The Eaton Fire Lawsuit
The Eaton Fire, which ignited on January 7, 2025, in Los Angeles County, resulted in significant loss of life and property. As investigations continue, there is growing scrutiny regarding the potential involvement of Southern California Edison (SCE) in the fire’s origin. If you’re considering legal action against SCE, it’s essential to understand the current situation and your options.
Our L.A. Fire Justice Legal Team

Nathaniel Mack
Trial Lawyer
Nathaniel Mack is the CEO and founder of Mack Injury Attorneys, with offices in several major Texas cities. His firm handles complex litigation nationwide, focusing on catastrophic accidents, environmental and mass torts. Throughout his career, Nathaniel has been involved in national trial teams and has taken on cases related to product liability, medical malpractice, and personal injury. His firm has expanded to include mass tort campaigns, such as representing Houston residents in a toxic tort case, firefighters in aqueous film-forming foam litigation, women in chemical hair straightener litigation, and government entities in an insulin pricing case.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the Eaton Fire and Potential Legal Action Against Southern California Edison (SCE)
Who are you suing and why?
We are suing Southern California Edison (SCE), the utility company responsible for providing electricity to homes, ranches, and businesses in the Eaton Fire burn area. Preliminary investigations suggest that SCE’s equipment may have ignited the Eaton Fire.
What is the Eaton Fire?
The Eaton Fire began on January 7, 2025, in the Eaton Canyon area of Los Angeles County. Fueled by strong Santa Ana winds, it rapidly spread, resulting in at least 17 fatalities and the destruction of over 9,000 structures.
Is Southern California Edison being investigated for the Eaton Fire?
Yes, SCE is under investigation for its potential role in the fire. Reports indicate that a fault occurred on an SCE power line near the fire’s origin. New video evidence shows electrical arcing on a transmission tower before the fire intensified. While no conclusive evidence has been established, SCE’s equipment is under scrutiny.
Have there been any lawsuits filed against Southern California Edison related to the Eaton Fire?
Multiple lawsuits have been filed against SCE alleging negligence. For instance, a lawsuit filed by Jason Quintero and Fredda Murillo-Quintero claims SCE is responsible for starting the fire that destroyed their Altadena home. Another lawsuit by Evangeline Iglesias alleges that SCE violated utility codes and was negligent in its actions during the fires.
What evidence supports claims against Southern California Edison?
Evidence includes reports of a fault on an SCE power line near the fire’s origin and video footage showing electrical arcing on a transmission tower before the fire intensified. Additionally, photos submitted in lawsuits suggest that exposed utility wires from an SCE tower may have contributed to the blaze.
Should I hire an attorney to sue Southern California Edison?
If you have suffered losses due to the Eaton Fire and believe SCE may be responsible, consulting with an attorney experienced in wildfire litigation is advisable. They can assess the specifics of your situation, inform you of your legal rights, and guide you through the process of seeking compensation.
How do I choose the right attorney for my case?
Look for attorneys with experience in wildfire litigation and a track record of success in similar cases. It’s beneficial to consult with multiple attorneys to find one who understands your situation and with whom you feel comfortable working.
Are there time limits for filing a lawsuit against Southern California Edison?
Yes, there are statutes of limitations that set deadlines for filing lawsuits. These time frames can vary, so it’s crucial to consult with an attorney promptly to ensure your claim is filed within the required period.
What should I do to prepare for a potential lawsuit?
Gather all relevant documentation, including photographs of damage, insurance claims, correspondence with SCE, and any other evidence related to the fire and your losses. This information will be valuable for your attorney in building your case.
Where can I find more information about ongoing investigations and legal actions related to the Eaton Fire?
Stay updated through reputable news sources and official statements from investigative agencies. Consulting with an attorney can also provide you with the latest information pertinent to your case.
Given the evolving nature of the situation, it’s essential to seek professional legal advice to understand your rights and options fully.
If I have already filed an insurance claim and received payment, can I still participate in the lawsuit?
Yes. Whether you have received an insurance payout or do not have insurance, you can still join the lawsuit. However, any compensation received from this litigation may be offset by the amount paid by your insurance company, as you cannot recover twice for the same damages under the law.
How do I know if I qualify to participate in the lawsuit?
You may qualify if at least one of the following applies to you:
- You owned a partially or totally damaged property.
- You were a renter or occupant of a property that was partially or totally destroyed.
- You are a child of a property owner, renter, or occupant whose home was partially or totally destroyed.
- You own property that suffered at least $50,000 in uninsured smoke damage.
- You lost at least $50,000 in uninsured arbor loss (tree damage, landscaping, or fencing).
- You lost over $25,000 in personal income due to the fire.
- Your business (including agriculture) suffered fire or smoke damage and experienced income loss.
- You suffered a physical injury requiring hospitalization due to the fire.
- A loved one was killed or suffered fatal injuries due to the fire.
What types of physical and emotional injuries can I recover compensation for?
You may seek compensation for:
- Physical injuries sustained during the fire or while evacuating.
- Emotional distress if you also suffered a physical injury, supported by medical records.
Can renters participate in the lawsuit?
Yes. If you were renting a home that was destroyed in the Eaton Fire, you qualify for the lawsuit. If your rental property was damaged, you may be eligible if a significant portion of your personal belongings were destroyed.
Can I receive compensation for pets or animals lost in the fire?
Under California law, compensation for lost pets is limited. However, if the animals were part of a business or provided personal income, you may be entitled to compensation.
How much is my case worth?
The value of your case depends on multiple factors, including:
- Whether you were a homeowner or renter
- Whether you had insurance
- If you had to evacuate through flames
- If you owned a home-based business that lost inventory
Until we assess your specific circumstances, we cannot estimate your potential recovery.
How do the attorneys get paid?
Our attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning:
- You pay nothing upfront.
- We only get paid if you receive compensation.
- If you do not win or settle, you owe us nothing, including case expenses.
This agreement is outlined in our Contract of Employment and Consent to Fee Sharing document.
Why should I hire the Eaton Fire Justice legal team?
Our team has successfully represented over 20,000 wildfire victims in California, Oregon, New Mexico, Texas, and Hawaii. We played a key role in securing a $13.5 billion settlement for PG&E wildfire victims. We have extensive experience helping wildfire survivors rebuild their lives and recover damages.
What are the deadlines for filing a lawsuit?
- Property damage claims: 3 years from the date of damage.
- Personal injury claims: 2 years from the date of injury.
What is a mass tort lawsuit?
A mass tort involves many people harmed by the same act of negligence. Unlike class actions, mass torts allow individual cases to be handled separately while sharing evidence and legal resources. This means you retain control over your lawsuit and can choose your own attorney.
How long will this case take to resolve?
Wildfire litigation can take 3 to 5 years or longer to fully resolve. Our legal team will support you throughout the entire process.
