The Complete Guide to Hazing Laws and Fraternity Accountability for Uhland, Texas Families

Imagine getting a call from your child at Texas State University in San Marcos. Their voice is shaky. They tell you about a “pledge event” that went too far. They were forced through extreme workouts until they couldn’t stand, pressured to consume things that made them violently ill, or subjected to humiliating treatment while older fraternity members filmed it on their phones. They’re scared, injured, and don’t know what to do next. As a parent in Uhland, located right here in Hays County, your child attending Texas State University, the University of Texas at Austin, or any Texas campus is not just a hypothetical concern—it’s a real risk that Texas families face every year.

Right now, in Houston, our firm is actively litigating one of the most serious hazing cases in Texas. We represent Leonel Bermudez in his $10 million lawsuit against the University of Houston and the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter. According to detailed media reports, Bermudez was subjected to brutal hazing that included forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting, being sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding,” and extreme physical workouts that led to rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure—he was hospitalized for four days after passing brown urine. The chapter has since been shut down, but the physical and psychological damage remains. This case proves that severe, dangerous hazing is happening at Texas universities right now.

This comprehensive guide is written specifically for families in Uhland, Kyle, San Marcos, and throughout Hays County who need to understand what hazing really looks like in 2025, how Texas law protects students, and what legal options exist when things go wrong. Whether your child attends Texas State University right here in our county, or has gone further to UT Austin, Texas A&M, or any other Texas campus, the information here applies to your family.

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 Beyond the Stereotypes

Hazing has evolved far beyond the caricatures of “animal house” pranks. For Central Texas families in Uhland, Buda, Kyle, and San Marcos, understanding modern hazing is crucial because your children are encountering these practices right now at Texas State University and other campuses.

The Modern Definition of Hazing

Hazing is 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. Crucially, “I agreed to it” does not automatically make it safe or legal when there is peer pressure and power imbalance. Texas law explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing charges.

Main Categories of Contemporary Hazing

Alcohol and Substance Hazing
This remains the most common and most deadly form. It includes forced or coerced drinking during “bid acceptance” nights, “Big/Little reveals,” drinking games like “Bible study” where wrong answers mean shots, and lineups where pledges must consume dangerous amounts rapidly. The Leonel Bermudez UH case involved forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting.

Physical Hazing
This includes paddling and beatings (still occurring despite national bans), extreme calisthenics or “smokings” far beyond normal conditioning, sleep deprivation during “hell week,” food/water restriction, and exposure to extreme temperatures. In the UH Pi Kappa Phi case, Bermudez was forced through 100+ push-ups and 500 squats in a single session, and was made to lie in vomit-soaked grass.

Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing
This includes forced nudity or partial nudity, simulated sexual acts, “roasted pig” positions (a documented issue in Texas A&M Corps cases), degrading costumes, and acts with racial or sexist overtones. The “pledge fanny pack” in the UH case contained humiliating items like condoms and sex toys that pledges had to carry 24/7.

Psychological Hazing
Verbal abuse, threats, isolation from non-members, manipulation, forced confessions, and public shaming in meetings or on social media. This creates trauma that can last long after physical injuries heal.

Digital/Online Hazing
Group chat dares and “challenges,” public humiliation via Instagram stories or TikTok videos, pressure to create or share compromising images, and 24/7 accessibility demands where pledges must respond instantly to messages at all hours.

Where Hazing Actually Happens in Texas

While fraternities receive most attention, hazing occurs in:

Fraternities and sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural)
Corps of Cadets/ROTC/military-style groups (particularly at Texas A&M)
Spirit squads and tradition clubs
Athletic teams (football, basketball, baseball, cheer)
Marching bands and performance groups
Some academic and service organizations

The common thread is social status, tradition, and secrecy that keep these practices alive even when everyone “knows” hazing is illegal.

Texas Hazing Law: What Uhland Families Need to Know

Texas has specific anti-hazing provisions in the Education Code that protect students at both public and private institutions. Understanding this framework is essential for Hays County families seeking accountability.

Texas Education Code – Chapter 37, Subchapter F

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:

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

Key Points for Texas Families:

Can happen on or off campus (location doesn’t matter)
Can be mental or physical harm
Intent: Doesn’t have to be malicious; “reckless” is enough (knew the risk and did it anyway)
“Consent is not a defense” (Section 37.155): Even if the victim agreed, it’s still hazing if it meets the definition

Criminal Penalties (Section 37.152):

Class B Misdemeanor: Hazing that doesn’t cause serious injury (up to 180 days jail, fine up to $2,000)
Class A Misdemeanor: If hazing causes injury requiring medical treatment
State Jail Felony: If hazing causes serious bodily injury or death
Also criminal: Failing to report hazing or retaliating against someone who reports

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding the Difference

Criminal Cases:

Brought by the state (prosecutor)
Aim: Punishment (jail, fines, probation)
Typical charges: Hazing offenses, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, battery, 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 accountability
Focus on: Negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision, premises liability, emotional distress
A criminal conviction is not required to pursue a civil case

Federal Law Overlay

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024):

Requires colleges receiving federal aid to report hazing incidents more transparently
Strengthens hazing education and prevention
Maintains public hazing data (phased in by around 2026)

Title IX & Clery Act:

When hazing involves sexual harassment, assault, or gender-based hostility, Title IX obligations trigger
Clery requires reporting certain crimes and maintaining safety statistics

Who Can Be Liable in a Texas Hazing Lawsuit

Individual Students:
Those who planned, supplied alcohol, carried out acts, or helped cover them up

Local Chapter/Organization:
The fraternity/sorority or club itself (if a legal entity)

National Fraternity/Sorority:
Headquarters that set policies, receive dues, and supervise chapters—liable for what they knew or should have known

University or Governing Board:
May be sued under negligence or civil-rights theories depending on prior warnings and policy enforcement

Third Parties:
Landlords/owners of houses or event spaces, bars/alcohol providers under dram shop theories

National Hazing Case Patterns: What Texas Can Learn

Major national cases have shaped hazing laws and established patterns that repeat in Texas. Understanding these helps Hays County families see they’re not facing unique situations.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

Timothy Piazza – Penn State, Beta Theta Pi (2017):
Bid-acceptance event with heavy drinking, severe falls captured on chapter cameras, hours delayed before medical help. Dozens of criminal charges against fraternity members; new Pennsylvania anti-hazing law named after him. Takeaway: Extreme intoxication, delay in calling 911, and culture of silence can be legally devastating.

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021):
Pledge forced to drink nearly a bottle of whiskey during “Big/Little” night; died from alcohol poisoning. Multiple criminal convictions; BGSU agreed to $3 million settlement with family; other settlements with fraternity/individuals. Takeaway: Universities face significant financial and reputational consequences alongside fraternities.

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017):
“Bible study” drinking game; forced to drink when answering questions incorrectly; died from alcohol toxicity (BAC 0.495%). Led to felony hazing law in Louisiana (Max Gruver Act). Takeaway: Legislative change often follows public outrage and clear proof of hazing.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013):
Pledge at fraternity retreat subjected to violent blindfolded “glass ceiling” ritual; suffered fatal head injuries; help was delayed. Multiple members convicted; fraternity banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years. Takeaway: Off-campus “retreats” can be as dangerous as parties, and national orgs face serious sanctions.

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Northwestern University Football (2023–2025):
Former players alleged sexualized, racist hazing within the program over multiple years. Multiple lawsuits against university and staff; head coach fired and later settled wrongful-termination suit confidentially. Takeaway: Hazing extends beyond Greek life into major athletic programs.

What These Cases Mean for Uhland Families

Common threads in these cases—forced drinking, humiliation, violence, delayed medical care, cover-ups—appear repeatedly in Texas incidents. Multi-million-dollar settlements and reforms often follow only after tragedy and litigation. Texas families facing hazing at Texas State, UT Austin, or other campuses are operating in a landscape shaped by these national lessons.

Texas University Focus: Where Uhland Families Send Their Children

Hays County families have deep connections to multiple Texas universities. Understanding the specific landscapes at these campuses is crucial for prevention and response.

Texas State University: Our Hays County Campus

Campus & Culture Snapshot:
As the university located right here in San Marcos, Texas State serves many Uhland and Hays County families. With over 38,000 students, it has active Greek life including Interfraternity Council (IFC) fraternities, Panhellenic sororities, National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) organizations, and multicultural Greek groups. The university also hosts numerous student organizations, athletic teams, and spirit groups where hazing can occur.

Hazing Policy & Reporting:
Texas State University prohibits hazing as defined by Texas law. The Dean of Students Office handles hazing complaints through the Student Justice process. Reporting channels include the Dean of Students Office, University Police Department, and online reporting forms. The university is required to maintain and publish annual reports of hazing violations under Texas law.

Recent Hazing Landscape:
While specific recent public reports vary, Texas State has dealt with hazing allegations across various organizations. Greek organizations have faced disciplinary action for policy violations that constitute hazing under Texas law. The university’s location in a relatively small college town means off-campus hazing at houses and apartments throughout San Marcos is a concern for local families.

How a Texas State Hazing Case Might Proceed:

Involved agencies may include Texas State University Police and/or San Marcos Police Department
Civil suits might be filed in Hays County courts or federal court depending on defendants
Potential defendants: Individual students, the chapter, national fraternity/sorority, potentially the university
For Uhland families: The geographic proximity means easier access to evidence locations and potential witnesses

What Texas State Students & Parents Should Do:

Report hazing to Dean of Students Office: (512) 245-2124 or through online forms
Document everything immediately—Hays County families can often reach campus quickly to help preserve evidence
Understand that off-campus housing in San Marcos doesn’t eliminate university jurisdiction
Contact experienced Texas hazing attorneys who understand Central Texas jurisdiction

University of Texas at Austin

Campus & Culture Snapshot:
Many Uhland and Hays County students attend UT Austin, drawn by its academic reputation and extensive Greek life. UT hosts approximately 60 fraternity/sorority chapters with strong traditions and significant social influence on campus.

UT’s Public Hazing Violations Page:
UT maintains exceptional transparency with its public hazing violations log, regularly updated at hazing.utexas.edu. This resource shows patterns and repeated offenders that families should review.

Documented Incidents Include:

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics; found to be hazing; chapter placed on probation with required hazing-prevention education
Texas Wranglers (spirit organization): Sanctioned for forced workouts and alcohol-related hazing
Sigma Alpha Epsilon (2024): Australian exchange student alleged assault resulting in dislocated leg, broken ligaments, fractured tibia, broken nose; sued chapter for over $1 million

How a UT Hazing Case Might Proceed:

May involve UT Police Department and/or Austin Police Department
Travis County courts typically handle civil litigation
UT’s public violation log provides powerful evidence of pattern and knowledge in civil cases

Texas A&M University

Campus & Culture Snapshot:
With its powerful Corps of Cadets tradition and extensive Greek system, Texas A&M presents unique hazing risks that Uhland families should understand, especially if their student is drawn to military-style discipline or strong tradition.

Corps of Cadets Hazing Issues:

2023 Lawsuit: Cadet alleged degrading hazing including simulated sexual acts and being bound between beds in “roasted pig” pose with apple in mouth; sought over $1 million
A&M stated it handled the matter under its rules, highlighting the closed nature of Corps discipline systems

Fraternity Hazing Cases:

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (~2021): Pledges allegedly covered in substances including industrial-strength cleaner, causing severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries; fraternity suspended for two years; pledges sued for $1 million
Kappa Sigma (2023): Ongoing litigation involving allegations of hazing resulting in rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown)

What College Station Families Should Know:

The Corps and Greek systems often operate with significant autonomy
“Tradition” arguments frequently surface in defense of questionable practices
Brazos County courts handle most local litigation

University of Houston

Campus & Culture Snapshot:
As an urban commuter campus with growing residential population, UH has active Greek life across multiple councils. The recent Pi Kappa Phi case demonstrates serious hazing occurring despite university policies.

The Leonel Bermudez / Pi Kappa Phi Case:
This active case litigated by our firm shows what severe hazing looks like:

Hazing Methods: “Pledge fanny pack” humiliation, forced consumption until vomiting, hose spraying “similar to waterboarding,” extreme workouts (100+ push-ups, 500 squats)
Medical Consequences: Rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney failure, four-day hospitalization
Institutional Response: Chapter suspended then closed; UH called conduct “deeply disturbing”
Legal Action: $10 million lawsuit against UH, Pi Kappa Phi national, housing corporation, and 13 individual members

UH’s Hazing Response System:

Reporting through Dean of Students Office and UHPD
Disciplinary actions often include chapter suspensions
Public transparency less extensive than UT’s system

Southern Methodist University

Campus & Culture Snapshot:
As a private university with affluent student population and strong Greek presence, SMU handles hazing through its own conduct processes with less public transparency than public institutions.

Documented Incidents:

Kappa Alpha Order (2017): New members reportedly paddled, forced to drink alcohol, deprived of sleep; chapter suspended with recruiting restrictions until approximately 2021
Ongoing hazing investigations typically handled through SMU’s conduct system

Private University Considerations:

Less public records availability than state schools
Civil cases can compel discovery of internal reports through litigation
Dallas County courts typically handle litigation

Baylor University

Campus & Culture Snapshot:
Baylor’s religious identity and history of scrutiny over athletic scandals creates unique context for hazing issues. The university has faced multiple high-profile crises requiring cultural examination.

Athletic Hazing Issues:

Baseball Hazing (2020): 14 players suspended following hazing investigation; suspensions staggered over early season
Broader cultural examination following football sexual assault scandal affects how all misconduct is handled

What Waco Families Should Consider:

Baylor’s religious branding can complicate reporting and accountability
“Zero tolerance” policies exist alongside recurring misconduct
McLennan County courts handle local litigation

The Texas Greek Ecosystem: Public Records and Organizational Networks

For Uhland families navigating hazing issues, understanding the complex network of Greek organizations operating in Texas provides crucial context. Our firm maintains proprietary data on Texas Greek entities that informs our litigation strategy.

Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine: What We Track

Through public records and dedicated investigation, we maintain data on:

125+ Texas-Registered Greek Organizations (IRS B83):
These are tax-exempt organizations the IRS classifies as Greek-letter entities with Texas addresses, including house corporations, alumni chapters, and honor societies. Examples from public records include:

KAPPA SIGMA – MU CAMMA CHAPTER INC, EIN 133048786, 3007 Earl Rudder Fwy S, College Station, TX 77845 (IRS B83 filing)
GAMMA PHI BETA SORORITY INC, EIN 161675890, 115 Wild Wick Way, The Woodlands, TX 77382 (IRS B83 filing, Zeta Rho HCB)
ALPHA EPSILON PI FRATERNITY, EIN 262025321, 920 W Prairie St, Denton, TX 76201 (IRS B83 filing, Mu Gamma Chapter)
SIGMA PHI EPSILON NEW YORK CHI ALUMNI ASSOCIATION INC, EIN 262710856, 618 Rutland St, Houston, TX 77007 (IRS B83 filing)
CHI OMEGA FRATERNITY, EIN 740555581, 2711 Rio Grande St, Austin, TX 78705 (IRS B83 filing, Chi Omega House Corporation)

Metro-Level Organizational Presence:
Across Texas metros, Greek organizations operate in complex networks:

Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington Metro: 510+ Greek-related 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

Brand Overlap Analysis:
Certain national brands appear across multiple data sources, showing how the same organization operates through different legal entities. For example:

Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority appears in IRS records in Waco (EIN 364091267) and Commerce (EIN 752609909), and in Cause IQ data for Houston and Beaumont metros
Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi has Texas chapters registered in Denton, Tyler, El Paso, Austin, Lubbock, College Station, and Victoria
Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity appears in IRS records in Nederland (EIN 746064445) and in metro data for Houston and Beaumont

What This Means for Hays County Families

This organizational complexity matters because:

Multiple entities may share liability: A local chapter, its housing corporation, alumni association, and national headquarters can all bear responsibility
Insurance coverage may span entities: Different organizations may have separate insurance policies that need to be identified
Prior incidents may be documented elsewhere: A chapter’s problems at another campus can establish pattern evidence
Assets may be held in different names: Recovery may involve tracing funds through multiple organizations

When we take a hazing case, we use this intelligence to identify every potentially liable entity and insurance policy—something general practice firms often miss.

Fraternity & Sorority National Histories: Why Patterns Matter

National organizations’ histories establish foreseeability—the legal concept that they knew or should have known certain activities were dangerous based on prior incidents.

Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike):

Stone Foltz (BGSU 2021): $10 million settlement ($7M national + $3M university)
David Bogenberger (NIU 2012): $14 million settlement
Pattern: “Big/Little” alcohol hazing events repeatedly cause deaths

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE):

Multiple hazing-related deaths and severe injuries nationwide
University of Alabama: Traumatic brain injury lawsuit
Texas A&M: Chemical burns requiring skin grafts
UT Austin: 2024 assault case with serious injuries
Pattern: Repeated physical and alcohol hazing across chapters

Phi Delta Theta:

Max Gruver (LSU 2017): Death led to Louisiana felony hazing law
Pattern: Drinking game hazing with fatal consequences

Pi Kappa Phi:

Andrew Coffey (FSU 2017): Death during “Big Brother Night”
Leonel Bermudez (UH 2025): Active $10M lawsuit we’re litigating
Pattern: Physical abuse and forced consumption rituals

When a Texas chapter repeats the same script that got another chapter shut down or sued in another state, that pattern evidence supports negligence claims against national entities who failed to prevent known dangers.

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Damages, and Strategy

Successfully litigating a hazing case requires sophisticated evidence collection, damages analysis, and strategic planning. For Uhland families, understanding this process helps in making informed decisions about legal action.

Critical Evidence Categories

Digital Communications (Most Important Evidence):

GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Slack, fraternity-specific apps
Instagram DMs, Snapchat messages, TikTok comments
Both live and recovered/deleted messages through digital forensics
In the UH case, group chats revealed planning and coordination of hazing activities

Photos & Videos:

Content filmed by members during events
Footage shared in group chats or posted on social media
Security camera or doorbell footage at houses and venues
Injury documentation with timestamps

Internal Organization Documents:

Pledge manuals, initiation scripts, ritual “traditions” lists
Emails/texts from officers about pledge activities
National policies and training materials showing what should have been prevented

University Records:

Prior conduct files, probation/suspension letters
Incident reports to campus police or student conduct
Clery Act reports and similar disclosures
UT Austin’s public hazing log provides ready evidence for cases there

Medical & Psychological Records:

Emergency room and hospitalization records
Surgery and rehabilitation notes
Toxicology reports (blood alcohol levels, drug screens)
Psychological evaluations (PTSD, depression, anxiety, suicidality)

Witness Testimony:

Other pledges, current members, roommates
Resident advisors, coaches, trainers, bystanders
Former members who quit or were expelled

Damages in Hazing Cases

Medical Bills & Future Care:

Immediate care (ER, ICU, hospitalization)
Surgeries, ongoing treatment, physical therapy
Long-term care for brain injuries or organ damage
In rhabdomyolysis cases like UH, ongoing kidney monitoring may be needed for life

Lost Earnings / Educational Impact:

Missed semesters or withdrawal from school
Setbacks in entering workforce
Reduced earning capacity if injuries cause permanent disability
Lost scholarships or academic opportunities

Non-Economic Damages:

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

Wrongful Death Damages:

Funeral and burial costs
Loss of companionship and support
Emotional harm to parents and siblings
Lost financial support deceased would have provided

Punitive Damages:

Available in Texas for particularly reckless or malicious conduct
Purpose: Punish defendants and deter future hazing
Often triggered when organizations had prior warnings and ignored them

Insurance Coverage Considerations

National fraternities and universities typically have insurance policies that come into play, but insurers often argue:

Hazing is excluded as “intentional” conduct
The policy doesn’t cover certain defendants or locations
Claims exceed policy limits

Our insider experience from Mr. Peña’s background as an insurance defense attorney is crucial here—we know how insurers value claims, use independent medical exams to reduce settlements, and deploy delay tactics. We identify all potential coverage sources and navigate exclusion arguments strategically.

Practical Guides: What Uhland Families Should Do

For Parents: Warning Signs and Response

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Being Hazed:

Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts, or injuries with inconsistent explanations
Extreme fatigue and exhaustion beyond normal college stress
Weight loss/gain from food/water restriction or stress
Sleep deprivation (late-night calls, 3 AM wake-ups)
Sudden secrecy about organization activities
Withdrawal from family, old friends, or non-group activities
Personality changes: anxiety, depression, irritability
Constant phone use for group chat monitoring with anxiety about responses
Academic decline or missing classes for “mandatory” events
Unexpected large expenses for “fines,” dues, or purchases for older members

How to Talk to Your Child:

Ask open questions: “How are things with your fraternity/sorority? Are you enjoying it?”
Be non-judgmental: “Have they been respectful of your time for classes and sleep?”
Express concern gently: “Is there anything that makes you uncomfortable?”
Emphasize safety over status: “Your health matters more than any organization.”

If Your Child Is Hurt:

Medical care first: Get them to ER or urgent care immediately
Document everything: Photos of injuries, screenshots of messages, notes of what they say
Preserve evidence: Don’t wash clothes, don’t delete messages, save physical items
Contact experienced hazing attorney within 24-48 hours: Call 1-888-ATTY-911

Dealing with the University:

Document every communication with administrators
Ask specifically about prior incidents involving the same organization
Request copies of all policies and procedures
Don’t sign any waivers or settlement offers without legal review
Remember: The university’s interest may conflict with your child’s best interests

For Students: Self-Protection and Reporting

Is This Hazing? Decision Guide:

Am I being forced or pressured to do something I don’t want to do?
Would I do this if I had a real choice (no social consequences, no fear of being cut)?
Is this activity dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
Would the university or my parents approve if they knew exactly what was happening?
Are older members making new members do things they don’t have to do themselves?
Am I being told to keep secrets, lie, or hide this from outsiders?

If you answered YES to any, it’s likely hazing.

How to Exit Safely:

Immediate danger: Call 911, get to safe location
Wanting to quit: Tell someone outside the org first (parent, RA, friend), send email/text to chapter president stating resignation, don’t go to “one last meeting”
Fear retaliation: Document threats, report to Dean of Students and campus police, consider protective order

Evidence Collection for Students:

Screenshots: Capture full conversations with timestamps and names visible
Recordings: Texas is one-party consent state—you can record conversations you’re part of
Photos: Injuries (multiple angles with scale), locations, objects used
Medical documentation: Tell providers you were hazed so it’s in records
Witness information: Names and contacts of others who saw what happened

Reporting Channels:

Campus: Dean of Students, Office of Student Conduct, campus police
Local police: If crimes occurred (assault, furnishing alcohol to minor)
National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (anonymous)
Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 for legal guidance

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

1. Letting Your Child Delete Messages or “Clean Up” Evidence
What parents think: “I don’t want them to get in more trouble”
Why it’s wrong: Looks like cover-up, can be obstruction of justice, makes case nearly impossible
Better approach: Preserve everything immediately, even embarrassing content

2. Confronting the Fraternity/Sorority Directly
What parents think: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind”
Why it’s wrong: They immediately lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses
Better approach: Document everything, call a lawyer before any confrontation

3. Signing University “Release” or “Resolution” Forms
What universities do: Pressure families to sign waivers or internal resolution agreements
Why it’s wrong: You may waive right to sue; settlements are often far below case value
Better approach: Do NOT sign anything without attorney review

4. Posting Details on Social Media Before Talking to a Lawyer
What families think: “I want people to know what happened”
Why it’s wrong: Defense attorneys screenshot everything; inconsistencies hurt credibility
Better approach: Document privately; let your lawyer control public messaging

5. Letting Your Child Go Back to “One Last Meeting”
What fraternities say: “Come talk to us before you do anything drastic”
Why it’s wrong: They pressure, intimidate, or extract statements that hurt the case
Better approach: Once considering legal action, all communication goes through your lawyer

6. Waiting “To See How the University Handles It”
What universities promise: “We’re investigating; let us handle this internally”
Why it’s wrong: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs, university controls narrative
Better approach: Preserve evidence NOW; consult lawyer immediately

7. Talking to Insurance Adjusters Without a Lawyer
What adjusters say: “We just need your statement to process the claim”
Why it’s wrong: Recorded statements are used against you; early settlements are lowball
Better approach: Politely decline: “My attorney will contact you”

Frequently Asked Questions for Uhland Families

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

“Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
It can be. Texas law classifies hazing as Class B misdemeanor by default, but becomes state jail felony if hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. Individual officers can also face charges for failing to report hazing.

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

“How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?”
Generally 2 years from date of injury or death in Texas, but “discovery rule” may extend this if harm or cause wasn’t immediately known. In cases involving cover-ups, statute may be tolled (paused). Time is critical—evidence disappears, witnesses forget, organizations destroy records. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately.

“What if hazing happened off-campus or at private house?”
Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and national fraternities can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, knowledge, and foreseeability. Many major hazing cases occurred off-campus and still resulted in multi-million-dollar judgments.

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

“How much does it cost to hire a hazing attorney?”
We work on contingency fee basis—you pay nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we recover money for you. This makes legal representation accessible to families who couldn’t otherwise afford to take on wealthy fraternities and universities.

“What if my child was drinking underage during the hazing?”
Texas law provides “good faith” protections for those who call for medical help in emergencies, even if underage drinking was involved. The more serious crime is the hazing itself. Don’t let fear of underage drinking charges prevent seeking medical help or legal action.

Why Attorney911 for Uhland Hazing Cases

When your family faces a hazing crisis, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how powerful institutions fight back—and how to win anyway. Attorney911 brings unique qualifications to hazing cases that general practice firms simply cannot match.

Insurance Insider Advantage

Mr. Lupe Peña spent years as an insurance defense attorney at a national defense 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”
Deploy independent medical exams to reduce settlements
“We know their playbook because we used to run it.”

Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions

Ralph Manginello is one of the few Texas attorneys involved in BP Texas City explosion litigation against a billion-dollar corporation. He has federal court experience (U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas) and isn’t intimidated by national fraternities, universities, or their defense teams.
“We’ve taken on billion-dollar defendants and won. We know how to fight powerful institutions.”

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death Experience

We have a proven track record in complex wrongful death cases, working with economists to value lifetime care needs for brain injuries and permanent disabilities. We don’t settle cheap—we build cases that force accountability and prevent future harm.

Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise

Ralph’s membership in Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) means we understand how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation. We can advise witnesses and former members with dual exposure, and we know how to navigate both legal tracks simultaneously.

Investigative Depth and Expert Network

We deploy:

Digital forensics experts to recover deleted messages
Medical experts specializing in hazing injuries (rhabdomyolysis, TBI, PTSD)
Greek life culture experts to explain coercion dynamics
Economists to quantify lifetime damages
Institutional policy experts to show what should have been prevented
“We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does.”

Texas-Specific Hazing Intelligence

Our proprietary Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine tracks:

125+ Texas-registered Greek organizations with EINs and addresses
1,423 Greek organizations across 25 Texas metros
Campus-specific chapter rosters at major Texas universities
National brand patterns and prior incident histories
This data informs our litigation strategy from day one.

Trial Readiness That Changes Negotiations

Universities and fraternities know which lawyers will actually go to trial. Our federal court experience and trial history signal we’re ready. That changes how they negotiate from the start.
“A case prepared for trial attracts fair settlement; a case prepared for settlement attracts more delay.”

Call to Action for Uhland Families

If you or your child has experienced hazing at Texas State University, UT Austin, Texas A&M, or any Texas campus, we want to hear from you. Families right here in Uhland, Kyle, San Marcos, and throughout Hays County have the right to answers and accountability.

Contact Attorney911 for a Confidential, No-Obligation Consultation

We’ll listen to what happened, explain your legal options, and help you decide the best path forward. In your free consultation, we’ll:

Listen to your story without judgment
Review any evidence you have (photos, texts, medical records)
Explain your options: criminal report, civil lawsuit, both, or neither
Discuss realistic timelines and expectations
Answer questions about costs (contingency fee—we don’t get paid unless we win)
No pressure to hire us on the spot—take time to decide
Keep everything you tell us confidential

Contact Information

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

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

Whether you’re in Uhland or anywhere across Texas, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone. The institutions involved have teams of lawyers—you should too. Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911.

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