Stephanie
Xiao

Representing a Western utility against numerous lawsuits in multiple jurisdictions across Oregon and California arising out of the 2020 Labor Day Fires. The fires burned over 500,000 acres across at least five counties in Oregon and California and allegedly destroyed over 2,000 structures. In a recent damages-only trial in which the utility faced a nine-figure damages exposure, persuaded a jury to award just a fraction of what the plaintiffs sought.

Representing the State of Hawaii and advising the Governor and Attorney General, secured a historic global settlement exceeding $4 billion which—in less than one year—resolved all claims stemming from the catastrophic Aug. 8, 2023 Maui wildfires, one of the largest natural disasters in the state’s history. Also serving on Hawaii’s Climate Advisory Team, which is assisting with the state’s strategy to mitigate the financial impact of climate change in the wake of the fires. (See “Hawaii Inks $4B Maui Wildfires Deal Ahead of Anniversary,” Law360; “Battle with insurers follows $4.03B Maui fire settlement,” Daily Journal; “Who Were the Attorneys Behind the $4B Hawaii Wildfire Settlement?” Law.com; “The Case for a Climate Impact Fee,” Time).

Secured a favorable plea agreement, including a sentencing recommendation from the Government of probation, for Marilyn Flynn, the former dean of USC’s School of Social Work, on federal corruption charges in an alleged bribery scheme involving a public official. (See “Marilyn Flynn, ex-USC dean in corruption case with Ridley-Thomas, sentenced to 3 years probation,” Los Angeles Times).

Successfully settled a suit brought by Palantir Technologies against a former early investor alleging breach of contract, misappropriation of trade secrets, and other wrongful conduct after defeating a motion for summary judgment.