Palisades Fire Trial Update: What Victims Need to Know This April

The criminal trial of the man accused of starting the Lachman Fire — the blaze that later became the Palisades Fire — is scheduled to begin April 21, 2026. As this trial approaches, it carries significant implications for the thousands of civil plaintiffs pursuing claims against the City of Los Angeles, LADWP, and other defendants.

Why the criminal trial matters to civil claimants

The defendant’s legal team has argued that governmental negligence — not their client — bears primary responsibility for the fire’s spread. Specifically, they allege that firefighters were ordered to leave the area while the ground was still smoldering, and that state parks officials restricted use of bulldozers near the initial burn site. Testimony and evidence surfaced from firefighter depositions in the civil cases is now being cited in the criminal proceeding.

Where the civil litigation stands

The consolidated mass tort cases remain active before Judge Samantha Jessner in Los Angeles Superior Court. In February, the court rejected government attempts to dismiss claims — a significant win for plaintiffs. Attorneys for Daniels Law, including Bill Daniels and Will Daniels who serve on the Palisades Fire Plaintiff Steering Committee, continue to monitor these developments closely on behalf of clients.

What this means if you haven’t filed yet

California’s statute of limitations for personal injury is generally two years, and three years for property damage. If you suffered losses in the Palisades or Eaton fires and have not yet spoken with an attorney, time is a factor. Contact Daniels Law for a free consultation.