A legal battle between a homeowner known for his extravagant Christmas displays and his former homeowners association could potentially reach the U.S. Supreme Court. Jeremy Morris, dubbed the "Christmas Lawyer," is seeking the court's intervention in a dispute stemming from his elaborate holiday light shows that attracted thousands of visitors but clashed with his HOA's regulations.

Morris gained notoriety in 2015 for his five-day Christmas spectacle at his former Idaho residence. The event, featuring a live nativity, a children's choir, and even a camel, became a point of contention with the West Hayden Estates homeowners association, which cited concerns about size, noise, and potential offense to non-Christians. The HOA attempted to prevent the display, citing community rules, which Morris argued constituted religious discrimination. He proceeded with the event, leading to escalating tensions with neighbors and accusations of harassment and threats against his family.

In 2017, Morris filed a lawsuit alleging religious discrimination under the Fair Housing Act. While a jury ruled in his favor, awarding him $75,000, the judge overturned the verdict and ordered Morris to pay the HOA over $111,000 in legal fees. The judge determined that the core issue was not religious discrimination but rather Morris's violation of neighborhood regulations. The case subsequently went to the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals, which issued a complex ruling in 2024, partially affirming the judge's decision while also acknowledging evidence of the HOA's motivation by Morris's religious expression. This paved the way for a new trial, but Morris has chosen to petition the Supreme Court instead.

The HOA's lawyer believes the Supreme Court is unlikely to take up the case, considering it a localized dispute. However, Morris argues that the case has broader implications concerning constitutional rights, including religious freedom and property rights. He emphasizes the importance of protecting unanimous jury verdicts and the right to celebrate religious traditions on private property.

While the HOA maintains its denial of any discriminatory intent and emphasizes its commitment to inclusivity, the case highlights the ongoing tensions between homeowners' rights and HOA regulations. The Supreme Court's decision on whether to hear the case will have significant ramifications for similar disputes nationwide.