The Complete Guide for Hutchins Families: Understanding Hazing Laws, Fraternity Accountability, and Your Legal Rights in Texas

A Texas Parent’s Nightmare: When Campus “Tradition” Turns to Trauma

Imagine your child, a student from Hutchins, excitedly begins their freshman year at a Texas university. They want to belong, to find their community. They accept a bid to join what seems like a prestigious fraternity. Then the texts start arriving at all hours. “Mandatory meeting at the house – 2 AM.” “Bring your fanny pack.” “Don’t be late or you’re out.”

Fast forward weeks later: your child is hospitalized with brown urine, diagnosed with rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure after being forced through hundreds of push-ups and squats. They were sprayed in the face with a hose “like waterboarding,” forced to consume milk and hot dogs until vomiting, and subjected to humiliating rituals with degrading items in a “pledge fanny pack” they had to carry 24/7.

This isn’t hypothetical. This is exactly what happened to Leonel Bermudez at the University of Houston’s Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter in fall 2025, as detailed in the Click2Houston report on UH Pi Kappa Phi hazing case. The chapter was shut down, but the physical and psychological damage remains. We know because our firm, Attorney911, represents Bermudez in his $10 million lawsuit against UH, Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters, and 13 fraternity leaders.

If you’re a parent in Hutchins, in Dallas County, or anywhere in Texas, this guide is for you. We’ll explain what hazing really looks like in 2025, how Texas law protects victims, what’s happening at universities across our state, and what legal options exist when “tradition” becomes trauma.

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’re “fine”
Preserve evidence BEFORE it’s deleted using techniques from our video on using your phone to document a legal case
Write down everything while memory is fresh
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

Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24-48 hours: Evidence disappears fast. Universities move quickly to control narratives. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate consultation.

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like for Texas Students

For Hutchins families sending children to Texas universities, understanding modern hazing is crucial. It’s evolved far beyond the stereotypes of “boys will be boys” or “harmless pranks.”

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. The critical element Texas families need to understand: “I agreed to it” does not make it safe or legal when there’s peer pressure and significant power imbalance.

Main Categories of Hazing Affecting Texas Students

Alcohol and Substance Hazing (Most Common)

Forced or coerced drinking games like “lineups” or “Big/Little” nights
Chugging challenges with handles of liquor
Pressure to consume unknown or mixed substances
Texas reality: This caused the hospitalization in the UH Pi Kappa Phi case and has led to deaths at universities nationwide

Physical Hazing

Paddling and beatings (still occurring despite national prohibitions)
Extreme calisthenics or “smokings” beyond normal conditioning
Sleep deprivation with mandatory 2-3 AM meetings
Food/water restriction or forced consumption of unpalatable substances
Exposure to extreme cold/heat or dangerous environments

Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing

Forced nudity or partial nudity
Simulated sexual acts, “roasted pig” positions
Degrading costumes or role-play with racial/sexist overtones
Texas example: The Texas A&M Corps “roasted pig” case involved binding and humiliation

Psychological Hazing

Verbal abuse, threats, isolation from non-members
Manipulation or forced confessions
Public shaming in meetings or via social media

Digital/Online Hazing (Increasingly Common)

Group chat dares on GroupMe, WhatsApp, Discord
“Challenges” requiring compromising TikTok or Instagram content
Pressure to create or share embarrassing images/videos
24/7 monitoring requirements with immediate response demands

Where Hazing Happens in Texas

Hazing isn’t limited to fraternity houses. Texas students face risks in:

Fraternities and Sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural)
Corps of Cadets/ROTC at Texas A&M and other military-style groups
Spirit squads and tradition clubs (like Texas Cowboys at UT)
Athletic teams from football to cheerleading
Marching bands and performance groups
Some service, cultural, and academic organizations

The common threads across all these groups: social status pressures, “tradition” justifying abuse, and secrecy enforced through fear of exclusion.

Law & Liability Framework: What Hutchins Families Need to Know About Texas Hazing Law

Texas Hazing Law Basics: Education Code Chapter 37

Texas has specific anti-hazing provisions in the Education Code that protect students at both public and private institutions. Here’s what Hutchins families need to understand:

Legal Definition (Texas Education Code § 37.151):
Hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, directed against a student that:

Endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student, AND
Occurs for purposes of pledging, initiation, affiliation, holding office, or maintaining membership in any organization with student members

Plain English Translation:
If someone makes your child do something dangerous, harmful, or degrading to join or stay in a group, and they meant to do it or were reckless about the risk, that’s hazing under Texas law.

Key Protections for Texas Families:

Location doesn’t matter: On-campus, off-campus houses, Airbnbs, retreats – all covered
Mental OR physical harm: Psychological trauma qualifies
“Consent is not a defense” (§ 37.155): Even if your child “agreed,” it’s still hazing
Good-faith reporting immunity (§ 37.154): Protects those who report or call 911

Criminal vs Civil Cases: Understanding the Difference

Criminal Cases (Brought by the State)

Purpose: Punishment (jail, fines, probation)
Typical charges: Hazing offenses, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, battery, manslaughter in fatal cases
Penalty escalation:
- Class B Misdemeanor: Hazing without serious injury
- Class A Misdemeanor: Hazing causing injury requiring medical treatment
- State Jail Felony: Hazing causing serious bodily injury or death

Civil Cases (Brought by Victims/Families)

Purpose: Monetary compensation and accountability
Focus areas: Negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision, premises liability, emotional distress
Critical point: A criminal conviction isn’t required to pursue civil action

Organizational Liability (§ 37.153):
Texas law explicitly allows prosecution of organizations themselves (fraternities, sororities, clubs) if they authorized or encouraged hazing, or if officers knew and failed to report it. Penalties include fines up to $10,000 and university revocation of recognition.

Federal Overlay: Stop Campus Hazing Act, Title IX, Clery

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024)

Requires colleges receiving federal aid to:
- Report hazing incidents more transparently
- Strengthen hazing education and prevention
- Maintain public hazing data (phased in by approximately 2026)

Title IX & Clery Act Implications

When hazing involves sexual harassment, assault, or gender-based hostility, Title IX obligations trigger
Clery requires reporting certain crimes; hazing often overlaps with assault/alcohol crimes
Both create additional layers of university responsibility

Who Can Be Liable in a Texas Hazing Lawsuit?

Individual Students

Those who planned, supplied alcohol, carried out acts, or helped cover up

Local Chapter/Organization

The fraternity/sorority or club itself (if incorporated)
Officers acting in official capacities

National Fraternity/Sorority Headquarters

Organizations that set policies, receive dues, supervise chapters
Liability hinges on what they knew or should have known from prior incidents

University or Governing Board

Schools may be sued under negligence or civil-rights theories
Key questions: prior warnings, policy enforcement, deliberate indifference
Special consideration for Texas public universities: Sovereign immunity exists but has exceptions for gross negligence and Title IX violations

Third Parties

Landlords/owners of houses or event spaces
Bars or alcohol providers (under Texas dram shop law)
Security companies or event organizers

National Hazing Case Patterns: What These Stories Mean for Hutchins Families

Understanding national patterns helps Texas families recognize that what happened to their child isn’t isolated – it’s part of systemic issues that courts have already addressed.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

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

What happened: 20-year-old pledge forced to consume entire bottle of alcohol during “Big/Little” night; died from alcohol poisoning
Legal outcome: Multiple convictions; $10 million total settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, ~$3M from BGSU)
Texas relevance: Same national organization operates at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor. Same “Big/Little” tradition exists nationwide.

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

What happened: 19-year-old died from traumatic brain injuries after bid acceptance night; falls captured on security cameras; brothers delayed calling 911
Legal outcome: 18 members charged with 1,000+ counts; Pennsylvania enacted Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law
Texas relevance: Beta Theta Pi operates at multiple Texas campuses. The case established critical precedent about delayed medical response liability.

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)

What happened: Pledge forced into “Bible study” drinking game; died from alcohol toxicity (BAC 0.495%)
Legal outcome: Multiple prosecutions; Louisiana enacted Max Gruver Act (felony hazing statute)
Texas relevance: Phi Delta Theta has chapters across Texas schools. “Drinking games” as hazing method is common statewide.

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

What happened: Pledge died from acute alcohol poisoning during “Big Brother Night”; given handles of hard liquor
Legal outcome: Multiple prosecutions; FSU temporarily suspended all Greek life
Texas relevance: This is the same national fraternity involved in the UH case we’re litigating. Same patterns, same national organization.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

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

What happened: Pledge blindfolded, weighted with backpack, repeatedly tackled during “glass ceiling” ritual; died from traumatic brain injury
Legal outcome: Multiple convictions; national fraternity convicted of aggravated assault; banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years
Texas relevance: Demonstrates off-campus “retreats” are equally dangerous and nationals face serious sanctions

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Northwestern University Football (2023-2025)

What happened: Former players alleged sexualized, racist hazing within football program over years
Legal outcome: Multiple lawsuits; head coach fired; confidential settlements
Texas relevance: Hazing extends beyond Greek life into athletic programs at all levels

What These Cases Mean for Texas Families

Common threads running through all these cases:

Forced drinking as primary mechanism
Delay in seeking medical help due to fear of consequences
Cover-up culture and destruction of evidence
Institutional knowledge of patterns but inadequate prevention

For Hutchins families, these national cases create:

Legal precedents you can rely on in Texas courts
Pattern evidence showing organizations knew or should have known risks
Settlement benchmarks for what serious cases are worth
Prevention blueprints that universities should have implemented

Texas Focus: Where Hutchins Families Send Their Kids to College

Understanding the Hutchins Educational Pipeline

Hutchins families in Dallas County typically have children attending universities across these categories:

Local Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex Schools:

University of Texas at Dallas (Richardson)
University of North Texas (Denton)
Southern Methodist University (Dallas)
Texas Woman’s University (Denton)
Various community colleges and private institutions

Major Texas Hubs (Common Destinations):

University of Texas at Austin
Texas A&M University (College Station)
University of Houston
Baylor University (Waco)
Texas Tech University (Lubbock)

The Reality: Many Hutchins students commute to DFW schools daily, while others live at distant campuses. Hazing risks exist at all these institutions, and Texas law applies regardless of location.

The Texas Greek Ecosystem: Public Records Reality

Through our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine, we maintain comprehensive data on Greek organizations across Texas. Here’s what exists in the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metro area serving Hutchins families:

IRS B83 Registered Organizations (Tax-Exempt Greek Entities):

Beta Upsilon Chi Fraternity – EIN 742911848 – Fort Worth, TX 76244 (IRS B83 filing)
Texas Kappa Sigma Educational Foundation Inc – EIN 741380362 – Fort Worth, TX 76147 (IRS B83 filing)
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity – EIN 521278573 – Dallas, TX 75241 (IRS B83 filing)
Delta Kappa Gamma Society chapters – Multiple EINs – Various DFW locations (IRS B83 filing)
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated – Mu Delta Zeta Chapter – EIN 521345951 – Nolanville, TX 76559 (IRS B83 filing)

Cause IQ Metro Data (DFW Organizations):

Beta Upsilon Chi Fraternity – Fort Worth, TX – 12650 N Beach St #30, Suite 114, Fort Worth, TX 76244
Delta Delta Delta (Tri Delta) – Arlington, TX – National sorority headquarters in Dallas area
Texas Kappa Sigma Educational Foundation – Fort Worth, TX – Kappa Sigma housing foundation
Kappa Alpha Theta Fraternity – Gamma Psi Chapter – Fort Worth, TX – Chapter at TCU
Sigma Nu Fraternity – Lambda Epsilon Chapter – Fort Worth, TX – Chapter at TCU

Brand Overlap Evidence (Same Organizations in Multiple Data Sources):

Beta Upsilon Chi appears in both IRS B83 (EIN 742911848) and Cause IQ DFW data
Texas Kappa Sigma Educational Foundation appears in both IRS and Cause IQ
These overlaps confirm we can track specific national brands across multiple data sources

Statewide Scope: Beyond DFW, our data tracks 125+ Texas-registered Greek organizations, 1,423 fraternities/sororities across 25 Texas metros, and comprehensive campus rosters at all major universities.

University of Texas at Dallas (Most Local for Hutchins Families)

Campus & Culture Snapshot

Public research university in Richardson, part of UT System
Growing Greek life with IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, and multicultural councils
Many Hutchins students commute daily to UTD
Rapid expansion of campus organizations in recent years

Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

UTD prohibits hazing as defined by Texas Education Code
Reporting through Dean of Students, Student Conduct, UTD Police
Published organizational conduct records available
Hutchins jurisdictional note: Cases may involve UTD Police, Richardson PD, and Dallas County courts

Documented Incidents & Trends

While UTD has fewer historical hazing cases than older institutions, the growing Greek system presents increasing risks
National organizations at UTD have the same histories as their chapters elsewhere
Key concern for Hutchins families: Proximity doesn’t reduce risk – commuting students face same pressures as residential ones

How a UTD Hazing Case Might Proceed

Initial reporting: UTD Police (on-campus) or Richardson PD (off-campus)
University process: Student Conduct investigation parallel to criminal
Civil venue: Dallas County courts for local incidents
Potential defendants: Individuals, local chapter, national organization, UTD if negligence shown
Evidence collection: Critical given digital nature of modern hazing

What UTD Students & Hutchins Parents Should Do

Document all communications – screenshots of GroupMe, texts, emails
Report to both UTD Police AND Dean of Students Office
Seek medical attention immediately for any injuries
Contact us at 1-888-ATTY-911 before talking to university investigators
Understand that as a UT System school, UTD has same legal frameworks as UT Austin

Southern Methodist University (Private University in Dallas)

Campus & Culture Snapshot

Private Methodist-affiliated university in University Park
Historically strong Greek presence with significant social influence
High percentage of students participate in Greek life
National reputation for affluent student body

Hazing Policy & Reporting

SMU prohibits hazing under Texas law and university policy
Reporting through Office of Student Conduct & Community Standards
Anonymous reporting via Real Response system
Hutchins proximity: 20-minute drive from Hutchins; many local students attend

Documented Incidents

Kappa Alpha Order (2017): Chapter suspended after reports of paddling, forced drinking, sleep deprivation
Various other sanctions in SMU conduct records
Pattern observation: As private university, SMU has more control over Greek housing but similar hazing patterns to public schools

Legal Considerations for SMU Cases

No sovereign immunity (private institution)
Potential for larger insurance coverage
Often faster settlement negotiations
Still involves Dallas County jurisdiction

SMU-Specific Advice for Hutchins Families

SMU’s Greek system is deeply embedded in campus culture
Social pressure can be intense given university’s reputation
Early legal intervention critical before SMU controls narrative
We have experience with Dallas County courts and SMU’s administration

University of North Texas (Major Public Option)

Campus & Culture

Large public university in Denton (30 minutes from Hutchins)
Significant Greek community with historic presence
Diverse student body with multiple Greek councils
Many Hutchins-area students choose UNT for proximity and programs

Hazing History & Response

UNT publishes hazing violations annually
Multiple fraternities sanctioned in recent years
Active Greek life office with prevention programs
Reality check: Prevention programs exist alongside ongoing violations

Practical Considerations

Denton PD and UNT Police jurisdiction issues
Denton County court venue for local cases
UNT System policies similar to other Texas public universities
Our experience: We’ve handled cases involving UNT organizations

University of Texas at Austin (Common Destination)

Campus & Culture

Flagship UT System campus
Approximately 60 fraternity/sorority chapters
Public hazing violations published at hazing.utexas.edu
Many Hutchins students’ “dream school”

Transparency Advantage

UT Austin publishes detailed hazing violations:
- Organization names
- Dates of incidents
- Description of conduct
- Sanctions imposed
Example from UT log: Pi Kappa Alpha (2023) – new members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics; found to be hazing; chapter probation

Legal Environment

Travis County jurisdiction for local cases
UT System Board of Regents as potential defendant
Sovereign immunity considerations (public university)
Strong plaintiff advantage: Public violation history provides pattern evidence

Advice for UT-Bound Hutchins Students

Check hazing.utexas.edu BEFORE joining any organization
Document everything from day one
Report to both UTPD and Dean of Students
Understand that Austin location doesn’t change Texas law

Texas A&M University (Corps & Greek Culture)

Unique Culture Factors

Corps of Cadets tradition creates additional hazing risks
Strong Greek presence alongside Corps
College Station as self-contained college town
Many traditions with potential for abuse

Documented Cases

Sigma Alpha Epsilon lawsuit (~2021): Pledges allegedly covered in industrial-strength cleaner, causing severe chemical burns requiring skin grafts
Corps of Cadets lawsuit (2023): Cadet alleged degrading hazing including simulated sexual acts and being bound in “roasted pig” position
Multiple other sanctions in university records

Corps-Specific Considerations

Military-style hierarchy can exacerbate power imbalances
“Tradition” often used to justify abuse
Dual reporting chains (university and Corps leadership)
Our experience: We understand Corps culture and how to investigate within it

Brazos County Jurisdiction

College Station PD and university police
Brazos County courts
A&M System policies and sovereign immunity
For Hutchins families: Distance doesn’t protect – we handle cases statewide

University of Houston (Flagship Case Location)

Current Case Context

We are actively litigating Leonel Bermudez v. UH & Pi Kappa Phi
$10 million lawsuit alleging severe hazing leading to rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure
Details from the ABC13 coverage of Leonel Bermudez’s UH hazing lawsuit:
- “Pledge fanny pack” with degrading items required 24/7
- Forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, peppercorns until vomiting
- Hose spraying “similar to waterboarding”
- 100+ push-ups, 500 squats under threat of expulsion
- Chapter suspended Nov 6, 2025, charter surrendered Nov 14, 2025

UH’s Greek Landscape

Large urban campus with significant Greek presence
Multiple governing councils (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural)
Prior incident: 2016 Pi Kappa Alpha case with lacerated spleen injury

Harris County Jurisdiction

Houston PD and UH Police
Harris County courts (largest in Texas)
UH System policies
Our home advantage: We’re based in Houston and deeply familiar with local courts

Baylor University (Private Religious Institution)

Unique Considerations

Private Baptist university
History of scrutiny over Title IX and accountability issues
Religious branding alongside Greek system
2020 baseball hazing: 14 players suspended following investigation

Legal Environment

No sovereign immunity (private)
McLennan County jurisdiction
Potential tension between religious identity and accountability
Our approach: Same legal standards apply regardless of religious affiliation

Fraternities & Sororities: National Histories Meet Texas Campuses

Why National Histories Matter for Hutchins Families

When your child joins a fraternity or sorority at a Texas university, they’re joining an organization with a national history. Those histories matter legally because:

Foreseeability Doctrine: If a national organization has seen deaths or serious injuries from specific hazing methods at other chapters, they should know those methods are dangerous and prevent them at all chapters.

Pattern Evidence: Courts allow evidence of similar incidents at other chapters to show:

The organization knew the risks
Their prevention measures were inadequate
The conduct wasn’t “rogue” but part of a pattern

Negligent Supervision Claims: Nationals that collect dues, provide materials, and oversee chapters can be liable for failing to adequately supervise or intervene.

Major National Organizations at Texas Schools

Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / “Pike”)

National history: Stone Foltz death (BGSU 2021), David Bogenberger death (NIU 2012), multiple other serious incidents
Texas presence: UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor
Pattern: “Big/Little” alcohol hazing, physical abuse
Legal significance: $10M Foltz settlement sets benchmark; national had prior warnings

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / “SAE”)

National history: Multiple deaths including Carson Starkey (Cal Poly 2008); eliminated pledge process nationally in 2014 due to pattern
Texas presence: UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor
Texas incident: Chemical burns case at Texas A&M (2021)
Legal significance: National knew alcohol hazing risks for years before reform

Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ)

National history: Andrew Coffey death (FSU 2017)
Texas presence: UH (Beta Nu chapter shut down 2025), UT Austin
Current case: We represent Leonel Bermudez against UH chapter
Legal significance: Same national organization, same hazing patterns years apart

Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ)

National history: Max Gruver death (LSU 2017)
Texas presence: Multiple Texas campuses
Legal significance: “Drinking game” hazing established as deadly pattern

Kappa Alpha Order (ΚΑ)

National history: Multiple hazing suspensions including SMU chapter (2017)
Texas presence: Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor
Pattern: Physical hazing, paddling traditions

How National Histories Strengthen Texas Cases

When we investigate a hazing case at a Texas university, we:

Subpoena national records showing prior incidents at other chapters
Document national policies and training materials
Establish foreseeability – the national knew or should have known the risks
Show pattern – same methods caused harm elsewhere
Demonstrate inadequate response – if prior sanctions didn’t prevent recurrence

For Hutchins families, this means: The national organization your child joined likely knew the exact risks they faced. That knowledge becomes powerful evidence in court.

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

Evidence Collection: The Modern Hazing Investigation

Digital Communications (Most Critical Evidence)

GroupMe/WhatsApp/iMessage groups: Screenshot entire conversations with timestamps
Discord/Slack servers: Capture channel histories and direct messages
Fraternity-specific apps: Preserve all communications
Social media DMs: Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, Facebook
Recovery capabilities: Digital forensics can often recover deleted messages
Our video resource: Watch our guide on using your phone to document evidence

Photos & Videos

Content filmed during events (often shared in group chats)
Social media posts/stories showing activities
Security camera/doorbell footage at houses
Medical documentation of injuries

Internal Organization Documents

Pledge manuals, initiation scripts, “tradition” documents
Emails/texts from officers about activities
National policies and training materials
Meeting minutes or notes

University Records (Obtained via Discovery)

Prior conduct files for the organization
Incident reports to campus police
Clery Act reports
Internal emails among administrators
Disciplinary histories

Medical & Psychological Records

Emergency room/hospitalization records
Surgery/rehabilitation notes
Toxicology reports (critical for alcohol cases)
Psychological evaluations for PTSD, depression, anxiety
Special note: Rhabdomyolysis diagnosis (as in UH case) requires specific documentation

Witness Testimony

Other pledges experiencing same treatment
Members who participated or witnessed
Roommates, RAs, coaches, trainers
Former members who quit due to hazing

Damages: What Texas Families Can Recover

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Losses)

Medical expenses (past and future)
Lost income/educational costs
Diminished earning capacity for permanent injuries
Property damage

Non-Economic Damages

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

Wrongful Death Damages (When Applicable)

Funeral/burial costs
Loss of companionship and support
Emotional harm to family
Lost financial contribution

Punitive Damages (When Appropriate)

Punish especially reckless or malicious conduct
Deter future hazing
Available in Texas under certain conditions

Case Valuation Factors

Severity of injuries
Permanence of harm
Egregiousness of conduct
Defendant’s financial resources
Prior incidents/warnings
Strength of evidence

Insurance Coverage Strategies

Fraternities, sororities, and universities typically have insurance coverage. Our approach:

Identify all potential policies
- National organization policies
- Chapter/house corporation policies
- University liability coverage
- Individual member homeowner’s policies
Navigate coverage disputes
- Insurers often argue “intentional act” exclusions
- We counter with negligent supervision theories
- Mr. Peña’s defense background provides insider knowledge
Bad faith claims when appropriate
- If insurers wrongfully deny coverage
- Additional damages available

Practical Guides & FAQs for Hutchins Families

For Parents: Warning Signs and Action Steps

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Hazed

Unexplained injuries, bruises, burns
Extreme fatigue/sleep deprivation
Personality changes: anxiety, depression, withdrawal
Secretive about organization activities
Constant phone monitoring for group chats
Financial strain from unexplained expenses
Academic performance decline
Digital red flags: Geo-tracking demands, required social media posts

How to Talk to Your Child

Choose calm, private setting
Use open questions: “How are things with your organization?”
Avoid judgment: “I’m concerned about your safety”
Emphasize: “You can always come home, no questions asked”
Critical: If they disclose hazing, don’t panic – document and get help

If Your Child Is Injured

Medical first: ER or urgent care immediately
Document everything: Photos, screenshots, notes
Preserve evidence: Don’t wash clothes, don’t delete messages
Contact us: 1-888-ATTY-911 before talking to university
Do NOT: Confront organization, sign university forms, post on social media

Dealing with the University

Document all communications
Ask specific questions about prior incidents
Request copies of policies and procedures
Remember: University’s interest ≠ your child’s interest
Legal representation early: We can communicate on your behalf

For Students: Recognizing and Escaping Hazing

Is This Hazing? Self-Assessment

Do I feel unsafe, humiliated, or coerced?
Would I do this if I had real choice (no social consequences)?
Is this activity dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
Would my parents/university approve if they knew?
Am I being told to keep secrets?
If yes to any: It’s likely hazing

Your Legal Rights in Texas

You cannot be punished for calling 911 in emergency (good-faith immunity)
“Consent” is not defense under Texas law
You have right to leave organization at any time
Retaliation against reporters is illegal

Safe Exit Strategies

Immediate danger: Call 911, get to safe location
Planning to quit: Tell trusted person first, then notify in writing
Avoid “one last meeting”: They may pressure or retaliate
Document threats: Screenshot any retaliation
University resources: Dean of Students can help with transition

Evidence Collection for Students

Screenshot ALL group chats immediately
Photograph injuries from multiple angles
Save physical items (clothing, objects)
Write detailed timeline while fresh
Do NOT delete anything, even if embarrassing

For Witnesses/Former Members: Coming Forward

Understanding Your Position

You may feel guilt, fear, or conflict
Your testimony could prevent future harm
You may need your own legal advice
Cooperation can be path to accountability

How We Work With Witnesses

Confidential consultations
Understanding potential exposure
Navigating cooperation agreements
Protecting your interests while seeking truth

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

1. Deleting Evidence

What happens: Looks like cover-up, destroys case
Better approach: Preserve everything, even embarrassing content
Our video: Watch client mistakes that can ruin your injury case

2. Confronting the Organization

What happens: They lawyer up, destroy evidence, prepare defenses
Better approach: Document silently, contact us first

3. Signing University Forms

What happens: May waive legal rights, accept inadequate settlement
Better approach: “I need my attorney to review this first”

4. Social Media Posts

What happens: Defense attorneys screenshot everything, use inconsistencies
Better approach: Private documentation only, public statements through attorney

5. Waiting “to See How University Handles It”

What happens: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs
Better approach: Immediate legal consultation, parallel investigations

6. Talking to Insurance Adjusters

What happens: Recorded statements used against you, lowball offers
Better approach: “Please contact my attorney”

7. Letting Child Return for “One Last Meeting”

What happens: Pressure, intimidation, damaging statements
Better approach: All communication through attorney once case considered

Frequently Asked Questions for Hutchins Families

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

“Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
It can be. Texas Education Code § 37.152 makes hazing a Class B misdemeanor by default, but upgrades to Class A if injury requires medical treatment, and state jail felony if hazing causes serious bodily injury or death.

“What if my child ‘agreed’ to the initiation?”
Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states: “It is not a defense to prosecution that the person against whom the hazing was directed consented to the hazing activity.” Courts recognize that “consent” under peer pressure isn’t voluntary.

“How long do we have to file a lawsuit?”
Generally 2 years from date of injury or death in Texas, but the “discovery rule” may extend this if harm wasn’t immediately known. In cases with cover-ups, statute may be tolled. Time is critical – evidence disappears. Learn more in our video on Texas statutes of limitations.

“What if hazing happened off-campus at a private house?”
Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities/nationals can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, knowledge, and foreseeability. Many major cases (Pi Delta Psi retreat, Sigma Pi unofficial house) occurred off-campus with successful judgments.

“Will this be confidential?”
Most cases settle confidentially before trial. We prioritize family privacy while pursuing accountability. You can request sealed court records and confidential settlement terms.

“How much will this cost?”
We work on contingency fee basis – no upfront costs, no fee unless we win. Learn how this works in our video on contingency fees.

Why Attorney911 for Texas Hazing Cases

Our Unique Qualifications for Hazing Litigation

When your 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 (Mr. Lupe Peña)

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

Complex Institutional Litigation (Ralph Manginello)

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

Current Case Experience

Right now, we’re litigating Leonel Bermudez v. UH & Pi Kappa Phi
$10 million lawsuit alleging severe hazing injuries
Chapter suspended and shut down during our representation
We’re not theorizing – we’re actively fighting a major Texas hazing case

Multi-Million Dollar Results

Proven wrongful death and catastrophic injury experience
Economist collaboration for lifetime care valuation
“We don’t settle cheap. We build cases that force accountability.”

Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise

Ralph’s HCCLA membership (elite criminal defense credential)
Understands interaction between criminal charges and civil litigation
Can advise witnesses/former members with dual exposure

Investigative Depth

Network of experts: medical, digital forensics, economists, psychologists
Experience obtaining hidden evidence (group chats, chapter records, university files)
“We investigate like your child’s life depends on it – because it does.”

Spanish Language Services

Mr. Peña speaks fluent Spanish
Servicios legales en español disponibles
Serving Texas Hispanic communities with cultural understanding

How We Approach Hazing Cases Differently

Early Evidence Preservation

Digital forensics to recover deleted messages
Immediate subpoenas for university/organization records
Expert consultation within first 48 hours

Multiple Defendant Strategy

Not just suing individuals
Identifying all liable entities: nationals, housing corporations, universities, insurers
Creating multiple pressure points for settlement

Pattern Evidence Development

Researching national organization histories
Documenting prior incidents at same chapter
Establishing foreseeability and negligent supervision

Damage Maximization

Comprehensive medical documentation
Economic analysis of lifetime impacts
Psychological evaluation for trauma
Punitive damage arguments when appropriate

Privacy Protection

Sealed records where possible
Confidential settlement negotiations
Media strategy that protects victim identity

Our Texas Geographic Mastery

Houston-Based, Statewide Reach

Headquarters in Houston (Harris County)
Serving families throughout Texas, including Hutchins and Dallas County
Familiar with courts statewide: Harris, Travis, Brazos, Dallas, Tarrant counties
“Distance doesn’t matter – Texas law applies everywhere.”

University-Specific Experience

Current UH case gives insider knowledge
Experience with UT System policies and procedures
Understanding of A&M Corps culture and structure
Knowledge of private university dynamics (SMU, Baylor)

Local Court Advantages