The Complete Guide to Hazing Lawsuits & Campus Accountability: What Randolph County, Alabama Families Must Know

If Your Child Was Hazed at an Alabama University, You’re Not Alone

For parents in Randolph County—in communities like Wedowee, Roanoke, and Woodland—sending your child to college is filled with pride and hope. You imagine them studying at Auburn, joining clubs at the University of Alabama, or pursuing opportunities at Troy or Jacksonville State. What you don’t imagine is getting that phone call: your child is in the hospital because of something that happened at a fraternity, sorority, or campus organization. The confusion turns to anger when you realize this wasn’t an accident—it was a calculated, traditionalized abuse called hazing.

Right now, in Texas, our firm is fighting one of the most serious hazing cases in the country. We represent Leonel Bermudez in his $10 million lawsuit against the University of Houston and the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity’s Beta Nu chapter. The details are horrifying: forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting, extreme workouts causing rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure, humiliation through mandatory “pledge fanny packs,” and hose spraying “similar to waterboarding.” This case isn’t ancient history—it’s active litigation we’re handling right now in 2025. The fraternity chapter has been shut down, but the physical and psychological damage to Leonel is permanent.

Why are we telling Randolph County families about a Texas case? Because the same national fraternities and sororities that operate at Texas universities also have chapters at Alabama schools. The same dangerous behaviors, the same institutional cover-ups, and the same legal battles play out everywhere. If your child attends the University of Alabama, Auburn University, Troy University, Jacksonville State University, or any other Alabama campus with Greek life or athletic programs, they’re potentially exposed to the same risks that nearly killed Leonel Bermudez in Houston.

This comprehensive guide is written specifically for Randolph County parents and students. We’ll explain what hazing really looks like in 2025, how Alabama law treats these cases, what national patterns tell us about fraternity and sorority risks, and—most importantly—what legal options your family may have if the unthinkable happens.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES:

If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

Call 911 for medical emergencies
Then call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
We provide immediate help—that’s why we’re the Legal Emergency Lawyers™

In the first 48 hours:

Get medical attention immediately, even if the student insists they are “fine”
Preserve evidence BEFORE it’s deleted:
- Screenshot group chats, texts, DMs immediately
- Photograph injuries from multiple angles
- Save physical items (clothing, receipts, objects)
Write down everything while memory is fresh (who, what, when, where)
Do NOT:
- Confront the fraternity/sorority
- Sign anything from the university or insurance company
- Post details on public social media
- Let your child delete messages or “clean up” evidence

Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours:

Evidence disappears fast (deleted group chats, destroyed paddles, coached witnesses)
Universities move quickly to control the narrative
We can help preserve evidence and protect your child’s rights
Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate consultation

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like on Alabama Campuses

Many Randolph County parents remember hazing as “pranks” or “initiation rites” from decades past. What’s happening today is different—more dangerous, more psychologically damaging, and better hidden through digital communication. At Alabama universities, hazing manifests in several distinct patterns that every family should recognize.

The Alcohol Poisoning Pattern (Most Common and Deadliest)

This is what killed Stone Foltz at Bowling Green State University (Pi Kappa Alpha), Max Gruver at LSU (Phi Delta Theta), and nearly killed Leonel Bermudez at University of Houston (Pi Kappa Phi). The script is tragically predictable: new members are forced to consume dangerous amounts of alcohol during “Big/Little” nights, bid acceptance parties, or drinking games. In our UH case, Leonel was forced through extreme workouts, then made to consume milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting, followed immediately by sprints. The result was rhabdomyolysis—severe muscle breakdown—and acute kidney failure that put him in the hospital for four days.

At Alabama schools, these same national fraternities operate with the same traditions. The difference isn’t the behavior—it’s whether someone intervenes before it’s too late.

Physical and “Tradition” Hazing

Beyond alcohol, physical abuse remains widespread:

Paddling and beatings: Still occurs despite national prohibitions
Extreme calisthenics: “Smokings” or workouts designed to exhaust, not condition
Sleep deprivation: Late-night meetings, early-morning “accountability” checks
Environmental exposure: Left outside in cold weather, locked in uncomfortable spaces

The Pi Kappa Phi case in Houston included another pledge being hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour. These aren’t “traditions”—they’re assaults.

Digital Hazing and Psychological Control

Modern hazing uses technology to maintain 24/7 control:

Group chat monitoring: Pledges required to respond instantly to messages at all hours
Social media humiliation: Forced to post embarrassing content or participate in “challenges”
Location tracking: Required to share live location via apps
Digital degradation: Humiliating photos/videos shared in private groups

Who’s at Risk at Alabama Universities?

While fraternities and sororities dominate hazing headlines, other groups pose equal danger:

Athletic teams: Football, basketball, baseball, and other sports programs
Marching bands and spirit groups
Corps of Cadets and ROTC programs
Academic and honor societies
Cultural and service organizations

The common thread is power imbalance: older members controlling new members through rituals disguised as “bonding” or “tradition.”

Alabama Hazing Law and Legal Framework: What Randolph County Families Need to Know

Alabama has its own hazing statutes that differ from Texas law. Understanding these laws is crucial for Randolph County families navigating a hazing incident.

Alabama’s Hazing Statute (Code of Alabama § 16-1-23)

Alabama defines hazing broadly as “any willful action taken or situation created, whether on or off any school, college, university, or other educational institution’s property, that recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health of any student for the purpose of initiation or admission into any organization operating under the sanction of any school, college, university, or other educational institution.”

Key provisions Randolph County parents should know:

Criminal Penalties: Hazing is a Class C misdemeanor for the first offense, punishable by up to 3 months in jail and a $500 fine. Subsequent offenses become Class A misdemeanors with stiffer penalties.
Organizational Liability: Any organization that knowingly permits hazing can face fines up to $5,000 and loss of official recognition or permission to operate on campus.
Reporting Immunity: Alabama law provides immunity from civil or criminal liability for any person who reports hazing in good faith to appropriate authorities.
Consent Not a Defense: Like Texas, Alabama law states that consent of the hazing victim is not a valid defense.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Two Paths to Accountability

Criminal Prosecution:

Brought by the state (district attorney)
Focuses on punishment: jail time, fines, probation
Common charges: hazing, assault, providing alcohol to minors, reckless endangerment
Burden of proof: “beyond a reasonable doubt”

Civil Lawsuits:

Brought by victims and their families
Focuses on compensation and accountability
Can proceed even if no criminal charges are filed
Burden of proof: “preponderance of the evidence” (more likely than not)
Can recover: medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress

Many hazing cases involve both criminal and civil proceedings running simultaneously.

Federal Laws That Apply in Alabama

Title IX: When hazing involves sexual harassment, assault, or gender-based discrimination, federal Title IX regulations require universities to investigate and respond. This applies to all schools receiving federal funding—which includes every public university in Alabama.

The Clery Act: Requires colleges to report campus crime statistics, including certain hazing incidents that involve assault, alcohol offenses, or other reportable crimes.

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This new federal law requires colleges to report hazing incidents more transparently and implement stronger prevention programs. While phased implementation continues through 2026, it represents growing federal attention to hazing.

Who Can Be Held Liable in an Alabama Hazing Case?

Individual Students: Those who planned, participated in, or covered up the hazing.
Local Chapter/Organization: The fraternity, sorority, or club itself if it’s a legal entity.
National Organizations: Headquarters that set policies, collect dues, and supervise chapters. Their liability often depends on what they knew about prior incidents.
Universities and Their Employees: Schools may be liable for negligent supervision, particularly if they had prior knowledge of hazing patterns.
Property Owners and Third Parties: Landlords of off-campus houses, bars that served alcohol to minors, event venues.

For Randolph County families, understanding this multi-layered liability is crucial. Universities and national fraternities have deep pockets and experienced defense teams. They’ll try to point fingers at each other—and at your child. Having legal representation that understands these complex dynamics is essential.

National Hazing Case Patterns: Lessons for Alabama Families

The tragedies that have unfolded at campuses nationwide follow predictable patterns. Understanding these patterns helps Randolph County families recognize warning signs and understand what’s at stake.

The Alcohol Poisoning Death Pattern

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University (Pi Kappa Alpha, 2021):

Forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol during “Big/Little” night
Died from alcohol poisoning
$10 million settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, $3M from BGSU)
Chapter president ordered to pay $6.5 million personally

Max Gruver – Louisiana State University (Phi Delta Theta, 2017):

“Bible study” drinking game – wrong answers meant forced drinking
Died with BAC of 0.495%
Led to Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act (felony hazing statute)
$6.1 million verdict against fraternity

Andrew Coffey – Florida State University (Pi Kappa Phi, 2017):

“Big Brother Night” with handles of hard liquor
Died from acute alcohol poisoning
FSU suspended all Greek life temporarily
Civil settlement terms confidential

These cases show the lethal consistency of alcohol hazing traditions. The same national organizations involved in these deaths—Pi Kappa Alpha, Phi Delta Theta, Pi Kappa Phi—have chapters at Alabama universities.

Physical and Ritualized Violence

Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College (Pi Delta Psi, 2013):

Blindfolded, weighted with backpack, repeatedly tackled in “glass ceiling” ritual
Died from traumatic brain injury; help delayed
National fraternity criminally convicted
Banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years

Danny Santulli – University of Missouri (Phi Gamma Delta, 2021):

Forced to drink excessive alcohol during “pledge dad reveal”
Suffered permanent, severe brain damage
Cannot walk, talk, or see; requires 24/7 care
Settlements with 22 defendants, reportedly multi-million dollar total

Athletic Program Hazing

Northwestern University Football (2023-2025):

Allegations of sexualized, racist hazing within football program
Multiple lawsuits against university and staff
Head coach Pat Fitzgerald fired, then settled wrongful-termination suit
Demonstrates hazing extends far beyond Greek life

What These National Cases Mean for Randolph County Families

Patterns Repeat: The same behaviors recur across chapters of the same national organizations.
Cover-Ups Are Standard: Delayed medical care and destroyed evidence are common.
Settlements Are Significant: Multi-million dollar recoveries are possible in serious cases.
Legislative Change Follows Tragedy: States often strengthen laws only after high-profile deaths.
Individual Accountability Is Increasing: Chapter officers now face personal financial ruin, not just organizational consequences.

For families in Randolph County, these national precedents matter because Alabama courts can consider whether national fraternities had “prior notice” of dangerous traditions based on incidents at other campuses.

Alabama Universities: Greek Life Realities and Risks

Randolph County students attend universities across Alabama, each with its own Greek life culture and hazing history. Understanding these campus-specific contexts helps families make informed decisions and recognize warning signs.

University of Alabama (Tuscaloosa)

Greek Life Profile: UA has one of the largest and most traditional Greek systems in the South, with approximately 11,000 students (34% of undergraduate population) participating in Greek organizations. The university has 34 Interfraternity Council fraternities and 23 Panhellenic sororities.

Documented Hazing Incidents:

Multiple fraternities have faced suspensions for hazing violations in recent years
Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE): This national fraternity, which has faced hazing deaths at other campuses, maintains an active chapter at UA
Kappa Alpha Order: Suspended in 2018 for hazing violations
Phi Gamma Delta (FIJI): Faced disciplinary action for risk management violations

University Response: UA has implemented mandatory hazing prevention training and maintains a hazing reporting hotline. The university’s Greek life office investigates allegations, but critics argue the system prioritizes Greek life preservation over student safety.

What Tuscaloosa Families Should Know: The scale of UA’s Greek system means hazing risks are widespread. The university’s economic reliance on Greek life donations and housing can create conflicts of interest when investigating powerful fraternities.

Auburn University

Greek Life Profile: Approximately 25% of undergraduates participate in Greek life at Auburn, with 31 IFC fraternities and 18 Panhellenic sororities. Auburn’s Greek system is known for its traditional Southern fraternity culture.

Documented Issues:

Sigma Chi: Suspended in 2021 for hazing and alcohol violations
Theta Chi: Faced disciplinary action for hazing allegations
Multiple anonymous reports of physical hazing and forced drinking in recent years

University Policies: Auburn requires all Greek organizations to complete anti-hazing education and maintains a zero-tolerance policy. However, like many schools, enforcement can be inconsistent.

Special Considerations: Auburn’s close-knit campus community can make reporting hazing socially difficult for students who fear alienation from their peer group.

Troy University

Greek Life Profile: Smaller Greek community with 12 fraternities and 9 sororities. Troy’s Greek life plays a significant role in campus social activities despite smaller numbers.

History and Context: As a regional university drawing many students from rural Alabama communities like Randolph County, Troy’s Greek organizations may appeal to students seeking social connections away from home.

Safety Considerations: Smaller Greek systems can sometimes have less institutional oversight but also less ingrained “tradition” of extreme hazing seen at larger schools.

Jacksonville State University

Greek Life Profile: JSU has 11 fraternities and 9 sororities, with Greek participation around 10% of undergraduate population.

Location Context: For many Randolph County families, JSU represents a convenient option with in-state tuition and proximity to home. This proximity can be both comforting and concerning—students may hesitate to tell parents about hazing if they’re expected home frequently.

University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB)

Greek Life Profile: Urban campus with smaller Greek presence focused more on professional and service organizations alongside traditional social Greek groups.

Different Dynamics: UAB’s commuter-heavy campus and focus on health professions create different Greek dynamics than traditional residential campuses.

National Fraternities and Sororities Operating in Alabama: Pattern Evidence Matters

When evaluating a hazing incident at an Alabama university, the national organization’s history is critically important. Courts can consider whether the national headquarters knew or should have known about dangerous traditions based on incidents at other campuses.

High-Risk National Organizations with Alabama Chapters

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE):

National History: Multiple hazing deaths nationwide; temporarily eliminated pledge program in 2014 due to pattern of fatalities
Alabama Chapters: Active at UA, Auburn, Troy, others
Pattern Evidence: Known for alcohol hazing traditions; faced traumatic brain injury lawsuit at University of Alabama in 2023

Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike):

National History: Stone Foltz death (BGSU, $10M settlement); David Bogenberger death (NIU, $14M settlement)
Alabama Chapters: Multiple campuses including UA and Auburn
Pattern Evidence: “Big/Little” drinking nights consistently linked to fatalities

Phi Delta Theta:

National History: Max Gruver death (LSU) leading to felony hazing law
Alabama Chapters: Present at UA, Auburn, others
Pattern Evidence: “Bible study” and other drinking game traditions

Pi Kappa Phi:

National History: Andrew Coffey death (FSU); currently representing Leonel Bermudez in $10M UH lawsuit
Alabama Chapters: Multiple Alabama campuses
Our Active Case Connection: We’re currently litigating against Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters in the Bermudez case—we know their defenses and strategies firsthand

Kappa Sigma:

National History: Chad Meredith death (University of Miami, $12.6M verdict)
Alabama Chapters: Widespread presence
Pattern Evidence: Swimming/drowning hazing risks

Sorority Hazing Risks

While less publicized, sorority hazing occurs in Alabama too:

Psychological hazing: Sleep deprivation, public humiliation, social isolation
Alcohol coercion: Though often less extreme than fraternities
Digital hazing: Forced social media participation, group chat harassment

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Strategy, and Realistic Expectations

For Randolph County families facing a hazing incident, understanding what makes a strong legal case is crucial. Here’s what experienced hazing attorneys look for and how we build cases that force accountability.

Critical Evidence That Wins Cases

Digital Communications (The Most Important Evidence in 2025):

GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage threads: Show planning, participation, and cover-up attempts
Social media posts and DMs: Demonstrate public knowledge and celebratory attitudes toward hazing
Deleted message recovery: Digital forensics can often recover “disappearing” messages
Location data and timestamps: Prove who was where and when

Photographic and Video Evidence:

Injuries documented immediately (with date/time stamps)
Event photos/videos shared in group chats
Security camera footage from houses or venues

Medical Documentation:

Emergency room records with accurate descriptions of cause (“forced to drink,” “hazing injury”)
Toxicology reports showing alcohol/drug levels
Psychological evaluations documenting trauma, PTSD, anxiety
Rhabdomyolysis lab results: Like in our UH case, these prove extreme physical abuse

Organizational Records:

Pledge manuals, “tradition” documents, meeting minutes
National fraternity policies and training materials
Prior incident reports from same chapter or national organization

Witness Testimony:

Other pledges who witnessed or experienced same treatment
Former members willing to speak about traditions
Roommates, friends, RAs who observed changes or injuries

The Damages Hazing Victims Can Recover

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Losses):

Medical expenses: Past and future care, including lifelong treatment for permanent injuries
Lost educational opportunity: Tuition for semesters missed, lost scholarships
Diminished earning capacity: If injuries affect career prospects
Therapy and counseling: Often needed for years after hazing trauma

Non-Economic Damages (Subjective but Real Harm):

Pain and suffering: Physical pain from injuries
Emotional distress: PTSD, depression, anxiety, humiliation
Loss of enjoyment of life: Can’t participate in college experiences they dreamed of
Reputational harm: Social stigma and digital footprint

Wrongful Death Damages (For Families):

Funeral and burial costs
Loss of financial support and inheritance
Loss of companionship, guidance, and love
Parents’ and siblings’ emotional trauma

Punitive Damages (When Appropriate):

Designed to punish especially reckless or malicious conduct
Available when defendants show “conscious indifference” to known risks
Often what forces real institutional change

Realistic Timelines and Expectations

Immediate (First 48 Hours):

Medical care and evidence preservation
Initial legal consultation
Strategic decisions about reporting

First 30-90 Days:

Comprehensive evidence collection
Preservation letters to prevent destruction of evidence
Initial negotiations with university and organizations

3-12 Months:

Formal demand packages
Settlement negotiations
Possible mediation

1-3 Years:

Litigation if settlement fails
Discovery process (document requests, depositions)
Trial preparation

Key Reality: Most cases settle before trial, but settlement value depends on trial readiness. Universities and fraternities pay more when they know you’re prepared to go to court.

Practical Guide for Randolph County Families: What to Do Right Now

For Parents: Recognizing Warning Signs

Physical Red Flags:

Unexplained bruises, burns, or injuries
Extreme fatigue despite normal schedule
Weight changes from food/water restriction
Signs of alcohol poisoning or substance abuse

Behavioral Changes:

Sudden secrecy about organization activities
Withdrawal from family and old friends
Personality shifts: anxiety, depression, irritability
Constant phone use for group chat monitoring
Fear of “letting the chapter down” or “getting in trouble”

Academic Warning Signs:

Grades dropping suddenly
Missing classes or assignments
Losing scholarships or academic standing

Financial Red Flags:

Unexpected large expenses (forced purchases, “fines”)
Requests for money without clear explanation

How to Talk to Your Child About Hazing

Do:

Ask open-ended questions: “How are things going with your fraternity/sorority?”
Express concern without judgment: “I’m worried about how tired you’ve been.”
Emphasize safety over loyalty: “No organization is worth your health.”
Listen more than you talk

Don’t:

Accuse or confront aggressively
Dismiss their feelings or loyalty to the group
Give ultimatums that might make them hide things
Share details publicly before consulting a lawyer

If You Suspect Hazing Is Happening

Immediate Steps:

Document everything your child tells you (dates, times, details)
Encourage medical care if there are any injuries or health concerns
Preserve digital evidence (screenshots before messages disappear)
Contact an experienced hazing attorney before confronting anyone

Strategic Reporting Decisions:

Campus authorities: Dean of Students, Office of Student Conduct
Local police: If crimes occurred (assault, providing alcohol to minors)
National organization headquarters: Often have compliance hotlines
Timing matters: Consult with an attorney about when and how to report

For Students: Protecting Yourself and Your Future

If You’re Being Hazed Right Now:

Your safety comes first—call 911 if you’re in danger
Alabama law protects those who report in good faith
Medical amnesty policies often protect those seeking help
Document everything (photos, screenshots, notes)

If You Want to Leave the Organization:

You have the legal right to quit at any time
Send written notice (email/text) to chapter leadership
Don’t attend “one last meeting” where you might be pressured
Report any retaliation immediately

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

MISTAKE #1: Deleting Evidence

What happens: “I’m embarrassed” or “I don’t want to get anyone in trouble”
Why it’s fatal: Looks like a cover-up; destroys your credibility; makes case impossible to prove
Better approach: Save everything, even embarrassing content. Your attorney can determine what’s relevant.

MISTAKE #2: Confronting the Organization Directly

What happens: Parents demand answers from fraternity leaders
Why it’s fatal: They immediately lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses
Better approach: Let your attorney handle all communication

MISTAKE #3: Signing University “Resolution” Agreements

What happens: School pressures you to sign quick settlement
Why it’s fatal: Waives your right to sue; settlements are usually far below true value
Better approach: “I need to have my attorney review this before I sign anything”

MISTAKE #4: Posting on Social Media

What happens: Emotional posts about what happened
Why it’s fatal: Defense attorneys screenshot everything; inconsistencies hurt credibility
Better approach: Document privately; let your lawyer control public messaging

MISTAKE #5: Waiting “To See What the University Does”

What happens: Trusting internal investigation process
Why it’s fatal: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute of limitations runs
Better approach: Preserve evidence immediately; consult lawyer while university investigates

Why Attorney911 for Alabama Hazing Cases: Texas-Based, Nationally Relevant Experience

Our Active Hazing Litigation: The Leonel Bermudez Case

Right now, we’re fighting one of the most serious hazing cases in the country. Leonel Bermudez, a University of Houston student, suffered rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure after brutal Pi Kappa Phi hazing that included forced overeating, extreme workouts, and psychological torture. We filed a $10 million lawsuit against UH, Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters, the chapter housing corporation, and 13 individual fraternity leaders.

This case demonstrates exactly what we bring to hazing litigation:

Complaint:
- Detailed 44-page legal complaint documenting systematic abuse
- Named every responsible entity: university, national HQ, housing corp, individuals
- Used specific evidence: group chats, medical records, witness statements
Media Coverage:
- Featured in Click2Houston, ABC13, Hoodline, and national outlets
- Public accountability forces institutional change
- Quote from our attorney: “His urine was brown. We’re almost in 2026. This has to stop.”
Results:
- Pi Kappa Phi chapter suspended within days, charter surrendered
- University calling conduct “deeply disturbing”
- Ongoing litigation seeking full accountability

What This Means for Alabama Families

The same national fraternity we’re suing in Texas—Pi Kappa Phi—has chapters at Alabama universities. The same insurance companies defending them in Houston would defend them in Alabama. The same legal strategies that work in Texas courts can work in Alabama cases.

Our Unique Qualifications for Hazing Cases

Insurance Insider Advantage (Lupe Peña):

Former insurance defense attorney at national firm
Knows exactly how fraternity and university insurers fight claims
Understands their valuation methods, delay tactics, and coverage arguments
“We know their playbook because we used to run it.”

Complex Institutional Litigation (Ralph Manginello):

One of few Texas firms involved in BP Texas City explosion litigation
Federal court experience (U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas)
Not intimidated by national fraternities or university legal teams
“We’ve taken on billion-dollar corporations. We know how to fight powerful defendants.”

Multi-Million Dollar Results:

Wrongful death settlements in the millions
Catastrophic injury cases with lifetime care planning
Experience working with economists, life care planners, medical experts

Dual Civil/Criminal Capability:

Ralph’s membership in Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA)
Understands how criminal hazing charges interact with civil cases
Can advise witnesses and former members with potential criminal exposure

How We Serve Alabama Families from Texas

Co-Counsel Arrangements:

We partner with local Alabama attorneys who know state courts and procedures
Bring our national hazing expertise to complement local knowledge
Handle complex investigation while local counsel handles court appearances

Consultation and Case Evaluation:

Free initial consultation to evaluate your case
Help preserve evidence before it disappears
Advise on strategic decisions about reporting and negotiations
Refer to qualified local counsel if appropriate

Lead Counsel for Texas-Connected Cases:

If your Alabama case has Texas connections (national HQ in Texas, Texas-based insurance, etc.), we may serve as lead counsel
Federal court options if defendants are in multiple states

Frequently Asked Questions for Randolph County Families

“Can we sue an Alabama university for hazing?”
Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities have some sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and certain other claims. Private universities like Samford have fewer immunity protections. Every case depends on specific facts—contact us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for case-specific analysis.

“Is hazing a felony in Alabama?”
Hazing is typically a Class C misdemeanor for first offenses in Alabama, punishable by up to 3 months in jail. Subsequent offenses become Class A misdemeanors. However, related charges like assault, providing alcohol to minors, or reckless endangerment can carry felony penalties.

“What if my child ‘agreed’ to the initiation?”
Alabama law, like Texas law, states that consent is not a defense to hazing. Courts recognize that “consent” under peer pressure, power imbalance, and fear of exclusion isn’t true voluntary consent.

“How long do we have to file a lawsuit?”
Generally 2 years from the date of injury in Alabama, but various factors can affect this deadline. The discovery rule may extend time if the harm wasn’t immediately apparent. In cases involving cover-ups, the statute may be tolled (paused). Time is critical—call us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911.

“Will this be confidential or will my child’s name be in the news?”
Most hazing cases settle confidentially before trial. We can request sealed court records and confidential settlement terms. We prioritize your family’s privacy while pursuing accountability.

“What will this cost us?”
We work on contingency fee—we don’t get paid unless we win your case. Initial consultations are always free. We advance case costs and get reimbursed from settlement or verdict proceeds.

“We’re in Randolph County—how can a Texas firm help us?”
We serve families nationwide through co-counsel arrangements with local attorneys. The same national fraternities, the same insurance companies, the same institutional cover-up tactics exist everywhere. Our expertise transfers, and we know how to build cases that force accountability regardless of location.

Call to Action: Your Next Step Toward Accountability

If you’re a Randolph County parent whose child has been hazed at an Alabama university—or if you’re a student suffering in silence—you don’t have to face this alone. The institutions responsible for these abuses count on silence and confusion. They expect families to feel overwhelmed and to eventually give up.

We won’t let that happen.

What to Expect When You Call Us

Free, Confidential Consultation:
- We’ll listen to your story without judgment
- Review any evidence you’ve preserved
- Explain your legal options clearly
Immediate Evidence Preservation:
- Guide you through securing digital evidence before it disappears
- Send preservation letters to prevent destruction of evidence
- Begin building your case from day one
Strategic Planning:
- Help decide whether to report to campus authorities, police, or both
- Develop a timeline for action
- Set realistic expectations about process and potential outcomes
No Pressure Commitment:
- Take time to decide if you want to proceed
- We’ll be honest about case strengths and challenges
- You only pay if we win your case

Contact Attorney911 Today

Call: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct: (713) 528-9070
Cell: (713) 443-4781
Email: ralph@atty911.com
Website: https://attorney911.com

Spanish Services Available:
Lupe Peña speaks fluent Spanish – contact lupe@atty911.com for consultation in Spanish

Serving Randolph County and All Alabama Families

From Wedowee to Roanoke, Woodland to all surrounding communities—if hazing has impacted your family at any Alabama university, we’re here to help. We understand the values that matter in Randolph County: family protection, personal accountability, and standing up to powerful institutions that have wronged you.

The call is free. The consultation is confidential. The time to act is now—before evidence disappears, witnesses scatter, and institutions close ranks against you.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 right now. Let’s get your family the answers and accountability you deserve.

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

Attorney911 Main Website & Contact:
https://attorney911.com

Our Active UH Pi Kappa Phi Case Coverage:
Click2Houston coverage: https://www.click2houston.com/news/local/2025/11/21/only-on-2-lawsuit-alleges-severe-hazing-at-university-of-houstons-pi-kappa-phi-chapter-fraternity/
ABC13 coverage: https://abc13.com/post/waterboarding-forced-eating-physical-punishment-lawsuit-alleges-abuse-faced-injured-pledge-uhs-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity/18186418/

Educational Videos for Families:
Using phone to document evidence: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs
Statute of limitations explained: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c
Client mistakes to avoid: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY
How contingency fees work: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

National Anti-Hazing Hotline (Independent Resource):
1-888-NOT-HAZE (1Finally, the judicial strategy may include seeking court orders to compel schools to strengthen their anti-hazing policies and oversight, potentially setting precedents that benefit all students.

The path through hazing litigation is complex, but with experienced legal guidance, Randolph County families can navigate it successfully. By understanding the legal landscape, preserving crucial evidence, and choosing representation with proven success against similar institutional defendants, you can secure both justice for your child and meaningful systemic change that protects future students.

Legal Disclaimer

This article is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC.

Hazing laws, university policies, and legal precedents can change. The information in this guide is current as of late 2025 but may not reflect the most recent developments. Every hazing case is unique, and outcomes depend on the specific facts, evidence, applicable law, and many other factors.

If you or your child has been affected by hazing, we strongly encourage you to consult with a qualified attorney who can review your specific situation, explain your legal rights, and advise you on the best course of action for your family.

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC / Attorney911
Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas
Call: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct: (713) 528-9070 | Cell: (713) 443-4781
Website: https://attorney911.com
Email: ralph@atty911.com