California wineries want a Pickett Fire payout. Only one company, co-founded by Gavin Newsom, got a settlement so far
John Cadieux and Paul Starita, Partners at Singleton Schreiber, were featured by SF Chronicle in an article titled “California Wineries Want a Pickett Fire Payout. Only One Company, Co-Founded by Gavin Newsom, Got a Settlement So Far,” published on August 27, 2026.
In the article, Cadieux and Starita discussed Singleton Schreiber's representation of more than 30 wineries and vineyard owners seeking recovery for losses related to the Pickett Fire. They commented on settlement efforts, available sources of recovery, and factors that may affect compensation for businesses impacted by the fire.
The article examines ongoing recovery efforts stemming from the Pickett Fire, including claims involving smoke damage to wine grapes and other agricultural losses. It also addresses settlement negotiations, potential competing claims for available recovery funds, and the financial impact of the fire on Napa Valley wineries and vineyard owners.
“I don’t know what connections or motivations the defendant would have,” said Cadieux, “but certainly I’d imagine (Newsom’s connection) played a part.”
“One of the things that’s completely shocking to me is the governor’s efforts to make recovery for fire victims even more difficult,” said Starita. “If you do not hold people accountable, they will continue to do what they’ve done, resulting in more lives being destroyed.”
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