Altadena Wildfire Lawyers

with over $500 Million Recovered in Compensation for Injury Clients.
Recover Lost Wages, Property Damages, and Medical Fees.
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Our Altadena Wildfire Lawyers Fight For Maximum Compensation

Wildfires only leave devastation in their wake. They destroy property, displace families, and create uncertainty about what the future holds for affected individuals. Navigating insurance claims, healthcare needs, and legal issues after such a disaster is never easy. There is no need for you to handle everything on your own. Our Altadena wildfire lawyers are here to provide compassionate support and expert legal guidance. Call Arash Law today at (888) 488-1391 for a free, no-obligation consultation.

Our team helps wildfire victims secure the justice and compensation they deserve. We know how to stand up to insurance companies and ensure your rights are protected. Let us take the burden off your shoulders so you can focus on healing and rebuilding your life.

Why Hire Arash Law’s Altadena Wildfire Lawyers

You deserve more than just legal representation. You need a trusted ally who truly understands the challenges you’re facing. Our Altadena wildfire attorneys can guide you through this difficult time and fight for what you’re rightfully entitled to. 

We can help you hold all the negligent parties accountable. Our lawyers are not afraid to stand up against the most formidable opponents, even major utility companies like Southern California Edison (SCE) or PG&E.

Our proven track record speaks volumes. We’ve won over $500 million in settlements and court awards for victims and their families. Each one of our victories represents a family restored, a business rebuilt, or a future reclaimed after unimaginable tragedies.

At Arash Law, we believe financial barriers should never prevent you from seeking justice. That’s why we operate on a contingency fee basis. You don’t pay any upfront costs or legal fees unless we win your case. This arrangement ensures our interests are fully aligned with yours. 

Let our wildfire lawyers in Altadena help you rebuild and move forward with confidence. Contact us today to schedule a free case review and begin your journey toward justice.

Personal Injury
$41,950,000.00
An attack that took place when a homeless man used an unsecured baseball bat in the Walmart store to attack a husband and wife who were shopping nearby. The jury found that Walmart was 50 percent liable for the attack, and the amount of the judgment against the company exceeded $30,000,000.
–  BRIAN BEECHER

How Our Wildfire Attorneys Can Help You

Our wildfire injury attorneys are here to guide you, fight for your rights, and secure fair compensation. Here’s how we can help:

  • Navigate The Legal Process — We break down complex legal jargon into clear, understandable terms, ensuring you’re never left in the dark about your case. From filing essential paperwork on time to meeting critical deadlines, we handle every detail with precision and care. We make sure you’re informed and empowered throughout your case.
  • Investigate And Gather Evidence — Our lawyers work diligently to determine the cause of the wildfires, identify responsible parties, and gather key pieces of evidence. We can also collaborate with skilled investigators, fire experts, and forensic specialists to build a compelling case on your behalf.
  • Craft Tailored Legal Strategies — Every case is unique. Our attorneys work closely with you to craft a personalized approach that aligns with your specific needs and circumstances. Your voice matters, and we ensure it is heard at every stage of the process.
  • Fight For Maximum Compensation — Our Altadena wildfire lawyers are committed to recovering compensation that accounts for the full extent of your injuries, property damage, and losses. Our lawyers have extensive experience in high-stakes negotiations and are prepared to take your case to court if necessary.

Arash Law is considered by many as one of the biggest personal injury law firms in California, and our wildfire lawyers stand by your side, working tirelessly to secure the resources you need for your recovery. With our expertise and unwavering support, you can turn the page on this chapter and move toward a brighter future.

The Greater Los Angeles Wildfires Affecting Altadena

Southern California is grappling with multiple wildfires, including the Palisades Fire and Eaton Canyon Fire, as of January 30, 2025. These blazes, fueled by dry conditions and powerful Santa Ana winds, have caused widespread destruction. They have forced evacuations, displaced thousands, and left behind a trail of devastation. The wildfires have claimed the lives of 29 victims and damaged over 16,000 structures as of 8am on January 28, 2025.

  • Palisades Fire — The Palisades Fire has prompted evacuations along the Pacific Coast Highway and in Malibu and Santa Monica. The fire’s rapid spread has overwhelmed firefighting efforts and placed countless homes and businesses at risk.
  • Eaton Fire — The fire ignited in Eaton Canyon, located in the San Gabriel Mountains, on the evening of January 7, 2025. Evacuation orders have been sent to communities in Altadena, Pasadena, and La Cañada Flintridge.

Causes of Wildfires

Wildfires are often sparked by human activities or environmental factors, with dry conditions and high winds acting as accelerants. Here are some of the most common reasons wildfires occur:

Human Activities

Whether through negligence or deliberate actions, human involvement accounts for a significant number of wildfires across the country. These are some of the human-related causes of wildfires.

  • Unattended Campfires — Campfires left burning or not fully extinguished can ignite surrounding dry vegetation. Even a small ember can spark a massive blaze under the right conditions.
  • Discarded Cigarettes — A single lit cigarette, when thrown into dry grass or brush, can lead to a rapidly spreading fire.
  • Equipment Malfunctions — Sparks from machinery, such as lawnmowers, chainsaws, or vehicles, can ignite fires, especially during dry and windy weather. Hot engines parked over dry grass can also lead to ignition.
  • Fireworks And Outdoor Activities — Fireworks, particularly in dry seasons, can cause accidental fires. Similarly, outdoor activities involving grills, sparks, or open flames can result in unintended wildfires.
  • Arson — Motivations for arson vary, ranging from malicious intent and criminal activity to psychological disorders like pyromania. Regardless of intent, the consequences are devastating.
  • Poorly Maintained Power Lines — Utility companies may fail to properly inspect or upgrade aging infrastructure, leading to sparks during high winds or storms.
Environmental Factors

These environmental factors play a significant role in the ignition and spread of wildfires:

  • Extreme Heat — Rising temperatures accelerate moisture loss from soil and vegetation. Dry trees, shrubs, grass, and plant debris are highly flammable.
  • Lightning — When lightning strikes the ground, it generates an intense burst of heat that can ignite dry vegetation such as grass, leaves, or trees.

Our Altadena injury law firm can collaborate with fire investigators, environmental experts, and forensic specialists to uncover the root cause of the wildfires. We won’t hesitate to pursue claims against the negligent corporations, individuals, or entities that contributed to the disaster. Our wildfire lawyers in Altadena can help you gather the evidence needed to build a strong case.

Emperatriz Ayala
Emperatriz Ayala
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My husband had an accident 2 years ago, a 85 years old man hit him, the Arash law group works very well on my husband case that took 9 month and he won the case and my husband was happy with the results. A year later I got into an accident as well and I’m still waiting in my case is almost resolving and it’s 9 months already. This people knows the law and they do their job right to help you out in getting the most for you to fight on your behalf. I strongly recommend the Arash Law firm they do things right in a efficient and professional manner.
Chris Zavala
Chris Zavala
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Had a great experience with all the people at Arash law. Long story short was in a bad car accident. It was overwhelming and the whole process was a lot, but they kept me in the loop. They answered all my questions and gave me great advice. Couldn't be any happier. Would definitely recommend anyone looking for a personal injury lawyer. They'll guide you through the whole process!
Jill Smith
Jill Smith
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Having Arash Law handle my auto accident was the best decision I could have made. Everyone I interacted with was kind, professional and detail oriented. I am extremely happy with the outcome and would recommend them highly.
Joseph R. Porter
Joseph R. Porter
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From start to finish, Arash Law firm is there every step of the way with close, constant, personal contact and attention. I never knew a Law firm could actually care so much for me as a person and what I was personally going through as well as the settlement I was going to recieve once my case was finally completed. Thank you to everyone at Arash Law for your ongoing support and communication. You are the ONLY firm I will ever recommend to someone who is need of a great attorny.
Monica Parra
Monica Parra
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I had an excellent experience with Arash Law. I will definitely recommend to my family and friends. I interviewed a few firms before deciding to work with Arash Law. What made my experience excellent was (i.e. head attorney being accessible to talk to and he answered all my questions and concerns, sensitive and thorough personel who completed in home intake & follow up process, being connected immediately to quality Physicians who addressed my injuries and recovery process, clear contract-read throughly to ensure its something you can commit to). Being in a car accident is a traumatic experience and I had a sense of peace knowing Arash Firm was walking with me throughout the whole process. Thank you Arash Firm for all your hard work and help. I am so grateful and appreciative for you all! 🙏 With Gratitude, Monica Parra
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How Our Altadena Lawyers Determine Liability In Wildfire Cases

Not all wildfires are caused by negligence. For instance, fires resulting solely from natural causes may not qualify victims for personal injury claims. To pursue a valid claim, liability must be established. In California, liability is based on negligence, meaning an individual or entity that caused or contributed to the wildfire can be held financially responsible for the victim’s losses.

Our Altadena wildfire attorneys can help you prove the following elements of negligence:

  • Duty of Care — The defendant had a responsibility to avoid actions that could cause harm. For example, individuals and businesses must avoid risky activities that could ignite a fire.
  • Breach of Duty — The defendant failed to uphold their duty of care. For instance, they may have conducted an illegal burn that rapidly spread.
  • Causation — The breach of duty directly caused or contributed to the wildfire.
  • Damages — You incurred losses due to the wildfire. Examples include medical expenses, property destruction, emotional distress, or lost income.

In some cases, the concepts of strict liability and inverse condemnation may apply. Under inverse condemnation, publicly-owned utilities (POUs) and investor-owned utilities (IOUs) in California are treated as public entities and held strictly liable for damages. They can be held responsible for wildfire-related damages.

Affected property owners are entitled to seek compensation for their losses, including the value of destroyed property, physical damage to structures or land, and economic losses such as lost rental income or business revenue. Inverse condemnation ensures that utilities bear the financial responsibility for the destruction caused by their operations, providing a vital avenue for victims to recover damages.

How Our Altadena Lawyers Determine Liability In Wildfire Cases

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Types Of Damages In Wildfire Cases

Wildfire victims may be entitled to compensation for a wide range of damages, depending on the circumstances of their case. Our Altadena wildfire lawyers can help you recover the following:

Economic Damages

Economic damages reimburse victims for the measurable financial losses caused by a wildfire. They include:

  • Property Damage — Includes the following:
    • Repair or replacement of homes, vehicles, and personal belongings
    • Cleanup and restoration costs for debris, soot, and ash removal.
  • Lost Wages And Business Interruptions — Compensates for:
    • Income lost due to injuries or displacement.
    • Lost profits or operational costs for businesses disrupted by the wildfire.
  • Living Expenses — Coverage for temporary housing, food, transportation, and other costs incurred while displaced.
  • Medical Expenses — Compensation for:
    • Costs for hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and ongoing treatments for wildfire-related injuries.
    • Future medical expenses for rehabilitation or long-term care.
Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages address the victim’s emotional and intangible losses. Here are some examples:

  • Pain And Suffering — Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of quality of life caused by injuries or trauma.
  • Mental Anguish — Damages for PTSD, anxiety, depression, or other psychological impacts caused by the disaster.

Our wildfire attorneys in Altadena are dedicated to helping victims recover both economic and non-economic damages. We meticulously evaluate all losses, build a strong case, and fight to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve. Let us stand by your side and guide you through the recovery process.

Insurance Policies And California Wildfires

Wildfire damage is typically covered under the fire and allied perils clause of most insurance policies. The exact coverage you have depends on the specifics of your plan, but it may include the following:

Dwelling Coverage

Dwelling coverage is a critical component of your home insurance policy, designed to cover the cost of rebuilding or repairing your home and any attached structures, such as decks or garages, after a wildfire. Your dwelling coverage limit is foundational to your insurance policy, as it often determines the limits for other coverages, such as personal property, additional living expenses, and detached structures.

Other Structures Coverage

This coverage pays for the cost of rebuilding or replacing unattached structures on your property damaged by wildfires. Examples are sheds, detached garages, fencing, and pool houses. If your property has multiple detached structures, such as a gazebo or workshop, it’s important to ensure you have sufficient coverage to rebuild them if needed. Typically, coverage is set at 10% of your total dwelling coverage limit.

Personal Property Coverage

Personal property coverage helps pay to repair or replace your belongings if they are damaged in a wildfire. Some examples are items such as appliances, clothing, furniture, and electronics. With an HO-3 home insurance policy, personal property coverage is generally set at 50% to 70% of your total dwelling coverage limit. For high-value items like jewelry or artwork, consider adding a scheduled property endorsement to your policy to ensure they are fully covered.

Loss-Of-Use Coverage

Also known as additional living expenses (ALE), loss-of-use coverage helps pay for the costs you incur if your home becomes uninhabitable due to a wildfire. It includes expenses for temporary housing, meals, and other necessary living costs while your home is being repaired or rebuilt. Usually, policy limits range from 20% to 30% of your dwelling coverage limit.

Tips For Wildfire Preparedness And Evacuations

When facing wildfires, preparation and quick action are essential to staying safe. Here are some practical tips to help you prepare and evacuate effectively:

  • Pack And Prepare In Advance — Time is critical during an evacuation. Pre-pack essential items such as important documents, medications, and valuables. Keep your go-bag in an easily accessible location, like your car.
  • Evacuate Early — Don’t wait until the last minute. Firefighters cannot save homes if they are rescuing people who delayed evacuation. Early evacuation increases your safety and gives responders more time to protect your community.
  • Don’t Stay Behind To Fight The Fire — It’s dangerous to try to defend your home. Municipal water and power systems often fail as fires approach, leaving you without resources. Prioritize your safety and evacuate when advised.
  • Prepare Your Vehicle — Park your car facing out of the driveway and keep it out of the garage, as power outages may trap it inside. Ensure that the fuel tank is full and keys are readily available.
  • Secure Pets And Animals Early — Animals often become anxious and difficult to manage as fire approaches. Secure them in travel crates or on leashes well in advance, even if it means keeping them contained longer than usual. This ensures they’re ready to go when you are.
  • Document Your Home — If time permits, record a quick video walkthrough of your home. This footage can serve as an inventory for insurance claims, helping you recover more accurately for lost belongings.
  • Prioritize Irreplaceable Items — Focus on grabbing items that cannot be replaced, such as photo albums, family heirlooms, or keepsakes. Essentials like clothing and toiletries can be replaced later, but sentimental items cannot.

Being proactive and prepared can make a significant difference in a wildfire situation. These steps not only help protect your safety but also make the recovery process smoother. Our wildfire attorneys in Altadena can help ensure that the settlement you receive reflects the full extent of your losses. Call us now (888) 488-1391 to get legal advice free of charge.

Franchot M.
$610,000
Personal Injury Settlement
Our client was the victim of a rear-end accident who was left injured and severely in pain. Arash Law was able to outshine other injury law firms when he searched online, and thankfully we were able to handle everything for our client from A to Z — All that he had to do was ask and focus on his recovery. Our client’s life has changed forever, and the compensation received for the pain and suffering has opened paths for new lifelong opportunities.
Personal Injury Settlement
Our client was the victim of a rear-end accident who was left injured and severely in pain. Arash Law was able to outshine other injury law firms when he searched online, and thankfully we were able to handle everything for our client from A to Z — All that he had to do was ask and focus on his recovery. Our client’s life has changed forever, and the compensation received for the pain and suffering has opened paths for new lifelong opportunities.
Filing A Wildfire Insurance Claim

Properly preparing your claim is crucial to increasing your chances of securing a fair settlement. We recommend doing the following:

  1. Document Your Losses — Create a detailed list of damaged or destroyed property, including personal belongings, and estimate their value.
  2. Gather Supporting Evidence — Collect deeds, receipts, invoices, and any records that prove ownership and the value of the lost items. You can also use photos, videos, or physical evidence to support your claim. If you have pre-loss documentation, include that as well.
  3. Track Medical Expenses — Save all records of medical treatment related to injuries or health issues caused by the wildfire.
  4. Contact An Attorney — Work with experienced Altadena wildfire lawyers to guide you through the claims process and protect your rights. Fill out our “Do I have a case?” form, and our team will get back to you as soon as possible.

Deadlines For Wildfire Claims

Here are the key timeframes you need to know:

  • Insurance Claims — Insurance providers typically require you to file a “notice of loss” within 30 to 60 days, depending on your policy.
  • Personal Injury Lawsuits — The statute of limitations sets strict deadlines for filing wildfire-related cases in California. You have two years from the date of the incident to file a lawsuit against the responsible party.
  • Property Damage Claims — For property-related losses, the statute of limitations is three years from the date the damage occurred.
  • Government Claims — If your claim involves a state or local agency, you must file an administrative claim within six months.

In some cases, exceptions or extensions may apply, but it’s crucial to act quickly to protect your rights. Delaying can jeopardize your ability to recover damages. Our wildfire lawyers in Altadena can ensure your claim is filed accurately and promptly. Don’t risk missing critical deadlines; speak with our team today for expert guidance.

Deadlines For Wildfire Claims
Workers' Compensation
$6,000,000.00
A young roofing contractor fell through a defective skylight at a commercial building. This case dealt with very technical legal issues, particularly, the defendants were alleging a defense under the Privette doctrine, which is designed to protect them from this exact type of fall. Despite the heavy legal defenses available, Benny and his team were able to prevail and secure this settlement for a deserving client.
–  BENNY KHORSANDI
California Wildfire Statistics

In 2024, 8,024 wildfire incidents in California burned over 1,050,012 acres. These fires destroyed 1,716 structures, damaged 432, and left more than 2,148 properties affected. The toll of these wildfires extends far beyond statistics. Families were displaced, lives were lost, and many Californians faced the daunting task of rebuilding their homes and communities. The emotional and financial burdens have left countless individuals struggling to recover.

The 2024 wildfire season was fueled by an unusually wet winter and spring, which led to dense vegetation growth. The intense June heat exacerbated the situation, making the area dangerously prone to ignition. Areas below 3,000 feet were particularly vulnerable, where the dense undergrowth exacerbated rapid fire spread.

Among the thousands of incidents throughout the year, the Park Fire stood out as a particularly devastating event. Ignited on July 24, 2024, in Chico’s Bidwell Park, the fire was allegedly caused by an act of arson. Despite aggressive initial attack suppression efforts, the fire rapidly expanded, ultimately consuming 429,603 acres across Butte and Tehama counties. The Park Fire led to the destruction of 709 structures and damage to 54 others, prompting widespread evacuations and the temporary closure of Lassen Volcanic National Park.

These figures show just how devastating wildfires can be, affecting not only homes and property but also the lives and livelihoods of countless individuals. The toll can feel insurmountable, especially for those left grappling with displacement, injuries, or the loss of loved ones. Our Altadena wildfire attorneys are here to help victims navigate the challenges that come with such disasters. We provide comprehensive legal services to ensure you get the monetary recovery you deserve for your losses.

Frequently Asked Questions

You might be wondering, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer to help me with my case?” Wildfire damage claims are often highly complex, often involving multiple liable parties, such as utility companies or individuals whose negligence contributed to the fire. These entities may have powerful legal teams and insurers working to minimize their payouts, making it difficult for victims to navigate the process alone.

If you don’t have insurance, an attorney can help you file a claim directly against the responsible parties. Whether the fire was caused by faulty equipment, inadequate maintenance, or intentional acts like arson, we’ll work to hold those at fault accountable and seek compensation for your losses.

Even if you have insurance, it doesn’t guarantee full compensation for your wildfire losses. Many people file claims only to realize they’re underinsured, i.e., their coverage is insufficient. Altadena wildfire lawyers can help ensure you’re not left with gaps in compensation, advocating for the full amount you’re entitled to recover.

The timeline for filing an insurance claim depends on your specific policy, so it’s essential to check your policy and contact your insurance company as soon as possible to confirm their requirements. Prompt action is crucial. Delays in filing could complicate matters if you need to pursue legal action for fair compensation. Our wildfire attorneys in Altadena can help you take timely action to protect your rights and ensure a smoother claims process.

No, you don’t have to pay a fee for an attorney to review your case. We offer free, no-obligation consultations to help you determine whether you have a viable claim. During this initial review, our Altadena wildfire lawyers assess the details of your situation, answer your questions, and provide guidance on the next steps. Our goal is to make legal support accessible, and if we take your case, you won’t pay anything unless we win compensation for you.

Every case is unique, so it’s impossible to guarantee a specific timeline for resolution. On average, wildfire cases may take 24 to 28 months to resolve, though some settle more quickly, while others can take longer. Regardless of the timeline, our wildfire lawyers in Altadena will fight tirelessly for the best possible outcome.

Renters can still experience significant losses in a wildfire and may be eligible to seek compensation. While renters insurance might cover some personal property losses, it often falls short of covering the full extent of damages. Our Altadena wildfire attorneys can help you pursue the compensation you need to rebuild after a wildfire.

Most personal injury lawyers, including our wildfire and car accident lawyers, work on a contingency fee basis. You don’t pay any upfront costs or ongoing legal fees while your case is being resolved. Instead, we only get paid if we successfully recover compensation for you, taking a percentage of the settlement or award as our fee.

This arrangement ensures that high-quality legal representation is accessible to everyone, regardless of financial circumstances. It also means our interests are fully aligned with yours; our Altadena wildfire lawyers are motivated to secure the best possible outcome for your case.

Call The Wildfire Lawyers Altadena Chooses For Justice

If you or your loved ones have been affected by the devastating wildfires in Altadena, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. At Arash Law, we are dedicated to standing up for wildfire victims and helping them rebuild their lives. From lost property and business interruptions to emotional distress and medical expenses, we can help you secure the compensation you deserve.

Our experienced Altadena wildfire attorneys have the knowledge, resources, and determination to hold negligent parties accountable and secure maximum compensation for your losses. We’ll handle the legal complexities so you can focus on recovery. Best of all, we work on a contingency fee basis, so you don’t pay us anything unless we win your case.

Don’t let the devastation of the Altadena wildfire leave you feeling powerless. Call us at (888) 488-1391 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us fight for justice and the compensation you need to move forward.

Our Altadena lawyers also handle other types of personal injury claims, including Uber accidents, truck collisions, and car crashes. We offer our services in Malibu, Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles, and the rest of California.

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