Clay Wildfire Lawyers

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Our Clay Wildfire Lawyers Focus On Turning Legal Battles Into Life Wins

Affected by a wildfire? You need experienced Clay Wildfire lawyers who understand the intricacies of securing compensation for your losses. At Arash Law, our team specializes in holding negligent utility companies and other entities accountable for the destruction caused by wildfires. If a wildfire took your home, business, or property, call us today at (888) 488-1931 for a free consultation.

With years of experience handling wildfire claims, our legal team has a proven track record of holding responsible parties accountable. Even if your insurance doesn’t cover all the damages, we can help you navigate the process, handle insurance disputes, and pursue additional compensation for your recovery.

Let us be the voice you need. Contact Arash Law today, and let one of the best personal injury law firms in California guide you through this challenging time, ensuring you get the justice you deserve.

Choose Arash Law For Legal Advocacy You Can Count On


The journey to recovery after a wildfire can seem daunting, but you’re not alone. You shouldn’t wrestle with complicated insurance claims or fight for your rightful compensation on your own. Our Clay Wildfire lawyers will guide you through every twist and turn, offering:

  • Tailored Care — We take the time to understand your unique situation. Our attorneys tailor our legal strategy to fit your needs, addressing any unusual damages or challenges you’re facing.
  • Tenacious Advocacy — Our lawyers fight hard to protect your rights and get you the compensation you deserve. If insurance companies try to undervalue your claim, we’re ready to fight back. We’ll be your voice, ensuring you get what’s rightfully yours.
  • In-Depth Insight — With our in-depth knowledge of wildfire laws, we guide you through the process. We simplify the complex regulations, helping you stay on track and avoid costly mistakes.
  • Compassionate Assistance — We’ve seen the devastation of wildfires first-hand, so we understand the physical and emotional toll. We offer compassionate support. We’ll connect you with local resources, including counseling services and support groups, to help your family heal and rebuild.

At Arash Law, we aim to provide you with a sense of comfort as we manage your case. We manage all communications with insurance companies, navigate the legal system, and work tirelessly to secure the best possible settlement for you.

Get in touch today to see how our expertise and dedication can help you recover. Let us help you move forward with confidence.

Winning Case Outcomes

Filing a wildfire claim can be tough. However, our relentless wildfire injury attorneys are recognized by many as aggressive litigators for damage claims. We have a strong history of taking on big corporations and other powerful entities and making them pay. For instance, we won a case against Walmart when a homeless man with a baseball bat attacked a couple in one of their stores. The court found the retailer partly responsible for failing to secure the bat they sold, which the attacker used as a weapon, and ordered them to pay $30 million of the $41.9 million settlement.

In another case, our attorneys secured a unanimous $17.9 million verdict against the County of Los Angeles after years of relentless litigation. One client suffered a fractured tibia and a mild but permanent brain injury, while the other sustained a knee injury requiring physical therapy. Despite the county’s efforts to shift blame, we proved its liability. The jury delivered their decisive verdict in just 90 minutes, highlighting the strength of our case and our commitment to justice.

How Our Clay Wildfire Lawyers Can Support You

When disaster strikes, our dedicated Clay wildfire lawyers step in as a beacon of hope. We’re here to untangle the complexities of your situation, tackling everything from insurance claims to evidence collection. Here’s how we can support you on your road to recovery:

  • Legal Counsel — We advocate for your rights in court, employing vigorous tactics to ensure you receive the justice you deserve. We hold negligent parties, like the utility companies involved in the wildfire, accountable.
  • Insurance Claim Support — We help you navigate the claims process to get fair compensation for damage to your property, belongings, and living expenses.
  • Loss Evaluation — Our team works with experts to assess your losses, including property damage, medical costs, and lost wages.
  • Fact Finding — We gather critical evidence, investigating the cause of the wildfire to build a solid case.
  • Negotiation — We engage with insurance companies and responsible parties, using savvy strategies to maximize your compensation.

With decades of experience, Arash Law stands against bad-faith insurance practices, compelling insurers to honor their commitments. Our dedicated Clay wildfire lawyers will help you recover what you’ve lost and obtain justice. Let us handle the legal intricacies while you focus on rebuilding your life.

Some Notable California Wildfires In Recent Years

In recent years, California has endured numerous devastating wildfires, many of which were sparked by corporate negligence. These fires have left scars on communities across the state, causing immense destruction, loss of life, and displacement.

Camp Fire (2018)

The Camp Fire remains California’s most destructive wildfire. It ravaged the town of Paradise, destroying over 18,000 structures and claiming 85 lives. Victims not only lost homes and businesses but also suffered injuries as a result of the blaze. Lawsuits allege that PG&E’s negligence in maintaining its power lines and infrastructure caused the fire. Plaintiffs point to the company’s long history of safety violations and its failure to take necessary precautions despite known risks.

Dixie Fire (2021)

Igniting on July 13, 2021, in the Feather River Canyon near the Cresta Dam, the Dixie Fire scorched 963,309 acres, making it one of the largest in state history. The fire tragically cut short one life, destroyed over 1,300 properties, and left a lasting impact on the region.

McKinney Fire (2022)

In Northern California, the McKinney Fire burned more than 60,000 acres and over 185 structures. Investigators linked the fire to poorly maintained utility lines operated by Pacific Power, a subsidiary of PacifiCorp. Dry conditions and summer storms fueled the fire, but heavy rains later triggered landslides and flooding, worsening the devastation.

The Park Fire (2024)

On Wednesday, July 24, 2024, the Park Fire began with alarming speed and ferocity. The blaze was ignited in Chico, Butte County, when a man, allegedly involved in arson, pushed a burning vehicle into a gully. The vehicle’s flames quickly spread to the surrounding tall grasses, which had grown lush during a wet winter but had dried out under recent high temperatures. The fire swiftly escalated, consuming live oak trees, grapevines, and dry brush, with wind-driven embers further spreading the flames across the Lassen foothills.

The Park Fire spread serious destruction throughout Butte and Tehama Counties in California. Initial containment efforts were unsuccessful, leading this wildfire to grow to almost 430,000 acres and the largest of the 2024 fire season.

Palisades Fire (2025)

The Palisades Fire erupted on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, driven by strong winds. In the Pacific Palisades area of Los Angeles, it quickly spread, consuming everything around it. The dry, desert-like landscape fueled the flames, and intense Santa Ana wind gusts of 40 to 60 mph made the fire even worse.

By January 23, 2025, the fire had burned nearly 24,000 acres. Evacuation orders were issued, affecting about 37,000 residents, while nearly 20,000 more received evacuation warnings. As the fire continued to rage, it destroyed nearly 7,000 structures. Sadly, 11 lives were lost, leaving a somber reminder in the ashes.

Eaton Fire (2025)

The Eaton Canyon Fire, widely known as the Eaton Fire, ignited near Altadena on January 7, 2025. What began as a spark swiftly unleashed a conflagration, marking it as one of California’s most catastrophic wildfires.

As of January 23, 2025, this fiery beast has consumed over 14,000 acres, leaving a tragic toll. With at least 17 lives lost, thousands of homes and structures have fallen victim to the flames. More than 52,000 residents faced the heart-wrenching task of evacuating their homes and businesses, fleeing the relentless blaze.

Clay Fire (2025)

The Clay Fire started on January 21, 2025, in Riverside County. It quickly spread, burning 39 acres and causing destruction. Containment efforts began right away, and within 40 hours, the fire was 40% contained. Thanks to these quick actions, the flames were kept under control and fully extinguished within three days.

Evacuation warnings were issued but eventually lifted when the situation became stable again. Fire officials are now investigating and warning residents to stay alert during high-risk wildfire seasons. This fire highlights California’s ongoing wildfire threat and the importance of being prepared.

If the Clay Fire impacted you or your property, our experienced wildfire lawyers are here to help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to learn more about your legal options.

Workers' Compensation

$3,200,000.00

Our client was on the roof of a commercial building and fell through a skylight due to inadequate safety and dangerous conditions. This case was referred to Benny by another Personal Injury attorney. Skylight falls are an epidemic in the United States and are very difficult cases to prevail on because of laws that protect contractors and landlords. Despite these hurdles, Benny and the team were able to secure a substantial settlement for our client.
–  BENNY KHORSANDI

Factors Driving California Wildfires

California’s wildfire crisis is a mix of climate change, natural unpredictability, and human actions. Research shows that as the world warms, fires become more frequent and intense. Between 1979 and 2020, rising temperatures led to an 80% increase in vapor pressure deficit (VPD), a clear indicator of dry air. This dry environment creates the perfect conditions for wildfires to start and spread quickly.

Climate Change

Climate change is fueling the massive wildfires sweeping across California. As temperatures rise and landscapes dry out, the conditions are ripe for devastating wildfires. As the heat intensifies, the flames become more intense and destructive.

Geography and Vegetation

California’s unique landscape, filled with slopes, canyons, and valleys, plays a significant role in how quickly wildfires spread. Fires that start at lower elevations easily move upslope, driven by rising heat. The state’s vegetation, much of it highly flammable, serves as abundant fuel, making wildfires harder to control.

Urban Expansion

As more people settle in areas bordering wildlands, known as the Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI), the risk of wildfires affecting homes and communities has increased dramatically. These regions are particularly vulnerable to the destructive impacts of fires.

Other Contributing Factors
  • Lightning — Lightning strikes during dry conditions can easily ignite vegetation, rapidly sparking large fires if left unchecked.
  • Volcanic Eruptions — Hot ash and lava from eruptions can ignite surrounding forests, leading to widespread destruction.
  • Human Activity — Careless actions, such as leaving campfires unattended or improperly discarding cigarettes, are significant causes. Sparks from equipment, fireworks, and outdoor burning are also common culprits stemming from carelessness.
  • Arson — Intentional acts of arson cause a significant number of wildfires. These malicious acts can lead to catastrophic consequences for people, property, and ecosystems.

Understanding the complex mix of natural and human-driven causes is essential for addressing liability and implementing effective wildfire prevention strategies. By identifying these root causes, communities can better prepare for and mitigate the devastating impacts of wildfires.

If you’ve been affected by these devastating events, our experienced Clay wildfire lawyers are here to help you seek justice and fair compensation. Get in touch with us today to learn more.

Forest in fall with healthy vegetation can drive wildfires
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!
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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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Parties Who May Be Held Liable For A Wildfire

Determining who is at fault for a wildfire can be a complex process, as multiple factors may come into play. Depending on the situation, our Clay wildfire lawyers can help you hold the following accountable:

Utility Companies

Utility companies often face liability issues related to wildfires, especially when faulty equipment, like power lines, ignites a fire. However, proving liability in such cases is complex. Investigators must establish a direct link between the company’s negligence or equipment failure and the wildfire’s origin and spread. This requires a detailed review of maintenance records, thorough inspections of damaged infrastructure, and witness testimonies to determine responsibility.

Here are a couple of instances when utilities were held liable for wildfires in California:

In fact, SCE is once again under the microscope for its alleged role in the 2025 Eaton Fire. Accusations fly, suggesting its power transmission equipment sparked the inferno. This firestorm of blame raises questions about safety and accountability.

Government Agencies

Government agencies are liable for wildfires if they fail in their duties, such as inadequate forest management or insufficient fire prevention measures. These agencies are responsible for implementing strategies like controlled burns and clearing brush to reduce wildfire risks.

However, proving liability can be difficult. It requires investigating whether the agency neglected its responsibilities or took actions that contributed to the fire’s spread. Budget issues, staffing shortages, and competing priorities may also factor into the assessment.

When government agencies are found liable, it can undermine public trust and highlight the need for better resources and strategies to prevent future wildfires. Holding these agencies accountable ensures that the necessary measures are in place to protect communities.

How Our Wildfire Attorneys Determine Liability

An investigation into how the fire started is necessary to determine liability. If a party could have reasonably taken steps to prevent the fire, they may be legally and financially responsible for the damage.

California holds individuals or entities accountable for wildfire damages when they start a wildfire through carelessness or recklessness. Victims may be entitled to compensation for property damage, injuries, or fatalities. However, securing this compensation requires presenting strong evidence that meets the legal burden of proof.

The following legal concepts help determine the responsible party in wildfire cases:

Negligence

In wildfire cases, we hold defendants accountable by establishing a clear duty of care, proving a breach of that duty, and demonstrating the resulting damages.

Corporations like utility companies have a duty of care, which is to protect the public by taking reasonable steps to prevent harm. In wildfire cases, this means following safety standards, maintaining infrastructure, and implementing fire prevention measures.

The utility company is negligent if it fails in its duty of care and causes the fire. This failure occurs when the company neglects equipment maintenance or violates safety protocols.

Causation requires a direct link between the company’s breach of duty and the fire’s damage, which can be challenging in large-scale wildfires. Finally, there must be evidence of damages, such as property repair costs or other financial losses caused by the fire.

If you’ve suffered wildfire losses and injuries, our experienced Clay wildfire lawyers provide 100% guaranteed representation; we won’t charge you anything until we win. Reach out today to discuss your case.

Negligence Per Se

Negligence per se occurs when someone breaks a law and directly causes harm. Under California law, a defendant is considered automatically negligent if they broke a law meant to protect public safety, and this violation was a significant factor in causing damages.

Suppose a utility company fails to maintain its equipment, and a spark from that failure ignites a wildfire. In that case, it violates the California Public Utilities Code, which requires utilities to ensure public safety. Since the violation caused harm, it qualifies as negligence per se.

Trust our Clay wildfire lawyers to prove negligence per se, if applicable, and hold the responsible parties accountable and recover what you’ve lost.

Strict Liability By Inverse Condemnation

The Fifth Amendment grants the government the power of eminent domain, allowing it to seize private property for public improvements or economic development. Both government agencies and utility companies can exercise this right, but they must provide fair compensation to the property owner. This process is known as condemnation.

If the said improvements cause damages, such as through a wildfire, the property owner can seek compensation by filing an inverse condemnation lawsuit. This type of lawsuit can target both public and private electric utility companies.

Inverse condemnation is based on strict liability, meaning the defendant can be held responsible for wildfire damage without the need to prove negligence. Therefore, if a wildfire from a power pole or line damages your property in Clay, you may be eligible for compensation through inverse condemnation without having to prove the utility company’s fault.

Don’t let wildfire damage in Clay go uncompensated; speak with our experienced Clay wildfire lawyers today for a free consultation, and let Arash Law turn your losses into justice.

Damages You Can Claim For A Wildfire

If you’ve suffered physical or emotional trauma from a wildfire, you can sue the responsible party, including utility companies. It’s essential to prove that another party is at fault. Our Clay wildfire lawyers can help you seek both economic and non-economic damages.

  • Economic damages include compensation for loss of property, wages, medical expenses, and other monetary losses like:
    • Roof collapse
    • Plumbing damage
    • Water damage
    • Electrical damage
    • Alternate living expenses
     
  • Non-economic damages cover emotional distress, loss of companionship, and other non-monetary impacts, including:
    • Stress and anxiety.
    • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
    • Depression due to the situation.
     
Getting medical documents after checkup because of wildfires

Steps To Take In The Wake Of A Wildfire

Experiencing a wildfire can be overwhelming and devastating. In the immediate aftermath, it’s crucial to take specific steps to ensure your safety and set the foundation for a successful compensation claim. Here’s a guide to help you navigate this challenging time:

  1. Ensure Safety And Contact Authorities — Prioritize your safety by finding a secure location. If you or your family are in danger, call 911 immediately to report the wildfire and get emergency assistance.
  2. Document Losses And Damages For Compensation — Proper documentation is crucial for successful claims. Here’s what to do:
    • Inventory Damages — List all damaged properties, including homes, belongings, and business assets.
    • Capture Evidence — Take clear photos and videos of the damage.
    • Keep Receipts — Save all receipts for repairs and replacement costs.
    • Track Expenses — Record temporary housing and other additional living expenses.
    • Request Policy — Obtain a complete copy of your insurance policy.
    • Record Conversations — Document discussions with contractors and insurance adjusters.
  3. Document Health Issues — Keep records of any health issues, such as medical visits for smoke inhalation or stress-related conditions, to strengthen personal injury claims.
  4. Consult A Clay Fire Lawyer — Contact our wildfire lawyers for a consultation. They can assist with documentation, filing your claim, and navigating disputes with your insurance carrier. It’s important to consult with a lawyer before speaking with the insurance adjuster, who represents the insurance company, not you. By following these steps, you can ensure your safety and build a strong case for compensation.

Deadlines For California Wildfire Claims

Wildfire victims in California can often recover losses for damage to homes, businesses, and land by filing a claim. However, prompt action is crucial. Here’s what to know about the statute of limitations for wildfire claims in California.

In response to the state’s growing wildfire crisis, California extended the timeline for filing claims in certain cases. Under Assembly Bill No. 2594, signed into law on September 21, 2018, homeowners now have two years instead of one to sue an insurer if their loss occurred during a declared state of emergency. While this extension provides more time, it’s vital to start gathering the required documents and evidence as soon as possible.

This time limit also matches California’s 2-year limit for filing personal injury cases for recovery of damages related to injuries incurred in wildfires.

Failing to file within the legal timeframe could mean forfeiting the compensation you’re entitled to. To protect your rights and ensure your claim is handled properly, talk to our Clay wildfire attorneys with expertise in wildfire claims.

California Wildfire Facts

In 2024, California experienced a significant wildfire season, with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) reporting the following key statistics:

  • Total Emergency Responses — 605,868
  • Wildfires — 8,024
  • Acres Burned — 1,050,012
  • Fatalities — 1 civilian; no firefighter deaths
  • Structures Affected — 432 damaged; 1,716 destroyed

A notable incident was the Park Fire, which ignited on July 24, 2024, in Butte County’s Bidwell Park. Allegedly caused by arson, this fire rapidly spread across Butte and Tehama counties, consuming 429,603 acres. It resulted in the destruction of 709 structures and damage to 54 others, leading to widespread evacuations and the temporary closure of Lassen Volcanic National Park.

These statistics underscore the critical importance of effective wildfire prevention and mitigation strategies in California. The combination of a hotter-than-normal June and abundant fine fuels from an unusually wet winter and spring contributed to the heightened fire activity, particularly in areas below 3,000 feet with dense vegetation growth.

If you or your loved ones have been affected by wildfires, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Our experienced Clay wildfire attorneys are here to help you navigate the process of filing a wildfire damage claim. Whether you’re dealing with property damage, personal injury, or wrongful death, we have the expertise to hold negligent parties accountable.

Frequently Asked Questions On Wildfire Compensation

Even if you don’t have insurance, you may still be eligible for compensation. If a public utility company’s negligent or reckless actions caused the wildfire, renters, homeowners, and business owners can pursue a claim. Our team of Clay wildfire lawyers is here to help you seek justice, regardless of your insurance status.

Yes, we represent both renters and property owners affected by wildfires caused by corporate negligence. Our extensive experience in disaster litigation allows us to advocate for your rights and guide you through the legal process with confidence.

Business interruption insurance is designed to replace lost income during downtime. However, policy limits can sometimes be reached before your business fully recovers. Our Clay wildfire lawyers can help you evaluate and maximize your insurance claims. For any losses exceeding your coverage, we’ll work to recover compensation from the responsible parties. 

Absolutely. Wildfires can devastate agricultural land, destroying crops, machinery, and even grazing pastures, often forcing farmers to sell livestock due to food shortages. Mature trees, which can hold significant value (sometimes tens of thousands of dollars), are also often overlooked in damage assessments. You are entitled to seek compensation for all property damage, including the loss of trees, crops, and other assets that took years to cultivate. Talk to our Clay wildfire attorneys for a free, no-obligation case evaluation.

Find Strength After Clay Fire Losses With Our Lawyers In Riverside

Your safety and that of your loved ones should always come first. Recovering after a wildfire can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. With the right legal support, you can hold responsible parties accountable and secure the compensation you deserve.

If you’ve found yourself asking, “I need a personal injury lawyer,” we’re here for you. Our firm can guide you through the challenges and help you rebuild. The Clay wildfire lawyers at Arash Law have decades of experience handling cases involving negligence by companies like PG&E, SCE, and PacifiCorp, fighting for justice on behalf of California residents.

In addition to wildfire cases, our team includes dedicated car accident lawyers with expertise in truck accidents and Uber and Lyft accidents. No matter your situation, we’re here to provide practical solutions and aggressive advocacy.

We serve clients across California, including Sacramento, Elk Grove, Folsom, Citrus Heights, Rancho Cordova, Stockton, Lodi, Vallejo, Fairfield, and Vacaville, as well as San Joaquin, Contra Costa, Solano, El Dorado, and Yolo counties.

Let us help you take the first step toward recovery. As one of the biggest personal injury law firms in California, we have the resources, experience, and dedication to tackle even the most complex wildfire claims. Call (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I have a case?” form for a free consultation today.

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