Hazing Lawsuits & Fraternity Abuse: A Guide for Shelby County, Alabama Families

When Your Child’s College Dream Becomes a Nightmare: What Every Shelby County Parent Needs to Know

You sent your child to college with dreams of their future—graduation, career success, lifelong friendships. But for some Shelby County families, that dream has turned into a parent’s worst nightmare: a phone call that their son or daughter has been hospitalized after a fraternity event, or worse, a university official explaining there’s been a “serious incident” during pledging.

Right now, in Texas, we’re fighting one of the most serious hazing cases in recent memory. 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 allegations are shocking: forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting; being sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding”; a “pledge fanny pack” containing condoms and sex toys that had to be carried 24/7; and extreme physical hazing that led to rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown) and acute kidney failure requiring four days of hospitalization.

This isn’t happening in some distant state—this is what we’re fighting right now. And while this particular case involves a Texas university, the same national fraternities, the same dangerous traditions, and the same institutional failures affect students everywhere—including those from Shelby County who attend universities across Alabama and the Southeast.

If you’re a parent in Alabaster, Pelham, Calera, Chelsea, or anywhere in Shelby County, this guide is for you. We’ll explain what modern hazing really looks like, what legal protections exist for your child, and how families across Alabama—from the University of Alabama to Auburn to smaller campuses—can hold organizations accountable when things go terribly wrong.

If This Just Happened: Immediate Steps for Shelby County Families

MEDICAL EMERGENCY RIGHT NOW?

Call 911 immediately if your child is injured, intoxicated, or unconscious
Then call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
We provide immediate legal guidance for hazing emergencies

IN THE FIRST 48 HOURS:

Get medical attention even if injuries seem minor
Preserve evidence BEFORE it disappears:
- Screenshot all group chats (GroupMe, WhatsApp, texts)
- Photograph injuries from multiple angles
- Save physical evidence (clothing, paddles, alcohol containers)
Write down everything your child tells you (dates, times, names, locations)
Do NOT:
- Confront the fraternity/sorority directly
- Sign anything from the university or insurance company
- Let your child delete messages or social media posts
- Discuss details publicly online

TIME IS CRITICAL: Evidence disappears fast in hazing cases. Group chats get deleted, witnesses get coached, and universities move quickly to control the narrative. Contacting an experienced hazing attorney within 24-48 hours can make the difference between accountability and cover-up.

What Hazing Really Looks Like in 2025: Beyond the Stereotypes

Modern Hazing Isn’t Just “Boys Being Boys”

For Shelby County parents who might remember more benign college traditions, today’s hazing has evolved into something far more dangerous and systematic. The old image of harmless pranks has been replaced by calculated, often criminal behavior that puts students’ lives at risk.

Three Levels of Hazing That Shelby County Students Face

Level 1: Subtle Hazing (Often Dismissed as “Tradition”)

Constant “on-call” status via group chat
Forced servitude (cleaning, chauffeuring, running errands)
Social isolation from non-members
Required attendance at events that interfere with academics
Geographic tracking via phone apps

Level 2: Harassment Hazing (Crossing into Abuse)

Sleep deprivation with late-night/early-morning “meetings”
Verbal abuse and humiliation sessions
Forced physical exercise beyond safe limits
Food/water restriction or forced consumption of disgusting substances
Public humiliation in person or on social media

Level 3: Violent Hazing (Criminal Behavior)

Forced alcohol consumption (the leading cause of hazing deaths)
Physical beatings and paddling
Dangerous physical “tests” and rituals
Sexualized hazing and forced nudity
Exposure to extreme temperatures or dangerous environments

Where Hazing Happens in Alabama

While fraternities and sororities receive the most attention, Shelby County parents should know that hazing occurs in many campus organizations:

Fraternities and Sororities (both social and multicultural)
Athletic Teams (from football to cheerleading)
Marching Bands and Performance Groups
Military Organizations (ROTC, Corps programs)
Spirit Groups and Tradition Clubs
Academic and Service Organizations

The common thread isn’t the type of organization—it’s the abuse of power, the culture of secrecy, and the dangerous belief that enduring suffering “builds character” or proves commitment.

Alabama Hazing Laws: What Shelby County Families Need to Know

Alabama’s Hazing Statutes

Alabama has specific laws addressing hazing, though they differ from Texas statutes. Understanding these laws is crucial for Shelby County families considering legal action.

Alabama Code § 16-1-23: Hazing Prohibited
分层标题 Alabama’s primary anti-hazing law makes it unlawful for any student or other person to engage in hazing at any educational institution. The law defines hazing as:

Any willful act directed against a student
That endangers the mental or physical health or safety of that student
For the purpose of initiation, admission into, affiliation with, or as a condition for continued membership in any organization

Key Provisions for Shelby County Families:

Consent is NOT a defense (even if your child “agreed” to participate)
Organizations can lose official recognition and school funding
Individual participants can face criminal penalties

Alabama Code § 16-1-24: Duty to Report
Educational institutions must adopt rules prohibiting hazing and provide rules to students and organizations. Many Alabama universities have additional policies beyond state minimum requirements.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding the Difference

Criminal Hazing Cases:

Brought by the state (local prosecutor or Attorney General)
Focus on punishment (fines, probation, possible jail time)
Charges may include: hazing, assault, providing alcohol to minors, reckless endangerment
Example: If hazing occurs in Shelby County, the Shelby County District Attorney could bring charges

Civil Hazing Lawsuits:

Brought by victims and their families
Focus on compensation for injuries and accountability
Can seek damages for: medical bills, pain and suffering, emotional distress, lost educational opportunities
Key advantage: Lower burden of proof than criminal cases

Important: These cases can proceed simultaneously. A criminal conviction isn’t required to file a civil lawsuit, and a criminal acquittal doesn’t prevent civil liability.

Federal Laws That Apply in Alabama

Title IX (when hazing involves sexual harassment or gender discrimination)

Requires universities to investigate and address gender-based harassment
Can provide additional legal pathways for affected students

Clery Act

Requires colleges to report campus crime statistics
Some hazing incidents may trigger reporting requirements

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024)

Requires increased transparency in hazing reporting
Phased implementation through 2026
Will provide better data on nationwide hazing patterns

National Hazing Cases: Patterns That Affect Alabama Students

Why National Cases Matter to Shelby County Families

The same national fraternities and sororities that operate at Alabama universities have chapters across the country with documented histories of hazing incidents. These national patterns matter because they show:

Foreseeability: National organizations knew or should have known about dangerous traditions
Pattern Evidence: Similar incidents occurring in multiple states strengthen negligence claims
Institutional Knowledge: National headquarters often have files documenting prior warnings and violations

Landmark Cases Every Alabama Parent Should Know

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University (2021)

Fraternity: Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike)
Incident: Forced to drink nearly a bottle of whiskey during “Big/Little” night
Outcome: $10 million settlement ($7M from national fraternity, $3M from university)
Relevance to Alabama: Pi Kappa Alpha has chapters at multiple Alabama universities

Max Gruver – Louisiana State University (2017)

Fraternity: Phi Delta Theta
Incident: Forced drinking during “Bible study” game (BAC 0.495%)
Outcome: Louisiana passed “Max Gruver Act” making hazing a felony
Relevance to Alabama: Shows how state laws can change after tragedies

Timothy Piazza – Penn State University (2017)

Fraternity: Beta Theta Pi
Incident: Alcohol poisoning with delayed medical care (security camera footage captured falls)
Outcome: 18 members charged, Pennsylvania passed Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law
Relevance to Alabama: Demonstrates institutional cover-up patterns

Danny Santulli – University of Missouri (2021)

Fraternity: Phi Gamma Delta (FIJI)
Incident: Forced drinking leading to permanent brain damage (cannot walk, talk, or see)
Outcome: Settlements with 22 defendants, ongoing 24/7 care needed
Relevance to Alabama: Shows catastrophic non-fatal injuries from hazing

What These Cases Mean for Alabama Universities

These national precedents create legal expectations that apply to Alabama campuses:

Universities have a duty to protect students from foreseeable harm
National fraternities can’t claim “rogue chapter” defense when patterns exist
Juries award substantial damages for hazing injuries and deaths
Transparency and prevention are legally mandated, not optional

Alabama Universities: Where Shelby County Students Face Hazing Risks

University of Alabama (Tuscaloosa)

For Shelby County Families: Located about an hour from northern Shelby County, UA is a common destination for local students and has one of the largest Greek systems in the country.

Greek Life Scale:

Approximately 11,000 students involved in Greek organizations
36 Interfraternity Council fraternities
22 Panhellenic sororities
Multiple National Pan-Hellenic Council and multicultural organizations

Documented Hazing Issues:

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE): Multiple incidents including a 2023 lawsuit alleging traumatic brain injury from hazing
Phi Gamma Delta (FIJI): Prior suspensions for hazing violations
Other chapters: Regular disciplinary actions for alcohol violations and hazing

University Response System:

Office of Student Conduct investigates hazing allegations
Greek Life office oversees fraternity/sorority compliance
Anonymous reporting systems available
Challenge: Scale of Greek system makes oversight difficult

What Shelby County UA Parents Should Know:

The sheer size of UA’s Greek system means more opportunities for hazing to occur
High-profile athletic programs can create additional pressure to “fit in”
Distance from home (for many Shelby County students) can increase isolation if hazing occurs

Auburn University

For Shelby County Families: Auburn’s proximity to eastern Shelby County makes it another common choice for local students, with a strong Greek presence and athletic culture.

Greek Community:

Approximately 7,000 students in Greek organizations
Active Interfraternity Council and Panhellenic systems
Strong tradition of Greek life dating back decades

Known Hazing Incidents:

Kappa Alpha Order: Prior disciplinary issues
Sigma Chi: Historical hazing allegations
Multiple chapters: Regular probation for alcohol and hazing violations

Auburn’s Approach:

Hazing prevention education during recruitment
Strict policies against alcohol in Greek houses during pledging
Reality: Traditions often continue off-campus despite policies

Special Considerations for Shelby County Auburn Families:

Auburn’s close-knit campus culture can increase pressure to participate in traditions
Strong alumni networks sometimes enable continuation of dangerous practices
Football culture intersects with Greek life in ways that can amplify hazing risks

Other Alabama Universities with Greek Life

University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB)

Growing Greek community in urban setting
Different dynamic than traditional campus Greek life
For Shelby County families: Commuter options might appeal to some students

Samford University

Smaller Christian university with Greek organizations
Different cultural context but still potential for hazing
For Shelby County families: Perceived as “safer” but requires same vigilance

University of Montevallo

Small Greek system with different scale of risk
Still subject to same Alabama hazing laws
For Shelby County families: Proximity might mean more home visits, potentially earlier detection of issues

Alabama’s Unique Greek Culture

Several factors make Alabama Greek life particularly intense:

Legacy Culture: Multi-generation family traditions in specific houses
Athletic Connections: Strong ties between Greek life and football culture
Social Stratification: Greek affiliation significantly impacts social standing
Formal Recruitment: Highly structured process that can increase pressure

These cultural factors don’t excuse hazing, but they help explain why dangerous traditions persist despite known risks.

National Fraternities with Alabama Chapters: Pattern Evidence Matters

Why National Histories Are Legally Significant

When a fraternity chapter at an Alabama university hazes students, the national organization’s history of similar incidents across the country becomes legally relevant. This “pattern evidence” can establish:

Knowledge: The national knew or should have known about dangerous traditions
Foreseeability: Similar incidents made future hazing predictable
Negligence: Failure to take adequate preventive measures
Punitive Damages: Willful disregard for student safety

High-Risk National Organizations with Alabama Presence

Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike)

Alabama Chapters: UA, Auburn, others
National Pattern: Stone Foltz death (Bowling Green), multiple other fatalities
Known Issues: “Big/Little” drinking traditions, physical hazing
Legal Significance: $10M Foltz settlement shows national liability potential

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE)

Alabama Chapters: UA (multiple incidents), Auburn, others
National Pattern: Multiple deaths nationwide, traumatic brain injury lawsuit at UA
Known Issues: Drinking rituals, physical abuse
Legal Significance: Ongoing litigation shows continued risk despite “reforms”

Phi Delta Theta

Alabama Chapters: Multiple campuses
National Pattern: Max Gruver death (LSU) leading to felony hazing law
Known Issues: “Bible study” drinking games
Legal Significance: Led to legislative reform in Louisiana

Pi Kappa Phi

Alabama Chapters: Various campuses
National Pattern: Andrew Coffey death (Florida State)
Known Issues: Big Brother night traditions
Legal Significance: Chapter closures following incidents

Phi Gamma Delta (FIJI)

Alabama Chapters: Multiple universities
National Pattern: Danny Santulli catastrophic brain injury (Missouri)
Known Issues: Extreme drinking initiation
Legal Significance: Lifetime care needed shows extreme damages potential

Sorority Hazing: Not Just a Fraternity Problem

While less frequently publicized, sorority hazing occurs in Alabama too:

Psychological hazing: Sleep deprivation, verbal abuse, social isolation
Alcohol-related incidents: Forced drinking during “theme” parties
Physical demands: Extreme exercise, uncomfortable positions for long periods
Digital hazing: Social media humiliation, constant group chat demands

National sororities also have pattern histories that can establish liability.

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

Critical Evidence in Modern Hazing Cases

Digital Evidence (Most Important Category)

Group Chats: GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage screenshots
Social Media: Instagram stories, Snapchat, TikTok videos
Deleted Messages: Digital forensics can often recover “disappeared” content
Location Data: Phone GPS, Find My Friends screenshots
Planning Communications: Emails, texts about “traditions” or “initiation”

Physical Evidence

Medical Records: ER reports, hospitalization records, specialist evaluations
Photographs: Injuries over time, hazing locations, props used
Objects: Paddles, alcohol containers, “pledge” items
Clothing: Stained or damaged items from hazing events

Documentary Evidence

University Records: Prior disciplinary actions against the chapter
National Fraternity Files: Risk management reports, incident histories
Insurance Policies: Coverage that might apply to claims
Chapter Records: Meeting minutes, financial records showing alcohol purchases

Witness Evidence

Other Pledges: Often afraid to come forward initially
Former Members: May have quit over hazing concerns
Roommates/Friends: Noticed changes or heard details
Medical Providers: Documented statements about causes of injuries

Legal Strategies for Alabama Hazing Cases

Multi-Defendant Approach
Successful hazing litigation typically involves pursuing multiple responsible parties:

Individual Participants: Those who planned or carried out hazing
Chapter Leadership: Officers who knew or should have known
Local Chapter: As a legal entity if incorporated
National Organization: For failure to supervise and prevent known risks
University: For negligent supervision and failure to protect students
Property Owners: Landlords of off-campus houses where hazing occurred
Alcohol Providers: Under dram shop laws if applicable

Overcoming Common Defenses
Organizations use predictable defenses we’re experienced in countering:

“They Consented”: Alabama law explicitly states consent isn’t a defense
“Rogue Members”: Pattern evidence shows systemic issues
“Off-Campus Location”: Doesn’t eliminate university or national responsibility
“We Have Anti-Hazing Policies”: Paper policies without enforcement are meaningless
“It Was Voluntary”: Peer pressure and power imbalance negate true voluntariness

Insurance Coverage Strategies
Fraternities and universities have insurance, but insurers often resist hazing claims:

Multiple Policies: Identifying all potential coverage sources
Bad Faith Claims: When insurers wrongfully deny valid claims
Coverage Litigation: Sometimes necessary to force insurance participation
Our Advantage: Mr. Lupe Peña’s background as an insurance defense attorney gives us insider knowledge of how insurers fight these claims

Realistic Timelines and Outcomes

What to Expect:

Initial Investigation: 1-3 months for evidence gathering
Pre-Litigation Negotiation: 3-6 months typically
Litigation if Necessary: 1-3 years for resolution
Appeals: Possible additional time

Possible Outcomes:

Confidential Settlement: Most common resolution
Public Settlement: Sometimes with institutional reforms
Trial Verdict: Less common but possible if parties won’t settle fairly
Chapter Closure: Often part of resolution
Policy Changes: University or national reforms

Damages Available:

Medical Expenses: Past and future treatment costs
Lost Earnings: Impact on education and career
Pain and Suffering: Physical and emotional trauma
Punitive Damages: In egregious cases to punish and deter
Wrongful Death Damages: If tragedy occurs (funeral costs, loss of companionship)

Practical Guide for Shelby County Parents and Students

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Being Hazed

Physical Red Flags:

Unexplained bruises, burns, or injuries
Extreme exhaustion beyond normal college stress
Sudden weight changes
Frequent illnesses or hospital visits
Signs of alcohol poisoning (even if your child doesn’t normally drink)

Behavioral Changes:

New secrecy about organizational activities
Withdrawal from family and old friends
Personality shifts (anxiety, depression, anger)
Constant phone checking/responding
Defensive reactions when asked about the group
Financial issues (unexplained expenses for “dues” or “fines”)

Academic Impacts:

Grades dropping suddenly
Missing classes or assignments
Loss of academic scholarships
Talking about withdrawing from school

Digital Clues:

New group chat notifications constantly
Anxiety about phone responses
Deleting message histories
Embarrassing social media posts (may be coerced)
Location sharing with unknown people

How to Talk to Your Child About Hazing Concerns

Do:

Ask open-ended questions (“How are things with your new friends?”)
Express concern without accusation
Emphasize safety over loyalty
Share information about hazing laws
Offer unconditional support for leaving dangerous situations

Don’t:

Ultimatums that might drive them deeper into the group
Judgment that makes them defensive
Assumptions before hearing their full experience
Pressure to “tough it out” or “not be a quitter”

If Your Child Discloses Hazing

Immediate Actions:

Prioritize Safety: Remove from dangerous situations
Medical Care: Get professional evaluation even for “minor” injuries
Document Everything: Write down what they tell you with dates/times
Preserve Evidence: Help them save digital evidence before deletion
Legal Consultation: Contact an attorney before talking to the university or organization

Working with the University:

Document all communications
Ask specific questions about prior incidents with the group
Request copies of all policies and procedures
Don’t accept verbal assurances—get everything in writing
Remember: The university’s interests may not align with your child’s

For Students: Recognizing and Responding to Hazing

Self-Check Questions:

Would I do this if I truly had a free choice?
Am I keeping secrets from people who care about me?
Would the university approve if they knew details?
Is this dangerous or degrading?
Are only new members treated this way?

Safe Exit Strategies:

Tell someone outside the organization first (parent, RA, trusted friend)
Send a clear resignation in writing (email/text for documentation)
Avoid “one last meeting” where pressure could be applied
Know that you have legal rights regardless of what you “agreed to”

Reporting Options:

University Channels: Dean of Students, Office of Student Conduct
Law Enforcement: Campus police or local police for criminal acts
Anonymous Hotlines: National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE
Legal Counsel: Confidential attorney consultation

Critical Mistakes That Can Damage Your Case

For Families:

Deleting Evidence: “Cleaning up” digital evidence looks like cover-up
Direct Confrontation: Alerts organizations to destroy evidence and prepare defenses
Signing University Agreements: May waive legal rights for inadequate compensation
Social Media Posts: Defense attorneys monitor and screenshot everything
Delay: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, memories fade

For Universities and Organizations:

Destroying Records: Leads to severe legal sanctions
Coaching Witnesses: Obstruction of justice charges possible
Retaliation: Additional legal claims for intimidation
False Statements: Damages credibility with judges and juries

Why Attorney911 for Alabama Hazing Cases

Our Texas Hazing Litigation Experience

While we’re based in Texas, our experience fighting one of the most serious current hazing cases in the country directly benefits Alabama families. Right now, we’re leading the litigation in Leonel Bermudez v. University of Houston & Pi Kappa Phi—a case involving:

Catastrophic Injuries: Rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure from extreme hazing
Multiple Defendants: University, national fraternity, housing corporation, 13 individual members
Media Coverage: Featured in Click2Houston, ABC13, and Hoodline
Institutional Opposition: Fighting both a major university and national fraternity headquarters

This isn’t theoretical experience—this is what we’re doing right now. The same strategies, evidence techniques, and legal arguments that work against Texas universities and fraternities apply to Alabama cases.

Unique Advantages for Alabama Families

Insurance Insider Knowledge
Mr. Lupe Peña spent years as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm. He knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies:

Value (and undervalue) hazing claims
Use delay tactics to pressure families
Argue coverage exclusions
Negotiate settlements

This insider perspective is invaluable when navigating the complex insurance landscape surrounding hazing claims.

Complex Institutional Litigation Experience
Our experience with the BP Texas City explosion litigation—one of the few Texas firms involved—prepared us for taking on massive institutional defendants. Universities and national fraternities have:

Unlimited legal budgets
Teams of defense attorneys
Sophisticated public relations strategies
Deep pockets and political connections

We’re not intimidated by institutional power. We’ve faced billion-dollar defendants before.

Dual Civil/Criminal Capability
Founding attorney Ralph Manginello’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) gives us unique insight into:

Criminal hazing charges and defenses
How criminal and civil cases interact
Advising witnesses with potential criminal exposure
Negotiating with prosecutors

This dual perspective is particularly valuable in hazing cases that often involve both criminal charges and civil lawsuits.

National Pattern Recognition
Through our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine—tracking 1,423 Greek organizations across Texas—we’ve developed sophisticated systems for:

Identifying all potentially liable entities
Uncovering pattern evidence across chapters
Tracing insurance coverage through complex corporate structures
Building database-driven cases rather than starting from scratch

While focused on Texas data, the same investigative methodologies apply to Alabama cases involving national organizations.

Spanish Language Services
Mr. Peña speaks fluent Spanish and can serve Hispanic families throughout Alabama who prefer consultation in Spanish. Language should never be a barrier to justice.

How We Serve Alabama Families from Texas

Co-Counsel Arrangements
For Alabama-based cases, we typically work with local Alabama counsel who handle:

Local court procedures and rules
In-person meetings and hearings
Community connections and relationships

We provide:

Hazing-specific litigation strategy
National pattern evidence research
Insurance coverage expertise
Settlement negotiation experience
Trial preparation support

Consultation Services
For families unsure about pursuing legal action, we offer:

Case evaluation and strategy consultation
Evidence preservation guidance
University negotiation advice
Referrals to qualified Alabama counsel when appropriate

Direct Representation for Multi-State Cases
When cases involve:

National fraternity headquarters in other states
Multi-state insurance coverage issues
Federal claims (Title IX, civil rights)
Connections to our ongoing Texas litigation

…we may be able to serve as lead or co-counsel directly.

Our Commitment to Shelby County Families

We understand that choosing a Texas firm for an Alabama matter requires trust. Here’s our commitment to you:

No Fee Unless We Win
Like all our personal injury cases, we work on a contingency fee basis for hazing litigation. You pay nothing upfront, and we only collect a fee if we recover compensation for you.

Comprehensive Investigation
We don’t settle cheap. We investigate thoroughly:

Digital forensics for deleted evidence
National fraternity record subpoenas
University document requests
Expert consultations (medical, economic, psychological)
Witness interviews and statements

Family-Centered Approach
We recognize that hazing cases involve:

Trauma that requires sensitive handling
Privacy concerns for victims
Family dynamics under stress
Long-term recovery needs

We prioritize your family’s wellbeing throughout the legal process.

Accountability Focus
While compensation matters, we also pursue:

Institutional reforms to prevent future harm
Chapter closures when appropriate
Policy changes at universities
Public awareness when families choose

Your Next Steps: A Clear Path Forward for Shelby County Families

If You’re Still Investigating

For Parents:

Document Everything you notice or your child shares
Research the organization’s history at the university
Consult with other parents if appropriate
Contact Us for confidential guidance before taking action

For Students:

Preserve Evidence without alerting the organization
Tell Someone you trust outside the group
Seek Medical Care for any injuries or health concerns
Contact Us to understand your rights confidentially

If You’re Ready to Take Action

Immediate Priorities:

Legal Consultation: Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate guidance
Evidence Preservation: Formalize documentation with legal oversight
Medical Documentation: Comprehensive evaluation of all injuries
Strategic Planning: Develop coordinated approach with counsel

Working with Your Alabama Attorney:
We can help you find qualified local counsel or work with your existing Alabama attorney to:

Develop case strategy
Handle evidence preservation
Negotiate with universities and insurers
Prepare for litigation if necessary

If You’re Considering a Lawsuit

What to Expect:

Initial Consultation: We evaluate your case confidentially
Investigation Phase: Gathering evidence and identifying defendants
Pre-Litigation Negotiation: Attempting resolution without filing suit
Litigation if Necessary: Formal lawsuit and discovery process
Resolution: Settlement or trial verdict

Realistic Timeline:

Months 1-3: Evidence gathering and investigation
Months 3-9: Negotiations and settlement discussions
Months 9-24: Litigation if settlement isn’t reached
Months 24+: Possible trial and appeals

Contact Us Today

Attorney911 – The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC
Legal Emergency Lawyers™

Phone: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct: (713) 528-9070
24/7 Cell: (713) 443-4781

Email: ralph@atty911.com (Ralph Manginello)
lupe@atty911.com (Lupe Peña – Spanish services available)

Website: https://attorney911.com

Office Locations:

Houston, Texas (Primary)
Austin, Texas
Beaumont, Texas

Serving Alabama Families Through:

Co-counsel arrangements with Alabama attorneys
Consultation and case strategy services
Direct representation for multi-state cases
Insurance coverage litigation nationwide

Free Consultation Promise

We offer a no-obligation, confidential consultation to every family contacting us about hazing concerns. In this consultation, we’ll:

Listen to your story without judgment
Explain your legal rights and options
Discuss potential strategies and outcomes
Answer your questions honestly
Provide referrals if we’re not the right fit

You are not alone. Hazing thrives in secrecy and shame. Breaking that silence takes courage, but it’s the first step toward accountability and prevention. Whether your child attends the University of Alabama, Auburn, or any other campus, dangerous traditions have no place in college life.

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

News Coverage of Our Current Hazing Case:

Click2Houston coverage of Leonel Bermudez UH Pi Kappa Phi case: 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 of the UH hazing lawsuit: https://abc13.com/post/waterboarding-forced-eating-physical-punishment-lawsuit-alleges-abuse-faced-injured-pledge-uhs-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity/18186418/
Hoodline summary of the $10M UH hazing lawsuit: https://hoodline.com/2025/11/university-of-houston-and-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity-face-10m-lawsuit-over-alleged-hazing-and-abuse/

Our Educational Videos:

Using your phone to document evidence: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs
Understanding statutes of limitations: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c
Client mistakes that can ruin your case: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY
How contingency fees work: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

Our Main Website:

Attorney911 homepage and contact: https://attorney911.com

Legal Disclaimer: This article provides general information about hazing laws and legal options. It does not constitute legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws vary by state and individual circumstances. If you have specific legal questions about a hazing incident, consult with a qualified attorney in your jurisdiction. The outcome of any legal matter depends on the specific facts and applicable law.

Attorney911 – The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC serves clients in Texas directly and works with co-counsel in other states, including Alabama. Contact us to discuss how we can assist with your specific situation.

Se habla Español. Servicios legales disponibles en español.