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After months of dry conditions, rainfall is a welcome sight in Los Angeles. For many, it signals relief, limits the fire risk, clears the air, and replenishes much-needed water reserves. But for communities near recent wildfire burn scars, heavy rain can be a threat. As storm systems move across Southern California, they carry the potential to trigger dangerous mudslides and debris flows in areas that have been stripped of vegetation by fire.

The Eaton wildfire left a devastating mark on Altadena, California, a historically significant community nestled in the foothills of Los Angeles County. Known for its charm, diversity, and deep-rooted sense of community and friendship, the neighborhoods of Altadena have been turned to ash. Among those affected was the community of middle-class Black families that had created a tight-knit community starting in the 1960s and 70s when redlining practices pushed them out of the city and into the hills of Altadena. The losses this community now faces extend far beyond property– their lives have been shattered, with many grieving the deaths of loved ones and the destruction of cherished memories and community. 

As the catastrophic fires in Los Angeles and surrounding areas continue to burn, Mayor Karen Bass has issued a sweeping Executive Order aimed at expediting recovery and rebuilding efforts for the thousands of Angelenos affected. With over 25,000 acres burned, more than 5,000 homes and businesses destroyed, and 80,000 residents displaced, the time for swift and decisive action is now.

This Executive Order, dubbed the “Return and Rebuild” initiative, is a comprehensive plan to streamline recovery processes, reduce bureaucratic barriers, and provide immediate relief to ...

Wildfires are destructive forces that ravage homes and communities, but the harm doesn’t stop with burned landscapes. One of the most overlooked threats is the lingering health effects caused by wildfire smoke, which can affect people long after the flames are extinguished. As wildfire seasons intensify, the long-term health risks posed by smoke inhalation must be taken seriously, especially in litigation against those responsible for starting these devastating fires—like utility companies, railroads, and other negligent entities.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently reported a significant escalation in the ongoing listeria outbreak linked to Boar’s Head deli meats. Over the past three weeks, the death toll has tragically risen to nine, with a total of 57 people hospitalized as a result of consuming contaminated products.

"Your property does not meet our wildfire eligibility guidelines... We will not renew this policy when it expires."  Have you received a notice like the one above? Insurance companies are increasingly dropping policies of California customers with notices of non-renewal like these. However, your non-renewal notice may be a mistake. And depending on the circumstances, your policy may still be protected by California law. 

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) plays a critical role in disaster response and recovery across the United States. Established in 1979 and refined through legislation like the Stafford Act and the Post-Katrina Emergency Management Reform Act, FEMA provides essential support when disasters strike. From emergency declarations to major-disaster assistance, FEMA's programs offer aid for individuals, families, and communities, including housing assistance, crisis counseling, and infrastructure repair. This blog explores FEMA's history, how disaster declarations are made, and the types of assistance available to those in need. 

A statute of limitations is a crucial legal concept that sets a deadline for filing lawsuits, ensuring fairness and efficiency in the judicial system. These time limits vary depending on the type of claim, such as personal injury, medical malpractice, or wrongful death, and are designed to encourage timely legal action while preserving evidence and witness reliability. In California, most personal injury claims must be filed within two years of the injury, but exceptions like the discovery rule or tolling for minors can extend this timeframe under specific circumstances. This blog explains the importance of statutes of limitations, outlines key deadlines for various claims, and explores special considerations when suing government entities.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day, observed annually on the third Monday of January, is more than a celebration of Dr. King's life and legacy—it is a call to action. Designated as a National Day of Service, it encourages Americans to honor Dr. King’s vision of the Beloved Community by engaging in acts of service that uplift and unite communities. This blog explores Dr. King's profound impact on the civil rights movement, his iconic "I Have a Dream" speech, and the principles of nonviolence that shaped his activism.

The 2021 Dixie Fire, one of California’s most devastating wildfires, was officially determined by CAL FIRE to have been caused by Pacific Gas & Electric Company (PG&E) equipment. Investigators found that the fire started when a tree came into contact with PG&E’s power lines, resulting in widespread destruction across five counties. This blog examines the legal implications of CAL FIRE’s findings, including PG&E’s liability under the doctrine of inverse condemnation

As of January 1, 2022, Singleton Schreiber, LLP, has officially rebranded, marking a new chapter in its mission to deliver exceptional legal services. Previously operating as Singleton Schreiber McKenzie & Scott, the firm has returned to its roots while allowing McKenzie Scott PC to operate independently as a stand-alone criminal defense, civil rights, and trial firm. This blog explores the reasons behind the rebranding and highlights the firm’s unwavering commitment to providing superior legal representation.

Assembly Bill 1054 (AB 1054), signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom in July 2019, established the California Wildfire Fund to address the growing financial liabilities of investor-owned utility companies (PG&E, Southern California Edison, SDG&E) caused by catastrophic wildfires. This $21 billion fund provides insurance protection to utilities, ensuring they can compensate wildfire victims without facing bankruptcy. This blog examines the mechanics of AB 1054, including eligibility criteria for accessing the fund, the role of the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) in determining cost recovery, and the logistics of payments for wildfire claims exceeding $1 billion.