The Complete Guide for Texas Families: Hazing Laws, University Accountability, and Your Legal Rights

If Your Child Was Hazed in Texas, You’re Not Alone. We Can Help.

Imagine this: Your son, a bright freshman from a Texas family, is excited to join a fraternity at a major university. What starts as camaraderie quickly turns sinister. He’s handed a “pledge fanny pack” filled with humiliating items and told to carry it 24/7. He’s forced to chauffeur older members at all hours, deprived of sleep, and subjected to weekly interrogations. Then comes the physical abuse: bear crawls, wheelbarrow races, being sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding.” During a brutal November workout, he’s forced through 100+ push-ups and 500 squats. Days later, he’s vomiting, unable to stand, and his urine has turned brown. At the hospital, doctors diagnose him with rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure—his muscles are literally breaking down and poisoning his body. He spends four days hospitalized, facing potential permanent kidney damage.

This isn’t hypothetical. This is exactly what happened to Leonel Bermudez, a University of Houston student whose $10 million hazing lawsuit against UH and the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity’s Beta Nu chapter we filed in late 2025. The lawsuit details how a promising student’s health was nearly destroyed by systematic abuse that the university and national fraternity allegedly failed to prevent.

If you’re a parent in Runnels County, watching your child head off to Texas A&M, UT Austin, University of Houston, Baylor, SMU, or any other Texas campus, you need to know that hazing isn’t just “boys being boys” or harmless tradition. It’s often systematic abuse that can cause permanent injury or death. And when it happens, universities and national fraternities have deep pockets and sophisticated legal teams dedicated to minimizing their responsibility.

This comprehensive guide explains what hazing really looks like in 2025, Texas and federal laws that apply, major cases that have shaped accountability, what’s happening at Texas universities, and—most importantly—what your legal options are if your family has been affected.

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

What Hazing Really Looks Like in 2025

Hazing has evolved far beyond the stereotypes of paddling and silly pranks. Today’s hazing is often sophisticated, digitally enabled, and psychologically manipulative. For families in Runnels County sending children to Texas universities, understanding these modern patterns is crucial.

The Three Tiers of Modern Hazing

Tier 1: Subtle Hazing (Psychological Control)
This is the gateway behavior that creates power imbalances and sets the stage for more severe abuse:

• 24/7 Digital Monitoring: Pledges required to respond instantly to GroupMe or WhatsApp messages at all hours; location sharing demanded via Find My Friends
• Servitude Requirements: Acting as unpaid chauffeurs at all hours, cleaning members’ rooms, running personal errands
• Social Isolation: Cutting off contact with non-members, requiring permission to socialize outside the group
• “Voluntary” Compliance: Activities framed as “optional” but with clear social consequences for refusal

Tier 2: Harassment Hazing (Emotional and Physical Discomfort)
These behaviors cause measurable harm while maintaining plausible deniability:

• Sleep Deprivation: Late-night “meetings,” 3 AM wake-up calls, multi-day events with minimal rest
• Food Manipulation: Forced consumption of excessive amounts of bland food (milk, bread, hot dogs) until vomiting
• Extreme Physical “Conditioning”: “Smokings” involving hundreds of push-ups, wall sits until collapse, punishment workouts
• Digital Humiliation: Forced TikTok challenges, embarrassing Instagram posts, meme creation mocking specific pledges

Tier 3: Violent Hazing (High Risk of Serious Injury or Death)
These are the activities that make national headlines and destroy lives:

• Forced Alcohol Consumption: “Big/Little” nights with handles of liquor, “Bible study” drinking games, line-up challenges
• Physical Beatings: Paddling, punching, kicking, “gladiator” fights between pledges
• Sexualized Abuse: Forced nudity, simulated sexual acts (“elephant walk”), sexual assault
• Dangerous Environments: Locked in freezing rooms, left outside in extreme weather, dangerous driving while intoxicated
• Chemical Exposure: Texas A&M SAE case where pledges were doused with industrial cleaner causing chemical burns requiring skin grafts

The Digital Transformation of Hazing

Smartphones have changed hazing fundamentally. Now:

• Evidence is Captured: Members film hazing for entertainment, creating digital evidence that can be recovered
• Coordination is Centralized: Group chats (GroupMe, WhatsApp, Discord) organize hazing and enforce compliance
• Cover-ups are Digital: Messages are deleted, phones are reset, social media is scrubbed when investigations begin
• Humiliation is Public: Embarrassing content spreads across TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat with devastating psychological impact

Why “Consent” Doesn’t Matter

Fraternities often argue “they wanted to do it” or “everyone agreed.” Texas law recognizes this is nonsense. When there’s a power imbalance—older members controlling a young person’s social standing, college experience, and sense of belonging—true consent is impossible. That’s why Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states: “Consent is not a defense to prosecution for hazing.”

Texas Hazing Law: What Runnels County Families Need to Know

Texas has some of the nation’s most comprehensive hazing statutes, but they’re only effective if families understand and use them.

Texas Education Code Chapter 37: The Hazing Framework

Definition (Section 37.151):
Hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, by one person alone or with others, directed against a student, that:

1. Endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student, AND
2. Occurs for the purpose of pledging, initiation into, affiliation with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization

Key Points for Texas Families:

• Location Doesn’t Matter: Hazing at an off-campus Airbnb, private residence, or remote retreat is still hazing
• Mental Harm Counts: Psychological abuse, humiliation, and emotional trauma qualify
• Recklessness is Enough: They don’t need to intend harm—just be reckless about known risks
• It’s Broader Than You Think: Applies to fraternities, sororities, athletic teams, spirit groups, bands, Corps programs, and other campus organizations

Criminal Penalties (Section 37.152):

• Class B Misdemeanor: Basic hazing (up to 180 days jail, $2,000 fine)
• Class A Misdemeanor: Hazing causing injury requiring medical treatment
• State Jail Felony: Hazing causing serious bodily injury or death
• Additional Crimes: Failing to report hazing, retaliating against reporters

Organizational Liability (Section 37.153):
Fraternities, sororities, and other organizations can be:

• Fined up to $10,000 per violation
• Have university recognition revoked
• Face criminal charges if they authorized or encouraged hazing

Critical Legal Protections for Victims

Good-Faith Reporting Immunity (Section 37.154):
Students who report hazing in good faith are immune from civil or criminal liability that might result from the report. This protects those who call for help even if they were participating.

No “Consent” Defense (Section 37.155):
As mentioned, victim “consent” is irrelevant under Texas law—a crucial protection against victim-blaming.

University Reporting Requirements (Section 37.156):
Texas colleges must:

• Provide hazing prevention education
• Publish hazing policies
• Maintain and publish annual reports of hazing violations

Federal Laws Overlaying Texas Statutes

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024):
Requires colleges receiving federal aid to:

• Report hazing incidents transparently
• Strengthen prevention programs
• Maintain public hazing data (phased in by 2026)

Title IX Implications:
When hazing involves sexual harassment, assault, or gender-based hostility, Title IX obligations are triggered, creating additional liability pathways.

Clery Act Requirements:
Hazing incidents that constitute crimes (assault, alcohol offenses) must be reported in campus crime statistics.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding the Difference

Criminal Cases:

• Brought by the state (DA’s office)
• Goal: Punishment (jail, fines, probation)
• Burden: Beyond reasonable doubt
• Common hazing charges: Hazing, assault, furnishing alcohol to minors, manslaughter in fatal cases

Civil Cases:

• Brought by victims/families
• Goal: Compensation and accountability
• Burden: Preponderance of evidence
• Common claims: Negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision, emotional distress

Why Both Matter:

• Criminal conviction isn’t required for civil suit
• Evidence from criminal case can strengthen civil claim
• Civil cases can continue even if criminal charges are dropped
• Civil discovery can uncover evidence prosecutors missed

National Hazing Cases: Patterns That Repeat in Texas

The same dangerous patterns that destroyed lives at national universities are happening right now at Texas schools. Understanding these cases helps Texas families recognize familiar warning signs.

Alcohol Poisoning Death Pattern

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

• What happened: 20-year-old pledge forced to drink entire bottle of whiskey during “Big/Little” night
• Medical outcome: Died from alcohol poisoning
• Legal outcome: $10 million settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, $3M from BGSU)
• Texas relevance: Same “Big/Little” drinking tradition occurs at Texas Pi Kappa Alpha chapters

Max Gruver – LSU (Phi Delta Theta, 2017)

• What happened: Pledge forced to participate in “Bible study” drinking game; incorrect answers = forced drinking
• Medical outcome: BAC 0.495%, died from alcohol toxicity
• Legacy: Louisiana passed “Max Gruver Act” making hazing a felony
• Texas relevance: Phi Delta Theta operates chapters at all major Texas universities

Timothy Piazza – Penn State (Beta Theta Pi, 2017)

• What happened: Bid acceptance night with extreme drinking; fell multiple times; brothers delayed calling 911
• Medical outcome: Died from traumatic brain injuries
• Legal outcome: 18 members charged with 1,000+ criminal counts; civil settlements
• Legacy: Pennsylvania’s “Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law”
• Surveillance lesson: Fraternity security cameras captured the entire tragedy

Physical and Ritualized Hazing

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

• What happened: Pledge blindfolded, weighted with backpack, repeatedly tackled during “glass ceiling” ritual
• Medical outcome: Died from traumatic brain injury; help delayed
• Legal outcome: National fraternity convicted of aggravated assault; banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years
• Texas relevance: Shows national organizations can face criminal liability

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

• What happened: “Pledge dad reveal” with forced excessive drinking
• Medical outcome: Severe permanent brain damage (cannot walk, talk, or see; needs 24/7 care)
• Legal outcome: Settlements with 22 defendants
• Texas relevance: Phi Gamma Delta has chapters at Texas A&M, UT Austin, and other Texas schools

Athletic Program Hazing

Northwestern University Football (2023–2025)

• What happened: Former players alleged sexualized, racist hazing within program
• Legal outcome: Multiple lawsuits; head coach Pat Fitzgerald fired and settled wrongful-termination suit
• Texas relevance: Major athletic programs at Texas schools face similar risks

What These Cases Mean for Runnels County Families

1. Patterns Repeat: The same scripts (Big/Little nights, drinking games, physical “tests”) occur nationwide
2. Delayed Help Kills: Cover-up culture leads to delayed medical care and worse outcomes
3. Digital Evidence is Critical: Security footage, group chats, and social media often make or break cases
4. National Organizations Know: These aren’t “rogue chapters”—nationals know the patterns and often fail to intervene
5. Settlements are Substantial: $1M–$14M settlements show juries take hazing seriously

Texas Universities: What’s Happening at Campuses Serving Runnels County Families

Families in Runnels County and across central Texas send their children to universities throughout the state. Here’s what’s happening at major Texas campuses.

University of Houston: A Current Case Study

The Leonel Bermudez Pi Kappa Phi Case
Right now, we’re actively litigating one of Texas’s most serious hazing cases at the University of Houston. The details show how modern hazing operates:

Locations Used:

• Pi Kappa Phi chapter house near UH
• Culmore Drive residence (former member’s property)
• Yellowstone Boulevard Park for dawn workouts

Hazing Methods Documented:

• “Pledge fanny pack” with condoms, sex toys, nicotine devices
• Enforced dress codes and interview schedules
• Overnight chauffeuring duties
• Physical abuse: sprints, bear crawls, wheelbarrow races
• “Waterboarding” simulation with hose spraying
• Forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, peppercorns until vomiting
• Nov 3 workout: 100+ push-ups, 500 squats under expulsion threats

Medical Catastrophe:

• Rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown)
• Acute kidney failure
• Brown urine, inability to stand
• Four-day hospitalization
• Ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage

Institutional Response:

• Nov 6, 2025: Pi Kappa Phi HQ suspends Beta Nu chapter
• Nov 14, 2025: Chapter votes to surrender charter; chapter shut down
• UH statement: Conduct “deeply disturbing,” cooperating with law enforcement

Defendants in Our Lawsuit:

• University of Houston
• UH System Board of Regents
• Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters
• Beta Nu housing corporation
• 13 individual fraternity leaders/members

Why This Matters for All Texas Families:
This case shows that:

1. Severe hazing is happening now at Texas universities
2. Multiple entities can be held liable (university, national, housing corp, individuals)
3. Medical consequences can be life-altering
4. Digital evidence (texts, photos, medical records) builds strong cases

UH’s Greek Ecosystem:
UH hosts numerous fraternities and sororities across four councils:

• Interfraternity Council (17+ fraternities)
• Houston Panhellenic Council (6 sororities)
• National Pan-Hellenic Council (Divine Nine)
• Multicultural Greek Council

Recent UH Hazing History:

• 2016 Pi Kappa Alpha case: Pledge suffered lacerated spleen during hazing
• Various alcohol and policy violations leading to chapter suspensions
• Public disciplinary records less transparent than UT Austin’s system

Texas A&M University: Corps Culture and Greek Life

For Runnels County Families:
Many central Texas families have deep Aggie traditions. Texas A&M’s unique Corps of Cadets culture and strong Greek life create distinct hazing risks.

Corps of Cadets Hazing Case (2023):

• Allegations: Cadet subjected to degrading hazing including simulated sexual acts, being bound between beds in “roasted pig” position with apple in mouth
• Lawsuit: Sought over $1 million in damages
• A&M response: Handled internally under Corps regulations
• Takeaway: Tradition-heavy environments require extra vigilance

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (2021):

• What happened: Pledges allegedly doused with industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and other substances
• Injuries: Severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries
• Lawsuit: Pledges sued for $1 million; fraternity suspended for two years
• Takeaway: Hazing methods are evolving and becoming more dangerous

Texas A&M’s Greek Life Scale:

• Collegiate Panhellenic Council: 14 sororities
• Interfraternity Council: 19+ fraternities
• Multicultural Greek Council
• National Pan-Hellenic Council

Corps of Cadets Specific Risks:

• Military-style discipline traditions
• “Fish” (freshman) status hierarchy
• Off-campus “away” parties and retreats
• Historical resistance to external oversight

University of Texas at Austin: Transparency and Ongoing Issues

UT’s Public Hazing Violations Page
UT Austin maintains one of Texas’s most transparent hazing disclosure systems at hazing.utexas.edu. Recent entries show patterns:

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023 Violation):

• Conduct: New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics
• Sanction: Chapter probation, mandatory hazing prevention education
• Pattern: Similar to UH case methods

Texas Wranglers (Spirit Organization):

• Multiple sanctions for alcohol-related hazing and policy violations
• Demonstrates hazing extends beyond Greek life

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Assault Case (2024):

• What happened: Australian exchange student allegedly assaulted at party
• Injuries: Dislocated leg, broken ligaments, fractured tibia, broken nose
• Lawsuit: Student sued for over $1 million
• Context: Chapter already under suspension for prior violations

UT’s Greek Ecosystem:

• Approximately 60 fraternity/sorority chapters
• University Panhellenic Council (14 sororities)
• Interfraternity Council
• Texas Asian Pan-Hellenic Council
• National Pan-Hellenic Council

Key Takeaway for Families:
UT’s transparency is commendable, but repeated violations show ongoing systemic issues despite public reporting.

Southern Methodist University: Private School Challenges

SMU’s Greek Dominance
As a private university with affluent student population, SMU has particularly strong Greek life influence.

Kappa Alpha Order Incident (2017):

• Allegations: New members paddled, forced to drink, sleep deprived
• Outcome: Chapter suspended; recruitment restrictions until 2021
• Pattern: Similar to national Kappa Alpha Order issues

SMU’s Greek Structure:

• Panhellenic Council: 8 sororities
• Interfraternity Council: 6 fraternities
• National Pan-Hellenic Council
• Lower transparency as private institution

Private University Considerations:

• Fewer public records available
• Different disciplinary processes
• Potentially stronger alumni influence on administration

Baylor University: Religious Identity and Scrutiny

Baylor’s Historical Context
Following major Title IX scandals, Baylor faces particular scrutiny around institutional accountability.

Baseball Hazing Incident (2020):

• What happened: Hazing investigation involving baseball team
• Outcome: 14 players suspended with staggered suspensions
• Pattern: Athletic team hazing occurs even at religious institutions

Baylor’s Greek Life:

• Panhellenic Council: 9 sororities
• Interfraternity Council: 5 fraternities
• National Pan-Hellenic Council
• Religious context affects organizational culture

Accountability Challenges:

• Balancing religious branding with transparency
• Historical pattern of internal handling of misconduct
• Need for external oversight in serious cases

Fraternities and Sororities: National Patterns on Texas Campuses

The same national organizations involved in high-profile hazing deaths operate chapters at Texas universities. Their national histories matter because they show patterns and foreseeability.

Organizations with Documented National Hazing Histories

Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike)

• National incidents: Stone Foltz (BGSU, fatal), David Bogenberger (NIU, fatal)
• Texas presence: Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor
• Pattern: “Big/Little” alcohol hazing, physical abuse
• Our experience: Currently litigating against Pike nationals in other contexts

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE)

• National incidents: Multiple hazing deaths nationwide; traumatic brain injury case at Alabama; chemical burns at Texas A&M
• Texas presence: Chapters at all major Texas universities
• Pattern: Alcohol hazing, physical violence, dangerous “traditions”
• Notable: SAE eliminated traditional pledging nationally after pattern of deaths

Pi Kappa Phi

• National incidents: Andrew Coffey (FSU, fatal)
• Texas presence: Chapter at UH (now closed due to our lawsuit), other Texas campuses
• Pattern: Alcohol hazing during “Big Brother” events
• Our current case: Representing Leonel Bermudez against Pi Kappa Phi nationals

Phi Delta Theta

• National incidents: Max Gruver (LSU, fatal)
• Texas presence: Chapters at Texas A&M, UT Austin, other campuses
• Pattern: “Bible study” drinking games, forced consumption
• Legacy: Max Gruver Act in Louisiana shows legislative response

Kappa Alpha Order

• National incidents: Multiple chapter suspensions including SMU
• Texas presence: Chapters at Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU
• Pattern: Paddling, physical abuse, alcohol hazing
• Historical: Traditional Southern culture with higher hazing risks

Why National Histories Matter Legally

Foreseeability Doctrine:
If a national organization has seen the same hazing method cause injury or death at another chapter, they can’t claim “we couldn’t have predicted this” when it happens again at a Texas chapter.

Negligent Supervision Claims:
Nationals that collect dues, provide materials, and maintain oversight relationships with chapters have duty to supervise. Failure to act on known patterns supports negligence claims.

Punitive Damages Potential:
When nationals ignore obvious patterns, courts may award punitive damages to punish reckless disregard for safety.

Insurance Coverage Issues:
Nationals often have insurance policies that may cover claims, but insurers may deny coverage based on “intentional acts” exclusions. Our insurance defense experience helps navigate these fights.

Public Records: Fraternities, Sororities & Greek Organizations Serving Texas Families

Our firm maintains a comprehensive database of Texas Greek organizations compiled from public records. This investigative advantage means we don’t start from zero when your family needs help.

Sample Texas-Registered Greek Entities (IRS B83 Filings):

Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation Inc
EIN: 46-2267515 | Frisco, TX 75035
Data source: IRS B83 public filing

Kappa Sigma – Mu Camma Chapter Inc
EIN: 13-3048786 | College Station, TX 77845
Data source: IRS B83 public filing

Sigma Phi Epsilon Texas Eta
EIN: 82-4398421 | Richmond, TX 77406
Data source: IRS B83 public filing

Texas Kappa Sigma Educational Foundation Inc
EIN: 74-1380362 | Fort Worth, TX 76147
Data source: IRS B83 public filing

Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity Inc – Theta Delta Chapter
EIN: 47-5370943 | Houston, TX 77204
Data source: IRS B83 public filing

Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity – Epsilon Kappa Chapter
EIN: 74-6064445 | Nederland, TX 77627
Data source: IRS B83 public filing

Sigma Chi Fraternity Epsilon Xi Chapter
EIN: 74-6084905 | Houston, TX 77204
Data source: IRS B83 public filing

Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi – Texas A&M University Chapter
EIN: 90-0293166 | College Station, TX 77843
Data source: IRS B83 public filing

Chi Omega Fraternity – Chi Omega House Corporation
EIN: 74-0555581 | Austin, TX 78705
Data source: IRS B83 public filing

Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity Inc – Alpha Mu Chapter
EIN: 74-1130606 | Austin, TX 78705
Data source: IRS B83 public filing

Metro-Level Greek Presence in Texas:

• Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington Metro: 510+ Greek organizations
• Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land Metro: 188+ organizations
• Austin-Round Rock Metro: 154+ organizations
• San Antonio Metro: 86+ organizations
• College Station-Bryan Metro: 42+ organizations

What This Means for Your Case:
When you work with us, we already know how to identify:

• Which legal entities own chapter houses
• Where national organizations are incorporated
• Insurance policy holders
• Alumni associations and housing corporations
• Historical violation patterns

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Strategy, and Damages

Successful hazing litigation requires sophisticated investigation, strategic legal positioning, and comprehensive damages analysis. Here’s how we build cases that force accountability.

Critical Evidence Categories

Digital Evidence (Most Important):

• Group chats: GroupMe, WhatsApp, Discord, iMessage threads
• Social media: Instagram stories, TikTok videos, Snapchat memories
• Deleted messages: Digital forensics recovery of “disappearing” content
• Location data: GPS histories, Find My Friends logs
• Planning communications: Emails, texts organizing hazing events

Physical Evidence:

• Injury documentation: Photos taken immediately and over several days
• Medical records: ER reports, hospitalization records, lab results
• Objects used: Paddles, alcohol bottles, props, “pledge packets”
• Clothing: Stained or damaged items from hazing events
• Venue evidence: Photos of houses, Airbnbs, parks where hazing occurred

Institutional Records:

• University files: Prior conduct violations, probation letters, investigation reports
• National fraternity records: Risk management files, incident reports, training materials
• Insurance policies: Coverage details for chapters, nationals, universities
• Property records: Ownership of houses where hazing occurred

Witness Evidence:

• Other pledges: Often afraid initially but may cooperate as case develops
• Former members: Those who quit or were expelled often have valuable information
• Roommates and friends: May have observed changes or heard details
• Medical providers: Documentation of injuries and causation statements

Strategic Legal Approaches

Multiple Defendant Strategy:
We typically sue:

1. Individual perpetrators: Those who planned and executed hazing
2. Chapter officers: Presidents, risk managers, pledge educators who failed to prevent
3. Local chapter: If incorporated as legal entity
4. National organization: For negligent supervision and failure to enforce policies
5. University: For negligent supervision, Title IX violations, premises liability
6. Housing corporations: Property owners who allowed hazing on premises
7. Third parties: Alcohol providers, security companies, event venues

Overcoming Common Defenses:

• “They consented”: Texas law explicitly rejects this defense
• “It was off-campus”: Location doesn’t eliminate university or national liability
• “Rogue individuals”: Pattern evidence shows systemic issues
• “We have policies”: We show policies weren’t enforced
• “Sovereign immunity”: Exceptions exist for gross negligence and certain claims

Insurance Coverage Navigation:
Our attorney Lupe Peña’s background as an insurance defense attorney gives us unique insight into:

• How insurers value hazing claims
• Coverage exclusion arguments
• Bad faith litigation when insurers wrongfully deny claims
• Multiple policy coordination (chapter, national, university, homeowner’s)

Comprehensive Damages Recovery

Economic Damages:

• Medical expenses: Past and future care, including lifelong needs for catastrophic injuries
• Lost income: Current lost wages and diminished future earning capacity
• Educational costs: Tuition for interrupted education, lost scholarships
• Life care plans: For brain injuries, permanent disabilities requiring ongoing care

Non-Economic Damages:

• Pain and suffering: Physical pain from injuries
• Emotional distress: PTSD, depression, anxiety, humiliation
• Loss of enjoyment: Inability to participate in college experience, activities
• Reputational harm: Social stigma and future impact

Wrongful Death Damages (for families):

• Funeral and burial costs
• Loss of financial support: Deceased’s potential lifetime earnings
• Loss of companionship: Parent-child or sibling relationships
• Emotional suffering: Grief, mental anguish of surviving family

Punitive Damages:
When defendants show reckless disregard or intentional misconduct, courts may award punitive damages to punish and deter future conduct.

Case Timeline and Process

Phase 1: Immediate Response (First 48 Hours)

• Evidence preservation
• Medical documentation
• Initial witness interviews
• Crisis management

Phase 2: Investigation (Weeks 1–12)

• Digital forensics
• Records requests
• Expert consultations
• Liability analysis

Phase 3: Pre-Litigation (Months 3–6)

• Demand letters
• Settlement negotiations
• Insurance coverage fights
• Litigation preparation

Phase 4: Litigation (Months 6–24+)

• Complaint filing
• Discovery process
• Depositions
• Expert testimony development
• Settlement conferences or trial

Phase 5: Resolution

• Settlement or verdict
• Funds distribution
• Accountability measures (policy changes, chapter closures)
• Ongoing client support

Practical Guides for Runnels County Families

For Parents: Warning Signs and Action Steps

Red Flags Your Child May Be Hazed:

• Unexplained injuries (bruises, burns, cuts with inconsistent explanations)
• Extreme exhaustion beyond normal college stress
• Sudden personality changes (anxiety, depression, withdrawal)
• Secretive phone use, anxiety about missing messages
• Financial pressure (unexpected expenses, requests for money)
• Academic decline (missing classes, dropping grades)
• Physical symptoms (weight changes, sleep disturbances, substance issues)

How to Talk to Your Child:

1. Choose the right time: Private, calm, non-confrontational
2. Use open questions: “How are things with your fraternity/sorority?” not “Are they hazing you?”
3. Listen without judgment: If they open up, don’t react with anger at them
4. Emphasize safety: “Your health is more important than any organization”
5. Offer unconditional support: “We’ll figure this out together”

Immediate Steps if Hazing is Suspected:

1. Medical care first: Even if they resist, insist on medical evaluation
2. Document everything: Write down what they tell you with dates/times
3. Preserve evidence: Help them screenshot messages, photograph injuries
4. Contact an attorney: Before reporting to university or confronting organization
5. Avoid social media: Don’t post details that could compromise the case

For Students: Recognizing and Responding to Hazing

Self-Check Questions:

• Am I being pressured to do something unsafe or degrading?
• Would I do this if there were no social consequences for refusing?
• Am I being told to keep secrets from university officials or my parents?
• Are older members making me do things they don’t have to do themselves?
• Is this activity something the organization would publicly admit to?

Safety Planning for Exiting:

• Tell someone first: RA, trusted friend, parent before telling the organization
• Use written communication: Email or text your resignation to create record
• Avoid “one last meeting”: Where pressure or retaliation might occur
• Document threats: Save any messages threatening consequences for leaving
• Seek support: Counseling services, Dean of Students, legal advice

Evidence Preservation for Students:

1. Screenshot everything: Group chats, DMs, emails before they’re deleted
2. Photograph injuries: Multiple angles, include scale (coin, ruler)
3. Save physical items: Clothing, objects used in hazing, receipts
4. Medical documentation: Tell providers you were hazed so it’s in records
5. Witness list: Names and contact info for others who saw what happened

For Witnesses and Former Members

If you participated in or witnessed hazing and now regret it:

Understanding Your Position:

• You may feel guilt, fear of consequences, or loyalty conflicts
• Your testimony could prevent future harm to others
• You may need your own legal advice about potential liability
• Cooperation can sometimes lead to more favorable outcomes

How to Approach Coming Forward:

1. Consult an attorney first: Understand your rights and risks
2. Consider anonymous reporting: Some schools and hotlines allow this
3. Document what you know: Write down everything while memory is fresh
4. Preserve evidence: Save any photos, messages, or other documentation
5. Focus on prevention: Your information could save lives

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

MISTAKE #1: Deleting Evidence
What happens: Your child deletes embarrassing group chats or photos
Why it’s devastating: Looks like cover-up; destroys most compelling evidence
Better approach: Preserve everything—embarrassing content shows coercion

MISTAKE #2: Confronting the Organization
What happens: Parents angrily call the fraternity president
Why it’s devastating: Immediately triggers evidence destruction and witness coaching
Better approach: Let your attorney make first contact after evidence is preserved

MISTAKE #3: Signing University Agreements
What happens: University pressures you to sign “internal resolution” forms
Why it’s devastating: May waive right to sue; settlements are often minimal
Better approach: “I need to have my attorney review this before I sign anything”

MISTAKE #4: Social Media Posts
What happens: Family posts details on Facebook or Instagram
Why it’s devastating: Defense attorneys screenshot everything; inconsistencies hurt credibility
Better approach: Keep details private; let your attorney control public messaging

MISTAKE #5: Waiting for University Investigation
What happens: “Let’s see how the school handles it first”
Why it’s devastating: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs
Better approach: Parallel tracks—preserve evidence now while university investigates

MISTAKE #6: Talking to Insurance Adjusters
What happens: Adjuster calls for “just a quick statement”
Why it’s devastating: Recorded statements are used to deny or minimize claims
Better approach: “Please contact my attorney. I’m not making any statements.”

MISTAKE #7: Letting Your Child Return
What happens: “Go to one last meeting to get your things”
Why it’s devastating: Pressure, intimidation, or extracted statements that hurt the case
Better approach: Once legal action is considered, all communication goes through counsel

Frequently Asked Questions for Texas Families

Q: Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?
Yes, under specific circumstances. Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT) have some sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and when suing individuals in their personal capacity. Private universities (SMU, Baylor) have fewer immunity protections. Every case depends on specific facts—we can evaluate your situation during a free consultation.

Q: Is hazing a felony in Texas?
It can be. Texas Education Code § 37.152 classifies hazing as a Class B misdemeanor by default, but it becomes a state jail felony if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. Additionally, individuals who fail to report hazing or retaliate against reporters can face misdemeanor charges.

Q: What if my child “agreed” to the activities?
Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states: “Consent is not a defense to prosecution for hazing.” Courts recognize that true consent isn’t possible when there’s peer pressure, power imbalance, and fear of social exclusion. This legal protection prevents victim-blaming.

Q: How long do we have to file a lawsuit?
Generally 2 years from the date of injury or death in Texas, but several factors can affect this:

• Discovery rule: If the harm wasn’t immediately apparent, timeline may start when discovered
• Minor status: If victim was under 18, timeline may be extended
• Fraudulent concealment: If defendants actively hid the hazing, timeline may be paused
• Wrongful death: Special rules apply for family members

Time is critical—call us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911 to preserve your rights.

Q: What if the hazing happened off-campus?
Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and national fraternities can still be liable based on:

• Sponsorship: Recognized student organizations
• Knowledge: What they knew or should have known
• Control: Over members and activities
• Foreseeability: Off-campus hazing is predictable and common

Major cases like Pi Delta Psi (retreat hazing) and Sigma Pi (unofficial house) occurred off-campus and still resulted in multi-million-dollar judgments.

Q: Will my child’s name be public?
Most hazing cases settle confidentially before trial. We can request sealed court records and confidential settlement terms. While media sometimes covers high-profile cases initially, we prioritize your family’s privacy throughout the process.

Q: How much does it cost to hire your firm?
We work on a contingency fee basis for hazing cases. This means:

• No upfront costs
• No hourly fees
• We only get paid if we recover money for you
• Fees are a percentage of the recovery
• Case expenses are advanced by the firm and repaid from recovery

This model ensures access to justice regardless of family resources.

Q: What if my child is afraid to report?
We understand this fear. Approaches include:

• Anonymous reporting: Through university hotlines or national hazing hotlines
• Attorney as intermediary: We can communicate with university while protecting identity
• Medical privacy laws: Certain disclosures to healthcare providers are protected
• Good-faith reporter immunity: Texas law protects those who report in good faith

Q: Can we pursue both criminal and civil cases?
Yes, and we often recommend it. The processes are separate:

• Criminal: DA decides whether to file charges; goal is punishment
• Civil: We file lawsuit on your behalf; goal is compensation and accountability

Evidence from criminal case can strengthen civil claim, and civil discovery can uncover evidence prosecutors missed.

Q: What if the fraternity has already been suspended?
Suspension doesn’t eliminate liability. In fact, it may strengthen your case by showing:

• The university recognized serious misconduct occurred
• The organization was on notice about problems
• Prior warnings or violations may exist

Even “underground” continuing operations can create liability.

Why Choose The Manginello Law Firm for Your Texas Hazing Case

When your family faces the trauma of hazing, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how powerful institutions fight back—and how to win anyway.

Our Unique Qualifications for Hazing Litigation

Insurance Insider Advantage – Lupe Peña’s Defense Background
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 for “intentional acts”
• Set reserves and negotiate settlements

We know their playbook because we used to run it. This insider knowledge is invaluable when fighting for your family.

Complex Institutional Litigation Experience – Ralph Manginello’s Track Record
Ralph Manginello is one of the few Texas attorneys involved in BP Texas City explosion litigation—taking on billion-dollar corporations with unlimited legal resources. This experience directly applies to hazing cases where we face:

• National fraternities with deep pockets
• University legal teams
• Sophisticated defense strategies
• Multi-defendant coordination

We’ve taken on the biggest defendants and won. We won’t be intimidated.

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death and Catastrophic Injury Results
Our firm has recovered millions for families in complex wrongful death and injury cases. We understand how to:

• Work with economists to value lifetime care needs
• Develop life care plans for brain injuries and permanent disabilities
• Prove non-economic damages (pain, suffering, emotional distress)
• Negotiate from strength, not desperation

We don’t settle cheap. We build cases that force real accountability.

Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise
Ralph Manginello’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) gives us unique insight into:

• How criminal hazing charges work
• Interactions between criminal and civil cases
• Defending witnesses or former members with dual exposure
• Constitutional issues in campus investigations

We understand all sides of hazing cases.

Investigative Depth and Expert Network
We deploy resources typically reserved for largest personal injury cases:

• Digital forensics experts: Recover deleted messages and social media
• Medical specialists: Document injuries and long-term consequences
• Greek life experts: Understand organizational culture and patterns
• Economists: Calculate lifetime damages
• Psychologists: Document emotional trauma and PTSD

We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does.

Our Texas Roots and Commitment

Deep Texas Connections

• Ralph Manginello: UT Austin undergraduate, grew up in Houston, practicing in Texas since 1998
• Lupe Peña: 3rd generation Texan, born and raised in Sugar Land, Saint Mary’s University graduate
• Offices: Houston, Austin, and Beaumont—serving families throughout Texas

Spanish Language Services
Mr. Peña speaks fluent Spanish. We serve Hispanic families across Texas with culturally competent representation.

24/7 Availability
As the Legal Emergency Lawyers™, we’re available when you need us most—including nights, weekends, and holidays.

What Sets Us Apart

We Understand Greek Life Realities
We know how fraternities, sororities, and Corps programs actually operate—the traditions, the secrecy, the social pressures. This isn’t theoretical; we’re currently litigating major hazing cases right now.

Data-Driven Investigation
Our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine—tracking 1,423 Greek organizations across 25 Texas metros—means we don’t start from scratch. We already know the organizations, their structures, and often their prior issues.

Trial-Ready Approach
Universities and fraternities know which lawyers will actually go to trial. Our federal court experience and trial record change how they negotiate from day one.

Victim-Centered Advocacy
We remember that behind every case is a family in pain. We’re not just case processors—we’re advocates seeking answers, accountability, and prevention of future harm.

Your Next Steps: Free Consultation with Texas Hazing Experts

If you suspect your child has been hazed at any Texas university—or if they’ve been injured during initiation, pledging, or team activities—we encourage you to contact us for a confidential, no-obligation consultation.

What to Expect in Your Free Consultation

1. We Listen Without Judgment
   Tell us what happened in your own words. We understand this is difficult and emotional.

2. Evidence Review
   We’ll look at any evidence you’ve preserved (photos, messages, medical records) and advise on additional preservation.

3. Legal Options Explained
   We’ll explain your family’s rights under Texas law and discuss possible approaches:

   • Criminal reporting
   • Civil lawsuit
   • University disciplinary process
   • Combination of approaches
   • Doing nothing (always an option)

4. Realistic Assessment
   We’ll give you our honest assessment of:

   • Case strengths and challenges
   • Likely defendants
   • Potential damages
   • Timeline expectations
   • Costs and fee structure

5. No Pressure Decision
   Take time to think about it. We never pressure families to hire us immediately.

How to Contact Us

Call: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct: (713) 528-9070
24/7 Cell: (713) 443-4781
Website: https://attorney911.com
Email: ralph@atty911.com (Ralph Manginello) or lupe@atty911.com (Lupe Peña)

Spanish Services: Hablamos Español • Contacte a Lupe Peña a lupe@atty911.com

Serving Families Throughout Texas

While our offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we serve hazing victims and their families across Texas, including those in Runnels County and throughout central Texas. Whether your child attends school near home or hours away, Texas hazing law applies, and experienced Texas counsel can help.

Don’t Face This Alone

Hazing cases are complex, emotional, and often fought against well-funded opponents. But you don’t have to navigate this alone. With experienced guidance, proper evidence preservation, and strategic legal action, families can achieve accountability, compensation, and the satisfaction of knowing they’ve helped prevent future harm to other students.

The choices you make in the first days and weeks after discovering hazing can significantly impact your family’s ability to obtain justice. Evidence disappears quickly. Witnesses get coached. Universities circle wagons. National organizations lawyer up.

Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911. Let’s discuss what happened, what your rights are, and how we can help your family move forward.

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 Texas 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