An attorney known as the “Christmas Lawyer” is facing potential disbarment after criticizing a judge who banned his elaborate holiday display. Jeremy Morris, who gained international attention for his extravagant Christmas decorations, is now facing formal charges from the Idaho State Bar for accusing federal Judge B. Lynn Winmill of corruption. The legal battle began when Morris moved into the West Hayden Estates community in 2015 and designed a massive Christmas display featuring 700,000 lightbulbs, a live nativity scene with a camel, and over 80 actors. However, the homeowners association (HOA) sent Morris a letter threatening legal action if he did not remove the lights within 10 days, citing concerns about offensiveness to non-Christians and attracting undesirables. Morris refused to take down the display, leading to a lengthy legal battle with the HOA.

In 2017, Morris sued the HOA for religious discrimination and won a unanimous jury verdict in his favor, with the HOA ordered to pay $75,000. However, Judge Winmill reversed the verdict, ruling that the lawsuit was not about religious discrimination but rather the violation of neighborhood rules. Winmill also ordered Morris to pay the HOA's legal fees, totaling $111,000, and issued a permanent ban on Morris from holding another Christmas display that violated the HOA rules. Morris appealed the ruling in 2020, and the case is currently awaiting a decision from the 9th Circuit.

Morris's outspoken criticism of Judge Winmill has now led to potential disbarment. In January, the Idaho State Bar informed Morris that they had found "probable cause to proceed with formal charges" under the state's professional conduct rule, which prohibits lawyers from making statements with reckless disregard for the truth or falsity concerning the qualifications or integrity of a judge. The bar offered to dismiss the case if Morris would give up his Idaho legal license, but Morris called the offer a "shakedown."

Despite the ongoing legal battle and potential consequences, Morris remains steadfast in his belief that he did the right thing. He announced on Facebook in February 2022 that he was moving out of Idaho and thanked those who supported him. Morris stated that he doesn't regret his actions and is proud of the stand he took in defense of Christmas. His clash with the HOA even inspired an Apple TV film called "'Twas The Fight Before Christmas."

The story of the “Christmas Lawyer” and his battle with the HOA over holiday decorations has captivated both local and international audiences. Morris's dedication to celebrating Christmas and his refusal to back down in the face of opposition has made him a polarizing figure. As his case awaits a decision from the 9th Circuit, the outcome could have significant implications for the future of holiday displays and homeowners' association regulations.