April 13, 2026|Litigation
Buchalter achieved a landmark victory on behalf of Placer County Water Agency (PCWA) and the Middle Fork Project Finance Authority (MFPFA) in the Mosquito Fire litigation against Pacific Gas and Electric Company, concluding nearly four years of hard fought litigation. The settlement represents the largest recovery in Placer County history and stands among the most significant outcomes in California wildfire litigation.
The agreement delivers $80 million to PCWA, which PCWA will then transfer to the MFPFA. The MFPFA is a joint powers authority responsible for budgeting and administering funds for the maintenance and operation of the Project. The settlement agreement also requires PG&E to fund wildfire protection and safety infrastructure for the Middle Fork Project, and provides full defense and indemnity for PCWA against all third party claims, including governmental fines and penalties—ensuring PCWA pays nothing. PG&E will also dismiss its cross-complaint against PCWA, which alleged PCWA was responsible for the Mosquito Fire.
The result reflects a dominant performance by a Buchalter litigation team led by Kevin Collins and Brandon Carr. The team also had critical energy leadership from Gwenn O’Hara and support from attorneys Lisa Pleau Fuller and Adam Smith. The outcome was driven by a deep, coordinated effort across the firm, supported by an exceptional broader team whose work secured the result for the client.
This historic settlement underscores the strength of Buchalter’s Wildfire Task Force, a specialized team with extensive experience representing public entities and businesses in complex wildfire litigation against major California utilities. Drawing on deep knowledge of utility operations, regulatory frameworks, and technical fire cause issues, the team works to maximize recovery while allowing clients to focus on rebuilding and moving forward
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