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History of Success Our team has successfully resolved hundreds of cases for victims of wildfires in California.
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Offices Throughout California We are a California law firm with offices in Los Angeles, San Diego, Sacramento, Ontario, Bakersfield, and the San Francisco Bay Area.
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Proven Track Record
Wisner Baum has recovered over $4 billion for our clients. We know what it takes to win big cases against big companies.
California Wildfire Lawyer
Comprehensive Legal Support for Fire Victims
Wisner Baum wildfire lawyer Ari S. Friedman is hosting Q&A sessions for Eaton Fire victims at the Hotel Dena in Pasadena from 6-8pm on May 8, 2025 and May 22, 2025. These free events will provide attendees with valuable information on homeowners’ insurance claims, ongoing litigation against Southern California Edison, and much more. Space for both dates is limited, so RSVP today.
Recent California wildfires have devastated communities, destroyed thousands of homes, and tragically claimed dozens of lives. If you suffered losses in the 2025 Los Angeles wildfires or other California fires, you need experienced legal representation to help secure the compensation you deserve.
The California wildfire attorneys at Wisner Baum have recovered over $4 billion for clients across all practice areas and have extensive experience representing thousands of wildfire victims throughout the state.
If you or someone in your family suffered losses in a California wildfire, contact us or call (855) 948-5098 for a free case evaluation. You'll never pay unless we win your case.
Legal Guide to California Wildfire Claims
- Why Wildfire Victims Need Legal Representation
- Latest Updates on 2025 Los Angeles Wildfires
- Types of California Wildfire Lawsuits
- Compensation Available in California Wildfire Lawsuits
- How California Wildfire Lawsuits Work
- Recent Major California Wildfire Settlements
- Essential Information for Wildfire Victims
- Frequently Asked Questions About California Wildfire Lawsuits
- Do I Need a California Wildfire Attorney?
- Why Choose Wisner Baum
Why Wildfire Victims Need Legal Representation
Victims often face overwhelming challenges when wildfires destroy their homes, businesses, and other property. Unfortunately, insurance companies often undervalue claims or deny coverage entirely, while utility companies responsible for fire ignition fight to minimize their liability.
Dealing with Insurance Companies
Here are three ways an attorney can help you with wildfire insurance claims:
Protection Against Undervalued Claims: Insurance companies often undervalue property and damage claims, offering settlements far below the actual costs of rebuilding or replacing property. For example, insurers may devalue homes or offer lowball settlements, making it difficult for policyholders to recover fully.
Help With Coverage Denials: Insurance providers frequently deny valid wildfire claims by citing technicalities such as insufficient documentation, missed deadlines, or policy exclusions (e.g., "act of God"). These tactics are designed to minimize payouts.
Stop Bad Faith Practices: Insurers sometimes engage in bad faith practices, including delaying claims processing or outright rejecting legitimate claims without proper investigation.
Filing Lawsuits Against Utility Companies
For most people who suffer losses in a wildfire, insurance claims will not cover the full extent of their losses. However, if utility negligence caused or contributed to the fire, a wildfire lawsuit can help victims recover the full extent of their damages.
Here are two important ways an attorney can help with your lawsuit:
Fight Liability Minimization: Utility companies like PG&E and Edison have a history of being implicated in wildfires caused by poorly maintained equipment. They will fight to limit liability through legal defenses, regulatory measures, and other tactics. You should not have to go up against a major corporation alone; with an experienced wildfire lawyer by your side, you can pursue maximum compensation and seek accountability for any wrongdoing.
Strict Liability in California: While California’s legal framework (inverse condemnation) imposes strict liability on utilities for wildfires caused by their infrastructure, utilities still fight to reduce compensation payouts. Wildfire attorneys understand this playbook and have the experience needed to help ensure you get what you are entitled to.
In summary, wildfire victims risk receiving far less compensation than they deserve without proper legal representation.
Our California wildfire lawyers help victims navigate these complex legal issues by:
- Investigating the cause of the fire and identifying responsible parties
- Handling all communications with insurance companies
- Documenting the full extent of your losses and damages
- Filing claims against negligent utility companies
- Ensuring you receive maximum compensation for all losses
- Providing support throughout the entire recovery process
Contact our experienced attorneys to learn about your legal options. Your consultation is free and confidential.
Latest Updates on 2025 Los Angeles Wildfires
Eaton Fire Lawsuit Updates
April 22, 2025: Wisner Baum continues to file claims on behalf of Eaton Fire victims. Our investigation has uncovered compelling evidence that Southern California Edison (SCE) equipment sparked the fire. Video footage appears to show electrical arcing from SCE transmission lines at the exact location and time the fire ignited.
While investigations continue, evidence suggests SCE equipment involvement.
Wisner Baum fire lawyers have filed multiple lawsuits alleging SCE's negligence directly caused this devastating fire by:
- Failing to properly maintain electrical equipment
- Neglecting to de-energize power lines despite extreme fire risk warnings
- Inadequate vegetation management around power infrastructure
- Failure to follow safety protocols during high-wind events
Palisades Fire Update
April 21, 2025: The Palisades Fire, which burned over 23,000 acres, destroyed nearly 7,000 structures, and claimed 12 lives, has led to multiple lawsuits against the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP). Plaintiffs allege that:
- Downed Power Lines Caused a Second Ignition:
A downed LADWP electrical tower allegedly caused a second ignition at 10:30 p.m. on January 7, hours after the fire initially began. LADWP initially claimed the line had been de-energized for years but later admitted it was active during the fire. Plaintiffs accuse LADWP of a deliberate cover-up to conceal its role in fueling additional ignitions. - Water System Failures Hindered Firefighting Efforts:
The Santa Ynez Reservoir, which serves Pacific Palisades, had been empty for nearly a year due to maintenance delays. With only 2.5% of its total water storage capacity available, firefighters faced significant challenges in containing the fire.
Victims have filed inverse condemnation lawsuits under California law, holding LADWP strictly liable for damages caused by its infrastructure. While plaintiffs highlight contradictory statements and infrastructure failures as evidence of negligence, LADWP denies responsibility.
Types of California Wildfire Lawsuits
Utility Company Negligence Claims
California utility companies like Southern California Edison (SCE) and Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) have legal obligations to maintain their equipment and prevent fires. They can be held financially responsible for all resulting damages when they fail in these duties.
Common examples of utility negligence include:
- Failure to inspect and repair aging infrastructure
- Inadequate vegetation management around power lines
- Not de-energizing power lines during high-risk conditions
- Improper installation or maintenance of electrical equipment
- Ignoring known safety hazards or previous incidents
Under California's doctrine of "inverse condemnation," utilities can be held strictly liable for damages caused by their equipment—even without proving negligence. This powerful legal principle provides an important avenue for victims to recover their losses.
Insurance Bad Faith Claims
After a wildfire, your insurance company is legally obligated to process your claim honestly and fairly. Unfortunately, many insurers engage in "bad faith" practices to minimize payouts, such as:
- Unreasonably delaying claim processing
- Denying valid claims without proper investigation
- Undervaluing property losses
- Misrepresenting policy terms
- Failing to communicate or respond to claims
- Making lowball settlement offers
Our California wildfire attorneys can fight back against these tactics, forcing insurance companies to honor their obligations and pay what you're rightfully owed. In cases of bad faith, you may be entitled to additional compensation beyond your policy limits.
Government Entity Lawsuits
In some cases, government agencies may bear responsibility for wildfire damages due to:
- Failure to maintain critical infrastructure (like water systems)
- Inadequate emergency response planning
- Improper land management
- Negligent controlled burns that spread
While California law provides certain immunities to government entities, our experienced wildfire lawyers know how to navigate these complex legal issues to maximize your recovery.
If you have questions about your wildfire claim, we are here to help. Contact us today for a free one-on-one consultation.
Compensation Available in California Wildfire Lawsuits
Wildfire victims may be entitled to significant compensation for their losses. Our attorneys work to secure full recovery for:
Property Damage
- Complete home rebuilding costs (even if exceeding insurance limits)
- Replacement of personal belongings
- Outbuildings and other structures
- Loss of use of property
- Diminished property value
Underinsured Property Losses
Many victims discover their insurance coverage falls short of actual rebuilding costs. Even with insurance, you may qualify for additional compensation for:
- Landscaping and Tree Replacement: Insurance policies often cap landscaping coverage and exclude mature tree replacement. A 50-year-old oak tree may cost $25,000–$50,000 to replace, but insurers typically only cover seedling costs.
- Code Upgrades: Modern building codes often require fire-resistant materials or seismic retrofits not covered by standard policies.
- Erosion Control: Post-fire soil stabilization and flood mitigation costs, rarely covered by insurance.
Financial Losses
- Lost income or business revenue
- Increased insurance premiums
- Out-of-pocket expenses related to displacement
- Temporary housing expenses
Evacuation and Displacement Costs
Even with "additional living expense" coverage, victims often face uncovered costs such as:
- Extended hotel stays exceeding policy limits
- Pet boarding and transportation fees
- Temporary storage unit rentals
- Replacement of emergency supplies
Personal Injuries
- Medical expenses (present and future)
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress and trauma
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Respiratory injuries from smoke inhalation
Non-Economic Damages
Unlike insurance claims, lawsuits can recover compensation for:
- Emotional distress and trauma from losing irreplaceable family heirlooms
- Time spent rebuilding and relocating
- Reduced quality of life due to displacement
Other Damages
- Wrongful death if a family member dies
- Loss of pets or livestock
- Destruction of sentimental items
- Environmental damage to private property
- Punitive damages in cases of extreme negligence
How California Wildfire Lawsuits Work
Initial Investigation
Our wildfire law firm conducts a thorough investigation to determine the cause (or causes) of the fire and identify all potentially responsible parties. This includes:
- Visiting the point of ignition
- Reviewing official fire investigation reports
- Analyzing satellite imagery and weather data
- Consulting with fire origin experts
- Examining equipment maintenance records
- Interviewing witnesses
Documentation of Losses
We help clients compile comprehensive documentation of all losses, working with experts to ensure nothing is overlooked:
- Property appraisers to determine real estate values
- Construction specialists to calculate rebuilding costs
- Arborists to assess landscaping losses
- Business valuation experts for commercial claims
- Medical experts for personal injury assessments
Filing Legal Claims
Based on our investigation, we file appropriate legal claims against responsible parties, which may include:
- Civil lawsuits against utility companies
- Bad faith claims against insurers
- Government claims when applicable
- Mass tort actions when multiple victims are affected
Settlement Negotiations
Most wildfire cases resolve through settlement negotiations. Our attorneys have helped secure billions in mass tort settlements (including a $10.9 billion settlement against a multinational corporation) and know how to maximize compensation through skilled negotiation. We never accept inadequate offers and always prepare cases as if they will go to trial.
Trial Representation
Our experienced trial lawyers will present your case in court if a fair wildfire settlement cannot be reached. Wisner Baum has a proven track record of courtroom success in complex litigation against powerful corporations, including a multibillion-dollar jury verdict.
Recent Major California Wildfire Settlements
California utility companies have paid billions in settlements for recent wildfires. Understanding these precedents helps illustrate potential compensation in ongoing fire lawsuits:
Camp Fire (2018): PG&E agreed to a $13.5 billion settlement after its equipment caused California's deadliest wildfire, which killed 85 people and destroyed the town of Paradise.
Woolsey Fire (2018): Southern California Edison paid hundreds of millions in confidential settlements after its equipment ignited a fire that burned over 96,000 acres and destroyed 1,600 structures.
Thomas Fire (2017): SCE equipment failures led to a fire that burned 281,893 acres. The company paid substantial settlements to victims.
Bobcat Fire (2020): Investigations concluded this fire was caused by tree contact with SCE power lines. Wisner Baum successfully represented numerous victims.
Essential Information for Wildfire Victims
At Wisner Baum, we want people to be prepared for what comes next if the worst should happen. Below we highlight the most important information you will need as you begin the recovery process.
Post-Wildfire Checklist
Immediate Steps After a Wildfire
- Ensure your safety and the safety of your family
- Document damage with photos and videos before cleanup
- Contact your insurance company to initiate a claim
- Obtain a copy of your complete insurance policy
- Secure temporary housing and save all receipts
- Register with FEMA and local assistance centers
- Obtain a P.O. Box for mail forwarding
- Consult with a California wildfire attorney about your legal rights
Long-Term Recovery Steps
- Create a detailed inventory of all lost belongings
- Follow up with insurance in writing after all communications
- Save receipts for all wildfire-related expenses
- Research additional assistance programs
- Consider long-term housing options during rebuilding
- Obtain necessary permits for debris removal and rebuilding
- Network with other fire victims for support and resources
- Stay informed about investigation findings and litigation opportunities
Insurance Claim Tips
No one like to deal with insurance companies. Below, we provide some helpful tips to ensure you are prepared when you begin the claims process.
- Document everything: Take photos and videos of all damage before cleanup begins.
- Keep all receipts: Track every expense related to evacuation and temporary housing.
- Request a complete copy of your policy: Review coverage details and exclusions.
- Be cautious with initial settlement offers: They're often lower than what you deserve.
- Follow up in writing: Document all communications with your insurance company.
- Don't accept unfair denials: Many valid claims are wrongfully rejected initially.
Understanding California's Inverse Condemnation Law
California's unique "inverse condemnation" doctrine makes utilities strictly liable for wildfire damages caused by their equipment, even without proving negligence. This powerful legal principle has been crucial in securing compensation for wildfire victims.
The California Supreme Court has consistently upheld this doctrine, ruling that utilities must bear the cost of equipment damages rather than allowing innocent property owners to bear those costs.
California Wildfire Season Information
As we saw with the 2025 LA fires, wildfires can occur year-round. The highest risk period typically runs from late spring through early winter (May-December), with peak danger from July through October. Climate change has extended California's fire season and widened potentially affected areas.
The most dangerous conditions occur when:
- Vegetation has dried after summer heat
- Strong winds (like Santa Ana winds in Southern California or Diablo winds in Northern California) develop
- Humidity levels drop
- Little or no rainfall has occurred for months
Frequently Asked Questions About California Wildfire Lawsuits
How long do I have to file a wildfire lawsuit in California?
In California, most wildfire claims must be filed within two years of the date of injury or property damage. However, claims against government entities typically require filing a notice of claim within six months. It's crucial to consult with a wildfire attorney as soon as possible to avoid missing critical deadlines.
Will my insurance claim affect my wildfire lawsuit?
Your insurance claim and lawsuit are separate legal matters. If you receive compensation from your insurance company for certain losses, you cannot also recover for those same losses in your lawsuit (no "double recovery"). However, you can still pursue compensation through litigation for:
- Damages exceeding your policy limits
- Losses not covered by insurance
- Pain and suffering and emotional distress
- Evacuation costs beyond what insurance covers
- Loss of sentimental items
- Diminished property value
Are wildfire lawsuits class actions?
No. Wildfire lawsuits are typically filed as individual cases that may be coordinated in a "mass action." Unlike class actions, where one plaintiff represents everyone, in a mass action, each victim maintains an individual claim with specific damages based on their unique losses. This approach allows for more personalized compensation that reflects your actual damages.
How long does it take to receive compensation after a wildfire?
While insurance claims may be resolved in months, litigation against utilities may take 18-36 months to complete. Some victims receive partial settlements earlier in the process. Our attorneys work diligently to resolve claims as quickly as possible with the ultimate goal of maximizing your compensation.
What if I don't have wildfire insurance?
Even without insurance, you can pursue compensation through a lawsuit against the parties responsible for causing the fire. For uninsured or underinsured victims, litigation may be the primary avenue for recovering losses. You may also be eligible for assistance from FEMA or other government programs.
How do you prove who caused a wildfire?
Our attorneys work with fire investigation experts to establish liability through:
- Official fire investigation reports
- Physical evidence from the fire origin site
- Equipment maintenance records
- Satellite and weather data
- Witness testimony
- Video or photographic evidence
- Utility company service records
- Expert analysis of fire spread patterns
Do I Need a California Wildfire Attorney?
You do not have to hire an attorney to pursue a wildfire claim. However, you should consider hiring a wildfire lawyer if:
- Your home or business was damaged or destroyed in a fire
- You or a family member suffered injuries related to a wildfire
- Your insurance company isn't covering all your losses
- You were forced to evacuate and incurred expenses
- The fire was potentially caused by utility equipment
- You've experienced delays or problems with insurance claims
- You've lost income or business revenue due to a wildfire
Even if you have insurance, a lawsuit against responsible parties can help recover damages beyond your policy limits and compensation for losses insurance doesn't cover. For most fire victims, a lawsuit is the only way to recover the full extent of their damages.
Why Choose Wisner Baum
Unmatched Experience
Our legal team has successfully represented hundreds of California wildfire victims, securing maximum compensation for their losses. We have extensive experience with cases against major utilities like PG&E and Southern California Edison.
Proven Results
Wisner Baum has recovered over $4 billion for our clients across all practice areas. Our wildfire attorneys have successfully resolved numerous claims related to the Woolsey, Thomas, Camp, and Bobcat fires.
Expert-Driven Damage Assessment
Our attorneys work with specialists to maximize your claim:
- Arborists: Calculate mature tree replacement costs ($5,000–$50,000 per tree)
- Construction Estimators: Identify code upgrade expenses and rebuilding shortfalls
- Landscape Architects: Value pre-fire outdoor spaces and erosion control needs
- Appraisers: Document property value loss from fire damage
No Upfront Costs
We represent wildfire victims on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case. Our firm advances all litigation costs, removing financial barriers to pursuing justice.
Comprehensive Support
Beyond legal representation, we provide guidance on insurance claims, FEMA assistance, and rebuilding issues. Our team helps clients navigate every aspect of post-wildfire recovery.
California Presence
With offices in Los Angeles, San Diego, Sacramento, Ontario, Bakersfield, and the San Francisco Bay Area, we provide convenient access to legal support throughout California.
Free California Wildfire Lawsuit Case Evaluation
The California wildfire lawyers at Wisner Baum are dedicated to helping people recover and rebuild after a wildfire ravages their community. We have vast experience representing wildfire victims whose homes or apartments burned down, suffered business losses, paid for expensive evacuations, and suffered injury and death.
Since 1985, we have helped thousands of clients obtain justice and maximum compensation. Across all areas of practice, our attorneys have earned more than $4 billion in verdicts and settlements.
Call (855) 948-5098 today for a free, no-obligation consultation about your case. We serve wildfire victims throughout California and across the nation.
Taking legal action is one of the best ways to correct the troubling corporate behavior of California utility companies responsible for wildfires. At Wisner Baum, we are not only invested in making you and your family financially whole again, we also want to send a message to any companies responsible for starting a wildfire that California residents will not tolerate their wrongdoing.
If you don’t have insurance that covers wildfires, you need an attorney to help you hold accountable those responsible for starting the fire. Like with the PG&E fire, when a utility company has started a fire, California law requires them to pay damages resulting from that fire. Therefore, even if you find yourself uninsured, or worse, become injured or lose a loved one, there is still a way to get justice and compensation for your losses.
An attorney can also be helpful even if you do have full-coverage insurance. Anyone who has filed an insurance claim knows how draining the process can be, and unfortunately, this is especially so for the victims of wildfires. Home insurance policyholders need experienced legal representation to advocate on their behalf and find the compensation they are entitled to after suffering serious losses.
Our team of California wildfire attorneys can help ensure that your policy claims are processed honestly and in good faith. We accomplish this by conducting our own investigation into your losses to ensure that insurance adjusters do not falsely invalidate any of your claims.
Contact us today or call (855) 948-5098 for a free case evaluation.