California Wildfire Lawyer

As of February 2026, there have been 142 wildfires and 50 acres have burned, according to Cal FIRE. There have been no fatalities reported and no structures destroyed. 

The Ag Fire is 100% contained. It has burned 11 acres in Modoc County and was first reported on February 6, 2026. 

The East Fork Fire started on January 27, 2026, and was active for one day before being contained. The cause of the Siskiyou County fire remains under investigation. 

PG&E Wildfire Updates

Over $13.7 billion paid to claimants, according to the Fire Victim Trust. The Trust, established in 2020 for the victims of the Butte Fire, North Bay Fire, and Camp Fire, estimates receiving settlement funds in Spring or Summer 2026.

In 2019, PG&E agreed to pay $1 billion to 14 local governments to cover taxpayer losses related to the Butte Fire, North Bay Fire, and the deadly Camp Fire. The town of Paradise will receive $270 million as part of the agreement after a fire, reportedly caused by the utility company, ripped through the area. 

Considered the state’s largest utility company, PG&E files for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy protection. The filing comes after an investigation linked the company to the fatal Camp Fire, which took the life of 86 people in November 2018.   

Eaton Fire Lawsuit Updates

January 30, 2026: SCE’s voluntary Wildfire Recovery Compensation Program has made $117 million in offers to 210 individuals and businesses in its first three months. Over 2,100 claim applications have been filed on behalf of more than 6,000 people. The Eaton Fire Survivors Network has criticized the program, calling the offers “pennies on the dollar.” 

The network is pushing for $200,000 per displaced household to cover rent relief. As of late January, an estimated 80% of Altadena residents remained displaced by the fire, and approximately $7.6 billion in insurance claims had been paid out. Victims who accept an offer from SCE’s program must agree not to sue the utility, potentially forfeiting significantly greater compensation available through litigation.

January 16, 2026: Southern California Edison filed cross-complaints against a dozen public agencies, alleging they share liability for the Eaton Fire’s devastating toll. Named defendants include the Los Angeles County Office of Emergency Management, its alert contractor Genasys, the LA County Fire and Sheriff’s Departments,  and six agencies that provide water to the Altadena area. Southern California Gas Company (SoCalGas) was also named in a separate cross-complaint. 

SCE’s filings allege that residents in east Altadena received their first emergency alert about 30 minutes after the fire began, while residents in the west side of Altadena were not notified to evacuate until 3:25 a.m. — more than nine hours after the fire ignited. SCE also alleges LA County failed to maintain brush in undeveloped land near Altadena and that SoCalGas infrastructure caused gas leaks, explosions, and secondary ignitions. The cross-complaints are partially aimed at protecting the $21 billion California Wildfire Compensation Fund.

November 29, 2025: Bellwether cases will be selected in spring 2026. The court has directed that several “preference” plaintiffs, including elderly or medically fragile individuals, be included so their cases are heard promptly. Joint inspections and CT scans of the removed transmission towers continue to show arcing damage that supports plaintiffs’ theory of how the fire started.

October 12, 2025: Eaton Fire survivors and advocacy groups are criticizing Southern California Edison’s (SCE) draft Wildfire Recovery Compensation Program. Over 200 homeowners, renters, and business owners issued a 51-page response to SCE’s plan, titled “Fix What You Broke,” calling for a fair and fully funded compensation program. Some of the major concerns cited in the response include:

• No independent oversight (SCE controls the entire process).
• No negotiation allowed on fixed offers.
• Unclear and unenforceable payment timelines.
• Insurance offsets applied against total policy limits, even if funds have not been received.
• No separate compensation for landscaping, fences, or secondary structures.​

September 30, 2025: Multiple lawsuits against SCE continue to move forward. Los Angeles County, the cities of Pasadena and Sierra Madre, the U.S. Department of Justice, and thousands of individual plaintiffs have filed separate civil actions. The DOJ lawsuit filed this month seeks over $40 million in damages for the Eaton Fire.

August 23, 2025: A Los Angeles judge is urging attorneys to schedule a bellwether trial date for the Eaton Fire litigation. SCE attorneys say they are preparing to file cross-claims against other entities, including public agencies like Los Angeles County, arguing that their negligence also contributed to the Eaton Fire’s destruction.

July 29, 2025: The death toll in the Eaton Fire is now 19 after authorities found human remains within the burn area. 

Southern California Edison announced a Wildfire Compensation Fund to pay Eaton Fire victims who qualify. The fund is meant to compensate victims for:

• Physical injuries
• Death
• Structure loss for homeowners and renters
• Business interruptions
• Commercial property loss
• Smoke and ash damage

The utility has not stated how the fund will affect ongoing litigation. Following the Dixie Fire, PG&E created a similar wildfire fund to expedite payments to victims. Attorneys say the payments were not expedited, and in order to participate, victims needed to drop legal claims against the utility. 

July 14, 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

Other legal claims stemming from the Eaton Fire include:

• Lead and Asbestos Allegations: Fire victims filed multiple lawsuits in May of 2025 alleging children near the Eaton Fire site were exposed to lead and asbestos from wildfire smoke.
• Toxic Contamination: SCE is facing additional litigation over toxic contamination released during the fires.
• Tenant Unions: Multiple lawsuits filed in May of 2025 allege Los Angeles County and the city of Pasadena failed to protect tenant rights after the Eaton Fire.
• Municipalities: Los Angeles County and the cities of Pasadena and Sierra Madre have filed suit against SCE to recover funds spent on emergency response and repairs to infrastructure. 

Palisades Fire Update

October 16, 2025: A federal grand jury indicted 29-year-old Jonathan Rinderknecht for his alleged role in starting the Palisades Fire. Rinderknecht faces three felony counts, including arson affecting property used in interstate commerce, timber set afire, and destruction of property by means of fire. If convicted, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and a maximum of 45 years in federal prison.​

According to federal prosecutors, Rinderknecht, who worked as an Uber driver on New Year's Eve 2024, intentionally set the Lachman Fire just after midnight on January 1, 2025. Law enforcement determined the Palisades Fire was a "holdover fire"—a continuation of the Lachman Fire that smoldered for six days before rekindling on January 7 amid high winds. Evidence includes witness statements, video surveillance, cellphone data, and fire pattern analysis showing Rinderknecht was present at the ignition site.​

July 9, 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) and the state of California.

What Is Wildfire Litigation?

Wildfire litigation is the legal process by which individuals who have suffered losses related to wildfires can recover compensation from a party or parties that may have caused or contributed to the fire. Over the years, California wildfires have caused billions of dollars in damage costing families everything from their homes and businesses to their lives. In some cases, neglect or failures by the utility companies may be a contributing factor in these fires. When that can be proven, the company may be held legally responsible. 

Individuals who have suffered losses as a result of a wildfire in California, may be entitled to compensation but need to act quickly. Wildfire litigation can take months, if not years to resolve. Consulting with an experienced attorney early in the process can help to ensure that all legal deadlines are met and all avenues for recovery are explored. These are often complex cases that require expert testimony, the subpoenaing of internal communications, and environmental studies. Without the help of experienced California fire lawyers, victims often end up settling for less than they deserve or for nothing at all. 

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.
• Bobcat Fire Settlement (2025): Southern California Edison agreed to a $82.5 million settlement to cover fire suppression costs and damages related to the Bobcat Fire, which burned 114,000 acres and destroyed 87 homes in Los Angeles. The fire started burning on September 6, 2020 and injured six firefighters before it was able to be contained. 
• Dixie, Zogg & Kinkade Fires (2020-2024): PG&E agrees to a $45 million penalty from the California Public Utilities Commission for its role in the Dixie Fire. The 2024 settlement was the latest in a series filed against the utility company for their alleged involvement in devastating wildfires over the past several years including a $150 million settlement for the 2020 Zogg Fire and $125 million for the Kinkade Fire.

As of November 2025, over 42,000 wildfire loss claims have been filed with insurance agencies in California. The claims have resulted in $22.4 billion in payouts from insurers and $6.28 billion in payouts from government agencies or private donations. 

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: Ensure your safety, document damage with photos, contact your insurance company, and consult an attorney.
• Insurance Claim Tips: Document everything, keep all receipts, and be cautious with initial settlement offers. Don't accept unfair denials, and follow up in writing.
• Wildfire Season: While the highest risk is typically from May through December, wildfires can occur year-round. Dangerous conditions are caused by strong winds, low humidity, and dry vegetation.

Steps To Take After A California Wildfire

After a wildfire it can be difficult to know where to turn. The fire may have escalated quickly making it challenging to gather belongings and protect assets. In major fires, many people lose everything, including their homes and businesses. Filing a lawsuit against a company that may have been even partially responsible for the fire can help victims recover some of the losses they incurred. 

Steps to take after a California wildfire:

1. Prioritize safety: The most important thing to do after a wildfire is to prioritize safety. Do not return to a home or business until it is safe to do so. Make sure that you, your family, or your employees are safe and have the necessities they need for the immediate future. 
2. File an insurance claim: As soon as possible, file a claim with your insurance company. Even if you are unsure of the total amount of damages, you should still notify your insurance company quickly.
3. Gather necessary evidence: When you are able, gather as many documents as possible that can help to identify or value assets that were lost in the fire. Also document all damage and work to preserve evidence by taking photos and videos of the property. 
4. Contact a California wildfire attorney: Contact a California wildfire lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights. An attorney can help to hold a company accountable for any negligence or wrongdoing that may have contributed to the fire. 

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

California Wildfire Lawsuit Deadlines

California wildfire victims only have a limited amount of time to file a lawsuit against a company or companies that may have been responsible for the fire. Under California law, most wildfire victims have two years from the date of the fire to file a lawsuit. However, this deadline, known as the statute of limitations, may vary depending on a number of factors. It is important to discuss your case with an experienced California wildfire damage attorney to determine what deadlines may apply to your case. 

Additionally, if the company is a public utility or the fire occurred on government-owned land, the deadline to file may be shorter. An attorney can provide guidance and resources on the amount of time a person has to file. Failure to file within the statute of limitations can result in the claim being denied or dismissed. 

Settlement Negotiations & Trial Representation

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. 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. 

Why Should I Hire a Lawyer for Wildfire Damage?

While someone who suffers losses is not legally required to hire a lawyer for wildfire damage, it is strongly recommended. In many instances, when relevant, proving that a utility company was at least partially liable for the fire is challenging. Needless to say, wildfire litigation is complex. It requires an in-depth investigation that can rarely be conducted by one individual. An experienced California wildfire lawyer can subpoena evidence and utilize expert opinions to help prove liability. 

Retaining an attorney is also strongly recommended for wildfire victims who suffered substantial losses. In some cases, the insurance payout may not be enough to completely cover the losses sustained in the fire. An attorney can work to help wildfire victims seek fair compensation for the damage caused by the fire and pursue accountability from companies for their alleged wrongdoing.

Why Wildfire Victims Need Legal Representation

A California wildfire lawyer can help victims who may have lost everything. Litigation can assist in holding utility companies and other businesses accountable if they failed to properly maintain equipment, clear dead trees and brush, or take steps to protect nearby residents.

Too often, wildfire victims suffer multiple losses and face insurance companies that undervalue their claims. This can leave victims struggling to recover after devastating losses. An attorney can work to help them pursue compensation for the damages they have suffered.

Below, we’ve created a table highlighting the differences between insurance claims and wildfire lawsuits. Contacting Wisner Baum can provide guidance on these differences and explain what approach may work best for your situation.

If you’re facing loss from a wildfire, there’s rarely a “one size fits all” answer. Insurance claims may help you recover and rebuild, but coverage gaps are common. Pursuing a lawsuit can make up for what insurance does not pay—sometimes resulting in substantially greater compensation. If you’re uncertain, your smartest next step is to consult an experienced wildfire attorney for a free case review. Wisner Baum’s California wildfire lawyers and wildfire damage attorneys will review your circumstances, help you understand your full range of options, and advocate for your best outcome.

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

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.

Compensation Available in California Wildfire Lawsuits

Our attorneys work to secure full recovery for all your losses, including:

• Property Damage: Complete rebuilding costs, replacement of personal belongings, loss of use, and diminished property value.
• Underinsured Property Losses: We help you recover for costs not covered by standard policies, such as landscaping, modern building code upgrades, and post-fire erosion control.
• Financial & Personal Losses: Lost income, increased insurance premiums, temporary housing, medical expenses, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.
• Other Damages: Wrongful death, loss of pets or livestock, sentimental items, and punitive damages in cases of extreme negligence.

Why Choose Wisner Baum for Your California Wildfire Claim?

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. Reach out to our dedicated California wildfire attorneys at (310) 207-3233 to discuss your legal options.