The self-proclaimed “Christmas Lawyer” is asking the Supreme Court to weigh in on a neighborhood feud involving a holiday light display in defiance of an HOA. Jeremy Morris organized a light show near Hayden, Idaho in 2015 that gained international attention. The subsequent legal battle with his HOA reached the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals, which ruled partially in his favor. The HOA did not file an opposition to Morris’ latest petition to the Supreme Court, with their attorney stating that the case was unlikely to be taken up by the justices.
The origins of the Christmas light fight began when Morris informed his HOA of plans to hold the holiday display, which the board tried to stop citing multiple violations of community covenants. Morris argued that it was religious discrimination against his event. Despite threats of legal action, Morris proceeded with the event, including a live nativity scene, children’s choir, and a camel. Neighbors allegedly harassed spectators and threatened Morris, leading to increasing tensions surrounding the event in subsequent years. Morris offered to drop the issue if the HOA agreed to leave his family alone but was refused.
Morris filed a discrimination lawsuit against the HOA in 2017, leading to a jury verdict in his favor. However, the judge overturned the ruling and ordered Morris to pay legal fees. The 9th Circuit affirmed this decision but allowed for a new trial. Instead of proceeding with the new trial, Morris has appealed to the Supreme Court. He believes his case encompasses important constitutional rights related to religious expression, property use, and the protection of jury verdicts after lengthy deliberation. The HOA has denied any interference with the Morris family’s rights or discriminatory practices.
In Idaho, approximately 349,000 residents live in neighborhoods governed by HOAs, making up around 20% of the state’s population. This prevalence suggests that issues related to HOA regulations and homeowner rights are common in the state. The Supreme Court receives thousands of cases for review each year but only agrees to hear a small percentage of them. The involvement of Dolly the Camel, children’s choirs, and the REAL SANTA CLAUS in Morris’ holiday display adds a unique and festive twist to the legal dispute.
Overall, the case involving the Christmas Lawyer and his HOA highlights tensions between property rights, religious expression, and community rules in a neighborhood setting. While Morris contends that his right to celebrate Christmas and express his faith is being infringed upon, the HOA maintains that it has acted within its authority to maintain an inclusive and welcoming environment for all residents. The outcome of this case could have broader implications for the rights of homeowners, the authority of HOAs, and the protection of religious expression in community settings. As the Christmas Lawyer seeks relief from the nation’s highest court, the fate of his elaborate holiday display and the legal battle with his HOA remain to be determined.
