Last month’s $178 million settlement with Pacific Power has sparked accusations of “collusion” and “mudslinging” among plaintiffs lawyers who represent thousands of victims of Oregon’s 2020 wildfires.

Chicago’s Edelson, which is co-lead counsel in the litigation, obtained about $200 million in verdicts against Pacific Power and its parent company, PacifiCorp, the utility accused of starting the wildfires. However, a group of firms that announced last month’s settlement say they have a right to represent class members who still have not received compensation for wildfire damages.