Wildfire Litigation

Residents and property owners across Oregon secured a major win against PacifiCorp, operating as Pacific Power, after claiming the utility’s negligence fueled the devastating Labor Day 2020 wildfires. Plaintiffs said PacifiCorp ignored National Weather Service warnings and industry safety practices by keeping power lines energized during extreme winds and dry conditions. Fires like Santiam Canyon, Echo Mountain Complex, and South Obenchain scorched homes, businesses, and forests, displacing thousands. PacifiCorp denied wrongdoing, citing unprecedented weather and safety concerns over power shutoffs. On May 21, 2025, a Multnomah County jury awarded over $50 million in compensatory damages and confirmed PacifiCorp’s liability, marking another significant phase in the ongoing class action trial.