Hazing Lawsuit Guide for City of Seven Points Families: Texas Universities, Fraternities & Legal Rights

A Parent’s Worst Nightmare: When Campus “Tradition” Turns Dangerous

For parents in City of Seven Points, the call every family dreads came through the phone with terrifying clarity. Your child, the student you sent to a Texas university with hopes for their future, is in the emergency room. What began as “joining a group” has become a medical crisis—forced drinking, brutal workouts, psychological torment disguised as “tradition.” The university seems more concerned with protecting its reputation than your child. The fraternity brothers are closing ranks. You’re told “this is just how it’s done,” or worse, “your child agreed to this.”

Right now, here in Texas, we’re fighting exactly this scenario. Our firm represents Leonel Bermudez in a $10 million hazing and abuse lawsuit against the University of Houston, the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter, its national headquarters, and 13 fraternity leaders. Court documents allege Bermudez was subjected to humiliation, forced consumption of food until vomiting, extreme physical hazing, and workouts so severe he developed rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure, passing brown urine and requiring four days of hospitalization. The Pi Kappa Phi chapter has been shut down, but the damage to this young man—and the accountability owed—continues.

This comprehensive guide is written specifically for families in City of Seven Points, Henderson County, and throughout East Texas who need to understand what hazing really looks like in 2025, how Texas law protects victims, what’s happening at our state universities, and what legal options exist when “tradition” becomes abuse. Whether your child attends nearby institutions like Tyler Junior College or UT Tyler, or ventures further to Texas A&M, UT Austin, or other major campuses, the patterns we see in hazing cases remain disturbingly consistent.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES

If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

• Call 911 for medical emergencies
• Then call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
• We provide immediate help – that’s why we’re the Legal Emergency Lawyers™

In the first 48 hours:

• Get medical attention immediately, even if the student insists they are “fine”
• Preserve evidence BEFORE it’s deleted:
  • Screenshot group chats, texts, DMs immediately
  • Photograph injuries from multiple angles
  • Save physical items (clothing, receipts, objects)
• Write down everything while memory is fresh (who, what, when, where)
• Do NOT:
  • Confront the fraternity/sorority
  • Sign anything from the university or insurance company
  • Post details on public social media
  • Let your child delete messages or “clean up” evidence

Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours:

• Evidence disappears fast (deleted group chats, destroyed paddles, coached witnesses)
• Universities move quickly to control the narrative
• We can help preserve evidence and protect your child’s rights
• Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate consultation

What Hazing Really Looks Like in 2025: Beyond the Stereotypes

The Modern Definition of Hazing

For City of Seven Points families unfamiliar with today’s campus climate, 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 legal understanding for Texas families is this: “I agreed to it” does not make it safe or legal when peer pressure and power imbalance are at play.

Texas law (Education Code Chapter 37) defines hazing as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act that endangers physical or mental health for purposes of initiation or affiliation. This includes acts occurring both on and off campus.

Categories of Modern Hazing

Alcohol and Substance Hazing

• Forced or coerced drinking during “Big/Little” nights, bid acceptances, or “family tree” events
• Chugging challenges, “lineups,” drinking games with incorrect answer penalties
• Being pressured to consume unknown or mixed substances
• In the Bermudez case, forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting

Physical Hazing

• Paddling and beatings (still occurring despite national prohibitions)
• Extreme calisthenics, “workouts,” or “smokings” far beyond normal conditioning
• Sleep deprivation through late-night “meetings” or early-morning summons
• Food/water restriction or forced overconsumption
• Exposure to extreme cold/heat or dangerous environments
• The UH Pi Kappa Phi case included sprints, bear crawls, wheelbarrow races, and lying in vomit-soaked grass

Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing

• Forced nudity or partial nudity
• Simulated sexual acts, “roasted pig” positions, degrading costumes
• Acts with racial, sexist, or homophobic overtones
• Public shaming rituals or “roasts”
• The “pledge fanny pack” in the Bermudez case containing condoms, sex toys, and humiliating items

Psychological Hazing

• Verbal abuse, threats, isolation from non-members
• Manipulation or forced confessions
• Social media humiliation via TikTok, Instagram, or group chats
• Constant monitoring via location-sharing apps

Digital/Online Hazing

• Group chat dares requiring immediate response at all hours
• “Challenges” documented and shared on social platforms
• Pressure to create or share compromising images/videos
• Cyberstalking or harassment if pledges don’t comply

Where Hazing Happens in Texas

City of Seven Points families should understand hazing extends beyond stereotypes:

• Fraternities and sororities across all councils (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural)
• Corps of Cadets/ROTC/military-style groups with tradition-heavy cultures
• Spirit squads and tradition clubs like Texas Cowboys-type organizations
• Athletic teams from football to cheerleading
• Marching bands and performance groups
• Some service, cultural, and academic organizations

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

Texas Hazing Law & Legal Framework: What City of Seven Points Families Need to Know

Texas Education Code Chapter 37: The Anti-Hazing Statute

Texas has specific anti-hazing provisions that govern cases affecting City of Seven Points families. The law defines hazing broadly as intentional, knowing, or reckless acts, on or off campus, directed against a student for purposes of initiation or affiliation that:

• Endanger physical health or safety (e.g., beating, forced exercise, forced consumption)
• Substantially affect mental health or safety (e.g., extreme humiliation, intimidation)

Key Provisions for Henderson County Families:

• §37.152 Criminal Penalties:

  • 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

• §37.153 Organizational Liability:

  • Organizations can be prosecuted if they authorized or encouraged hazing
  • Officers who knew about hazing and failed to report it face penalties
  • Organizations face fines up to $10,000 per violation

• §37.155 Critical Protection:

  • Consent is NOT a defense to hazing charges
  • Even if your child “agreed,” it’s still hazing under Texas law

• §37.154 Reporter Immunity:

  • Good-faith reporters to universities or law enforcement receive immunity
  • Many campuses extend this to medical emergencies (amnesty for calling 911)

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding the Difference

Criminal Cases (Brought by the State)

• Prosecuted by district attorneys (in Henderson County, this would be the 173rd District Attorney)
• Aim: Punishment (jail, fines, probation)
• Typical charges: hazing, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, battery, manslaughter in fatal cases
• Burden of proof: Beyond a reasonable doubt

Civil Cases (Brought by Victims/Families)

• Filed by victims or surviving families seeking compensation
• Aim: Monetary damages and accountability
• Legal theories: negligence, gross negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision, premises liability, emotional distress
• Burden of proof: Preponderance of evidence (more likely than not)

Important for City of Seven Points Families: These cases can run simultaneously. A criminal conviction isn’t required for civil action, and a civil case can proceed even if prosecutors decline to file criminal charges.

Federal Law Overlay

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024)

• Requires colleges receiving federal aid to report hazing incidents more transparently
• Strengthens hazing education and prevention requirements
• Mandates public hazing data (phased in by 2026)
• Applies to all Texas public universities and most privates

Title IX Implications

• When hazing involves sexual harassment, assault, or gender-based hostility
• Creates additional reporting and response obligations for universities
• Can provide additional legal avenues for victims

Clery Act Requirements

• Mandates reporting of certain crimes in campus safety statistics
• Hazing incidents often overlap with reportable crimes like assault or alcohol violations

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit?

Individual Students

• Those who planned, supplied alcohol, carried out acts, or helped cover up
• Both active participants and those who failed to intervene

Local Chapter/Organization

• The fraternity/sorority or club itself if it’s a legal entity
• Chapter officers acting in official capacity

National Fraternity/Sorority Headquarters

• Organizations that set policies, receive dues, and 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
• Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT) have some sovereign immunity but exceptions exist

Third Parties

• Landlords/owners of houses or event spaces
• Bars or alcohol providers under dram shop theories
• Security companies or event organizers

Every case is fact-specific, but experienced hazing attorneys investigate all potential sources of liability and insurance coverage.

National Hazing Case Patterns: Lessons for Texas Families

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

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

• Bid-acceptance event with extreme drinking captured on chapter security cameras
• Multiple falls, hours delayed before medical help called
• Result: Dozens of criminal charges, civil litigation, Pennsylvania’s Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law
• Takeaway for City of Seven Points families: Delayed medical response dramatically increases liability and tragedy

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)

• “Bible study” drinking game with forced consumption for wrong answers
• BAC reached 0.495%, died from alcohol toxicity
• Result: Multiple convictions, Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act (felony hazing statute)
• Takeaway: “Games” with drinking punishments are predictable death traps

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

• Pledge forced to drink nearly full bottle of whiskey during “Big/Little” event
• Family reached $10 million settlement ($7M from national Pike, ~$3M from BGSU)
• Takeaway: Universities face significant financial consequences alongside fraternities

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

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

• Blindfolded, weighted tackle ritual during fraternity retreat
• Fatal head injuries, delayed medical help
• Result: National fraternity criminally convicted, banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years
• Takeaway: Off-campus retreats don’t eliminate liability; nationals can face organizational criminal charges

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Northwestern University Football (2023–2025)

• Former players alleged sexualized, racist hazing within program
• Multiple lawsuits, head coach fired, confidential settlements
• Takeaway: Hazing extends beyond Greek life to big-money athletic programs

What These Cases Mean for City of Seven Points Families

The patterns are clear: forced drinking, humiliation, violence, delayed medical care, and cover-ups. Reforms and multi-million-dollar settlements often follow only after tragedy and litigation. Texas families facing hazing at our universities are operating in a landscape shaped by these national lessons. The same national fraternities involved in these cases—Pi Kappa Alpha, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Phi Delta Theta, Pi Kappa Phi—have chapters at Texas schools where similar patterns can and do occur.

Texas University Focus: Where City of Seven Points Students Attend

Understanding the Local Landscape

City of Seven Points families typically send students to a mix of local institutions and major Texas universities:

Local & Regional Options for Henderson County Families:

• Tyler Junior College (Tyler, Smith County) – Active campus life with student organizations
• University of Texas at Tyler (Tyler, Smith County) – Growing Greek life presence
• Texas A&M University-Commerce (Commerce, Hunt County) – Approximately 90 minutes away
• Stephen F. Austin State University (Nacogdoches, Nacogdoches County) – Strong traditions and Greek system

Major Statewide Destinations:

• University of Texas at Austin – 3+ hours from Henderson County
• Texas A&M University – 3+ hours from Henderson County
• University of Houston – 4+ hours from Henderson County
• Baylor University – 2+ hours from Henderson County
• Southern Methodist University – 2+ hours from Henderson County

University-Specific Hazing Environments

University of Houston: The Bermudez Case Context

Campus Culture & Recent History

• Large urban campus with active Greek life across multiple councils
• Approximately 60+ fraternity/sorority chapters
• Recent high-profile case: Leonel Bermudez v. UH & Pi Kappa Phi

The Bermudez Case Details (Active Litigation)

• Filed late 2025 alleging severe hazing in Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter
• Allegations include: “pledge fanny pack” humiliation, forced consumption until vomiting, extreme workouts causing rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure
• Defendants: UH, UH System Board of Regents, Pi Kappa Phi national, housing corporation, 13 individual members
• Chapter suspended November 6, 2025; charter surrendered November 14, 2025
• Medical outcome: Four-day hospitalization, critically high creatine kinase levels, ongoing kidney damage risk

UH Hazing Policy & Reporting

• Prohibits hazing on and off campus
• Reporting through Dean of Students, Conduct Office, UHPD
• Publishes some disciplinary information online

What City of Seven Points Families with UH Students Should Know

• Hazing incidents may involve Houston Police Department or UHPD depending on location
• Civil cases typically filed in Harris County courts
  – Evidence preservation is critical – group chats deleted within hours
• Prior incidents at same chapters strengthen negligence claims

Texas A&M University: Corps Traditions & Greek Life

Unique Cultural Factors

• Corps of Cadets with tradition-heavy culture
• Strong Greek life presence alongside military-style organizations
• Multiple hazing incidents across both systems

Documented Cases

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (2021): Pledges allegedly covered in industrial-strength cleaner causing severe burns requiring skin grafts; fraternity suspended; $1 million lawsuit filed
• Corps of Cadets Lawsuit (2023): Cadet alleged “roasted pig” binding with apple in mouth, simulated sexual acts; sought over $1 million; A&M stated handled internally
• Rhabdomyolysis Cases: Multiple incidents of extreme physical hazing leading to kidney injury

A&M’s Approach

• Student Conduct Office handles investigations
• Corps has separate disciplinary system
• Some transparency through public records requests

Practical Guidance for City of Seven Points A&M Families

• Understand both Greek and Corps risks
• Document everything immediately—traditions are often defended vigorously
• Medical attention is non-negotiable for suspected rhabdomyolysis (brown urine = emergency)

University of Texas at Austin: Transparency & Patterns

Public Hazing Violations Database

• UT maintains public listing of hazing violations at hazing.utexas.edu
• Provides organization names, dates, conduct descriptions, sanctions
• Relatively transparent compared to other Texas schools

Recent Documented Violations

• Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics; chapter probation and hazing-prevention education required
• Texas Wranglers (spirit organization): Multiple sanctions for forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing
• Various fraternities and sororities with probation for hazing violations

Legal Environment

• Cases may involve UTPD or Austin PD
• Travis County courts handle civil litigation
• Prior violations on public log strengthen pattern evidence

UT-Specific Advice for City of Seven Points Families

• Check the public violations database for your child’s organization
• Use documented prior incidents in discussions with university
• Understand that even “probation” sanctions indicate known problems

Southern Methodist University: Private School Dynamics

Institutional Characteristics

• Private university with affluent student body
• Strong Greek life as central to social scene
• Different transparency standards than public schools

Documented Incidents

• Kappa Alpha Order (2017): New members reportedly paddled, forced to drink, sleep deprived; chapter suspended until 2021
• Various anonymous reports through SMU’s Real Response system
• Less public information due to private status

SMU’s Approach

• Anonymous reporting systems available
• Internal investigations often confidential
• Civil lawsuits can compel discovery otherwise hidden

Considerations for City of Seven Points SMU Families

• Expect less public information from the university
• Civil discovery becomes crucial for uncovering internal reports
• Private status doesn’t eliminate liability

Baylor University: Religious Identity & Historical Context

Unique Institutional Factors

• Religious affiliation influencing disciplinary approach
• History of scrutiny over football and Title IX issues
• Strong athletic programs alongside Greek life

Documented Cases

• Baseball Hazing (2020): 14 players suspended following investigation
• Various Greek life incidents handled internally
• Less public reporting than state schools

Baylor’s Approach

• “Zero tolerance” public statements
• Internal disciplinary processes
• Religious branding influencing response

Guidance for City of Seven Points Baylor Families

• Understand how religious identity may affect institutional response
• Document carefully as internal processes may not be transparent
• Legal counsel important for navigating unique institutional dynamics

Fraternities & Sororities: National Histories Meet Texas Campuses

Why National Histories Matter for City of Seven Points Families

When your child joins a chapter at a Texas university, they’re joining an organization with a national history that often includes documented hazing patterns. National headquarters create thick anti-hazing manuals because they’ve seen deaths and catastrophic injuries. When a Texas chapter repeats the same script that got another chapter shut down in another state, that shows foreseeability—a key legal concept in negligence cases.

Organization Mapping: National Patterns at Texas Schools

Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / Pike)

• National History: Stone Foltz death (BGSU, $10M settlement), multiple alcohol hazing deaths
• Texas Presence: Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, Baylor, SMU
• Pattern: “Big/Little” alcohol events, forced consumption traditions
• Legal Significance: National has been on notice for years about these patterns

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / SAE)

• National History: Multiple deaths nationwide, traumatic brain injury lawsuit (Alabama), chemical burns case (Texas A&M)
• Texas Presence: Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU
• Pattern: Physical hazing, alcohol coercion, delayed medical response
• Legal Significance: National eliminated pledge program in 2014 due to pattern of deaths

Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ)

• National History: Andrew Coffey death (FSU), Bermudez case (UH)
• Texas Presence: Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin
• Pattern: Physical endurance hazing, alcohol coercion
• Legal Significance: Active litigation in Texas shows ongoing issues

Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ)

• National History: Max Gruver death (LSU), multiple alcohol hazing incidents
• Texas Presence: Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, Baylor, SMU
• Pattern: Drinking games as punishment, “Bible study” rituals
• Legal Significance: Led to felony hazing law in Louisiana

The “Pattern and Practice” Legal Strategy

Experienced hazing attorneys use national histories to prove:

1. Foreseeability: The national organization knew or should have known this could happen
2. Negligent Supervision: Failure to adequately monitor and control chapters
3. Punitive Damages Grounds: Reckless disregard for known dangers

For City of Seven Points families, this means: the same national organization that paid millions in Ohio or Louisiana for a hazing death may have similar liability for incidents at Texas chapters.

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Damages, and Strategy

Critical Evidence Categories

Digital Communications (Most Important Category)

• Group chats: GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Slack, fraternity-specific apps
• Social media: Instagram DMs, Snapchat, TikTok, Facebook Messenger
• Deleted message recovery: Digital forensics can often recover “disappearing” messages
• Metadata: Timestamps, participant lists, location data
• Our video on using your phone to document evidence explains best practices

Photos & Videos

• Content filmed by members during events
• Social media posts and stories documenting activities
• Security camera footage from houses and venues
• Medical documentation of injuries over time

Internal Organization Documents

• Pledge manuals, initiation scripts, tradition documents
• Emails/texts planning events or discussing “what we’ll do”
• 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 conduct offices
• Clery Act reports showing pattern of incidents
• Internal emails about the organization

Medical & Psychological Records

• Emergency room records and hospitalization documentation
• Surgical notes, rehabilitation records
• Toxicology reports showing blood alcohol levels
• Psychological evaluations diagnosing PTSD, depression, anxiety

Witness Testimony

• Other pledges who experienced same treatment
• Former members who quit or were expelled
• Roommates, RAs, coaches who observed changes
• Bystanders who witnessed events

Damages in Hazing Cases

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Losses)

• Medical bills (ER, hospitalization, surgery, therapy)
• Future medical care (ongoing treatment, lifelong conditions)
• Lost earnings from delayed education or reduced earning capacity
• Educational costs (withdrawn semesters, lost scholarships)

Non-Economic Damages

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

Wrongful Death Damages (for Families)

• Funeral and burial costs
• Loss of financial support
• Loss of companionship, love, guidance
• Parents’ and siblings’ emotional suffering

Punitive Damages

• Available in cases of gross negligence or intentional conduct
• Designed to punish egregious behavior and deter future conduct
• Subject to Texas statutory caps with exceptions

Insurance Coverage Complexities

National fraternities and universities typically have insurance, but insurers often argue:

• Hazing constitutes “intentional conduct” excluded from coverage
• Certain defendants aren’t covered under policy language
• Claims exceed policy limits

Our experience as former insurance defense attorneys is crucial here. We understand:

• How to identify all potential coverage sources (chapter, national, university, individual homeowners policies)
• How to counter coverage denial arguments
• When to pursue bad faith claims against insurers

Practical Guides & FAQs for City of Seven Points Families

For Parents: Recognizing & Responding to Hazing

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Being Hazed

• Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts, or suspicious “accidents”
• Extreme fatigue beyond normal college stress
• 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
• Academic performance decline
• Financial requests without clear explanation

How to Talk to Your Child

• Use open questions: “How are things with [organization]?” not “Are they hazing you?”
• Emphasize safety over status
• Listen without judgment if they open up
• If they resist, monitor closely but don’t force confrontation

If Your Child Is Hurt

• Get medical attention immediately (ER for any injury or intoxication)
• Document everything: photos of injuries, screenshots of messages, detailed notes
• Save names, dates, locations, witness information
• Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 before confronting anyone

Dealing with the University

• Document every communication (email is better than phone)
• Ask specifically about prior incidents involving the organization
• Request copies of policies and procedures
• Don’t sign anything without legal review
• Understand that university interests may conflict with your family’s

For Students: Safety & Rights

Is This Hazing? Self-Assessment

• Do you feel unsafe, humiliated, or coerced?
• Would you do this if you had a real choice (no social consequences)?
• Is the activity hidden from outsiders?
• Would the university approve if they knew details?
• If yes to any, it’s likely hazing

Exiting Safely

• You have the legal right to leave at any time
• Tell someone outside the organization first (parent, RA, friend)
• Send written resignation to chapter leadership
• Don’t attend “one last meeting” where pressure/retaliation may occur
• Report any threats to campus police immediately

Evidence Preservation

• Screenshot EVERYTHING before it’s deleted
• Photograph injuries immediately and over several days
• Save clothing, receipts, objects used in hazing
• Write detailed notes while memory is fresh
• Watch our evidence preservation video for complete guidance

Reporting Options

• Campus channels: Dean of Students, Conduct Office, campus police
• Local police if crimes occurred (assault, furnishing alcohol to minor)
• National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (anonymous)
• Consult an attorney first to protect your rights

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

1. Deleting Evidence

• What families think: “I don’t want them to get in more trouble”
• Reality: Looks like cover-up, obstruction of justice, makes case impossible
• Correct action: Preserve everything immediately, even embarrassing content

2. Confronting the Organization Directly

• What families think: “I’ll give them a piece of my mind”
• Reality: They lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses
• Correct action: Document everything, call attorney before any contact

3. Signing University Agreements

• What universities do: Pressure families to sign waivers or “internal resolution”
• Reality: You may waive right to sue; settlements often far below value
• Correct action: Do NOT sign anything without attorney review

4. Social Media Posting

• What families think: “I want people to know what happened”
• Reality: Defense attorneys screenshot everything; inconsistencies hurt credibility
• Correct action: Document privately; let attorney control public messaging

5. Waiting for University Investigation

• What universities promise: “We’re investigating internally”
• Reality: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs
• Correct action: Preserve evidence now; consult lawyer immediately

6. Talking to Insurance Adjusters

• What adjusters say: “We just need your statement”
• Reality: Recorded statements are used against you; early offers are lowball
• Correct action: “My attorney will contact you”

Frequently Asked Questions

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

“Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
It can be. Texas law makes hazing a Class B misdemeanor by default, but it becomes 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 consent is not a defense to hazing. Courts recognize that “consent” under peer pressure and power imbalance isn’t true voluntary consent.

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

“What if hazing happened off-campus?”
Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and nationals can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, knowledge, and foreseeability. Many major cases occurred off-campus.

“Will this be confidential?”
Most 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 this cost?”
We work on contingency fee—no upfront costs, no fee unless we win. Watch our contingency fee video for complete explanation.

Why Attorney911 for City of Seven Points 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 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 and lowball settlement strategies
• Argue coverage exclusions for “intentional conduct”
• “We know their playbook because we used to run it.”

Complex Institutional Litigation Experience
Ralph Manginello is one of the few Texas attorneys involved in BP Texas City explosion litigation. This experience against billion-dollar defendants translates directly to hazing cases involving:

• National fraternities with unlimited legal budgets
• University systems with deep resources
• Complex insurance coverage battles
• Multi-defendant coordination
• “We’ve taken on the biggest corporations and won.”

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death Results
We’ve recovered millions for families in catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases. This experience matters for hazing cases involving:

• Lifetime care needs for brain injuries or permanent disabilities
• Economic valuation of young lives
• Non-economic damages for trauma and loss
• Punitive damages in egregious cases
• “We don’t settle cheap. We build cases that force accountability.”

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
• Defense strategies in hazing prosecutions
• How to advise witnesses/former members with dual exposure
• Dual-track capability that few firms offer

Investigative Depth & Resources
We maintain the Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine—a proprietary database tracking 1,423 Greek organizations across 25 Texas metros. This includes:

Public Records Directory Relevant to East Texas Families:

• Sigma Phi Lambda Inc – EIN 201237505 – Corinth, TX 76210 – Beta Chapter (IRS B83 filing)
• Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi – EIN 352335400 – Tyler, TX 75799 – University of Texas at Tyler (IRS B83 filing)
• Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority – EIN 364091267 – Waco, TX 76710 – Xi Chi (IRS B83 filing)
• Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity Inc – EIN 475370943 – Houston, TX 77204 – Theta Delta (IRS B83 filing)
• Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc – EIN 521345951 – Nolanville, TX 76559 – Mu Delta Zeta (IRS B83 filing)
• Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi – EIN 463831593 – Austin, TX 78723 – Texas State University (IRS B83 filing)
• Sigma Chi Fraternity Zeta Eta – EIN 756060974 – Commerce, TX 75429 – Texas A&M University-Commerce (IRS B83 filing)
• Chi Omega Fraternity – EIN 756041410 – Nacogdoches, TX 75965 – Epsilon Zeta (IRS B83 filing)
• Kappa Sigma Fraternity – EIN 756067776 – Fort Worth, TX 76109 – Theta Chapter (IRS B83 filing)
• Phi Delta Theta Fraternity – EIN 900927378 – San Antonio, TX 78249 – Texas Xi (IRS B83 filing)

Metro-Level Intelligence:

• Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington Metro: 510 Greek organizations
• Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land Metro: 188 organizations
• Austin-Round Rock Metro: 154 organizations
• Beaumont-Port Arthur Metro: 22 organizations (relevant for East Texas families)
• Waco Metro: 27 organizations

Why This Database Matters for Your Case:

• We already know the organizations, EINs, and addresses
  — No starting from zero when investigating liability
• We track housing corporations, alumni chapters, national entities
• This intelligence informs settlement strategy and discovery

Digital Forensics & Expert Network

• Recovery of deleted group chats and social media
• Medical experts for rhabdomyolysis, TBI, PTSD
• Greek life culture experts for coercion dynamics
• Economists for lifetime damage calculations
• “We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does.”

Our Connection to City of Seven Points & East Texas

From our Houston office, we serve families throughout Texas, including City of Seven Points, Henderson County, and all surrounding communities. We understand that hazing at Texas universities affects East Texas families just as deeply as those in major metro areas. Whether your child attends nearby institutions or ventures further to major campuses, we’re here to help with:

Local Understanding:

• East Texas values and community dynamics
• Practical logistics for Henderson County families pursuing legal action
• Relationships with medical providers throughout the region
• Understanding of local court systems and procedures

Accessibility:

• Virtual consultations so you don’t need to travel immediately
• Regular communication updates every 2-3 weeks
• Spanish-language services available through Mr. Peña
• We come to you when needed

Call to Action for City of Seven Points Families

Your Next Steps

If hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to navigate this alone. The path ahead may seem overwhelming, but experienced guidance can make all the difference.

What to Expect in Your Free Consultation:

1. We listen without judgment to understand what happened
2. Review any evidence you’ve preserved (photos, messages, medical records)
3. Explain all legal options: criminal reporting, civil lawsuit, both, or neither
4. Discuss realistic timelines and what to expect at each stage
5. Answer all your questions about process, costs, and potential outcomes
6. No pressure to hire us—take time to decide what’s right for your family
7. Everything is confidential—protected by attorney-client privilege

Why Time Is Critical:

• Evidence disappears within days (deleted messages, coached witnesses)
• Statute of limitations continues running
• Universities begin their damage control immediately
• Medical documentation becomes less compelling over time
• Call within 24-48 hours if possible

Contact Attorney911 Today

For Immediate Help:

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

Spanish Language Services:

• Hablamos Español – Mr. Peña provides consultations in Spanish
• Servicios legales completos disponibles en español

Practice Area Information:

• Learn more about our wrongful death experience: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/
• Our criminal defense capability: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/
• Ralph Manginello’s full credentials: https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/
• Lupe Peña’s background: https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/

Educational Resources:

• Evidence preservation video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs
• Statute of limitations explanation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c
• Client mistakes to avoid: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY
• Contingency fee explanation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

To Families in City of Seven Points and Throughout East Texas

We know this article contains difficult information. No family should need to understand hazing laws because their child was harmed. But if you’re facing this situation, please know:

You have rights. What happened to your child is not “just tradition” or “something they agreed to.” It’s potentially criminal conduct that has caused real harm. The organizations involved—fraternities, sororities, universities—have resources and insurance for exactly these situations. Your family shouldn’t bear the physical, emotional, and financial burdens alone.

Whether you’re in City of Seven Points, Tool, Mabank, Athens, or anywhere in Henderson County, we’re here to help. We’ll listen to your story, explain your options, and help you make informed decisions about next steps. You don’t have to face this alone.

Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911. Immediate help is available.

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

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

• Click2Houston investigation: https://www.click2houston.com/news/local/2025/11/21/only-on-2-lawsuit-alleges-severe-hazing-at-university-of-houstons-pi-kappa-phi-chapter-fraternity/
• ABC13 coverage with detailed timeline: https://abc13.com/post/waterboarding-forced-eating-physical-punishment-lawsuit-alleges-abuse-faced-injured-pledge-uhs-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity/18186418/
• Hoodline summary of $10M lawsuit: https://hoodline.com/2025/11/university-of-houston-and-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity-face-10m-lawsuit-over-alleged-hazing-and-abuse/

Attorney911 Educational Videos:

• Evidence preservation with cellphone: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs
• Texas statutes of limitations: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c
• Client mistakes that ruin cases: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY
• How contingency fees work: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

Attorney911 Main Website & Practice Areas:

• Main website & contact: https://attorney911.com
• Wrongful death practice: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/
• Criminal defense practice: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/
• Ralph Manginello profile: https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/
• Lupe Peña profile: https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/

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