Kabateck LLP’s strategic expansion of its wildfire litigation practice was featured in the Daily Journal this week, highlighting the firm’s addition of two experienced attorneys as it manages substantial caseloads from the devastating Eaton Fire that struck Altadena and Pacific Palisades on January 7.
The firm has hired Jesse A. Schram as Of Counsel and Matthew P. French as Associate, both bringing specialized expertise in mass tort and disaster litigation at a time when competition among plaintiffs’ firms for wildfire cases has intensified.
Speaking about the strategic expansion, founder Brian S. Kabateck emphasized the competitive landscape and importance of experience: “A lot of lawyers are competing for the same cases. Having people that are knowledgeable about the handling of mass actions and know how to deal with clients is our calling card. We’re making sure we have enough people in the office.”
The January fires have prompted numerous lawsuits against Southern California Edison, with plaintiffs’ attorneys claiming the utility is responsible for the Eaton Fire. Kabateck noted the significant challenges facing inexperienced attorneys entering wildfire litigation and the substantial costs required for proper case preparation, which can range from $25,000 to $50,000 per case.
Drawing on his experience with previous Edison cases including the 2017 Thomas Fire and 2018 Woolsey Fire, Kabateck described the utility’s aggressive defense strategy: “Edison doesn’t roll over. I’ve had other cases negotiated with Edison. They think I’ve taken extreme positions. I think they’ve taken extreme positions.” He stressed the importance of thorough preparation: “You have to have the work-up done because that’s what’s going to get Edison to pay you.”
Schram brings extensive experience in wildfire and disaster litigation, having served as lead attorney for major recovery cases including the Maui (Lahaina), Texas (Panhandle), and Orange and Riverside County (Airport Fire) wildfire litigation. His deep understanding of mass tort procedures and victim advocacy makes him a key addition to the team.
French brings experience representing wildfire victims, having successfully advocated for hundreds of clients with multi-million-dollar recoveries. Previously serving as an associate at a prominent Los Angeles area law firm, French built a substantial practice in wildfire litigation while also handling complex trucking accident and civil rights cases.
The firm’s expansion reflects the growing demand for experienced wildfire litigation attorneys as climate change continues to increase the frequency and severity of catastrophic fires across California.
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