A trial in Oakland Federal Court kicks off today to determine whether Maxxam, Inc. and its CEO, Charles Hurwitz, defrauded the federal government during the historic 1999 Headwaters Deal.

The case was brought by former Calif. Dept. of Forestry chief Richard Wilson and current state forester Chris Maranto.

The trial will pit two of California’s most formidable trial attorneys against each other before a jury of Hurwitz’ peers.  Joseph Cotchett will present the case on behalf of Wilson and Maranto, and James Brosnahan will do the dirty work of defending Hurwitz and Maxxam.

Both Cotchett and Brosnahan have been named “Super Lawyers” for their achievements in the lawyering biz.  Google is full of accolades for both men.  The jury is in for a lively show.