The ERISA rules regarding Employee Stock Ownership Plans (“ESOPs) are complex and litigation regarding ESOP transactions continues to populate the dockets of the federal courts. These ESOP cases involve an extensive range of issues, including prohibited transaction and prudence claims and claims regarding the scope of monitoring obligations by appointing fiduciaries. Recent case filings by both the United States Department of Labor and private litigants presenting ERISA claims will be reviewed to evaluate trends in ESOP cases.