"Merry Christmas from the Legal Trenches!"

Ah, Christmas! That magical time of year when the air is filled with the aroma of fresh pine trees, gingerbread cookies, and, if you're in my line of work, the faint whiff of legal filings marked "URGENT." Yes, even during the most wonderful time of the year, the insurance claims, business disputes, and occasional bizarre lawsuits (looking at you, Santa vs. the HOA) don't take a holiday.

But let's not dwell on the legal Grinch stealing our cheer. Instead, let’s embrace the season with all its festive quirks. Here are a few holiday observations from your friendly neighborhood insurance defense attorney:

1. Office Holiday Parties: A Legal Powder Keg

Nothing says "Merry Christmas" quite like the annual office party—a joyous occasion that doubles as a potential liability minefield. Remember, just because someone brought spiked eggnog doesn’t mean your workplace policies take a vacation. And to my clients: if you’re hosting one, maybe don't hang mistletoe in HR’s line of sight?

2. Christmas Tree Fires and Other Seasonal Claims

I can’t tell you how many cases I’ve seen start with, "We didn’t realize the lights had a short circuit." A friendly reminder: if your holiday décor looks like Clark Griswold had a hand in it, you might want to double-check your homeowner’s policy. Safety first, lawsuits last!

3. Santa Claus: The Original Risk Manager

Think about it. Santa navigates icy roofs, wrangles unpredictable reindeer, and enters homes without setting off alarms. The man clearly has liability waivers for days! Also, can we talk about his incredible time management skills? If you’re reading this, Santa, call me. I could use your help with some trial calendars.

4. Family Gatherings: Free Legal Advice (But Not Really)

This time of year, relatives love to corner me with "quick legal questions." Pro tip: If the answer starts with, "It depends," it’s probably not a quick question. Still, I’ll answer—as long as there’s brisket and tamales involved. (Mom, this does not include drafting Aunt Martha’s living will at the dinner table. Again.)

5. Thank You for Another Year

All jokes aside, I’m incredibly grateful for the trust my clients place in me year-round. Whether you’re an insurance adjuster battling a tough claim, a business owner safeguarding your livelihood, or anyone else I’ve had the privilege to help, you’re the reason I love what I do—even when it means working through a bit of holiday chaos.

So, from my family to yours—including my wife, kids, and our loyal office mascots, Thor the Boston terrier and Bruno the pug—Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! May your season be filled with laughter, love, and hopefully no legal disputes (but if there are, you know where to find me).

Cheers to a joyful and lawsuit-free New Year!

-Zeke Moya