Local Attorneys Push Back Against Southern California Edison’s Wildfire Compensation Proposal

Attorneys are criticizing the Southern California Edison wildfire compensation program announced Wednesday, likening it to previous efforts by Pacific Gas & Electric that left victims inadequately compensated.

“Experience suggests that these direct payments for victims are neither quick, nor easy, nor equitable,” said Doug Boxer, a Pasadena attorney who has represented thousands of wildfire victims in other major fires. “PG&E offered a similar program and wildfire victims ended up receiving inadequate compensation, and it didn’t happen fast.”

Fellow attorney Mikal Watts, a fire origin expert and trial lawyer known for securing groundbreaking settlements, said Edison appears to be accepting responsibility for the fire.

“After six months of denying responsibility, we are pleased for our clients that Edison has finally reversed course and now acknowledges what we have already proven — they started the fire and need to pay for the damage it caused,” Watts said.

Watts and Boxer will address the issue at a public town hall meeting on Thursday, July 24, at 6:30 p.m. at Pinocchio’s Pizza, 1449 Lake Ave, in Pasadena. The event will focus on the Eaton Fire and its aftermath. Community members are encouraged to RSVP here link.

LA Fire Justice is a coalition of experienced wildfire attorneys, fire origin and causation experts, insurance specialists, and community engagement leaders. Led by CEO Chris Holden — former Pasadena Mayor, California Assemblymember and author of AB1054, a landmark wildfire safety bill — the group is committed to pursuing justice for victims of preventable wildfires.

For more information, visit LAFireJustice.com.