Representing the State of Hawaii and advising Gov. Josh Green and Attorney General Anne Lopez, Hueston Hennigan LLP played a critical role in driving home a historic $4 billion-plus global settlement, which—in less than one year—resolved all claims stemming from the catastrophic Aug. 8, 2023 Maui wildfires.
The state turned to Hueston Hennigan to assist with its enormous responsibilities and litigation defense strategies in the wake of the deadly fires, which destroyed the historic town of Lahaina and killed over 100 people. The team has worked hand-in-glove with Gov. Green and AG Lopez over the past year and worked very closely with the mediators and litigants to drive the four-month mediation process leading up to the settlement filed Aug. 2.
The deal also stands out because it’s one of the unusual occasions in recent history that both sides of the political aisle worked together to quickly assist people in dire need of relief. Hueston Hennigan partner Michael Purpura, who has served as counsel to two Republican presidents, was sought by Gov. Green’s Democratic administration to help ensure the negotiation process flowed seamlessly both legally and politically.
“We are honored to have advised on this historic settlement that will help move the state forward and help compensate survivors and their families following this unprecedented disaster,” Mr. Purpura said. “It is a privilege for us to provide counsel to Gov. Green and execute his vision for Hawaii.”
Under the settlement, the seven defendants—the State of Hawaii, County of Maui, Hawaiian Electric, Kamehameha Schools, West Maui Land Co., Hawaiian Telcom and Spectrum/Charter Communications—will pay $4.037 billion to provide compensation to all those who have brought claims arising from the windstorms and wildfires on Maui, including the approximately 2,200 affected parties who filed lawsuits. The State of Hawaii would contribute to the settlement in addition to its $65 million contribution to the One ʻOhana Fund, which the governor established with the help of Hueston Hennigan to create a unique mechanism to resolve wrongful death and personal injury claims on an expedited basis.
The settlement is subject to final documentation and court approval. The agreement is conditional on the resolution of the insurance companies’ claims that have already been paid for property loss and other damages, with no additional payments from the defendants.
In addition to Mr. Purpura, the Hueston Hennigan team includes Rajan Trehan, Stephanie Xiao, Emerson Bursis and Erik Savitt.
In May 2024, the firm was also selected to serve on Gov. Green’s Climate Advisory Team. The committee was formed to tackle the challenges of climate disasters and provide a comprehensive roadmap for Hawaii’s strategy to mitigate the financial impact of climate change.
The settlement has received media coverage in outlets including the Daily Journal, Law.com and Law360.