California Wildfire Attorneys – January 2025 Update

The California Wildfire Lawsuit is an active lawsuit

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Many people have lost everything in the recent California wildfires. As victims of these devastating fires look to recover their losses, many of them will hire attorneys to help them through the recovery and compensation process. A knowledgeable lawyer can help hold utility companies, government entities, and insurance companies accountable for their role in the fires and assure proper compensation for victims.

As many of these wildfires increase in frequency and intensity, more people in California will experience losses. An experienced attorney can provide legal representation for victims seeking compensation for losses such as property damage, personal injuries, or wrongful death. Legal representation will be crucial to many people and businesses who try to recover their losses after these destructive fires.

California Wildfire and Litigation Updates

January 17, 2025: New Lawsuit Filed Over California Wildfires

Two people who suffered numerous losses in the Eaton Fire have filed a lawsuit in California Superior Court. Jason Quintero and Fredda Murillo-Quintero have brought their lawsuit against the utility company Southern California Edison (SCE). Jason and Fredda’s complaint alleges the Eaton Fire, which destroyed their home, started in Eaton Canyon, where SCE was operating utility lines. The lawsuits further alleges that these lines were not being properly maintained and were not de-energized in time. Ultimately, this negligence may have caused and fueled the destructive Eaton Fire, which has claimed at least 11 lives and destroyed more than 14,000 acres of land.

January 17, 2025: Three Wildfires Still Active in California

As of 6:30 a.m. PST, there are still three active wildfires in California—the Palisades Fire, the Eaton Fire, and the Auto Fire. The Palisades Fire is 27% contained and has burned 23, 713 acres. The Eaton Fire is 55% contained and has burned 14,117 acres. The Auto Fire is 85% contained and has burned 61 acres. These fires have destroyed many homes, businesses, and land throughout Los Angeles and Ventura counties. 

January 14, 2025: New Fire, Called the Auto Fire, Breaks Out in Ventura County

At 9:25 p.m. PST on January 14, 2025, a wildfire began in Ventura County near Auto Center Drive. The fire has been named the Auto Fire and has already burned nearly 56 acres. As of January 15, the fire was 0% contained. The cause of the fire is under investigation. The Auto Fire is located near a number of residential communities near Ventura Boulevard and could threaten residents and their homes.

January 13, 2025: California Man and His Attorneys File a Wildfire Lawsuit Against Utility Company

On January 13, 2025, Jeremy Gursey (on his behalf and behalf of other plaintiffs) filed a lawsuit against utility giant Southern California Edison Company (SCE). Gursey’s team of attorneys filed the lawsuit in California Superior Court in the County of Los Angeles. The lawsuit seeks damages for losses from the Eaton Fire. The complaint contains photographic evidence of transmission lines, presumed to be owned and operated by SCE, igniting during the Eaton Fire. The complaint alleges SCE did not cut power to these lines quickly enough. Due to this negligence, the Eaton Fire was perpetuated and caused additional, unnecessary damages. The lawsuit also leaves room for additional defendants to be added as facts emerge.

January 9, 2025: Kenneth Wild Fire Starts in Los Angeles and Kenneth Counties in California

On January 9, 2025, at 3:34 p.m. PST, the Kenneth Fire started, expanding the footprint of the 2025 California wildfires. The fire is located near several residential areas and businesses. Officials are investigating the cause of the fire. Evacuation orders and warnings have been issued.

January 7, 2025: Another Wildfire Begins in Sylmar, California

At 10:29 p.m. PST on January 7, 2025, another wildfire began in Sylmar, California. The fire, called the Hurst Fire, began near Near Diamond Road, which is near residential communities. The cause is unknown and under investigation. Many residents are facing evacuation orders and warnings.

January 7, 2025: Eaton Fire Adds to California’s Wildfire Concerns

On January 7, 2025, at 6:18 p.m. PST, the Eaton Fire began in the Altadena/Pasadena area of Los Angeles County, California. The fire is located near Altadena Drive and Midwick Drive. Many nearby residents are under evacuation orders and warnings. The cause is under investigation.

January 7, 2025: Large Wildfire Breaks Out in Palisades, California

At 10:30 a.m. PST on January 7, 2025, the Palisades Fire began in Pacific Palisades, southeast of Palisades Drive. The fire poses a large threat to human lives, homes and businesses. The cause is still being investigated.

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Overview of the Wildfire Lawsuits in California

Thousands of residents and businesses have suffered severe losses due to the recent wildfires in California. As victims assess their losses and work toward recovery, they are filing lawsuits against the entities who contributed to the damages caused by these fires.

Residents and business owners are filing lawsuits against utility companies, insurance carriers, municipalities, and other entities. These lawsuits are intended to recover losses from these entities and hold responsible parties accountable for their negligence.

Our team of legal partners at King Law is ready to help victims navigate the legal process in the aftermath of these fires. We have years of practice in holding large private and public entities accountable for their actions. 

Legal Grounds for Filing a California Wildfire Lawsuit

The legal grounds for California wildfire lawsuits will vary depending on each victim’s circumstances and losses. The basis of most claims will be that a business or government entity failed to properly protect individuals from wildfires or failed to compensate those individuals properly.

Lawsuits against utility companies and government entities will likely focus on negligent actions or inactions that caused unnecessary destruction to human life and property. Lawsuits against insurance companies may focus on faulty denials, underpaying claimants, or denying and cancelling insurance for people living in affected areas.

One lawsuit has already been filed against the power utility company Southern California Edison Company (SCE). This lawsuit alleges that SCE failed to cut power to transmission lines, therefore increasing damages caused by the Eaton Fire. This negligence may have resulted in greater losses and casualties.

The Role of a California Wildfire Injury Attorney

Someone who sustained losses from the recent California wildfires should consider hiring an attorney to recover damages for their losses. Hiring an attorney for support throughout the disaster-recovery process can help victims receive the compensation they deserve. A knowledgeable attorney can ensure victims file lawsuits against the proper entities and pursue viable claims. A successful lawsuit can secure compensation for losses like property damage, business losses, personal injuries, and emotional distress.

A lawyer can simplify the legal process and offer important guidance during a difficult time. Throughout the wildfire-recovery process, an attorney can provide several crucial services for victims. These services include:

• Helping to establish responsibility for the fires and the damages the fires caused
• Helping homeowners, business owners, and renters navigate insurance claims
• Holding utility companies and other entities liable for damages they caused
• Creating and submitting proper documentation to bring a case to court

Establishing Liability for the Fire

Experts from various government departments are investigating the causes of the recent California Wildfires. However, the causes of these fires were only the beginning of the problem. Once these fires were burning, it is likely that many businesses and government agencies made decisions that contributed to the fires burning out of control.

Attorneys will be working to gather evidence about how the actions and inactions of utility companies, municipalities, insurance companies, and other entities increased the destruction caused by these fires. Attorneys will use their expertise to build a fact-driven case against the parties that should be held accountable. Attorneys representing victims of the Eaton Fire have already provided evidence that the utility may have been negligent, resulting in additional damages  in the Eaton wildfire.

Helping Victims Navigate Insurance Claims

Historically, insurance companies have failed policy holders living in fire-prone areas, like California. Insurance companies often deny claims, underpay claimants, or drop coverage under questionable circumstances. 

For example, information is already surfacing about insurance companies dropping coverage for thousands of residents in Los Angeles County. Many insurance companies chose not to renew the home insurance policies of people living in Pacific Palisades, Altadena, and other fire-prone areas of California. The companies are accused of cancelling these policies on dubious grounds. Many people who were dropped by their insurance companies may need to file lawsuits. 

Even people who were adequately insured may face obstacles when filing claims and receiving adequate compensation. Hiring an attorney can give someone the best chance of recuperating the money needed to properly rebuild their homes and lives.

Holding Utility Companies Accountable

Utility companies are common defendants in wildfire lawsuits. Utility companies have already been named in lawsuits related to the recent wildfires in California.

Residents in Altadena have already filed lawsuits against SoCalEd. One of these lawsuits claims the utility company’s power lines are responsible for the Eaton Fire that destroyed their homes.

When attorneys hold power companies and other large entities accountable, wildfire victims can benefit through settlements or other compensation. One example of attorneys securing settlements for victims is a settlement paid in 2018. The utility company Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) had to pay a $13.5 billion settlement to wildfire victims and other entities. This settlement was distributed to the victims of the 2018 Camp Fire, 2017 Tubbs Fire, 2016 Ghost Ship Fire, and 2015 Butte Fire.

Representing Clients in Court

Not everyone who files a wildfire lawsuit will be offered a settlement or choose to accept a settlement. Some victims will pursue lawsuits against the entities responsible for their injuries or the loss of their homes, businesses, and belongings. 

Hiring a knowledgeable attorney to represent you in court will give you the best chance of securing favorable compensation. A lawyer will gather and present evidence to make a strong case based on your individual circumstances. Hiring a lawyer to represent your wildfire case will allow them to present evidence, establish liability, examine witnesses, and make legal arguments to advocate for your compensation.

California Wildfire Lawyers for Individuals and Businesses

The devastation caused by these fires will have impacts for area residents and businesses for years to come. Private individuals and businesses are tallying catastrophic losses. Our team of attorneys is ready to support people and businesses as they look to rebuild their lives. These wildfires could prove to be some of the costliest in history. Some estimates predict $30 billion in losses for insurance companies.

Our team of lawyers can help individuals affected by the California wildfires by seeking compensation for:

• Property loss or damage (e.g., homes, structures, vehicles, household contents, pets)
• Personal injuries, including the loss of a loved one
• Emotional trauma caused by the fire and associated losses
• Lost income

Our team of lawyers can help business owners affected by the California wildfires by seeking compensation for:

• Property loss or damage (e.g., offices, structures, vehicles, equipment, storage facilities, or livestock)
• Loss of products or raw materials
• Lost wages and decreased earning potential
• Business interruptions

Our legal team understands these catastrophic losses impact all areas of our clients’ lives. Whether you were a renter, homeowner, or business owner, our team is ready to fight for fair compensation for your losses.

What Were the Causes of the California Wildfires?

Government and local officials are still investigating the causes of each of the recent wildfires in California. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection has yet to list the cause of the many wildfires that have occurred in 2025. However, there are many investigations underway to determine each fire’s cause. An elite force from the U.S. government’s Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms and Explosives (ATF) has been called in to determine the cause of the Palisades Fire.

Possible causes of the California wildfires include:

• Power or utility lines
• Arson
• Fireworks
• Rekindling of previous fires

Although pinpointing the cause of the fires will be crucial to determining liability, there were several factors that increased the risk and scope of the California wildfires. Risk factors that contributed to these fires include:

• A Severe State of Drought: Los Angeles and surrounding areas have not experienced a rainy season in 2025. The area is in a state of severe drought.
• Strong Santa Ana Winds: These cyclical, strong winds are common in California. However, they have been intense and frequent, with some gusts reaching hurricane-like levels. These winds have increased the likelihood that fires will start or spread in Southern California.
• Water Supply Issues: After the fires started burning, some fire departments ran out of water to fight the fires. There are already investigations underway to determine why fire hydrants went dry during the California wildfires.
• Building Materials of Homes: Many of the homes in the area were built of wood and made to withstand earthquakes. However, the wood has added fuel to burning fires.
• Climate Change: Many experts see climate change as a driver for the frequency and intensity of these fires in California.

The Impact of the Recent Wildfires in Los Angeles County

The impact of the recent California wildfires will be measured for years and months to come. The four largest fires, the Palisades, Eaton, Kenneth, and Hurst fires, have already burned almost 40,000 acres of land and destroyed more than 12,000 structures. 

Initial impacts of the devastating fires include:

• Loss of lives
• Injuries to humans and animals
• Physical and emotional toll on first responders
• Lost land and forests
• Lost homes and businesses
• Displacement of residents
• Loss of possessions and assets

At least 24 lives have been claimed by these fires, and more than 30,000 people have been displaced. More than 10,000 firefighters have been deployed. Additionally, California Governor Gavin Newson has already deployed 2,500 members of the national guard to help fight the blaze. 

The economic losses associated with these fires are expected to be staggering. The economic damages associated with California wildfires are already estimated at $275 billion. The calculated and estimated losses are expected to mount as firefighters try to contain the fires and disaster recovery efforts begin.

Who Can Be Held Liable for the Los Angeles Wildfires?

It is expected that multiple people and entities will be held liable for the damages associated with the California wildfires. Utility companies, municipalities, local governments, and those who started the fires could all be held liable for the damages caused by the fires. 

Southern California Edison (SCE)

Lawsuits have already been filed against SCE for their suspected role in the Hurst fire. These lawsuits claim that power lines owned by SCE may have started the fires or made the fires worse. Some experts suspect SCE may not have cut power to utility lines quickly enough, which resulted in spreading the fire and increased losses.

Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP)

Governor Gavin Newson has ordered an investigation into the Los Angeles Department of Water of Power (LADWP) after hydrants used in the to fight the fires went dry and left LA firefighters without water to fight the blaze. The hydrants and reservoir system lacked adequate pressure to keep hydrants and reservoirs properly filled. The City of Los Angeles and LADWP could face charges related to this negligence.

Arsonists

If it is found that people purposefully started the fires or engaged in reckless actions that started the fires, these people could face criminal charges and jail time.

Landowners

Landowners who did not follow local, state, and federal laws regarding property maintenance could face charges. Property owners who ignored fire ordinances could be held liable for their negligent actions.

Insurance Companies

Insurance companies would not be held liable for the fires. However, it is likely insurance companies will face lawsuits for denying or underpaying claims. Lawsuits have already been filed by people who say their insurance companies refused to insure their Los-Angeles-area homes. Thousands of people were dropped by their insurance companies shortly before the Palisades fire.

Types of Damages You Can Claim in a California Wildfire Lawsuit

People and business owners who experienced losses due to the California wildfires can sue for multiple damages. The damages each person or business can claim will depend on their specific losses. Damages awarded in a civil lawsuit would either be compensatory damages or punitive damages.

People and business owners can pursue claims seeking compensation for the following losses:

• Economic losses, including property damage, medical expenses, and lost income
• Personal losses, including wrongful death of a loved one, personal injuries, and diseases related to the fire
• Emotional damages, including pain and suffering and emotional distress

In some lawsuits, some plaintiffs could be awarded punitive damages. Punitive damages are awarded when a defendant’s actions are found to be grossly negligent and result in serious harm. For example, lawsuits filed against SCE for their role in the Eaton Fire are seeking punitive damages from the utility company.

The Common Challenges in California Wildfire Litigation

There will be many challenges associated with the California Wildfire litigation. Lawsuits will likely be filed against many entities. Proving liability will be challenging, as businesses and municipalities will want to avoid the large economic liabilities that will be associated with these lawsuits.

Multiple parties are likely to be found liable in the California wildfires lawsuits. Multiple liability will be another complex factor in these lawsuits. These complexities underscore the importance of hiring experienced and competent attorneys.

Attorneys involved in these lawsuits will have to analyze evidence from utility companies, insurance companies, government agencies, and other entities to establish liability. They will also have to work with clients to understand which entities their clients can hold liable. Attorneys will have to build cases and present those cases in court. The legal process will be lengthy and the responsible parties will likely do everything they can to delay compensation for victims.

Our team of legal partners at King Law is ready to take on that fight. We will work with our clients to ensure they meet filing deadlines, prepare proper documentation, and are prepared for the trial. Our team has years of experience holding large corporate and government entities liable for the harms they cause.

The Legal Process for Wildfire Claims

People and business owners who want to file lawsuits and claims related to the California wildfires will need to follow a legal process. That process begins with contacting an attorney and retaining their services. After an initial consultation, an attorney can help you start to build your case and file the lawsuit.

1st Step: Initial Consultation with Your Attorney

An initial consultation can help you understand your legal options. This consultation will also help your attorney and their team understand your losses and how those losses affected your life. Your individual circumstances will determine how your attorney can move forward.

2nd Step: Gathering Evidence and Documentation

Your attorney will work with you to build the case against the entities that harmed you. Your attorney will help you gather documentation and submit that documentation within legal deadlines. Your attorney will help you gather documents like medical bills, insurance policies, insurance denials, documentation of assets, and other important evidence.

3rd Step: Filing the Lawsuit

Your attorney will use the information and documents you provide to file a lawsuit in state or federal courts. They will also pursue information from expert witnesses to build your case. Depending on the specifics of your case, you may receive a settlement offer or go to trial. This process will likely take years, which is difficult for many people to hear. However, our attorneys will stay with you through the whole process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Insurance Claims After a California Wildfire

As soon as possible, people who experienced losses in the California wildfires should start filing claims with their insurance companies. Once victims are in a safe and stable environment, they should reach out to their insurance companies and start the claim process.

The insurance company will likely ask for things like photographic documentation and a detailed inventory of losses. If you choose to work with an attorney, they can advise you on what information to submit.

Policyholders will likely face delays in claim processing due to the large number of people affected by these fires. Policyholders may also face disputes over coverage amounts or face issues related to being underinsured.

Understanding Your Insurance Policy

It is important to thoroughly review your insurance policy to understand your benefits, deductibles, and coverage. Policyholders should work to understand their coverage limits and specific provisions regarding damages caused by wildfires. Policyowners should also determine if their policy included coverage for additional living expenses (ALE). An experienced attorney can help you understand your policy and whether or not the insurance is meeting its contractual obligations.

What to Do If Your Claim Is Denied

In the face of so many wildfire-related claims, it is expected that insurance companies will try to deny or underpay claims. If your claim is denied, ask for written documentation detailing the reasons for the denial. A denial can be appealed and claims can be resubmitted. An attorney familiar with insurance litigation can guide you through the appeal or resubmission process.

The Importance of Timely Action

Settlement amounts for damages related to the Los Angeles Wildfires will vary depending on the types of losses sustained and a variety of other factors. Current estimates are between $50,000 and $10 million depending on the severity of losses endured and other factors.

This range is an estimate that will depend on many factors. For example, individuals who lost their homes may receive smaller settlements than someone who lost an entire business and its associated assets. Similarly, someone who is filing a claim for the loss of a loved one may receive a larger settlement. These settlements will likely be paid by utility companies, government entities, insurance companies, and other entities who are found to have behaved in a negligent manner.

Historical Precedents and Settlements in California Wildfire Lawsuits

It is important that people affected by the California wildfires speak to an attorney as quickly as possible. A consultation with an attorney can help you determine if and how a lawyer can help you in the aftermath of these fires. 

There are different statutes of limitations that limit the amount of time you have to take legal action. In California, those statutes are two to three years. However, consulting with an attorney will help you gather all of the information needed to file a timely lawsuit. People have lost their ability to file a case because of waiting too long.

However, our team at King Law recognizes the aftermath of a fire is an extraordinarily difficult and demanding time. We know you may have more pressing things to tend to. When you are ready and able to discuss your options, contact our team.

Contact Our California Wildfire Injury Attorneys

It is difficult to imagine the scope loss victims of the California wildfires are experiencing. When you are ready to speak with an attorney about your losses and legal options, our team is ready to support you. Our team will engage with you to understand the specifics of your circumstances. We will work with you to determine your eligibility and the viability of your case. We will guide you through the specific obstacles associated with your claim. You can contact our team at (585) 496-2648.

Our firm typically works on a contingency basis, meaning there are no upfront costs associated with your case. Our team only gets paid if you get paid.

King Law’s Commitment to Victims in the California Wildfire Litigation

If you choose a King Law legal partner to represent you as your attorney, we pledge to support you throughout the legal process. Our legal partners provide reliable, responsive, and empathetic services. We also provide:

• 24/7 access to legal counsel
• An internal intake team to answer questions about the lawsuit
• Personalized service and attention to each case
• No legal fees unless you receive a settlement or award

No amount of money will be true justice for the losses you experienced due to these fires. However, we promise to fight for fair compensation and to hold the entities who harmed you accountable.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)