Hazing at Texas Universities: A Complete Legal Guide for Chandler & East Texas Families

If Your Child is in Danger Right Now: Call 911, Then Call Us at 1-888-ATTY-911

For families in Chandler, Murchison, and across Henderson County, the college dream can become a parent’s worst nightmare in minutes. Imagine your child—a student at the University of Texas at Tyler, Texas A&M University, or another campus—being pressured into dangerous rituals, forced drinking, or extreme physical abuse as part of “joining” a fraternity, sorority, Corps program, or campus organization.

Right now, in Texas, we’re fighting one of the most severe hazing cases in the country at the University of Houston. The details are horrific, but this case proves that when families have the right legal team, powerful institutions can be held accountable.

This comprehensive guide explains what Texas hazing law means for Chandler families, how national patterns play out at our state’s universities, and what legal options exist when tradition turns into trauma.

The Leonel Bermudez Case: Proof That Texas Universities & Fraternities Can Be Held Accountable

In late 2025, we filed a $10 million hazing and abuse lawsuit in Harris County on behalf of Leonel Bermudez against the University of Houston, Pi Kappa Phi national fraternity, their Beta Nu chapter housing corporation, the UH System Board of Regents, and thirteen individual fraternity leaders.

The details, documented in Click2Houston and ABC13 coverage, show how “tradition” becomes torture:

• Humiliating “Pledge Fanny Pack”: New members were forced to carry condoms, sex toys, nicotine devices, and degrading items 24/7, with non-compliance threatening expulsion.
• Extreme Physical Hazing: Sprints, bear crawls, wheelbarrow races, and “save-your-brother” drills pushed beyond human limits. Pledges were sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding” and threatened with actual waterboarding.
• Forced Consumption Rituals: Bermudez was forced to consume milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting, then immediately required to run sprints.
• The November 3 Workout: He was ordered through 100+ push-ups and 500 squats while reciting fraternity creeds under threat of expulsion from the pledging process.
• Medical Catastrophe: Bermudez developed rhabdomyolysis—severe skeletal muscle breakdown—and acute kidney failure. He passed brown urine, couldn’t stand without help, and was hospitalized for four days with critically high creatine kinase levels confirming organ damage. He faces ongoing risk of permanent kidney impairment.

The institutional response unfolded rapidly: Pi Kappa Phi headquarters suspended the Beta Nu chapter on November 6, 2025, after receiving hazing reports. Chapter members voted to surrender their charter on November 14, effectively shutting down. The University of Houston called the alleged conduct “deeply disturbing” and promised disciplinary measures up to expulsion and cooperation with law enforcement.

This case matters to Chandler families because it demonstrates that even against a major university and national fraternity, experienced legal counsel can secure accountability. The same fraternities present at UH—Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Pi Kappa Alpha, and others—also operate at universities where East Texas students enroll.

Hazing in 2025: What Chandler Parents Need to Recognize

Hazing has evolved beyond simple pranks. Today’s hazing blends psychological manipulation, digital control, and physical danger, often disguised as “team building” or “tradition.” For Chandler families with students at Texas universities, understanding these modern forms is crucial.

Three Tiers of Modern Hazing

Tier 1: Subtle Hazing (Often Missed or Dismissed)

• 24/7 group chat monitoring with immediate response demands
• Mandatory “chauffeuring” of older members at all hours
• Enforced dress codes and public identification as “pledges”
• Social isolation from non-members and family
• “Voluntary” tasks that are actually mandatory under threat of social exclusion

Tier 2: Harassment Hazing (Clearly Harmful but Sometimes Minimized)

• Sleep deprivation through late-night “meetings” or early-morning summons
• Food/water restriction or forced consumption of unpleasant substances
• Extreme calisthenics disguised as “workouts” or “conditioning”
• Public humiliation through embarrassing costumes or performances
• Verbal abuse, screaming, and degradation during “interview” sessions

Tier 3: Violent Hazing (Criminal and Life-Threatening)

• Forced alcohol consumption through “big/little” nights, drinking games, or lineups
• Physical beatings with paddles, fists, or objects
• Dangerous physical tests: blindfolded tackles, “glass ceiling” rituals, extreme environmental exposure
• Sexualized hazing: forced nudity, simulated sexual acts, sexual assault
• Forced drug use or consumption of unknown substances

Digital Hazing: The 24/7 Control System

Today’s hazing continues between in-person events through:

1. Group Chat Tyranny: WhatsApp, GroupMe, Discord, or Signal groups where pledges must respond instantly to any message, day or night.
2. Social Media Control: Forced posting of humiliating content, challenges, or declarations of loyalty.
3. Location Tracking: Required use of Find My Friends, Snapchat Maps, or Life360 to monitor pledge movements.
4. Evidence Destruction: Instructions to delete messages, photos, and videos to avoid detection.

Texas Hazing Law: Your Legal Rights Explained in Plain English

For Chandler families, Texas law provides specific protections and pathways to accountability. The Texas Education Code, Chapter 37, Subchapter F, defines hazing broadly and removes common defenses that organizations try to use.

What Texas Law Says

Definition (Section 37.151): Hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, directed against a student that endangers mental or physical health or safety for purposes of initiation, affiliation, or membership in any organization.

Key Provisions for Chandler Families:

• Consent is NOT a Defense (Section 37.155): Even if your child “agreed” to participate, it’s still hazing under Texas law. Courts recognize that power imbalance and peer pressure invalidate true consent.
• Criminal Penalties (Section 37.152):
  • Class B Misdemeanor: Hazing without serious injury (up to 180 days jail, $2,000 fine)
  • Class A Misdemeanor: Hazing causing injury requiring medical treatment
  • State Jail Felony: Hazing causing serious bodily injury or death
• Organizational Liability (Section 37.153): Fraternities, sororities, and other organizations can face fines up to $10,000 per violation and university expulsion.
• Good-Faith Reporting Protection (Section 37.154): Students who report hazing or call for medical help in good faith receive immunity from related prosecution.

How Federal Law Overlays Texas Protections

1. Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): Requires colleges receiving federal aid to report hazing incidents transparently and maintain public hazing data by 2026.
2. Title IX: When hazing involves sexual harassment, assault, or gender-based hostility, federal Title IX requirements apply regardless of Texas state law.
3. Clery Act: Requires reporting of certain crimes and maintaining campus safety statistics that include hazing incidents involving assault or alcohol/drug crimes.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Civil Case

When hazing causes injury or death, multiple parties may share liability:

1. Individual Students: Those who planned, executed, or covered up hazing activities.
2. Chapter Officers: Presidents, pledge educators, risk managers who knew or should have known.
3. Local Chapters: The fraternity or sorority chapter as an organization.
4. National Fraternities/Sororities: Headquarters that set policies, collect dues, and supervise chapters.
5. Universities: Schools that knew or should have known about dangerous traditions and failed to act.
6. Property Owners: Landlords of off-campus houses or venues who permitted dangerous activities.
7. Third Parties: Bars, alcohol providers, or security companies facilitating events.

Where Chandler Students Attend: Texas Universities with Documented Hazing Issues

East Texas families from Chandler, Athens, Tyler, and surrounding communities send students to universities across our state. Understanding the specific risks and histories at these institutions is crucial.

University of Texas at Tyler (Local Connection for Chandler Families)

For Chandler parents: UT Tyler is just 35 miles away, making it a common choice for local students. Its growing Greek life and campus organizations require particular attention.

Campus Profile:

• Public university with expanding Greek system
• Multiple fraternities and sororities across IFC, Panhellenic, and NPHC councils
• Active student organizations beyond Greek life

Documented Issues & Response:
While major public incidents at UT Tyler have been less frequent than at larger campuses, the university follows UT System policies that have been tested at Austin and other campuses. The proximity to Chandler means any incidents directly affect our community.

What UT Tyler Parents Should Know:

1. Reporting Channels: Dean of Students office, campus police (903-566-7300), and online reporting forms
2. Disciplinary Transparency: UT System schools maintain hazing violation logs—ask specifically about any prior incidents involving organizations your child is joining
3. Legal Jurisdiction: Cases may involve Smith County courts where UT Tyler is located

Texas A&M University (Common Destination for East Texas Students)

For Chandler families: Many East Texas students choose Texas A&M, drawn by tradition, academics, and the Corps of Cadets. The 200-mile distance doesn’t eliminate parental concerns.

Documented Hazing Incidents:

1. Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (2021):

   • Pledges allegedly covered in industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and other substances
   • Resulted in severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries
   • Pledges sued for $1 million; fraternity suspended for two years
   • Case highlights extreme physical hazing disguised as “initiation”

2. Corps of Cadets “Roasted Pig” Case (2023):

   • Cadet alleged being bound between beds in degrading position with apple in mouth
   • Filed lawsuit seeking over $1 million in damages
   • Texas A&M stated it handled matter internally under Corps regulations
   • Demonstrates hazing extends beyond Greek life to military-style programs

Texas A&M’s Hazing Framework:

• Student Conduct office investigates allegations
• Corps of Cadets has separate disciplinary system
• Public reporting through annual security reports
• Critical for parents: The combination of Greek life AND Corps traditions creates multiple potential hazing environments

University of Texas at Austin (Major University for Texas Students)

UT Austin’s Public Hazing Transparency:
UT maintains one of Texas’s most transparent hazing violation logs at hazing.utexas.edu, showing patterns that concern all Texas parents.

Recent Documented Violations:

1. Pi Kappa Alpha (2023):

   • New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics
   • Found to be hazing; chapter placed on probation with mandatory prevention education
   • Shows how even “non-alcohol” activities can constitute hazing

2. Texas Wranglers & Spirit Groups:

   • Multiple sanctions for forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing, punishment-based practices
   • Demonstrates hazing occurs in non-Greek organizations too

3. Sigma Alpha Epsilon Incident (January 2024):

   • Australian exchange student allegedly assaulted at party
   • Injuries included dislocated leg, broken ligaments, fractured tibia, broken nose
   • Student sued SAE chapter for over $1 million
   • Chapter already under suspension for prior violations

Why UT Austin’s Transparency Matters for Chandler Families:

1. Pattern Evidence: Public logs show which organizations repeat violations
2. Notice to University: Documented prior incidents strengthen negligence claims
3. Informed Decisions: Parents can research organizations before children join

University of Houston (Site of Current Major Litigation)

UH Response to Leonel Bermudez Case:
The university’s public statement called conduct “deeply disturbing” and promised:

• Cooperation with law enforcement
• Disciplinary measures up to expulsion
• Continued review of Greek life policies

UH Hazing Prevention Framework:

• Office of Dean of Students investigates allegations
• Greek Life office oversees recognized organizations
• Required training for Greek organizations
• Reality: Despite policies, severe cases still occur, proving policies alone don’t prevent hazing without enforcement

Baylor University & Southern Methodist University (Private School Considerations)

Baylor’s History & Context:

• Religious identity with strict conduct codes
• Past football and Title IX scandals affecting institutional response patterns
• Baseball team hazing incident (2020) with 14 players suspended
• For parents: Private school status affects transparency and legal strategies

SMU’s Greek Culture:

• Affluent campus with strong Greek presence
• Kappa Alpha Order incident (2017): paddling, forced drinking, sleep deprivation
• Private university protocols affect public information availability
• Legal consideration: Fewer sovereign immunity hurdles than public universities

The Texas Greek Ecosystem: What Chandler Families Are Really Dealing With

Behind the letters and houses lie complex networks of organizations, insurance policies, and legal entities. Our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine tracks 1,423 Greek-related organizations across 25 Texas metros. For Chandler families, understanding this ecosystem is key to holding the right parties accountable.

Public Records Directory: Fraternities, Sororities & Greek Organizations Connected to Texas Campuses

We maintain comprehensive data on Texas Greek organizations through IRS filings, university records, and public databases. Here’s what Chandler families should understand about the organizations behind campus chapters:

IRS B83 Texas-Registered Greek Organizations (Sample)
These tax-exempt entities include house corporations, alumni chapters, and support organizations that may hold insurance and assets:

• KAPPA SIGMA – MU CAMMA CHAPTER INC | EIN: 133048786 | 3007 EARL RUDDER FWY S, COLLEGE STATION, TX 77845-6681 | IRS B83 filing
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 475370943 | 5019 CALHOUN RD, HOUSTON, TX 77204-7005 | THETA DELTA chapter housing | IRS B83 filing
• PI KAPPA ALPHA FRATERNITY | EIN: 746064445 | 1855 HIGHWAY 69 N, NEDERLAND, TX 77627-8843 | EPSILON KAPPA CHAPTER | 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
• TEXAS KAPPA SIGMA EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION INC | EIN: 741380362 | PO BOX 470061, FORT WORTH, TX 76147-0061 | IRS B83 filing

Metro Area Concentrations (Relevant to Texas Students)

• Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington Metro: 510 Greek organizations
• Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land Metro: 188 Greek organizations
• Austin-Round Rock Metro: 154 Greek organizations
• College Station-Bryan Metro: 42 Greek organizations
• Tyler area (relevant to UT Tyler): Multiple registered organizations

Why This Directory Matters for Chandler Families:

1. Insurance Identification: These entities often hold liability policies
2. Asset Tracing: House corporations own property that can be targeted in judgments
3. National Connections: Local chapters connect to national headquarters with deeper pockets
4. Legal Standing: Properly identifying all liable entities strengthens your case

National Hazing Histories: Patterns That Repeat at Texas Campuses

The same national organizations operate at Texas universities where Chandler students enroll. Their histories elsewhere predict risks here:

Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) – National Pattern:

• Stone Foltz (Bowling Green, 2021): Forced drinking death, $10 million settlement
• David Bogenberger (Northern Illinois, 2012): Alcohol poisoning death, $14 million settlement
• Texas Pattern: Chapters at UT, Texas A&M, Texas Tech, with documented violations

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) – National Pattern:

• Multiple alcohol-related deaths nationwide
• Traumatic brain injury lawsuit at University of Alabama (2023)
  页 Chemical burns case at Texas A&M (2021)
  页 Assault case at UT Austin (2024)
• Texas Presence: Chapters at all major Texas universities

Pi Kappa Phi – National Pattern:

• Andrew Coffey (Florida State, 2017): Big/little night drinking death
• Current Texas Case: Leonel Bermudez at University of Houston (our firm’s case)

Phi Delta Theta – National Pattern:

• Max Gruver (LSU, 2017): “Bible study” drinking game death, $6.1 million verdict

Why National Histories Matter in Texas Courts:

1. Foreseeability: Nationals knew or should have known about dangerous traditions
2. Pattern Evidence: Similar incidents show systemic problems, not isolated “rogue” behavior
3. Negligent Supervision: Failure to enforce own policies strengthens negligence claims
4. Punitive Damages: Repeated ignoring of known dangers supports punishment beyond compensation

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Strategy & What Recovery Looks Like

When hazing causes injury or death, proper investigation and legal strategy make the difference between accountability and cover-up. For Chandler families facing this nightmare, understanding the process helps manage expectations and make informed decisions.

Critical Evidence That Wins Hazing Cases

Digital Evidence (Most Important in 2025):

1. Group Chats: WhatsApp, GroupMe, iMessage, Discord, Signal conversations showing planning, execution, or cover-up
2. Social Media: Instagram stories, Snapchat memories, TikTok videos, Facebook posts documenting events
3. Deleted Message Recovery: Digital forensics can often retrieve “disappearing” messages
4. Location Data: GPS history, Find My Friends logs, Uber/Lyft receipts placing participants at scenes

Physical & Medical Evidence:

1. Medical Records: ER reports, hospitalization records, lab results (especially toxicology and CPK for rhabdomyolysis)
2. Photographic Evidence: Injuries at multiple stages, hazing locations, objects used (paddles, alcohol bottles)
3. Physical Items: Clothing with stains or damage, “pledge manuals,” receipts for forced purchases

Institutional Records:

1. University Files: Prior disciplinary actions, incident reports, Clery Act reports, internal emails
2. National Fraternity Records: Risk management files, prior incident reports, training materials obtained through discovery
3. Insurance Policies: Coverage documents from nationals, chapters, universities, and property owners

Witness Testimony:

1. Other Pledges: Often the most powerful witnesses once they feel safe to talk
2. Former Members: Those who quit or were expelled may provide crucial inside perspective
3. Bystanders: Roommates, neighbors, venue staff who saw or heard what happened

Understanding Damages: What Can Be Recovered

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Losses):

• Medical Expenses: Past and future treatment, therapy, medications, lifelong care for catastrophic injuries
• Lost Earnings: Missed work, delayed education, reduced earning capacity from permanent injuries
• Educational Costs: Lost tuition, forfeited scholarships, transfer expenses

Non-Economic Damages (Compensation for Harm):

• Pain & Suffering: Physical pain from injuries and treatment
• Emotional Distress: PTSD, depression, anxiety, humiliation, trauma
• Loss of Enjoyment: Inability to participate in activities, damaged college experience
• Reputational Harm: Social stigma, public identification as victim

Wrongful Death Damages (For Families):

• Economic Losses: Funeral costs, loss of financial support, lost inheritance
• Non-Economic Losses: Loss of companionship, parental guidance, grief and mental anguish

Punitive Damages (When Available):

• Purpose: Punish especially reckless or malicious conduct, deter future hazing
• When Awarded: Prior warnings ignored, particularly cruel conduct, cover-up attempts, callous indifference
• Texas Caps: Statutory limits apply except in certain intentional tort cases

Common Defense Strategies & How We Counter Them

Defense 1: “The Pledge Consented”

• Our Response: Texas law Section 37.155 explicitly states consent is not a defense. Power imbalance and peer pressure invalidate true consent.
• Evidence Used: Group chats showing coercion, testimony about social consequences of refusal

Defense 2: “National Didn’t Know / Rogue Chapter”

• Our Response: Pattern evidence from other chapters shows foreseeability. Nationals collect dues and exercise control.
• Evidence Used: Prior incident reports, risk management files showing knowledge of traditions

Defense 3: “It Happened Off-Campus / Not Our Property”

• Our Response: Location doesn’t eliminate duty based on sponsorship, control, or knowledge.
• Evidence Used: University recognition documents, national oversight, prior off-campus incidents

Defense 4: “We Have Anti-Hazing Policies”

• Our Response: Having policies isn’t enough—enforcement matters. Prior violations with minimal punishment show inadequate supervision.
• Evidence Used: Disciplinary records showing repeated “slap on wrist” responses

Defense 5: “Insurance Doesn’t Cover Intentional Acts”

• Our Response: Even if hazing was intentional, negligent supervision may be covered. Multiple policies may apply.
• Strategy: Identify all potential coverage: national policies, chapter policies, university policies, homeowner’s policies

Practical Guide for Chandler Parents & Students

Immediate Action Steps If You Suspect Hazing

First 24 Hours (Critical Evidence Preservation):

1. Medical Priority: If injured or intoxicated, get to ER immediately. Tell medical staff “this was hazing” for proper documentation.
2. Digital Evidence: Screenshot ALL group chats, messages, social media posts BEFORE anything is deleted.
3. Photograph Everything: Injuries from multiple angles with scale reference, locations, objects used.
4. Write It Down: Detailed notes of what happened, who was there, what was said—memory fades fast.
5. Secure Physical Evidence: Clothing, receipts, pledge materials—do NOT wash or alter.
6. Contact Attorney911: Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate guidance before making statements or decisions.

What NOT to Do:

• Don’t confront the organization—they’ll destroy evidence and lawyer up
• Don’t let your child delete anything “embarrassing”—it’s critical evidence
• Don’t post details on social media—defense attorneys monitor everything
• Don’t sign anything from the university or insurance company
• Don’t let your child attend “one last meeting” to “talk things out”

Warning Signs Your Chandler Student May Be Hazed

Physical Indicators:

• Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts, or injuries with vague explanations
• Extreme exhaustion beyond normal college stress
• Sudden weight changes from food/water manipulation
• Signs of alcohol poisoning or substance use (if not typical behavior)

Behavioral Changes:

• New secrecy about organization activities (“I can’t talk about it”)
• Withdrawal from family, old friends, non-member activities
• Personality shifts: anxiety, depression, irritability, fearfulness
• Constant phone checking/responding with visible anxiety
• Defensive when asked about the organization
• Talking about “just getting through” initiation or “everyone did it before me”

Academic & Financial Red Flags:

• Grades dropping suddenly
• Missing classes or falling asleep in class
• Unexplained expenses for “dues,” “fines,” or group purchases
• Requests for money without clear explanations

How to Talk to Your Child About Hazing

Non-Confrontational Questions:

1. “How are things going with [organization]? Are you enjoying it?”
2. “Do they respect your time for classes and sleep?”
3. “What kinds of activities do new members do?”
4. “Is there anything that makes you uncomfortable or that you wish you didn’t have to do?”
5. “Do you feel like you could leave if you wanted to, or would there be consequences?”
6. “Are you being asked to keep secrets from me or the university?”

If Your Child Opens Up:

• Listen without judgment
• Prioritize safety over “getting in trouble”
• Emphasize that real organizations don’t require abuse for membership
• Contact Attorney911 together for confidential guidance

If Your Child Shuts Down:

• Don’t force confession—monitor closely
• Look for the warning signs above
• Consider contacting the Dean of Students anonymously
• Call us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for advice on next steps

Reporting Options for Chandler Families

University Channels:

• Dean of Students office
• Campus police (non-emergency lines)
• Office of Student Conduct
• Title IX office (if sexualized hazing)
• Anonymous reporting systems if available

Law Enforcement:

• Local police where incident occurred
• Campus police with jurisdiction

County sheriff if off-campus in unincorporated areas

Anonymous National Resources:

• National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
• Note: While valuable for reporting, these don’t provide legal representation or compensation

Why Legal Counsel Before Reporting:

• Evidence preservation guidance
• Strategic reporting to maximize accountability
• Protection from retaliation
• Parallel civil investigation while university/criminal processes proceed

Why Attorney911 for Chandler Hazing Cases

When your family faces a hazing crisis, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how universities, national fraternities, and insurance companies fight these cases—and how to win anyway.

Our Unique Qualifications for Hazing Litigation

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

• Value (and undervalue) hazing claims
• Use delay tactics to pressure families
• Argue coverage exclusions for “intentional acts”
• Deploy independent medical exams to minimize injuries
  His insider knowledge means we know their playbook because we used to run it.

Complex Institutional Litigation Experience (Ralph Manginello):

• BP Texas City Explosion Litigation: One of few Texas firms involved, proving we can take on billion-dollar defendants
• Federal Court Admitted: U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas experience for Title IX and complex claims
• HCCLA Membership: Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association credential showing serious criminal defense capability
  We’re not intimidated by national fraternities or university legal teams. We’ve faced bigger opponents and won.

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death & Catastrophic Injury Results:

• Logging accident brain injury: Multi-million dollar settlement
• Car accident amputation: Multi-million dollar settlement
• Maritime injury cases: Significant settlements for permanently injured workers
  We don’t settle cheap. We build cases that force accountability and adequate compensation.

Dual Civil/Criminal Hazing Expertise:
Ralph’s HCCLA membership means we understand:

• How criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation
• How to advise witnesses and former members with potential exposure
• Defense strategies that inform our plaintiff approach
  Most hazing firms only do civil work. We understand both sides.

Investigative Depth & Expert Network:
For hazing cases, we deploy:

• Digital Forensics Experts: Recover deleted messages, social media evidence
• Medical Specialists: Document rhabdomyolysis, TBI, PTSD, other injuries
• Greek Life Culture Experts: Explain power dynamics, coercion patterns
• Economists & Life Care Planners: Calculate lifetime costs of catastrophic injuries
• Institutional Policy Experts: Analyze university/fraternity negligence

Texas-Specific Geographic Mastery:
From our Houston base, we serve Chandler and East Texas families with:

• Understanding of Texas courts, procedures, and sovereign immunity issues
• Experience with UT System, Texas A&M System, and private university protocols
• Relationships with Texas experts and investigators
• Spanish-language services available (Se habla Español)

Our Investigative Process for Hazing Cases

Phase 1: Immediate Evidence Preservation (First 48 Hours):

• Digital evidence capture before deletion
• Witness identification and contact
• Medical record collection
• Preservation letters to prevent evidence destruction

Phase 2: Comprehensive Investigation (Weeks 1-8):

• Subpoena university records for prior incidents
• Obtain national fraternity risk management files
• Recover deleted digital evidence through forensics
• Interview witnesses, former members, bystanders
• Consult medical and psychological experts

Phase 3: Liability Analysis & Strategy (Months 2-4):

• Identify all potentially liable parties
• Analyze insurance coverage issues
• Develop case theory integrating Texas law and precedents
• Determine optimal venue and legal theories

Phase 4: Negotiation & Resolution (Months 4-24):

• Present comprehensive demand to all defendants
• Negotiate with multiple insurance carriers
• Prepare for mediation or trial
• Pursue parallel criminal proceedings if appropriate

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

Critical Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Hazing Case

Based on decades of experience, we’ve seen families make these errors that undermine their cases:

Mistake #1: Letting Your Child Delete Evidence

• What Happens: “I don’t want them to get in more trouble” leads to destroying critical evidence
• Why It’s Fatal: Looks like cover-up, makes case nearly impossible to prove
• Our Advice: Preserve EVERYTHING immediately, even embarrassing content

Mistake #2: Confronting the Fraternity/Sorority Directly

• What Happens: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind” feels right but destroys cases
• Why It’s Fatal: They immediately lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses
• Our Advice: Document everything, call us BEFORE any confrontation

Mistake #3: Signing University “Resolution” Forms

• What Happens: Universities pressure families to sign waivers or internal agreements
• Why It’s Fatal: You may waive right to sue or accept inadequate settlements
• Our Advice: Do NOT sign anything without attorney review

Mistake #4: Posting on Social Media

• What Happens: “I want people to know what happened” feels cathartic
• Why It’s Fatal: Defense attorneys screenshot everything; inconsistencies hurt credibility
• Our Advice: Document privately; let your lawyer control public messaging

Mistake #5: Waiting for University Investigation

• What Happens: “We’re investigating” promises delay justice
• Why It’s Fatal: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statutes run
• Our Advice: Preserve evidence NOW; university process ≠ real accountability

Mistake #6: Talking to Insurance Adjusters

• What Happens: “We just need your statement” seems reasonable
• Why It’s Fatal: Recorded statements are used against you; early settlements are lowball
• Our Advice: Politely decline: “My attorney will contact you”

Frequently Asked Questions from Chandler Families

“Can we sue a Texas university for hazing?”
Yes, under specific circumstances. Public universities (UT, Texas A&M, UH) have sovereign immunity protections but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and when suing individuals personally. Private universities (SMU, Baylor) have fewer immunity hurdles. Every case depends on facts—call us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for case-specific analysis.

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

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

“How long do we have to file a lawsuit?”
Generally 2 years from injury or death in Texas, but the “discovery rule” may extend this if harm or cause wasn’t immediately known. In cases involving cover-ups, the statute may be tolled (paused). Time is critical—call us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911.

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

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

“How much does it cost to hire you?”
We work on contingency: no fee unless we win. We advance all case costs and only get paid from recovery. This makes justice accessible regardless of family resources.

“Do you handle cases outside Houston?”
Yes, we serve families throughout Texas, including Chandler and East Texas. Distance doesn’t matter—we come to you or work remotely as needed. Texas hazing law applies statewide.

Call to Action for Chandler & East Texas Families

If hazing has impacted your family at any Texas campus, you don’t have to face this alone. Whether your child attends UT Tyler locally, Texas A&M further away, or any university in between, Texas law provides pathways to accountability.

Your Free, Confidential Consultation with Attorney911

When you call 1-888-ATTY-911, you’ll speak directly with experienced hazing attorneys—not intake staff. We listen without judgment and provide honest assessment.

What to Expect in Your Consultation:

1. We Listen: Tell us what happened in complete confidence
2. We Review: Examine any evidence you’ve preserved (photos, texts, medical records)
3. We Explain: Outline your legal options in plain English
4. We Strategize: Discuss realistic timelines and expectations
5. We Answer: Address all your questions about process and costs
6. No Pressure: Take time to decide—we never push immediate commitment

Contact Information:

• 24/7 Emergency Line: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
• Direct Office: (713) 528-9070
• Ralph Manginello Cell: (713) 443-4781
• Email: ralph@atty911.com
• Website: https://attorney911.com

Spanish Services Available:

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

Why Chandler Families Choose Attorney911

Local Understanding with Statewide Capability:
We understand East Texas communities while having the experience to take on statewide university systems and national fraternities.

Proven Results Against Powerful Institutions:
From BP Texas City to the current University of Houston Pi Kappa Phi case, we’ve faced billion-dollar defendants and won.

Comprehensive Approach:
We handle evidence preservation, investigation, negotiation, and trial preparation—everything your family needs in one firm.

Empathetic, Trauma-Informed Representation:
We know this is one of life’s hardest experiences. We provide legal excellence with human compassion.

No Cost Unless We Win:
Contingency fee structure means no upfront costs. We invest in your case because we believe in it.

Take the First Step Toward Accountability

Whether you’re in Chandler, Athens, Tyler, or anywhere in East Texas, if hazing has hurt your child, call us today. The sooner we begin, the better we can preserve evidence, protect your rights, and build a case for accountability.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 Now for Your Free Consultation

We answer 24/7 because hazing emergencies don’t wait for business hours. That’s why we’re the Legal Emergency Lawyers™.

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 | lupe@atty911.com (Spanish services)