2021 ERISA Litigation: Recent Cases, Assessing Fiduciary Risks, Strategies for Counsel

This CLE course will update ERISA counsel, plan fiduciaries, and service providers on recent developments in ERISA fiduciary case law. The panel will discuss ongoing 401(k) excessive fee litigation, stock drop litigation, participant and plan data cases, and other recent litigation trends. The panel will discuss the claims, theories, and defenses in such cases, and offer techniques for both managing the lawsuits and avoiding them in the first instance.

As it has for over a decade, ERISA litigation continues to expand rapidly. In addition to the traditional 401(k) excessive “fee” cases, stock drop cases, and cases involving group health plan benefits, the past year saw the development of new fronts in ERISA litigation. There was a new crop of lawsuits challenging the use and protection of plan data, alleging novel theories of recovery for group health plan benefits, and even attempts by ERISA plans to act as Plaintiffs. More of these cases are expected to be filed in the coming year.

As is true whenever dealing with the famously complex ERISA statute, a deep knowledge of ERISA’s fiduciary standards is critical to understanding and winning these cases. Even more, understanding the nature of these disputes—and how they arise—can help employers, plan fiduciaries, and service providers avoid litigation entirely. Failure to follow best practices and risk mitigation strategies for ERISA-covered plans can result in litigation, and potentially cost millions in legal fees and settlements.

Listen as our panel discusses the latest trends in ERISA litigation. The panel will also offer techniques in managing lawsuits and how best to avoid litigation in the first instance.