Suit Against HGTV Stars Faces Potential Delay After Devastating Tornadoes
In Benton County, Arkansas, a legal battle involving HGTV personalities Dave and Jenny Marrs may experience a setback due to the destruction caused by recent tornadoes.
The lawsuit, initiated by Matthew and Sarah McGrath in February 2023, accuses Marrs-affiliated companies of undertaking subpar renovations. Specifically, the McGraths discovered numerous issues, including a significant deck safety concern, which the Marrs’ companies believed were fixable. Despite several attempts at court-ordered mediation, no settlement was reached.
The recent tornadoes that ripped through Benton County on Memorial Day weekend have added an unexpected layer of complexity to the case. The tornadoes left a large number of homes and businesses in ruins, putting an unprecedented burden on local contractors. Due to this increased workload, contractors are now exceptionally occupied for the coming weeks.
The McGraths are seeking a court-approved postponement of the discovery phase deadline, currently set for June 24, until July 15. This delay stems from the immense workload local contractors are facing, which the McGraths believe will substantially hamper their ability to proceed with the lawsuit within the current timeframe.
The defendants, Marrs Construction and Jupiter Rentals, have not agreed to this extension and the McGraths have shown a willingness to adjust other deadlines if the extension is granted. The case remains scheduled for a pre-trial hearing on September 5, followed by a five-day jury trial on September 23 at the Benton County Courthouse.
- Pre-trial Hearing: September 5
- Jury Trial: September 23 (5-day)
The lawsuit is another chapter in the ongoing and heavily covered legal battle surrounding HGTV personalities Dave and Jenny Marrs and their construction companies.
This suit highlights the unpredictable nature of legal proceedings and how external events can impact the pace of a case.
