Judge Clears Way for Mega Lawsuit Blaming LA and California for Deadly Palisades Fire

Lawsuit alleges state and city failed to properly extinguish Lachman Fire, leading to devastating Palisades blaze.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A judge has ruled that a blockbuster lawsuit alleging California and the City of Los Angeles failed to properly extinguish the Lachman Fire, which led to the deadly Palisades Fire, can move forward. The lawsuit claims the state and city's negligence caused 12 deaths and billions in damages, and the ruling means they could be found liable for tens of billions in damages.

Why it matters

This case has major financial implications for both California and the City of Los Angeles, which are already facing budget deficits. The lawsuit also raises questions about the city's response to the fire and potential cover-up attempts, putting pressure on Mayor Karen Bass ahead of her reelection bid.

The details

The lawsuit alleges the state did not fully extinguish the Lachman Fire, leaving hot spots that led to the Palisades Fire a week later. It also claims the city failed to provide water to fight the fire and did not shut off the power, creating dangerous conditions. The lead attorney says this is the first case holding a city liable for failing to supply water to fight a fire.

  • The Lachman Fire occurred prior to the Palisades Fire.
  • The Palisades Fire occurred one week after the Lachman Fire.
  • The judge's ruling allowing the lawsuit to move forward was on February 10, 2026.

The players

Samantha Jester

A Los Angeles County Superior Court judge who ruled that the lawsuit against California and the City of Los Angeles can move forward.

Alex 'Trey' Robertson

The lead attorney representing thousands of fire victims in the lawsuit.

Karen Bass

The mayor of Los Angeles, who is facing reelection and potential fallout from the lawsuit and allegations of a cover-up of the city's response to the fire.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The city is already financially distressed. Mayor Bass is running for reelection, and this is the last thing she needs. Once further evidence of the cover-up of what actually happened and caused this fire comes to light, it's gonna be a really bad day for Karen Bass.”

— Alex 'Trey' Robertson, Lead attorney (The California Post)

“This is the first case ever that there's no precedent for holding a city liable for a failure to supply water to fight a fire.”

— Alex 'Trey' Robertson, Lead attorney (The California Post)

What’s next

The next court date will be held on March 18, where Robertson and the attorneys for the state and city will present a plan to start the discovery process.

The takeaway

This lawsuit has the potential to financially devastate both California and the City of Los Angeles, raising serious questions about the government's response to the Palisades Fire and the possibility of a cover-up. The outcome could have major political implications for Mayor Karen Bass as she seeks reelection.