When Public Agencies Fail, We Hold Them Accountable
Government Entity Claims Attorney
We hold public agencies accountable when their negligence leads to fire-related damage.
Legal Help for Government Entity Claims
When Government Negligence Causes Wildfire Damage
Not all wildfires are caused by private utility companies—some are the result of public agencies failing to do their job. Whether it’s a county’s failure to maintain brush clearance, a city’s neglected electrical equipment, or delayed emergency response by a state agency, these oversights can lead to catastrophic consequences. In such cases, victims have the right to file government entity claims and demand justice.
Wildfires caused by public negligence often affect entire communities, leaving behind physical destruction, emotional trauma, and financial ruin. These incidents are preventable, and yet year after year, fires linked to state and local inaction continue to threaten lives and property across California and Hawai‘i. Victims should not bear the burden alone—especially when the damage could have been avoided.
Our firm has experience pursuing compensation from cities, counties, and state agencies across California. We know how to investigate these claims, uncover patterns of negligence, and build strong cases that hold public entities accountable. These aren’t easy lawsuits, but they’re necessary when public safety is ignored and communities suffer the consequences.
Legal Challenges in Public Entity Liability Cases
Filing a claim against a government agency comes with its own set of legal challenges. In California, you must follow strict procedures under the California Tort Claims Act (CTCA), which includes tight deadlines—often as short as six months—to file a notice of claim. Missing those deadlines or filing the wrong documents could mean losing your right to compensation altogether.
Unlike private lawsuits, these claims require navigating layers of bureaucratic resistance and legal protections that shield public agencies. Government entities often attempt to deflect liability or minimize the impact of their actions, which makes it even more important to build a strong, well-documented case from the start. You need an attorney who knows how to move quickly and strategically.
That’s why it’s crucial to work with a fire loss attorney who understands the unique complexities of suing public entities. At West Law Firm of California, we manage the entire process—from gathering evidence and identifying responsible agencies to negotiating a settlement or going to trial if necessary. We fight to ensure you aren’t pushed aside by a system that too often fails those it was meant to protect.
Get the Legal Help You Deserve
How We
Can Help
Government agencies have a responsibility to protect the public—but when they fail to maintain power lines, clear brush, or properly respond to wildfire risks, the results can be devastating. Fires caused or worsened by public negligence have destroyed homes, livelihoods, and lives throughout California and Hawai‘i. If you’ve been impacted by one of these preventable disasters, you may have the right to file a government entity claim.
Filing a claim against a public entity is not like a typical insurance claim. These cases involve strict deadlines, complex rules, and powerful legal teams protecting government interests. That’s why it’s essential to work with experienced wildfire attorneys who understand how to navigate these unique legal challenges—and win.
At West Law Firm of California, we represent individuals and families who have suffered losses due to government negligence. Whether the fire was caused by city infrastructure, county equipment, or a state agency’s failure to act, we’ll fight for accountability and full compensation on your behalf.
Submit Your Case Today!
what you need to know
know your rights
When a government agency contributes to wildfire destruction through poor planning, failed maintenance, or lack of response, you have the legal right to seek compensation. Public entities—whether city, county, or state—have a duty to protect communities. When they fail, they can be held accountable under California or Hawai‘i law.
What many people don’t realize is that claims against government agencies follow very different rules. Under the California Tort Claims Act, you must submit a formal notice of claim within a very short window—usually six months from the date of the loss. If you miss that deadline, your case may never be heard.
At West Law Firm of California, we make sure you understand your rights from day one. We guide you through the government claims process, ensure every deadline is met, and fight to hold public agencies responsible for the devastation their inaction or negligence has caused. You don’t have to take on the system alone—and you shouldn’t have to.
01
Free Consultation
Tell us what happened. We’ll review your situation and determine if a government agency may be legally responsible for your losses.
02
File Your Claim
We handle the paperwork, meet strict deadlines, and build your case according to California’s government claim requirements.
03
Get Your Compensation
We pursue every avenue—through negotiation or litigation—to recover the damages you’re entitled to under state law.
Was the Government Responsible for Your Loss?
If you suspect a public agency played a role in your fire-related damages, don’t wait. West Law Firm of California can help you file a government entity claim, meet critical deadlines, and fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. Your time to act may be limited—reach out today.
you are not alone
our professional services Include:
Bringing a claim against a government agency requires precision, speed, and legal experience. At West Law Firm of California, our team of public entity claims attorneys understands the rules, deadlines, and challenges involved in these complex cases. We fight for wildfire victims across Southern California and Hawai‘i whose losses were caused or worsened by government negligence.
What We Do in Government Liability Cases
- Claim Review and Legal Strategy
- Timely Filing and Documentation
- Investigation and Liability Analysis
- Negotiation and Litigation Support
Understand what’s covered and the steps to take after fire-related losses caused by public agencies.
What to Know About Government Entity Claims
What Can You Claim Against a Government Entity?
If a government agency contributed to your losses through negligence or failure to act, California law allows you to seek compensation. Under the California Tort Claims Act (CTCA), you may be able to file for:
Property Damage: Structural destruction, smoke damage, and debris cleanup costs.
Evacuation and Temporary Housing: Expenses for relocation, meals, and shelter due to mandatory evacuations.
Emotional Distress: Pain and suffering caused by the loss of your home or sense of safety.
Loss of Business Income: Interruption or shutdown of your business caused by fire or utility shutdowns.
Wrongful Death or Injury: If a loved one was injured or killed, you may be entitled to additional damages.
Our firm helps ensure every possible loss is documented and included in your claim.
Why Government Claims Get Denied
Claims against public agencies are governed by strict procedures—and missing even one step can cost you the right to recover. The most common reasons for denial include:
Missed Deadlines: The CTCA requires notice within just six months of the incident.
Incomplete or Incorrect Filings: Failure to follow the proper format or include key evidence.
Government Immunity Protections: Agencies may argue they are shielded from liability under specific legal exemptions.
Disputed Responsibility: The agency may claim the fire was out of their control or caused by another party.
Having an experienced attorney ensures every step is done correctly and that your case is positioned for success.
What to Do After a Fire Caused by Government Negligence
If you suspect a public entity may be responsible for your fire-related losses, take these immediate steps:
Document the Damage: Take photos, videos, and written notes as soon as it is safe.
Request the Fire Report: This official report can help identify the origin and possible agency involvement.
Keep All Receipts: Store documentation for lodging, food, fuel, and any emergency purchases.
Avoid Delays: Contact a lawyer quickly to begin the CTCA process and preserve your right to sue.
Don’t Go It Alone: These claims are complex—working with a government entity claims attorney gives you the best chance at success.
important things you should know
Questions And Answers
Yes. If a city, county, or state agency contributed to the fire through negligence, you may file a government entity claim under the California Tort Claims Act (CTCA).
Most claims must be filed within six months of the incident. Missing this window can permanently bar your right to sue.
Our legal team will investigate fire reports, infrastructure records, and agency responsibilities to identify the liable government entity.
Yes. A government entity claim can help recover damages not fully covered by your insurance, such as emotional distress or lost income.
That’s common. We’re prepared to challenge denials, provide expert evidence, and take your case to court if necessary.
Government claims involve unique legal procedures, short deadlines, and special protections for agencies. You need an attorney who knows the system inside and out.
