Updates on the Dixie Fire Litigation

Reg Reinoso

Author

The Latest 2024 Case Update on the Dixie Fire Litigation

Significant strides are being made as we approach the critical phases of the Dixie Fire litigation. Attorney Mikal Watts and his team at Watts Law Firm LLP are diligently preparing for upcoming mediations, with a focus on the crucial deadline of July 15, 2024, for Subrogation Plaintiffs to finalize their claims list. This list will serve as the definitive compilation of claims to be addressed in the litigation, and any claim not disclosed by this date will be barred legally.

Negotiations with PG&E are ongoing, and our team is optimistic about reaching a settlement that reflects the true extent of the damages suffered by our clients. We are in continuous dialogue to schedule mediation this summer and are hopeful for significant progress. As these discussions advance, we are committed to ensuring that every client is well-informed and prepared for possible settlement discussions.

Concurrently, legislative efforts are being supported to eliminate taxation on civil recoveries in wildfire cases, which Mikal Watts is actively endorsing. This includes Senate Bill 1004 (SB 1004), which proposes to exempt from taxation any settlement payments related to California wildfires. We encourage all clients to support this by reaching out to their representatives in writing to personally highlight the importance of this legislation.

Commitment to the Survivors of the California Dixie Fire

Initiated by sparks from Pacific Gas & Electric’s (PG&E) inadequately maintained infrastructure, the Dixie Fire of July 2021 became one of California’s most destructive wildfires. Spanning multiple counties and destroying over 1,300 structures, the fire’s aftermath has been catastrophic, spotlighting the ongoing negligence of utility companies like PG&E in maintaining their infrastructure.

As we continue to navigate the complexities of the Dixie Fire litigation, our resolve remains firm. We are committed to achieving justice for every client and effecting change that ensures safer, more accountable utility practices in the future.

Stay tuned for further updates as we press forward in our pursuit of justice and reform in the wake of the Dixie Fire.

Note that this update is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be legal advice.