Texas Hazing Lawsuits: A Complete Guide for Horseshoe Bay & Llano County Families

If your child is attending a Texas university and you notice unexplained injuries, sudden secrecy, or drastic changes in their personality, you might be witnessing the aftermath of hazing. For families in Horseshoe Bay, Marble Falls, and across the beautiful Highland Lakes region of Llano County, this reality hits close to home. Your children—students from Horseshoe Bay Resort, Marble Falls High School, or nearby communities—often head to major Texas universities where Greek life and campus traditions carry hidden dangers.

Right now, in Houston, we’re fighting one of the most serious hazing cases in Texas history. Leonel Bermudez, a University of Houston student, suffered rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure after alleged hazing by the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter. According to a Click2Houston report on UH Pi Kappa Phi hazing case, Bermudez was forced through extreme workouts, humiliation with a “pledge fanny pack,” and simulated waterboarding. He passed brown urine and was hospitalized for four days. The chapter has since been shut down, but his story represents what Texas families across our state face.

This comprehensive guide explains what hazing looks like in 2025, Texas legal protections, and what Horseshoe Bay families need to know about universities where your children might study.

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 in Texas Universities

Hazing has evolved far beyond simple initiation rituals. For Horseshoe Bay families sending students to universities across Texas, understanding these modern patterns is crucial.

Clear, Modern Definition of Hazing

Hazing means any forced, coerced, or strongly pressured action tied to joining, keeping membership, or gaining status in a group, where the behavior endangers physical or mental health, humiliates, or exploits. Under Texas law, “I agreed to it” does not automatically make it safe or legal when there is peer pressure and power imbalance.

Main Categories of Hazing Affecting Texas Students

Alcohol and Substance Hazing
This remains the most common and deadly form. It includes forced drinking games, “lineups” where pledges drink rapidly, “Big/Little” nights with handle-sized alcohol portions, and pressure to consume unknown substances. The Leonel Bermudez case at UH involved forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting.

Physical Hazing
Extreme calisthenics far exceed normal workouts. In the UH Pi Kappa Phi case, Bermudez was forced through 100+ push-ups and 500 squats in a single session. Other physical hazing includes paddling, beatings, sleep deprivation, food/water restriction, and exposure to extreme temperatures.

Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing
This includes forced nudity, simulated sexual acts, degrading costumes, and acts with racial or sexist overtones. The “pledge fanny pack” in the UH case contained condoms and sex toys as part of daily humiliation.

Psychological Hazing
Verbal abuse, threats, isolation, manipulation, and public shaming break down mental resilience. Group chat monitoring creates 24/7 psychological pressure.

Digital/Online Hazing
New members face group chat dares, “challenges” on Instagram and TikTok, and pressure to create compromising content. Geo-tracking through apps like Find My Friends creates constant surveillance.

Where Hazing Actually Happens

While fraternities and sororities receive most attention, hazing occurs in:

Corps of Cadets and ROTC programs
Athletic teams including football, basketball, and baseball
Spirit squads and tradition-based groups
Marching bands and performance groups
Some academic and service organizations

The common thread across all groups: social status, tradition, and secrecy keep dangerous practices alive even when everyone knows they’re illegal.

Texas Hazing Law & Liability Framework: What Horseshoe Bay Families Need to Know

Texas has specific legal protections against hazing, but understanding how they work is essential for Llano County families seeking accountability.

Texas Hazing Law Basics (Education Code Chapter 37)

Texas Education Code defines hazing as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, directed against a student that endangers mental or physical health and occurs for purposes of pledging, initiation, affiliation, or maintaining membership.

Key Provisions for Texas Families:

Criminal Penalties: Hazing is a Class B misdemeanor, but becomes a state jail felony if it causes serious bodily injury or death
Organizational Liability: Fraternities, sororities, and other organizations can face fines up to $10,000 per violation
Consent is NOT a Defense: Texas law explicitly states that victim consent doesn’t excuse hazing
Good-Faith Reporting Protection: Those who report hazing in good faith receive immunity from civil or criminal liability

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding the Difference

Criminal Cases

Brought by the state (district attorney’s office)
Aim: Punishment through jail time, fines, probation
Common charges: Hazing, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, manslaughter in fatal cases
Example: In the UH Pi Kappa Phi case, criminal referrals were made to law enforcement

Civil Cases

Brought by victims or surviving families
Aim: Monetary compensation and institutional accountability
Focus: Negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision, emotional distress
Important: A criminal conviction isn’t required to pursue a civil case

Federal Law Overlay Affecting Texas Universities

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024)
Requires colleges receiving federal aid to transparently report hazing incidents, strengthen prevention programs, and maintain public hazing data by 2026.

Title IX and Clery Act
When hazing involves sexual harassment or assault, Title IX obligations trigger. The Clery Act requires reporting certain crimes—hazing often overlaps with assault and alcohol violations.

Who Can Be Liable in a Texas Hazing Lawsuit

Individual Students
Those who planned, supplied alcohol, carried out acts, or helped cover them up. In the UH case, 13 individual fraternity members were named.

Local Chapter/Organization
The fraternity/sorority itself if it’s a legal entity. The Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu housing corporation was named in the UH lawsuit.

National Fraternity/Sorority
Headquarters that set policies, receive dues, and supervise chapters. Pi Kappa Phi’s national headquarters faces liability in the UH case.

University or Governing Board
Schools may be sued under negligence theories. The University of Houston and UH System Board of Regents are defendants in the Bermudez case.

Third Parties
Landlords of event spaces, alcohol providers under dram shop laws, and security companies.

National Hazing Case Patterns: Lessons for Texas Families

Major national cases show patterns that repeat across campuses, including here in Texas. Understanding these patterns helps Horseshoe Bay families recognize danger signs.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

Timothy Piazza – Penn State, Beta Theta Pi (2017)
Bid-acceptance event with forced drinking led to fatal falls. Security cameras captured delayed medical response. Result: Dozens of criminal charges, civil litigation, and Pennsylvania’s Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law.

Andrew Coffey – Florida State, Pi Kappa Phi (2017)
“Big Brother Night” with handle of liquor caused fatal alcohol poisoning. Result: Criminal charges, FSU Greek life suspension, policy overhaul.

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)
“Bible study” drinking game with wrong answers requiring drinking led to death (BAC 0.495%). Result: Felony hazing law (Max Gruver Act) in Louisiana.

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021)
Forced to drink nearly a full bottle of whiskey during pledge night. Result: $10 million settlement ($7M from national Pi Kappa Alpha, ~$3M from BGSU).

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013)
Blindfolded “glass ceiling” ritual at retreat caused fatal head injuries with delayed help. Result: National fraternity convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter, banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years.

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Northwestern University Football (2023–2025)
Former players alleged sexualized, racist hazing within the program. Result: Multiple lawsuits, head coach fired, confidential settlements.

What These Cases Mean for Horseshoe Bay Families

Common threads in all major cases: forced drinking, humiliation, violence, delayed medical care, and cover-ups. Reforms and multi-million-dollar settlements typically follow only after tragedy and litigation. Texas families facing hazing at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, or Baylor aren’t alone—they’re operating in a landscape shaped by these national lessons.

Texas University Focus: Where Horseshoe Bay Students Attend

Families in Horseshoe Bay and Llano County typically send students to universities across Central Texas and beyond. Understanding each campus’s hazing landscape is essential.

University of Houston: Current Crisis and Historical Patterns

Campus & Culture Snapshot
UH’s large urban campus hosts active Greek life with multiple councils: Interfraternity Council, Panhellenic Council, Multicultural Greek Council, United Greek Council, and National Pan-Hellenic Council. The recent Pi Kappa Phi case demonstrates severe risks.

UH Hazing Policy & Reporting
UH prohibits hazing on or off campus, including forced consumption, sleep deprivation, physical mistreatment, and mental distress. Reporting channels include the Dean of Students, Office of Student Conduct, and campus police.

Documented Incident: The Leonel Bermudez Case
According to ABC13 coverage of Leonel Bermudez’s UH hazing lawsuit, Bermudez endured:

September-October: Forced dress codes, overnight chauffeuring, humiliating fanny-pack rule
October 13: Another pledge hog-tied face-down with object in mouth for over an hour
November 3: 100+ push-ups, 500 squats under expulsion threats
November 6-9: Hospitalization with rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure

The chapter was suspended November 6 and surrendered its charter November 14, 2025.

How a UH Hazing Case Proceeds
Cases may involve UHPD or Houston Police Department depending on location. Civil suits typically file in Harris County courts. The Bermudez case shows comprehensive defendant targeting: individuals, local chapter, housing corporation, national headquarters, UH, and UH System Board of Regents.

What UH Students & Parents Should Do

Report immediately to UH Dean of Students Office
Document everything with our video on using your phone to document evidence
Preserve group chats from GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage
Seek medical attention and request complete records
Contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 before discussing with university administrators

Texas A&M University: Corps Culture and Greek Life Risks

Campus & Culture Snapshot
Texas A&M’s Corps of Cadets creates unique hazing risks alongside traditional Greek life. The university hosts numerous fraternities and sororities across multiple councils.

Documented Incidents at Texas A&M

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (2021): Pledges allegedly covered in industrial-strength cleaner, causing severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries. $1 million lawsuit filed.
Corps of Cadets Lawsuit (2023): Cadet alleged degrading hazing including simulated sexual acts and being bound in “roasted pig” position. Sought over $1 million in damages.

How Texas A&M Handles Hazing
Student Conduct Office investigates with possible Corps disciplinary proceedings. Civil cases may focus on Greek life and Corps traditions simultaneously.

What Texas A&M Families Should Know

Both Greek organizations and Corps units have hazing histories
Document injuries immediately with photographs
Report to Student Conduct Office and Corps leadership if applicable
Understand that university “internal resolution” may not provide adequate accountability

University of Texas at Austin: Transparency and Recurring Violations

Campus & Culture Snapshot
UT’s large Greek system includes approximately 60 fraternity/sorority chapters across multiple councils. The university maintains public hazing violation records.

UT’s Public Hazing Violations Page
UT posts detailed violations including organization names, dates, conduct descriptions, and sanctions. Recent entries include:

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics. Sanction: Probation with hazing-prevention education.
Texas Wranglers (2022): Spirit organization sanctioned for forced workouts and alcohol-related hazing.
Multiple other organizations with violations for alcohol hazing, physical abuse, and humiliation.

How UT Hazing Cases Proceed
Cases may involve UTPD or Austin Police Department. UT’s public violation records provide powerful evidence of pattern and knowledge in civil litigation.

What UT Students & Parents Should Do

Check UT’s public hazing violation database for organization history
Report through Dean of Students Office or online reporting forms
Document evidence before it disappears
Understand that prior violations strengthen civil cases through pattern evidence

Southern Methodist University: Private University Challenges

Campus & Culture Snapshot
SMU’s affluent campus hosts strong Greek presence with Panhellenic sororities and Interfraternity Council chapters. Private university status affects transparency.

Documented Incident

Kappa Alpha Order (2017): New members reportedly paddled, forced to drink alcohol, deprived of sleep. Chapter suspended with recruiting restrictions until approximately 2021.

SMU’s Hazing Prevention
SMU offers anonymous reporting through systems like Real Response. Private university status means less public disclosure than public institutions.

What SMU Families Should Know

Civil lawsuits can compel discovery even when internal reports aren’t public
Document everything as private universities may control narratives
Report through multiple channels: Student Affairs, anonymous hotlines, and legal counsel

Baylor University: Religious Identity and Oversight Challenges

Campus & Culture Snapshot
Baylor’s religious identity coexists with Greek life and athletic programs. The university’s history with football sexual assault scandals informs current hazing oversight.

Documented Incident

Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020): 14 players suspended following hazing investigation with staggered suspensions.

Baylor’s Hazing Context
Baylor’s “zero tolerance” policies face challenges against tradition and secrecy. Civil cases must navigate religious branding and institutional protectionism.

What Baylor Families Should Do

Document through medical records and photographs
Report to Student Conduct Office but understand limitations
Consider legal counsel early as religious institutions may have different risk calculations

Public Records Directory: Fraternities, Sororities & Greek Organizations Serving Horseshoe Bay Families

If you are a parent in Horseshoe Bay or Llano County, you deserve to know who really stands behind the Greek organizations connected to your child. Attorney911 maintains an unmatched Texas Greek-life data engine tracking 1,423 organizations across 25 Texas metros. Below are real public records examples showing the organizational landscape your student may encounter.

Texas-Registered Greek Organizations (IRS B83 Filings)

These organizations are registered with the IRS as tax-exempt Greek-letter entities:

KAPPA SIGMA – MU CAMMA CHAPTER INC (EIN 133048786) – 3007 EARL RUDDER FWY S, COLLEGE STATION, TX 77845-6681 (IRS B83 filing)
GAMMA PHI BETA SORORITY INC (EIN 161675890) – 115 WILD WICK WAY, THE WOODLANDS, TX 77382-1822 (IRS B83 filing, ZETA RHO HCB)
SIGMA PHI LAMBDA INC (EIN 201237505) – 4251 FM 2181 STE 230 PMB 480, CORINTH, TX 76210-4202 (IRS B83 filing, BETA CHAPTER)
ALPHA EPSILON PI FRATERNITY (EIN 262025321) – 920 W PRAIRIE ST, DENTON, TX 76201-5816 (IRS B83 filing, MU GAMMA CHAPTER)
PI KAPPA PHI DELTA OMEGA CHAPTER BUILDING CORPORATION (EIN 371768785) – 4102 EASTSHORE ST, MISSOURI CITY, TX 77459-1820 (IRS B83 filing)
BETA NU PI KAPPA PHI FRATERNITY HOUSING CORPORATION INC (EIN 462267515) – 10601 BIG HORN TRL, FRISCO, TX 75035-6629 (IRS B83 filing)
ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC (EIN 475370943) – 5019 CALHOUN RD, HOUSTON, TX 77204-7005 (IRS B83 filing, THETA DELTA)
CHI OMEGA FRATERNITY (EIN 740555581) – 2711 RIO GRANDE ST, AUSTIN, TX 78705-4018 (IRS B83 filing, CHI OMEGA HOUSE CORPORATION)
SIGMA CHI FRATERNITY EPSILON XI CHAPTER (EIN 746084905) – 4300 MARTIN LUTHER KING BLVD, HOUSTON, TX 77204-3067 (IRS B83 filing)
PI KAPPA ALPHA FRATERNITY (EIN 746064445) – 1855 HIGHWAY 69 N, NEDERLAND, TX 77627-8843 (IRS B83 filing, EPSILON KAPPA CHAPTER)

Major Texas Universities Horseshoe Bay Families Send Students To

Based on our Texas Universities database and realistic patterns for Highland Lakes region families:

Primary Universities for Horseshoe Bay/LLano County Students:

Texas State University (San Marcos, Hays County) – 65 miles from Horseshoe Bay
University of Texas at Austin (Travis County) – 75 miles from Horseshoe Bay
Texas A&M University (College Station, Brazos County) – 150 miles from Horseshoe Bay
Baylor University (Waco, McLennan County) – 85 miles from Horseshoe Bay
University of Texas at San Antonio (Bexar County) – 95 miles from Horseshoe Bay
Texas Tech University (Lubbock, Lubbock County) – 335 miles from Horseshoe Bay
Texas Christian University (Fort Worth, Tarrant County) – 135 miles from Horseshoe Bay

Additional Regional Options:

Schreiner University (Kerrville, Kerr County) – 45 miles from Horseshoe Bay
Concordia University Texas (Austin, Travis County) – 70 miles from Horseshoe Bay
Southwestern University (Georgetown, Williamson County) – 55 miles from Horseshoe Bay

Metro Greek Organization Concentrations

From our Cause IQ metro data analysis:

Austin-Round Rock Metro (154 Greek organizations):

Sigma Alpha Epsilon – Texas Rho Corp. (Austin – University of Texas chapter house corporation)
Delta Tau Delta – Gamma Iota Chapter (Austin – University of Texas chapter house)
Beta Xi House Corp. of Kappa Kappa Gamma (Austin – University of Texas chapter house corporation)

Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington Metro (510 Greek organizations):

Beta Upsilon Chi Fraternity (Fort Worth – 12650 N Beach St #30, Suite 114, Fort Worth, TX 76244)
Texas Kappa Sigma Educational Foundation (Fort Worth – Kappa Sigma housing foundation)

Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land Metro (188 Greek organizations):

Texas District of Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity (Houston – Alumni/house corporation)
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority – Houston Alumnae (Houston)

Cross-Validated Brands (IRS-Cause IQ Matches)
These organizations appear in both IRS and metro data, showing how national brands operate across Texas:

Beta Upsilon Chi (Fort Worth – appears in both IRS B83 and Cause IQ DFW data)
Texas Kappa Sigma Educational Foundation (Fort Worth – both sources)
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority (multiple Texas locations – both sources)

Why This Directory Matters for Horseshoe Bay Families

We maintain this comprehensive directory so families never start from zero when hazing occurs. We already know the names, EINs, and mailing addresses of organizations that may hold insurance and responsibility. This investigative foundation lets us immediately identify all potentially liable entities—local chapters, housing corporations, alumni associations, and national headquarters.

Fraternities & Sororities: Campus-Specific + National Histories

Connecting local chapter conduct to national organization patterns is crucial for building strong hazing cases. National histories show foreseeability—proof that organizations knew or should have known about risks.

Why National Histories Matter

National fraternities and sororities maintain anti-hazing policies precisely because they’ve seen deaths and injuries repeatedly. When a Texas chapter repeats patterns that caused tragedies elsewhere, that demonstrates negligence and supports punitive damages arguments.

Organization Patterns at Texas Universities

Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ)

National Pattern: Stone Foltz death (BGSU 2021) – forced drinking, $10M settlement; David Bogenberger death (NIU 2012) – $14M settlement
Texas Presence: Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, Baylor
Legal Significance: National knew alcohol hazing risks but patterns continue

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ)

National Pattern: Multiple hazing deaths nationwide; traumatic brain injury lawsuit (University of Alabama 2023); chemical burns case (Texas A&M 2021)
Texas Presence: Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU
Legal Significance: Pattern of severe physical and alcohol hazing across chapters

Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ)

National Pattern: Andrew Coffey death (FSU 2017) – Big Brother Night drinking
Texas Presence: Chapter at UH (Beta Nu – now closed), other Texas campuses
Legal Significance: Current UH case shows same forced drinking patterns despite national awareness

Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ)

National Pattern: Max Gruver death (LSU 2017) – Bible study drinking game, Louisiana felony hazing law
Texas Presence: Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, Baylor
Legal Significance: National aware of drinking game dangers

Kappa Alpha Order (ΚΑ)

National Pattern: Multiple hazing suspensions including SMU chapter (2017)
Texas Presence: Chapters at Texas A&M, SMU, other Texas schools
Legal Significance: Physical hazing traditions persist despite suspensions

How National Patterns Strengthen Texas Cases

In civil litigation, we demonstrate:

Nationals received prior complaints about similar conduct
Nationals failed to enforce their own anti-hazing policies
Nationals continued collecting dues and maintaining relationships with dangerous chapters
Nationals provided inadequate supervision or training

This pattern evidence can overcome defenses like “rogue chapter” or “we didn’t know.”

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Damages, and Strategy for Texas Families

Successful hazing litigation requires sophisticated evidence collection and strategic case building. Here’s how we approach these complex cases for Horseshoe Bay families.

Critical Evidence Categories

Digital Communications

GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord messages showing planning, coordination, and admissions
Deleted message recovery through digital forensics
Social media posts, stories, and comments documenting events
Email communications between members and nationals

Photos & Videos

Content filmed during hazing events (often shared in group chats)
Security camera footage from houses and venues
Injury documentation with timestamps

Internal Organization Documents

Pledge manuals, initiation scripts, tradition lists
Risk management policies and training materials
Communication between local chapters and national headquarters

University Records

Prior conduct files and disciplinary history
Incident reports to campus police
Clery Act reports and safety disclosures
Internal emails about organization oversight

Medical & Psychological Records

Emergency room reports documenting injuries
Toxicology reports showing alcohol/drug levels
Psychological evaluations diagnosing PTSD, depression, anxiety
Long-term treatment plans for permanent injuries

Witness Testimony

Other pledges who experienced same hazing
Former members who quit due to abuse
Roommates, RAs, bystanders who observed behavior
Medical professionals who treated injuries

Damages Recovery in Hazing Cases

Economic Damages

Medical bills (ER, hospitalization, surgery, ongoing treatment)
Future medical care (therapy, medications, life care plans)
Lost earnings and educational costs (missed semesters, delayed graduation)
Diminished earning capacity for permanent disabilities

Non-Economic Damages

Physical pain and suffering
Emotional distress, trauma, humiliation
Loss of enjoyment of life
Damage to relationships and social functioning

Wrongful Death Damages

Funeral and burial expenses
Loss of financial support and companionship
Emotional suffering of family members
Parents’ and siblings’ mental health treatment

Punitive Damages

Available for reckless, willful, or malicious conduct
Requires showing prior warnings ignored or cover-up attempts
Texas has statutory caps with exceptions for intentional conduct

Insurance Coverage Strategy

Fraternity and university insurance companies often argue hazing is excluded as “intentional conduct.” We counter with:

Negligent Supervision Claims
Even if hazing was intentional, nationals’ and universities’ failure to supervise was negligent and may be covered.

Multiple Policy Identification
We identify all potential policies: chapter liability, national umbrella, university insurance, individual homeowner’s policies.

Bad Faith Litigation
If insurers wrongfully deny coverage, we pursue bad faith claims for additional damages.

Practical Guides & FAQs for Horseshoe Bay Families

Immediate, actionable guidance for different stakeholders facing hazing situations.

For Parents: Warning Signs and Response Steps

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Hazed

Unexplained bruises, burns, or injuries with inconsistent explanations
Extreme exhaustion beyond normal college stress
Weight changes from food/water restriction
Sleep deprivation (late-night calls, 3 AM wake-ups)
Sudden secrecy about organization activities
Withdrawal from family and non-Greek friends
Personality changes: anxiety, depression, irritability
Constant phone monitoring for group chat demands
Financial strain from unexpected “fines” or purchases

How to Talk to Your Child

Ask open questions: “How are things going with [organization]?”
Express concern without judgment: “I notice you seem exhausted lately.”
Emphasize safety: “Your health matters more than any group.”
Offer unconditional support: “You can always come home, no questions asked.”

If Your Child Is Injured

Medical care first: ER evaluation even if they insist they’re “fine”
Document everything: Photograph injuries, screenshot messages
Preserve evidence: Don’t wash clothing, save physical objects
Write contemporaneous notes: Who, what, when, where details
Contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 before talking to university or organization

For Students: Self-Assessment and Safety Planning

Is This Hazing? Decision Questions

Am I being forced or pressured to do something unsafe?
Would I do this if I had a real choice without social consequences?
Is this activity dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
Would my parents or university approve if they knew details?
Am I being told to keep secrets or lie about activities?

If You Answer YES to Any Question

Immediate danger: Call 911 or campus police
Medical emergency: Get to ER or student health immediately
Exit strategy: You have legal right to leave any time
Reporting options: Dean of Students, campus police, National Anti-Hazing Hotline
Evidence preservation: Screenshot messages, photograph injuries, save objects

Texas Good-Faith Reporting Protection
Texas law protects those who report hazing in good faith. You won’t face university discipline for reporting, even if you were drinking underage.

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Hazing Case

1. Letting Your Child Delete Evidence
What families think: “I don’t want them to get in more trouble.”
Why it’s wrong: Looks like cover-up, can be obstruction of justice.
Instead: Preserve everything immediately using our evidence documentation video guidance.

2. Confronting the Fraternity/Sorority Directly
What families think: “I’ll give them a piece of my mind.”
Why it’s wrong: They immediately lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses.
Instead: Document everything, contact Attorney911, let us handle communication.

3. Signing University “Resolution” Forms
What universities do: Pressure quick settlements with liability waivers.
Why it’s wrong: You may waive rights to adequate compensation.
Instead: Never sign anything without attorney review.

4. Posting on Social Media Before Legal Advice
What families think: “I want people to know what happened.”
Why it’s wrong: Defense attorneys screenshot everything; inconsistencies hurt credibility.
Instead: Document privately, let your attorney control public messaging.

5. Waiting “to See How the University Handles It”
What universities promise: “We’re investigating internally.”
Why it’s wrong: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs.
Instead: Preserve evidence now, consult attorney immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions for Texas Families

“Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT) have sovereign immunity limitations, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and when suing individuals. Private universities (SMU, Baylor) have fewer immunity protections. Every case is fact-specific—contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for case analysis.

“Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
It can be. Texas classifies hazing as Class B misdemeanor by default, but it becomes a state jail felony if hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. The Leonel Bermudez UH case involves felony-level injuries.

“Can my child bring a case if they ‘agreed’ to the initiation?”
Yes. Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states consent is not a defense to hazing. Courts recognize that “consent” under peer pressure and power imbalance isn’t true voluntary consent.

“How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?”
Generally 2 years from injury or death date in Texas, but the “discovery rule” may extend this if harm wasn’t immediately known. In cover-up cases, the statute may be tolled. Time is critical—watch our statute of limitations video and call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately.

“What if hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?”
Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and nationals can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, knowledge, and foreseeability. The Pi Delta Psi fatal retreat and many other major cases occurred off-campus.

“Will my child’s name be public?”
Most hazing cases settle confidentially before trial. We prioritize family privacy while pursuing accountability. You can request sealed court records and confidential settlement terms.

“How much does it cost to hire Attorney911?”
We work on contingency fee—you pay nothing unless we win. Watch our contingency fee explanation video for details.

Why Attorney911 for Texas Hazing Cases: Our Competitive Advantages

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

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
Deploy Independent Medical Exams to reduce settlements
Argue coverage exclusions for “intentional acts”

“We know their playbook because we used to run it.” This insider knowledge is invaluable when negotiating with insurers who assume families don’t understand their tactics.

Complex Institutional Litigation Experience: Ralph Manginello’s Credentials

Mr. Ralph Manginello brings unique qualifications for hazing cases:

BP Texas City Explosion Litigation: One of few Texas firms involved, proving capability against billion-dollar defendants
Federal Court Experience: U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas admission for Title IX and complex litigation
HCCLA Membership: Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association membership signals elite criminal defense capability
25+ Years Practice: Handling high-stakes cases since 1998

“We’ve taken on corporations with unlimited legal budgets. National fraternities and universities don’t intimidate us.”

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death & Catastrophic Injury Results

Our proven track record includes:

Logging accident brain injury with vision loss: Multi-million dollar settlement
Car accident leading to partial amputation: Multi-million dollar settlement
Trucking wrongful death cases: Millions recovered for families
Maritime back injury with significant settlement

We work with economists, life care planners, and medical experts to build comprehensive damage models that force serious settlement negotiations.

Dual Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise

Ralph’s HCCLA membership means we understand:

How criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation
How to advise witnesses/former members with dual exposure
Constitutional challenges to unlawful searches of fraternity houses
Witness cooperation agreements and immunity negotiations

Investigative Depth & Expert Network

We deploy specialized resources for hazing cases:

Digital forensics experts to recover deleted messages
Medical experts for rhabdomyolysis, TBI, PTSD testimony
Greek life culture experts to explain coercion dynamics
Economists for lifetime earning capacity calculations
Psychologists for trauma assessment and treatment planning

Spanish-Language Services

Mr. Peña speaks fluent Spanish, serving Hispanic families throughout Texas. Hablamos Español – contact Lupe at lupe@atty911.com for consultation in Spanish.

Call to Action: Confidential Consultation for Horseshoe Bay Families

If you or your child experienced hazing at any Texas campus—whether University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, or any other school—we want to hear from you. Families in Horseshoe Bay, Marble Falls, Llano County, and throughout the Highland Lakes region have the right to answers and accountability.

What to Expect in Your Free Consultation

When you contact Attorney911, you’ll receive:

Compassionate Listening: We’ll hear your story without judgment
Evidence Review: We’ll examine photos, messages, medical records you’ve preserved
Legal Options Explained: We’ll outline criminal reporting, civil lawsuits, or both
Realistic Assessment: We’ll discuss case strengths, challenges, and realistic timelines
Cost Transparency: We’ll explain our contingency fee structure—you pay nothing unless we win
No Pressure: Take time to decide—no immediate commitment required

Immediate Contact Information

Call Attorney911 Now: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct Line: (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 Available

Hablamos Español – Contact Lupe Peña at lupe@atty911.com for consultation in Spanish. Servicios legales en español disponibles.

Your Next Steps

Preserve evidence using guidance from our evidence documentation video
Document everything in writing while memories are fresh
Seek medical attention and obtain complete records
Contact Attorney911 before talking to university or insurance representatives
Let us investigate while you focus on your family’s healing

Whether you’re in Horseshoe Bay or anywhere across Texas, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone. The institutions responsible for your child’s safety must be held accountable. Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate, confidential consultation.

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

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

News Coverage of Leonel Bermudez / UH Pi Kappa Phi Case:

Attorney911 Educational Videos:

Evidence documentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs
Statute of limitations: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c
Client mistakes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY
Contingency fees: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

Attorney911 Main Website:

https://attorney911.com