8.3(b) above shall be in cash, in Common Stock (based on its Fair Market Value as of the date the Stock Appreciation Right is exercised) or a combination of both, as determined by the Committee. To the extent such payment is effected in Common Stock it shall be made subject to satisfaction of all provisions of Section 5.4 hereinabove pertaining to Options. (b) Grantees of Stock Appreciation Rights who are subject to Section 16 of the Exchange Act may, in the discretion of the Board or Committee, be required to comply with any timing or other restrictions under Rule 16b-3 applicable to the settlement or exercise of a Stock Appreciation Right. 8.5 Consideration. In consideration of the granting of a Stock ------------- Appreciation Right, the Grantee shall agree, in the written Stock Appreciation Right Agreement, to remain in the employ of the Company or any Subsidiary for a period of at least one year after the Stock Appreciation Right is granted. Nothing in this Plan or in any Stock Appreciation Right Agreement hereunder shall confer on any Grantee any right to continue in the employ of, the Company or any Subsidiary or shall interfere with or restrict in any way the rights of the Company and any Subsidiary, which are hereby expressly reserved, to discharge any Grantee at any time for any reason whatsoever, with or without good cause. 12 ARTICLE IX ADMINISTRATION -------------- 9.1 Compensation Committee. The Compensation Committee (or a ---------------------- subcommittee of the Board assuming the functions of the Committee under this Plan) shall consist of two or more Independent Directors appointed by and holding office at the pleasure of the Board, each of whom is both a "disinterested person" as defined by Rule 16b-3 and an "outside director" for purposes of Section 162(m) of the Code. Appointment of Committee members shall be effective upon acceptance of appointment. Committee members may resign at any time by delivering written notice to the Board. Vacancies in the Committee may be filled by the Board. 9.2 Duties and Powers of Committee. It shall be the duty of the ------------------------------ Committee to conduct the general administration of this Plan in accordance with its provisions. The Committee shall have the power to interpret this Plan and the agreements pursuant to which Options, awards of Restricted Stock or Deferred Stock, Performance Awards, Stock Appreciation Rights, Dividend Equivalents or Stock Payments are granted or awarded, and to adopt such rules for the administration, interpretation, and application of this Plan as are consistent therewith and to interpret, amend or revoke any such rules. Any such grant or award under this Plan need not be the same with respect to each Optionee, Grantee or Restricted Stockholder. Any such interpretations and rules with respect to Incentive Stock Options shall be consistent with the provisions of Section 422 of the Code. In its absolute discretion, the Board may at any time and from time to time exercise any and all rights and duties of the Committee under this Plan except with respect to matters which under Rule 16b-3 or Section 162(m) of the Code, or any regulations or rules issued thereunder, are required to be determined in the sole discretion of the Committee. 9.3 Majority Rule. The Committee shall act by a majority of its ------------- members in attendance at a meeting at which a quorum is present or by a memorandum or other written instrument signed by all members of the Committee. 9.4 Compensation; Professional Assistance; Good Faith Actions. --------------------------------------------------------- Members of the Committee shall receive such compensation for their services as members as may be determined by the Board. All expenses and liabilities which members of the Committee incur in connection with the administration of this Plan shall be borne by the Company. The Committee may, with the approval of the Board, employ attorneys, consultants, accountants, appraisers, brokers, or other persons. The Committee, the Company and the Company's officers and Directors shall be entitled to rely upon the advice, opinions or valuations of any such persons. All actions taken and all interpretations and determinations made by the Committee in good faith shall be final and binding upon all Optionees, Grantees, Restricted Stockholders, the Company and all other interested persons. No members of the Committee or Board shall be personally liable for any action, determination or interpretation made in good faith with respect to this Plan, Options, awards of Restricted Stock or Deferred Stock, Performance Awards, Stock Appreciation Rights, Dividend Equivalents or Stock Payments, and all members of the Committee shall be fully protected by the Company in respect of any such action, determination or interpretation. ARTICLE X MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS ------------------------ 10.1 Not Transferable. Options, Restricted Stock awards, Deferred ---------------- Stock awards, Performance Awards, Stock Appreciation Rights, Dividend Equivalents or Stock Payments under this Plan may not be sold, pledged, assigned, or transferred in any manner other than by will or the laws of descent and distribution, unless and until such rights or awards have been exercised, or the shares 13 underlying such rights or awards have been issued, and all restrictions applicable to such shares have lapsed. No Option, Restricted Stock award, Deferred Stock award, Performance Award, Stock Appreciation Right, Dividend Equivalent or Stock Payment or interest or right therein shall be liable for the debts, contracts or engagements of the Optionee, Grantee or Restricted Stockholder or his successors in interest or shall be subject to disposition by transfer, alienation, anticipation, pledge, encumbrance, assignment or any other means whether such disposition be voluntary or involuntary or by operation of law by judgment, levy, attachment, garnishment or any other legal or equitable proceedings (including bankruptcy), and any attempted disposition thereof shall be null and void and of no effect. During the lifetime of the Optionee or Grantee, only he may exercise an Option or other right or award (or any portion thereof) granted to him under the Plan. After the death of the Optionee or Grantee, any exercisable portion of an Option or other right or award may, prior to the time when such portion becomes unexercisable under the Plan or the applicable Stock Option Agreement or other agreement, be exercised by his personal representative or by any person empowered to do so under the deceased Optionee's or Grantee's will or under the then applicable laws of descent and distribution. 10.2 Amendment, Suspension or Termination of this Plan. This Plan ------------------------------------------------- may be wholly or partially amended or otherwise modified, suspended or terminated at any time or from time to time by the Committee. However, without approval of the Company's stockholders given within twelve months before or after the action by the Committee, no action of the Committee may, except as provided in Section 10.3, increase the limits imposed in Section 2.1 on the maximum number of shares which may be issued under this Plan, and no action of the Committee may be taken that would otherwise require stockholder approval as a matter of applicable law, regulation or rule. No amendment, suspension or termination of this Plan shall, without the consent of the holder of Options, Restricted Stock awards, Deferred Stock awards, Performance Awards, Stock Appreciation Rights, Dividend Equivalents or Stock Payments, alter or impair any rights or obligations under any Options, Restricted Stock awards, Deferred Stock awards, Performance Awards, Stock Appreciation Rights, Dividend Equivalents or Stock Payments theretofore granted or awarded, unless the award itself otherwise expressly so provides. No Options, Restricted Stock, Deferred Stock, Performance Awards, Stock Appreciation Rights, Dividend Equivalents or Stock Payments may be granted or awarded during any period of suspension or after termination of this Plan, and in no event may any Incentive Stock Option be granted under this Plan after the first to occur of the following events: (a) The expiration of ten years from the date the Plan is adopted by the Board; or (b) The expiration of ten years from the date the Plan is approved by the Company's stockholders under Section 10.5. 10.3 Changes in Common Stock or Assets of the Company. In the event ------------------------------------------------ that the outstanding shares of Common Stock are hereafter changed into or exchanged for cash or a different number or kind of shares or other securities of the Company, or of another corporation, by reason of reorganization, merger, consolidation, recapitalization, reclassification, stock splitup, stock dividend, or combination of shares, appropriate adjustments shall be made by the Committee in the number and kind of shares for which Options, Restricted Stock awards, Performance Awards, Stock Appreciation Rights, Dividend Equivalents, Deferred Stock awards or Stock Payments may be granted, including adjustments of the limitation in Section 2.1 on the maximum number and kind of shares which may be issued. In the event of such a change or exchange, other than for shares or securities of another corporation or by reason of reorganization, the Committee shall also make an appropriate and equitable 14 adjustment in the number and kind of shares as to which all outstanding Options, Performance Awards, Stock Appreciation Rights, Dividend Equivalents or Stock Payments, or portions thereof then unexercised, shall be exercisable and in the number and kind of shares of outstanding Restricted Stock or Deferred Stock. Such adjustment shall be made with the intent that after the change or exchange of shares, each Optionee's and each Grantee's and each Restricted Stockholder's proportionate interest shall be maintained as before the occurrence of such event. Such adjustment in an outstanding Option, Performance Award, Stock Appreciation Right, Dividend Equivalent or Stock Payment may include a necessary or appropriate corresponding adjustment in Option, Performance Award, Stock Appreciation Right, Dividend Equivalent or Stock Payment exercise price, but shall be made without change in the total price applicable to the Option, Performance Award, Stock Appreciation Right, Dividend Equivalent or Stock Payment, or the unexercised portion thereof (except for any change in the aggregate price resulting from rounding-off of share quantities or prices). Where an adjustment of the type described above is made to an Incentive Stock Option under this Section, the adjustment will be made in a manner which will not be considered a "modification" under the provisions of subsection 424(h)(3) of the Code. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event of such a reorganization, merger, consolidation, recapitalization, reclassification, stock splitup, stock dividend or combination, or other adjustment or event which results in shares of Common Stock being exchanged for or converted into cash, securities or other property, the Company will have the right to terminate this Plan as of the date of the exchange or conversion, in which case all options, rights and other awards under this Plan shall become the right to receive such cash, securities or other property, net of any applicable exercise price. In the event of a "spin-off" or other substantial distribution of assets of the Company which has a material diminutive effect upon the Fair Market Value of the Company's Common Stock, the Committee may in its discretion make an appropriate and equitable adjustment to the Option, Performance Award, Stock Appreciation Right, Dividend Equivalent or Stock Payment exercise price to reflect such diminution. 10.4 Merger of the Company. In the event of the merger or --------------------- consolidation of the Company with or into another corporation, the exchange of all or substantially all of the assets of the Company for the securities of another corporation, the acquisition by another corporation or person of all or substantially all of the Company's assets or 80% or more of the Company's then outstanding voting stock, or the liquidation or dissolution of the Company: (a) At the discretion of the Committee, the terms of an Option, Performance Award, Stock Appreciation Right, Dividend Equivalent or Stock Payment may provide that it cannot be exercised after such event. (b) In its discretion, and on such terms and conditions as it deems appropriate, the Committee may provide either by the terms of such Option, Performance Award, Stock Appreciation Right, Dividend Equivalent or Stock Payment or by a resolution adopted prior to the occurrence of such event that, for a specified period of time prior to such event, such Option, Performance Award, Stock Appreciation Right, Dividend Equivalent or Stock Payment shall be exercisable as to all shares covered thereby, notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Plan or in the provisions of such Option, Performance Award, Stock Appreciation Right, Dividend Equivalent or Stock Payment. 15 (c) In its discretion, and on such terms and conditions as it deems appropriate, the Committee may provide either by the terms of such Option, Performance Award, Stock Appreciation Right, Dividend Equivalent or Stock Payment or by a resolution adopted prior to the occurrence of such event that upon such event, such Option, Performance Award, Stock Appreciation Right, Dividend Equivalent or Stock Payment shall be assumed by the successor corporation, or a parent or subsidiary thereof, or shall be substituted for by similar options, rights or awards covering the stock of the successor corporation, or a parent or subsidiary thereof, with appropriate adjustments as to the number and kind of shares and prices. (d) In its discretion, and on such terms and conditions as it deems appropriate, the Committee may provide either by the terms of a Restricted Stock award or Deferred Stock award or by a resolution adopted prior to the occurrence of such event that, for a specified period of time prior to such event, the restrictions imposed under a Restricted Stock Agreement or a Deferred Stock Agreement upon some or all shares of Restricted Stock or Deferred Stock may be terminated, and, in the case of Restricted Stock, some or all shares of such Restricted Stock may cease to be subject to repurchase under Section 6.6 after such event. 10.5 Approval of Plan by Stockholders. This Plan will be submitted -------------------------------- for the approval of the Company's stockholders within twelve months after the date of the Board's initial adoption of this Plan. Options, Performance Awards, Stock Appreciation Rights, Dividend Equivalents or Stock Payments may be granted and Restricted Stock or Deferred Stock may be awarded prior to such stockholder approval, provided that such Options, Performance Awards, Stock Appreciation Rights, Dividend Equivalents or Stock Payments shall not be exercisable and such Restricted Stock or Deferred Stock shall not vest prior to the time when this Plan is approved by the stockholders, and provided further that if such approval has not been obtained at the end of said twelve-month period, all Options, Performance Awards, Stock Appreciation Rights, Dividend Equivalents or Stock Payments previously granted and all Restricted Stock or Deferred Stock previously awarded under this Plan shall thereupon be cancelled and become null and void. 10.6 Tax Withholding. The Company shall be entitled to require --------------- payment in cash or deduction from other compensation payable to each Optionee, Grantee or Restricted Stockholder of any sums required by federal, state or local tax law to be withheld with respect to the issuance, vesting or exercise of any Option, Restricted Stock, Deferred Stock, Performance Award, Stock Appreciation Right, Dividend Equivalent or Stock Payment. Subject to the timing requirements of Section 5.3, the Committee may in its discretion and in satisfaction of the foregoing requirement allow such Optionee, Grantee or Restricted Stockholder to elect to have the Company withhold shares of Common Stock (or allow the return of shares of Common Stock) having a Fair Market Value equal to the sums required to be withheld. 10.7 Loans. The Committee may, in its discretion, extend one or more ----- loans to key Employees in connection with the exercise or receipt of an Option, Performance Award, Stock Appreciation Right, Dividend Equivalent or Stock Payment granted under this Plan, or the issuance of Restricted Stock or Deferred Stock awarded under this Plan. The terms and conditions of any such loan shall be set by the Committee. 10.8 Limitations Applicable to Section 16 Persons and Performance- ------------------------------------------------------------ Based Compensation. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Plan, any - ------------------ Option, Performance Award, Stock Appreciation Right, Dividend Equivalent or Stock Payment granted, or Restricted Stock or Deferred Stock awarded, to a key Employee or Director who is then subject to Section 16 of the Exchange Act, 16 shall be subject to any additional limitations set forth in any applicable exemptive rule under Section 16 of the Exchange Act (including any amendment to Rule 16b-3 of the Exchange Act) that are requirements for the application of such exemptive rule, and this Plan shall be deemed amended to the extent necessary to conform to such limitations. Furthermore, notwithstanding any other provision of this Plan, any Option or Stock Appreciation Right intended to qualify as performance-based compensation as described in Section 162(m)(4)(C) of the Code shall be subject to any additional limitations set forth in Section 162(m) of the Code (including any amendment to Section 162(m) of the Code) or any regulations or rulings issued thereunder that are requirements for qualification as performance-based compensation as described in Section 162(m)(4)(C) of the Code, and this Plan shall be deemed amended to the extent necessary to conform to such requirements. 10.9 Effect of Plan Upon Options and Compensation Plans. The -------------------------------------------------- adoption of this Plan shall not affect any other compensation or incentive plans in effect for the Company or any Subsidiary. Nothing in this Plan shall be construed to limit the right of the Company (i) to establish any other forms of incentives or compensation for Employees of the Company or any Subsidiary or (ii) to grant or assume options or other rights otherwise than under this Plan in connection with any proper corporate purpose including but not by way of limitation, the grant or assumption of options in connection with the acquisition by purchase, lease, merger, consolidation or otherwise, of the business, stock or assets of any corporation, partnership, firm or association. 10.10 Compliance with Laws. This Plan, the granting and vesting of -------------------- Options, Restricted Stock awards, Deferred Stock awards, Performance Awards, Stock Appreciation Rights, Dividend Equivalents or Stock Payments under this Plan and the issuance and delivery of shares of Common Stock and the payment of money under this Plan or under Options, Performance Awards, Stock Appreciation Rights, Dividend Equivalents or Stock Payments granted or Restricted Stock or Deferred Stock awarded hereunder are subject to compliance with all applicable federal and state laws, rules and regulations (including but not limited to state and federal securities law and federal margin requirements) and to such approvals by any listing, regulatory or governmental authority as may, in the opinion of counsel for the Company, be necessary or advisable in connection therewith. Any securities delivered under this Plan shall be subject to such restrictions, and the person acquiring such securities shall, if requested by the Company, provide such assurances and representations to the Company as the Company may deem necessary or desirable to assure compliance with all applicable legal requirements. To the extent permitted by applicable law, the Plan, Options, Restricted Stock awards, Deferred Stock awards, Performance Awards, Stock Appreciation Rights, Dividend Equivalents or Stock Payments granted or awarded hereunder shall be deemed amended to the extent necessary to conform to such laws, rules and regulations. 10.11 Titles. Titles are provided herein for convenience only and are ------ not to serve as a basis for interpretation or construction of this Plan. 10.12 Governing Law. This Plan and any agreements hereunder shall be ------------- administered, interpreted and enforced under the internal laws of the State of California without regard to conflicts of laws thereof. 17 EX-4.2 3 FORM OF INCENTIVE STOCK OPTION PLAN EXHIBIT 4.2 INCENTIVE STOCK OPTION AGREEMENT -------------------------------- THIS AGREEMENT, dated ____________, 19__, is made by and between Mercury General Corporation, a California corporation hereinafter referred to as "Company," and ____________________, an employee of the Company or a Subsidiary of the Company, hereinafter referred to as "Employee": WHEREAS, the Company wishes to afford the Employee the opportunity to purchase shares of its no par value Common Stock; and WHEREAS, the Company wishes to carry out the 1995 Equity Participation Plan of Mercury General Corporation (the "Plan"), (the terms of which are hereby incorporated by reference and made a part of this Agreement); and WHEREAS, the Committee, appointed to administer the Plan, has determined that it would be to the advantage and best interest of the Company and its stockholders to grant the Incentive Stock Option provided for herein to the Employee as an inducement to enter into or remain in the service of the Company or its Subsidiaries and as an incentive for increased efforts during such service, and has advised the Company thereof and instructed the undersigned officers to issue said Option; NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants herein contained and other good and valuable consideration, receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, the parties hereto do hereby agree as follows: ARTICLE I DEFINITIONS ----------- Whenever the following terms are used in this Agreement, they shall have the meaning specified below unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Section 1.1 - Board "Board" shall mean the Board of Directors of the Company. - ----------- ----- Section 1.2 - Code "Code" shall mean the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as - ----------- ---- amended. Section 1.3 - Committee "Committee" shall mean the Compensation Committee of - ----------- --------- the Board or a subcommittee of the Board, appointed as provided in the Plan. Section 1.4 - Company "Company" shall mean Mercury General Corporation, a - ----------- ------- California corporation. Section 1.5 - Director "Director" shall mean a member of the Board. - ----------- -------- Section 1.6 - Exchange Act "Exchange Act" shall mean the Securities Exchange - ----------- ------------ Act of 1934, as amended. Section 1.7 - Officer "Officer" shall mean an officer of the Company, as - ----------- ------- defined in Rule 16a-1(f) under the Exchange Act, as such Rule may be amended in the future. 1 Section 1.8 - Option "Option" shall mean the incentive stock option to purchase - ----------- ------ Common Stock of the Company granted under this Agreement. Section 1.9 - Plan "Plan" shall mean the 1995 Equity Participation Plan of - ----------- ---- Mercury General Corporation. Section 1.10 - Rule 16b-3 "Rule 16b-3" shall mean that certain Rule 16b-3 under - ------------ ---------- the Exchange Act, as such Rule may be amended in the future. Section 1.11 - Secretary "Secretary" shall mean the Secretary of the Company. - ------------ --------- Section 1.12 - Securities Act "Securities Act" shall mean the Securities Act of - ------------ -------------- 1933, as amended. Section 1.13 - Subsidiary "Subsidiary" shall mean any corporation in an - ------------ ---------- unbroken chain of corporations beginning with the Company if each of the corporations other than the last corporation in the unbroken chain then owns stock possessing fifty percent (50%) or more of the total combined voting power of all classes of stock in one (1) of the other corporations in such chain. Section 1.14 - Termination of Employment "Termination of Employment" shall mean - ------------ ------------------------- the time when the employee-employer relationship between the Optionee and the Company or a Subsidiary is terminated for any reason, with or without cause, including, but not by way of limitation, a termination by resignation, discharge, death, disability or retirement, but excluding (i) terminations where there is a simultaneous reemployment or continuing employment of an Optionee by the Company or a Subsidiary and (ii) at the discretion of the Committee, terminations which result in a temporary severance of the employee-employer relationship. The Committee, in its absolute discretion, shall determine the effect of all other matters and questions relating to Termination of Employment, including, but not by way of limitation, the question of whether a Termination of Employment resulted from a discharge for good cause, and all questions of whether particular leaves of absence constitute Terminations of Employment; provided, however, that a leave of absence shall constitute a Termination of Employment if, and to the extent that, such leave of absence interrupts employment for purposes of Section 422(a)(2) of the Code and the then applicable regulations and revenue rulings under said Section. ARTICLE II GRANT OF OPTION --------------- Section 2.1 - Grant of Option - ----------- --------------- In consideration of the Employee's agreement to remain in the employ of the Company or its Subsidiaries and for other good and valuable consideration, on the date hereof the Company irrevocably grants to the Employee the option to purchase any part or all of an aggregate of ________ shares of its no par value Common Stock, upon the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement. Section 2.2 - Purchase Price - ----------- -------------- The purchase price of the shares of stock covered by the Option shall be $_____ per share without commission or other charge. 2 Section 2.3 - Consideration to Company - ----------- ------------------------ In consideration of the granting of this Option by the Company, the Employee agrees to render faithful and efficient services to the Company or a Subsidiary, with such duties and responsibilities as the Company shall from time to time prescribe, for a period of at least one (1) year from the date this Option is granted. Nothing in this Agreement or in the Plan shall confer upon the Employee any right to continue in the employ of the Company or any Subsidiary or shall interfere with or restrict in any way the rights of the Company and its Subsidiaries, which are hereby expressly reserved, to discharge the Employee at any time for any reason whatsoever, with or without cause. Section 2.4 - Adjustments in Option - ----------- --------------------- In the event that the outstanding shares of the stock subject to the Option are changed into or exchanged for a different number or kind of shares of the Company or other securities of the Company by reason of merger, consolidation, recapitalization, reclassification, stock split up, stock dividend or combination of shares, the Committee shall make an appropriate and equitable adjustment in the number and kind of shares as to which the Option, or portions thereof then unexercised, shall be exercisable, to the end that after such event the Employee's proportionate interest shall be maintained as before the occurrence of such event. Such adjustment in the Option shall be made without change in the total price applicable to the unexercised portion of the Option (except for any change in the aggregate price resulting from rounding-off of share quantities or prices) and with any necessary corresponding adjustment in the Option price per share; provided, however, that each such adjustment shall be made in such manner as not to constitute a "modification" within the meaning of Section 424(h)(3) of the Code. Any such adjustment made by the Committee shall be final and binding upon the Employee, the Company and all other interested persons. ARTICLE III PERIOD OF EXERCISABILITY ------------------------ Section 3.1 - Commencement of Exercisability - ----------- ------------------------------ (a) Subject to Sections 3.5 and 5.6, the Option shall become exercisable in five (5) cumulative installments as follows: (i) The first installment shall consist of one-fifth (1/5th) of the shares covered by the Option and shall become exercisable on the first anniversary of the date the Option is granted. (ii) The second installment shall consist of one-fifth (1/5th) of the shares covered by the Option and shall become exercisable on the second anniversary of the date the Option is granted. (iii) The third installment shall consist of one-fifth (1/5th) of the shares covered by the Option and shall become exercisable on the third anniversary of the date the Option is granted. 3 (iv) The fourth installment shall consist of one-fifth (1/5th) of the shares covered by the Option and shall become exercisable on the fourth anniversary of the date the Option is granted. (v) The fifth installment shall consist of one-fifth (1/5th) of the shares covered by the Option and shall become exercisable on the fifth anniversary of the date the Option is granted. (b) No portion of the Option which is unexercisable at Termination of Employment shall thereafter become exercisable. Section 3.2 - Duration of Exercisability - ----------- -------------------------- The installments provided for in Section 3.1 are cumulative. Each such installment which becomes exercisable pursuant to Section 3.1 shall remain exercisable until it becomes unexercisable under Section 3.3. Section 3.3 - Expiration of Option - ----------- -------------------- The Option may not be exercised to any extent by anyone after the first to occur of the following events: (a) The expiration of ten (10) years from the date the Option was granted; or (b) If the Employee owned (within the meaning of Section 424(d) of the Code), at the time the Option was granted, more than ten percent (10%) of the total combined voting power of all classes of stock of the Company or any Subsidiary, the expiration of five (5) years from the date the Option was granted; or (c) The time of the Employee's Termination of Employment unless such Termination of Employment results from his death, his retirement, his disability (within the meaning of Section 22(e)(3) of the Code) or his being discharged not for good cause; or (d) The expiration of three (3) months from the date of the Employee's Termination of Employment by reason of his retirement or his being discharged not for good cause, unless the Employee dies within said three-month period; or (e) The expiration of one (1) year from the date of the Employee's Termination of Employment by reason of his disability (within the meaning of Section 22(e)(3) of the Code); or (f) The expiration of one (1) year from the date of the Employee's death; or (g) The effective date of either the merger or consolidation of the Company with or into another corporation, the exchange of all or substantially all of the assets of the Company for the securities of another corporation, the acquisition by another corporation or person of all or substantially all of the Company's assets or eighty percent (80%) or more of the Company's then outstanding voting stock, or the liquidation or dissolution of the Company, unless the Committee waives this provision in connection with such transaction. At least ten (10) days prior to the effective date of such merger, consolidation, 4 acquisition, liquidation or dissolution, the Committee shall give the Employee notice of such event if the Option has then neither been fully exercised nor become unexercisable under this Section 3.3. Section 3.4 - Acceleration of Exercisability - ----------- ------------------------------ In the event of the merger or consolidation of the Company with or into another corporation, the exchange of all or substantially all of the assets of the Company for the securities of another corporation, the acquisition by another corporation or person of all or substantially all of the Company's assets or eighty percent (80%) or more of the Company's then outstanding voting stock, or the liquidation or dissolution of the Company, the Committee may, in its absolute discretion and upon such terms and conditions as it deems appropriate, provide by resolution, adopted prior to such event and incorporated in the notice referred to in Section 3.3(g), that at some time prior to the effective date of such event this Option shall be exercisable as to all the shares covered hereby, notwithstanding that this Option may not yet have become fully exercisable under Section 3.1(a); provided, however, that this acceleration of exercisability shall not take place if: (a) This Option becomes unexercisable under Section 3.3 prior to said effective date; or (b) In connection with such an event, provision is made for an assumption of this Option or a substitution therefor of a new option by an employer corporation, or a parent or subsidiary of such corporation, so that such assumption or substitution complies with the provisions of Section 424(a) of the Code; and provided, further, that nothing in this Section 3.4 shall make this Option exercisable if it is otherwise unexercisable by reason of Section 3.5 or Section 5.6. The Committee may make such determinations and adopt such rules and conditions as it, in its absolute discretion, deems appropriate in connection with such acceleration of exercisability, including, but not by way of limitation, provisions to ensure that any such acceleration and resulting exercise shall be conditioned upon the consummation of the contemplated corporate transaction, and determinations regarding whether provisions for assumption or substitution have been made as defined in subsection (b) above. Section 3.5 - Special Tax Consequences - ----------- ------------------------ The Employee acknowledges that, to the extent that the aggregate fair market value of stock with respect to which "incentive stock options" (within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code, but without regard to Section 422(d) of the Code), including the Option, are exercisable for the first time by the Employee during any calendar year (under the Plan and all other incentive stock option plans of the Company and any Subsidiary) exceeds $100,000, such options shall be treated as not qualifying under Section 422 of the Code but rather shall be taxed as non-qualified options. The Employee further acknowledges that the rule set forth in the preceding sentence shall be applied by taking options into account in the order in which they were granted. For purposes of these rules, the fair market value of stock shall be determined as of the time the option with respect to such stock is granted. 5 ARTICLE IV EXERCISE OF OPTION ------------------ Section 4.1 - Person Eligible to Exercise - ----------- --------------------------- During the lifetime of the Employee, only he may exercise the Option or any portion thereof. After the death of the Employee, any exercisable portion of the Option may, prior to the time when the Option becomes unexercisable under Section 3.3, be exercised by his personal representative or by any person empowered to do so under the Employee's will or under the then applicable laws of descent and distribution. Section 4.2 - Partial Exercise - ----------- ---------------- Any exercisable portion of the Option or the entire Option, if then wholly exercisable, may be exercised in whole or in part at any time prior to the time when the Option or portion thereof becomes unexercisable under Section 3.3; provided, however, that each partial exercise shall be for not less than one hundred (100) shares (or the minimum installment set forth in Section 3.1, if a smaller number of shares) and shall be for whole shares only. Section 4.3 - Manner of Exercise - ----------- ------------------ The Option, or any exercisable portion thereof, may be exercised solely by delivery to the Secretary or his office of all of the following prior to the time when the Option or such portion becomes unexercisable under Section 3.3: (a) Notice in writing signed by the Employee or the other person then entitled to exercise the Option or portion, stating that the Option or portion is thereby exercised, such notice complying with all applicable rules established by the Committee; and (b) (i) Full payment (in cash or by check) for the shares with respect to which such Option or portion is exercised; or (ii) With the consent of the Committee, (A) shares of the Company's Common Stock owned by the Employee duly endorsed for transfer to the Company or (B) subject to the timing requirements of Section 4.4, shares of the Company's Common Stock issuable to the Employee upon exercise of the Option, with a fair market value (as determined under the Plan) on the date of Option exercise equal to the aggregate purchase price of the shares with respect to which such Option or portion is exercised; or (iii) With the consent of the Committee, a full recourse promissory note bearing interest (at no less than such rate as shall then preclude the imputation of interest under the Code or successor provision) and payable upon such terms as may be prescribed by the Committee. The Committee may also prescribe the form of such note and the security to be given for such note. The Option may not be exercised, however, by delivery of a promissory note or by a loan from the Company when or where such loan or other extension of credit is prohibited by law; or 6 (iv) With the consent of the Committee, delivery of property of any kind which constitutes good and valuable consideration with a fair market value on the date of Option exercise equal to the aggregate purchase price of the shares with respect to which such Option or portion is exercised; or (v) With the consent of the Committee, any combination of the consideration provided in the foregoing subparagraphs (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv); and (c) A bona fide written representation and agreement, in a form satisfactory to the Committee, signed by the Employee or other person then entitled to exercise such Option or portion, stating that the shares of stock are being acquired for his own account, for investment and without any present intention of distributing or reselling said shares or any of them except as may be permitted under the Securities Act and then applicable rules and regulations thereunder, and that the Employee or other person then entitled to exercise such Option or portion will indemnify the Company against and hold it free and harmless from any loss, damage, expense or liability resulting to the Company if any sale or distribution of the shares by such person is contrary to the representation and agreement referred to above. The Committee may, in its absolute discretion, take whatever additional actions it deems appropriate to insure the observance and performance of such representation and agreement and to effect compliance with the Securities Act and any other federal or state securities laws or regulations. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the Committee may require an opinion of counsel acceptable to it to the effect that any subsequent transfer of shares acquired on an Option exercise does not violate the Securities Act, and may issue stop-transfer orders covering such shares. Share certificates evidencing stock issued on exercise of this Option shall bear an appropriate legend referring to the provisions of this subsection (c) and the agreements herein. The written representation and agreement referred to in the first sentence of this subsection (c) shall, however, not be required if the shares to be issued pursuant to such exercise have been registered under the Securities Act, and such registration is then effective in respect of such shares; (d) Full payment to the Company (or other employer corporation) of all amounts which, under federal, state or local tax law, it is required to withhold upon exercise of the Option; with the consent of the Committee, (i) shares of the Company's Common Stock owned by the Employee duly endorsed for transfer or (ii) subject to the timing requirements of Section 4.4, shares of the Company's Common Stock issuable to the Employee upon exercise of the Option, valued in accordance with the Plan at the date of Option exercise, may be used to make all or part of such payment; and (e) In the event the Option or portion shall be exercised pursuant to Section 4.1 by any person or persons other than the Employee, appropriate proof of the right of such person or persons to exercise the Option. Section 4.4 - Certain Timing Requirements - ----------- --------------------------- Shares of the Company's Common Stock issuable to the Employee upon exercise of the Option may be used to satisfy the Option price or the tax withholding consequences of such exercise only (i) during the period beginning on the third (3rd) business day following the date of release of the quarterly or annual summary statement of sales and earnings of the Company and ending on the twelfth (12th) business day following such date or (ii) pursuant to an irrevocable written election by the Employee to use shares of the Company's Common Stock issuable to the Employee upon exercise of the Option to 7 pay all or part of the Option price or the withholding taxes (subject to the approval of the Committee) made at least six (6) months prior to the payment of such Option price or withholding taxes. Section 4.5 - Conditions to Issuance of Stock Certificates - ----------- -------------------------------------------- The shares of stock deliverable upon the exercise of the Option, or any portion thereof, may be either previously authorized but unissued shares or issued shares which have then been reacquired by the Company. Such shares shall be fully paid and nonassessable. The Company shall not be required to issue or deliver any certificate or certificates for shares of stock purchased upon the exercise of the Option or portion thereof prior to fulfillment of all of the following conditions: (a) The admission of such shares to listing on all stock exchanges on which such class of stock is then listed; and (b) The completion of any registration or other qualification of such shares under any state or federal law or under rulings or regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission or of any other governmental regulatory body, which the Committee or Board shall, in its absolute discretion, deem necessary or advisable; and (c) The obtaining of any approval or other clearance from any state or federal governmental agency which the Committee or Board shall, in its absolute discretion, determine to be necessary or advisable; and (d) The lapse of such reasonable period of time following the exercise of the Option as the Committee or Board may from time to time establish for reasons of administrative convenience; and (e) The payment to the Company (or other employer corporation) of all amounts which, under federal, state or local tax law, it is required to withhold upon exercise of the Option. Section 4.6 - Rights as Shareholder - ----------- --------------------- The holder of the Option shall not be, nor have any of the rights or privileges of, a stockholder of the Company in respect of any shares purchasable upon the exercise of any part of the Option unless and until certificates representing such shares shall have been issued by the Company to such holder. ARTICLE V OTHER PROVISIONS ---------------- Section 5.1 - Administration - ----------- -------------- The Committee shall have the power to interpret the Plan and this Agreement and to adopt such rules for the administration, interpretation and application of the Plan as are consistent therewith and to interpret or revoke any such rules. All actions taken and all interpretations and determinations made by the Committee in good faith shall be final and binding upon the Employee, the Company and all other interested persons. No member of the Committee shall be personally liable for any action, determination or interpretation made in good faith with respect to the Plan or the Option. In its absolute discretion, the 8 Board may at any time and from time to time exercise any and all rights or duties of the Committee under the Plan and this Agreement except with respect to matters which under Rule 16b-3 or Section 162(m) of the Code, or any regulations or rules issued thereunder, are required to be determined in the sole discretion of the Committee. Section 5.2 - Option Not Transferable - ----------- ----------------------- Neither the Option nor any interest or right therein or part thereof shall be liable for the debts, contracts or engagements of the Employee or his successors in interest or shall be subject to disposition by transfer, alienation, anticipation, pledge, encumbrance, assignment or any other means whether such disposition be voluntary or involuntary or by operation of law by judgment, levy, attachment, garnishment or any other legal or equitable proceedings (including bankruptcy), and any attempted disposition thereof shall be null and void and of no effect; provided, however, that this Section 5.2 shall not prevent transfers by will or by the applicable laws of descent and distribution. Section 5.3 - Shares to Be Reserved - ----------- --------------------- The Company shall at all times during the term of the Option reserve and keep available such number of shares of stock as will be sufficient to satisfy the requirements of this Agreement. Section 5.4 - Notices - ----------- ------- Any notice to be given under the terms of this Agreement to the Company shall be addressed to the Company in care of its Secretary, and any notice to be given to the Employee shall be addressed to him at the address given beneath his signature hereto. By a notice given pursuant to this Section 5.4, either party may hereafter designate a different address for notices to be given to him. Any notice which is required to be given to the Employee shall, if the Employee is then deceased, be given to the Employee's personal representative if such representative has previously informed the Company of his status and address by written notice under this Section 5.4. Any notice shall be deemed duly given when enclosed in a properly sealed envelope or wrapper addressed as aforesaid, deposited (with postage prepaid) in a post office or branch post office regularly maintained by the United States Postal Service. Section 5.5 - Titles - ----------- ------ Titles are provided herein for convenience only and are not to serve as a basis for interpretation or construction of this Agreement. Section 5.6 - Shareholder Approval - ----------- -------------------- The Plan will be submitted for approval by the Company's stockholders within twelve (12) months after the date the Plan was initially adopted by the Board. This Option may not be exercised to any extent by anyone prior to the time when the Plan is approved by the stockholders, and if such approval has not been obtained by the end of said twelve-month period, this Option shall thereupon be cancelled and become null and void. 9 Section 5.7 - Notification of Disposition - ----------- --------------------------- The Employee shall give prompt notice to the Company of any disposition or other transfer of any shares of stock acquired under this Agreement if such disposition or transfer is made (a) within two (2) years from the date of granting the Option with respect to such shares or (b) within one (1) year after the transfer of such shares to him. Such notice shall specify the date of such disposition or other transfer and the amount realized, in cash, other property, assumption of indebtedness or other consideration, by the Employee in such disposition or other transfer. Section 5.8 - Construction - ----------- ------------ This Agreement shall be administered, interpreted and enforced under the laws of the State of California. Section 5.9 - Conformity to Securities Laws - ----------- ----------------------------- The Employee acknowledges that the Plan is intended to conform to the extent necessary with all provisions of the Securities Act and the Exchange Act and any and all regulations and rules promulgated by the Securities and Exchange Commission thereunder, including without limitation Rule 16b-3. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the Plan shall be administered, and the Option is granted and may be exercised, only in such a manner as to conform to such laws, rules and regulations. To the extent permitted by applicable law, the Plan and this Agreement shall be deemed amended to the extent necessary to conform to such laws, rules and regulations. 10 IN WITNESS WHEREOF, this Agreement has been executed and delivered by the parties hereto. MERCURY GENERAL CORPORATION By________________________________________ President By________________________________________ Secretary ________________________________ Employee ________________________________ Address Employee's Taxpayer Identification Number: ________________________________ 11 EX-5.1 4 OPINION OF LATHAM & WATKINS EXHIBIT 5.1 [LETTERHEAD OF LATHAM & WATKINS] March 7, 1996 Mercury General Corporation 4484 Wilshire Boulevard Los Angeles, California 90010 Re: Form S-8 Registration Statement; 2,700,000 Shares of Common Stock -------------------------------- Ladies and Gentlemen: In connection with the registration by Mercury General Corporation, a California corporation (the "Company"), of 2,700,000 shares of common stock, without par value (the "Shares"), of the Company to be issued pursuant to The 1995 Equity Participation Plan of Mercury General Corporation (the "Plan"), under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, on a Registration Statement on Form S-8 to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 8, 1996 (as amended from time to time, the "Registration Statement"), you have requested our opinion with respect to the matters set forth below. In our capacity as your counsel in connection with such registration, we are familiar with the proceedings taken and proposed to be taken by the Company in connection with the authorization, issuance and sale of the Shares, and for the purposes of this opinion, have assumed such proceedings will be timely completed in the manner presently proposed. In addition, we have made such legal and factual examinations and inquiries, including an examination of originals or copies certified or otherwise identified to our satisfaction of such documents, corporate records and instruments, as we have deemed necessary or appropriate for purposes of this opinion. In our examination, we have assumed the genuineness of all signatures, the authenticity of all documents submitted to us as originals, and the conformity to authentic original documents of all documents submitted to us as copies. We are opining herein as to the effect on the subject transaction only of the General Corporation Law of the State of California, and we express no opinion with respect to the applicability thereto, or the effect thereon, of the laws of any other jurisdiction or any other laws, or as to any matters of municipal law or the laws of any other local agencies within the state. Mercury General Corporation March 7, 1996 Page 2 Subject to the foregoing, it is our opinion that the Shares have been duly authorized, and, upon the issuance of the Shares in accordance with the terms set forth in the Plan, the Shares will be validly issued, fully paid and nonassessable. We consent to your filing this opinion as an exhibit to the Registration Statement. Very truly yours, /s/ Latham & Watkins EX-23.1 5 CONSENT OF KPMG PEAT MARWICK LLP EXHIBIT 23.1 The Board of Directors Mercury General Corporation: We consent to the use of our report incorporated herein by reference. Our report refers to the adoption of the Financial Accounting Standards Board's Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 115, "Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities." KPMG Peat Marwick LLP Los Angeles, California March 8, 1996 -----END PRIVACY-ENHANCED MESSAGE-----