The Definitive Guide to Fraternity & Sorority Hazing in Texas: A Resource for Families in Kenedy and Across the Lone Star State

If Your Child Was Hazed at a Texas University, You Are Not Alone

Imagine getting a call in the middle of the night. Your child, a student at a Texas university, is slurring their words, confused, and scared. They’ve been at a fraternity house for hours, forced to drink far beyond any reasonable limit as part of a “pledge tradition.” They’re vomiting, can’t stand up, and their so-called “brothers” are laughing, filming on their phones, debating whether to call for help or “handle it internally.” For families in Kenedy, Karnes County, and throughout South Texas, this nightmare scenario is not just theoretical—it’s happening right now on campuses across our state.

Right here in Texas, we are actively fighting one of the most serious hazing lawsuits in the country. We represent Leonel Bermudez, a University of Houston student who suffered catastrophic injuries during his fall 2025 pledge period with the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity’s Beta Nu chapter. According to a lawsuit filed in Harris County, Bermudez was subjected to months of systematic abuse that included carrying a humiliating “pledge fanny pack” 24/7, enduring hours-long forced workouts at Yellowstone Boulevard Park, being sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding,” and consuming dangerous amounts of food until vomiting. The brutal physical hazing culminated in a November 3rd event where he was forced through 100+ push-ups and 500 squats under threat of expulsion. Days later, he was hospitalized for four days with rhabdomyolysis—a severe muscle breakdown condition—and acute kidney failure, passing brown urine and facing the risk of permanent organ damage.

This $10 million lawsuit names not just the individual fraternity members, but the University of Houston, the UH System Board of Regents, Pi Kappa Phi’s national headquarters, and the chapter’s housing corporation. The case has garnered significant media attention, with detailed coverage from Click2Houston, ABC13, and Hoodline, all reporting on the chapter’s subsequent suspension and closure. This is happening here, in our state, to Texas families just like yours.

This comprehensive guide is written specifically for parents and families in Kenedy, Three Rivers, Runge, and throughout Karnes County who need to understand the reality of modern hazing, Texas law, and what legal options exist when institutions fail to protect our children. Whether your student attends the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, or any other Texas campus, the patterns are disturbingly similar, and the legal pathways to accountability are available.

Immediate Help for Hazing Emergencies

If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

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

In the first 48 hours:

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

Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours:
Evidence disappears fast—deleted group chats, destroyed paddles, coached witnesses. Universities move quickly to control the narrative. We can help preserve evidence and protect your child’s rights. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate consultation.

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like Beyond the Stereotypes

For families in Kenedy who may be unfamiliar with modern Greek life, hazing has evolved far beyond the “animal house” stereotypes. Today’s hazing is often digitally coordinated, psychologically sophisticated, and deliberately hidden from university oversight.

The Modern Definition of Hazing

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

Five Major Categories of Modern Hazing

1. Alcohol and Substance Hazing
This remains the most deadly form. It includes forced consumption games like “lineups” where pledges drink in rapid succession, “Big/Little” nights where new members are given handles of liquor to finish, and trivia games where wrong answers mean drinking shots. In the Bermudez case at UH, pledges were forced to consume milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting, then immediately required to run sprints.

2. Physical Hazing
Beyond traditional paddling, this now includes extreme calisthenics called “smokings,” sleep deprivation through all-night “study sessions,” food and water restriction, and exposure to extreme elements. The UH Pi Kappa Phi case included cold-weather workouts in underwear, lying in vomit-soaked grass, and bear crawls until collapse.

3. Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing
This includes forced nudity, simulated sexual acts, degrading costumes, and acts with racial or sexist overtones. Many organizations use tradition as cover for deeply harmful behavior meant to break down personal boundaries.

4. Psychological Hazing
Verbal abuse, isolation from non-members, forced confessions, public shaming, and manipulation create psychological trauma that can last long after physical injuries heal. The “pledge fanny pack” rule at UH—requiring constant carrying of condoms, sex toys, and humiliating items—was specifically designed for psychological control.

5. Digital/Online Hazing
Group chat dares, social media challenges, forced content creation on TikTok or Instagram, and 24/7 availability expectations have created a new frontier of abuse. Pledges are often required to share their location via tracking apps and respond immediately to messages at all hours.

Where Hazing Happens in Texas

While fraternities and sororities receive the most attention, hazing occurs across campus organizations:

Fraternities and Sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, Multicultural councils)
Corps of Cadets / ROTC / Military-Style Groups (particularly at Texas A&M)
Athletic Teams (from football to cheer squads)
Spirit and Tradition Groups (like the Texas Cowboys at UT)
Marching Bands and Performance Groups
Some Academic and Service Organizations

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

Texas Hazing Law: What Kenedy Families Need to Know

Texas has some of the nation’s most comprehensive anti-hazing statutes, but understanding how they work in practice is crucial for families seeking accountability.

Texas Education Code Chapter 37: The Hazing Statute

Texas law defines hazing broadly as 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 the purpose of pledging, initiation into, affiliation with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization whose members include students.

Key Provisions for Kenedy Families:

§ 37.152 Criminal Penalties:

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

§ 37.155 Consent is NOT a Defense:
Texas law explicitly states that the victim’s “consent” to hazing activities does not constitute a defense to prosecution. This recognizes the power imbalance and coercion inherent in hazing situations.

§ 37.154 Immunity for Good-Faith Reporting:
Students who report hazing or call for medical help in good faith are protected from university discipline and certain legal consequences, even if they were drinking underage or participated in the activity.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding the Difference

Criminal Cases:

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

Civil Cases:

Brought by victims or surviving families
Aim: Monetary compensation and institutional accountability
Focus: Negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision, emotional distress
Critical point: A criminal conviction is NOT required to pursue a civil case

Federal Laws That Apply to Texas Hazing Cases

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024):
This federal law requires colleges receiving federal aid to report hazing incidents more transparently and maintain public hazing data by 2026. This will create valuable discovery tools for future cases.

Title IX:
When hazing involves sexual harassment, assault, or gender-based hostility, Title IX obligations are triggered, creating additional liability for universities that fail to respond appropriately.

Clery Act:
Requires reporting of certain crimes on campus; hazing incidents often overlap with these reporting requirements when assaults or alcohol crimes occur.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Texas Hazing Lawsuit?

Our approach in the Bermudez case demonstrates the comprehensive liability strategy necessary for meaningful accountability:

1. Individual Students:
The members who planned, executed, or covered up the hazing. In the UH case, we named 13 individual fraternity leaders including the chapter president, pledgemaster, and risk manager.

2. Local Chapter/Organization:
The fraternity/sorority chapter itself as a legal entity, plus any housing corporations. We included the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu Housing Corporation as a defendant.

3. National Fraternity/Sorority Headquarters:
National organizations that set policies, receive dues, and supervise chapters. Pi Kappa Phi’s national headquarters is a defendant in our UH case based on their knowledge and oversight responsibilities.

4. University and Governing Boards:
Schools may be liable under negligence, premises liability, or civil rights theories. We sued both the University of Houston and the UH System Board of Regents.

5. Third Parties:
Property owners, alcohol providers (under Texas dram shop law), security companies, and other entities that enable or facilitate hazing.

National Hazing Cases: Patterns That Repeat in Texas

The tragedies at other universities provide painful but crucial lessons about the patterns we see repeating in Texas. These cases show why swift, comprehensive legal action is necessary.

The Alcohol Poisoning Pattern: Foreseeable and Preventable

Timothy Piazza – Penn State, Beta Theta Pi (2017):
A bid-acceptance event with dangerous drinking games led to Piazza’s death after multiple falls captured on chapter cameras. The hours-long delay in calling for help resulted in dozens of criminal charges and Pennsylvania’s “Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law.” Takeaway for Texas families: Delayed medical response dramatically increases liability.

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017):
A “Bible study” drinking game where wrong answers meant forced drinking resulted in Gruver’s death with a 0.495% BAC. This case led to Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act making hazing a felony. Takeaway: Legislatures respond to tragedies with stronger laws.

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021):
Forced to drink nearly a full bottle of whiskey during a “Big/Little” event, Foltz died from alcohol poisoning. The case resulted in a $10 million settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, $3M from BGSU) and criminal convictions. Takeaway: Both national organizations and universities face significant financial exposure.

Physical and Ritualized Hazing: Brutal Traditions

Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013):
A blindfolded “glass ceiling” ritual at a remote retreat resulted in fatal head injuries after repeated tackling. The national fraternity was criminal convicted and banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years. Takeaway for Kenedy families: Off-campus retreats don’t eliminate liability.

Athletic Program Hazing: Beyond Greek Life

Northwestern University Football (2023-2025):
Former players alleged sexualized, racist hazing within the football program over multiple years, resulting in multiple lawsuits and the head coach’s firing. Takeaway: Hazing extends beyond Greek life to major athletic programs with similar institutional cover-up patterns.

What These Cases Mean for Kenedy Families

These national precedents matter because the same organizations operating at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor have been involved in similar incidents elsewhere. When a Texas chapter repeats the same dangerous “traditions” that caused deaths in other states, it demonstrates foreseeability – a key legal concept that strengthens negligence claims against national organizations and universities.

Texas University Focus: Where Kenedy Students Attend

Families in Kenedy and Karnes County typically send students to universities throughout Texas. Understanding the specific hazing landscape at each campus is crucial for prevention and response.

University of Houston: The Current Frontline

For Kenedy Families: At just over a two-hour drive from Karnes County, UH is a common destination for local students. The ongoing Pi Kappa Phi case demonstrates both the severity of hazing at UH and the comprehensive legal response necessary.

Campus Culture Snapshot:

Large urban campus with active Greek life across multiple councils
Approximately 60+ fraternity and sorority chapters
Mix of commuter and residential students
Recent focus on Greek life reform following multiple hazing incidents

Documented Incidents & Response:

2025 Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu Case: As detailed above, this ongoing $10 million lawsuit represents one of the most serious hazing cases in Texas currently
2016 Pi Kappa Alpha Incident: Pledges allegedly deprived of food, water, and sleep during multi-day event; one student suffered lacerated spleen
UH’s Response Pattern: The university has suspended multiple chapters and cooperated with law enforcement in serious cases

How a UH Hazing Case Proceeds:

Involves UH Police Department and/or Houston Police Department
Civil suits typically filed in Harris County courts
Multiple defendant strategy essential (individuals, chapter, national, university)

Texas A&M University: Corps Culture and Greek Life

For Kenedy Families: Many Karnes County students choose Texas A&M, drawn by its reputation and traditions. The approximately 2.5-hour drive makes it accessible for family visits and emergency responses.

Unique Risk Factors:

Corps of Cadets Culture: Military-style environment with documented hazing incidents
Strong Greek Tradition: Over 60 fraternities and sororities
“Traditions” Mentality: Can normalize dangerous behaviors

Documented Texas A&M Hazing Cases:

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Lawsuit (2021):
Pledges alleged being covered in substances including industrial-strength cleaner, causing severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries. The fraternity was suspended for two years, and the lawsuit sought $1 million in damages.

Corps of Cadets “Roasted Pig” Case (2023):
A cadet alleged degrading hazing including being bound between beds in a “roasted pig” position with an apple in his mouth. The lawsuit sought over $1 million, and A&M stated it handled the matter under its internal rules.

How A&M Cases Typically Unfold:

Involves University Police Department and Brazos County authorities
Dual focus on Greek life and Corps of Cadets protocols
University often asserts sovereign immunity as a public institution

University of Texas at Austin: Transparency and Patterns

For Kenedy Families: UT Austin represents both academic excellence and significant Greek life risks. At about two hours from Kenedy, it’s another common choice for high-achieving local students.

UT’s Unique Transparency:
Unlike many universities, UT maintains a public Hazing Violations page listing organizations, conduct, and sanctions. This transparency actually helps prove patterns in litigation.

Recent UT Hazing Violations Include:

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023):
New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics. The chapter was placed on probation and required to implement new hazing-prevention education.

Texas Wranglers (Multiple Years):
This spirit organization has faced repeated sanctions for forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing, and punishment-based practices.

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Assault Case (2024):
An Australian exchange student alleged assault by fraternity members resulting in dislocated leg, broken ligaments, fractured tibia, and broken nose. The lawsuit seeks over $1 million, and the chapter was already under suspension for prior violations.

Legal Strategy for UT Cases:

UTPD and Austin Police Department involvement
Prior violations from UT’s public log create powerful pattern evidence

Travis County venue for civil cases

Southern Methodist University: Private Institution Challenges

For Kenedy Families: SMU’s private university status and Dallas location make it a different environment, but the hazing risks remain substantial.

SMU’s Greek Life Profile:

Historically strong Greek presence
Private university with different disclosure requirements
Multiple hazing incidents documented through media reports

Documented SMU Incidents:

Kappa Alpha Order (2017):
New members reportedly paddled, forced to drink alcohol, and deprived of sleep. The chapter was suspended with restrictions on recruiting until 2021.

SMU’s Response Framework:

Relies on anonymous reporting systems like Real Response
Less public transparency than state schools
Civil suits can compel discovery of internal documents

Baylor University: Religious Identity and Accountability

For Kenedy Families: Baylor’s Waco location and religious affiliation attract many Texas families, but hazing occurs here as elsewhere.

Baylor’s Historical Context:
The university’s recent history with athletic scandals and Title IX issues has created both skepticism and reform efforts regarding institutional accountability.

Documented Baylor Hazing Incidents:

Baseball Team Hazing (2020):
14 players suspended following hazing investigation, with staggered suspensions affecting the team’s early season.

Baylor’s Response Pattern:

“Zero tolerance” public statements
Internal investigations with limited public disclosure
Religious branding sometimes complicates accountability discussions

The Texas Greek Ecosystem: Organizations Behind the Letters

Understanding the national organizations behind local chapters is crucial because their histories create legal “foreseeability” – the concept that they should have known and prevented the harm.

Public Records: Fraternities, Sororities & Greek Organizations Serving Kenedy Families

As part of our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine, we maintain comprehensive data on Greek organizations across Texas. This investigative depth means we don’t start from scratch when your family needs help.

Texas-Registered Greek Organizations (IRS B83 Records):
The IRS maintains records of tax-exempt Greek organizations in Texas. These include house corporations, alumni chapters, and honor societies that often hold insurance and assets. Examples from our database include:

Pi Kappa Phi Delta Omega Chapter Building Corporation
EIN: 371768785 | Missouri City, TX 77459
IRS B83 filing – housing corporation
Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation Inc
EIN: 462267515 | Frisco, TX 75035
IRS B83 filing – housing corporation
Texas Kappa Sigma Educational Foundation Inc
EIN: 741380362 | Fort Worth, TX 76147
IRS B83 filing – educational foundation
Sigma Chi Fraternity Epsilon Xi Chapter
EIN: 746084905 | Houston, TX 77204
IRS B83 filing – chapter organization

Metro-Level Greek Presence:
Our Cause IQ data shows the scale of Greek life in Texas metros:

Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land Metro: 188 Greek-related organizations
Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington Metro: 510 Greek-related organizations
Austin-Round Rock Metro: 154 Greek-related organizations
San Antonio Metro: 86 Greek-related organizations

National Organizations with Documented Hazing Histories

These same national brands operate chapters at Texas universities. Their histories matter because they show patterns that courts consider when determining negligence:

Pi Kappa Alpha (“Pike”):

Stone Foltz (BGSU, 2021): Alcohol poisoning death during “Big/Little” event
David Bogenberger (Northern Illinois, 2012): Alcohol poisoning death, $14 million settlement
Texas Presence: Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE):

Traumatic Brain Injury Case (Alabama, 2023): Pledge suffered TBI during hazing
Chemical Burns Case (Texas A&M, 2021): Industrial cleaner caused burns requiring skin grafts
Assault Case (UT Austin, 2024): International student severely injured
Texas Presence: Chapters at all major Texas universities

Pi Kappa Phi:

Andrew Coffey (Florida State, 2017): Alcohol poisoning death during “Big Brother Night”
Leonel Bermudez (UH, 2025): Rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure from physical hazing
Texas Presence: Chapter at UH (now closed), other Texas campuses

Phi Delta Theta:

Max Gruver (LSU, 2017): Alcohol poisoning death from “Bible study” drinking game
Texas Presence: Chapters at Texas A&M, UT, SMU

Why National Histories Matter Legally:
When a Texas chapter repeats hazing methods that caused injuries or deaths at other chapters, it demonstrates that the national organization:

Knew or should have known the risks
Failed to adequately train or supervise chapters
Didn’t enforce their own anti-hazing policies
Can be held liable for negligent supervision

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Strategy, and Recovery

When hazing causes harm, building a strong case requires immediate action, strategic investigation, and understanding what true recovery involves.

Critical Evidence That Wins Cases

Digital Communications (Most Important):

GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage threads: Show planning, coercion, cover-up attempts
Social media posts/stories: Document events, injuries, boasting about hazing
Deleted message recovery: Digital forensics can often recover “disappearing” content
Location data: GPS timestamps proving where hazing occurred

In the UH Pi Kappa Phi case, group chats revealed the systematic planning of hazing events, threats to pledges, and attempts to coordinate stories after Bermudez’s hospitalization.

Photos & Videos:

Injuries documented immediately and over time
Event locations, alcohol containers, props used
Security/doorbell camera footage from houses

Medical Records:

ER reports specifically stating “hazing” as cause
Lab results (blood alcohol, creatine kinase levels for rhabdomyolysis)
Psychological evaluations for PTSD, depression, anxiety

University & Organizational Records:

Prior conduct violations (obtained through discovery)
Internal emails about the organization
National fraternity risk management files
Training materials and policy manuals

Witness Testimony:

Other pledges experiencing same hazing
Former members willing to come forward
Roommates, RAs, bystanders who observed changes

The Damages Hazing Victims Can Recover

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Losses):

Medical expenses: ER care, hospitalization, ongoing treatment, future surgeries
Lost educational opportunities: Tuition for semesters missed, lost scholarships
Diminished earning capacity: If injuries cause permanent disability
Therapy costs: Psychological care for PTSD, anxiety, depression

Non-Economic Damages (Subjective Harm):

Physical pain and suffering: From injuries and recovery
Emotional distress: Humiliation, trauma, loss of dignity
Loss of enjoyment of life: Can’t participate in college experiences
Reputational harm: Social stigma, difficulty transferring schools

Wrongful Death Damages (For Families):

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

Punitive Damages (When Available):
Awarded to punish especially reckless or malicious conduct and deter future hazing. Courts consider:

Prior warnings ignored
Particularly cruel conduct
Cover-up attempts
Callous indifference to known risks

How Recovery Actually Works

Most Cases Settle Confidentially:
The majority of hazing cases settle before trial, with terms often including:

Monetary compensation
Chapter reforms or closures
Policy changes at national or university level
Confidentiality agreements

Settlement Funds Are Used For:

Paying medical bills and ongoing care
Funding psychological treatment
Replacing lost educational opportunities
Creating foundations to prevent future hazing (as Foltz and Gruver families did)

The BP Texas City Parallel:
Our firm’s experience with the BP Texas City explosion litigation taught us how to investigate institutional knowledge, safety failures, and cover-up patterns. These same skills apply to hazing cases where universities and national fraternities:

Prioritize reputation over safety
Maintain inadequate oversight systems
Fail to act on prior warnings
Have unlimited legal budgets

Practical Guides for Kenedy Families: What to Do Right Now

For Parents: Recognizing and Responding to Hazing

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Being Hazed:

Physical Signs:

Unexplained bruises, burns, or injuries with changing stories
Extreme exhaustion beyond normal college stress
Weight changes from food/water restriction
Sleep deprivation (calls at 3 AM, all-night “study sessions”)
Signs of alcohol poisoning even if your child doesn’t normally drink

Behavioral Changes:

Sudden secrecy about organization activities
Withdrawal from family and non-Greek friends
Personality changes: anxiety, depression, irritability
Defensiveness when asked about the group
Constant phone checking for group chat messages

Academic Red Flags:

Grades dropping suddenly
Missing classes or assignments for “mandatory” events
Losing scholarships or academic standing

Questions to Ask (Non-Confrontationally):

“How are things going with [organization]? Are they respectful of your time?”
“What do they ask new members to do?”
“Is there anything that makes you uncomfortable?”
“Have you seen anyone get hurt, or have you been hurt?”
“Do you feel like you can leave if you want to?”

For Students: Safety Planning and Evidence Preservation

Is This Hazing? Decision Guide:

Am I being forced or pressured to do something I don’t want to do?
Would I do this if there were no social consequences?
Is this activity dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
Are older members making new members do things they don’t have to do themselves?
Am I being told to keep secrets or lie about this?

If You Answer YES to Any, It’s Likely Hazing:

How to Exit Safely:

In immediate danger: Call 911 or campus police
Tell someone outside the org first (parent, RA, friend)
Send written notice: “I resign my membership effective immediately”
Do NOT go to “one last meeting” where pressure or retaliation might occur
If fearing retaliation, report to Dean of Students and campus police

Evidence Collection Checklist:

Screenshots of group chats with timestamps visible
Photos of injuries with coin/ruler for scale
Voice memos of meetings (Texas is one-party consent state)
Medical records specifically mentioning “hazing” as cause
Witness information – names and contact details

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

1. Letting Evidence Be Destroyed:
Parents often think: “I don’t want them to get in more trouble.”
Why wrong: Looks like cover-up; digital forensics can’t always recover deleted messages.
Do instead: Preserve everything immediately.

2. Confronting the Organization Directly:
Parents think: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind.”
Why wrong: They immediately lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses.
Do instead: Document everything, then call a lawyer before any confrontation.

3. Signing University “Resolution” Forms:
Universities pressure families to sign waivers or internal agreements.
Why wrong: You may waive your right to sue; settlements are often far below value.
Do instead: Do NOT sign anything without an attorney reviewing.

4. Posting on Social Media Before Talking to a Lawyer:
Families think: “I want people to know what happened.”
Why wrong: Defense attorneys screenshot everything; inconsistencies hurt credibility.
Do instead: Document privately; let your lawyer control public messaging.

5. Waiting “to See How the University Handles It”:
Universities promise: “We’re investigating internally.”
Why wrong: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs.
Do instead: Preserve evidence NOW; consult lawyer immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions for Kenedy Families

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

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

“What if my child ‘agreed’ to the initiation?”
Consent is NOT a defense to hazing in Texas. Texas Education Code §37.155 explicitly states this, recognizing that “consent” under peer pressure and power imbalance isn’t truly voluntary.

“How long do we have to file a lawsuit?”
Generally 2 years from the date of injury or death in Texas, but the “discovery rule” may extend this if the harm wasn’t immediately known. In cases with cover-ups, the statute may be tolled (paused). 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, and knowledge. Many major cases (Pi Delta Psi retreat, Sigma Pi unofficial house) occurred off-campus with successful judgments.

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

Why The Manginello Law Firm for Texas Hazing Cases

When your family faces a hazing crisis, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how powerful institutions fight back—and how to win anyway. From our offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we serve families throughout Texas, including Kenedy, Karnes County, and all South Texas communities.

Our Unique Qualifications for Hazing Litigation

Insurance Insider Advantage (Lupe Peña’s Background):
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”
Set reserves and negotiate settlements

“We know their playbook because we used to run it.” This insider knowledge is invaluable when facing well-funded defense teams.

Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions (Ralph Manginello’s Experience):
Our involvement in the BP Texas City explosion litigation taught us how to investigate institutional knowledge, safety failures, and cover-up patterns. These same skills apply to hazing cases where:

Universities prioritize reputation over student safety
National fraternities have unlimited legal budgets
Evidence is deliberately hidden or destroyed
Multiple defendants coordinate defense strategies

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death Experience:
We’ve recovered millions for families in catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases. We know how to:

Work with economists to value lifetime care needs
Present compelling damage models to juries
Negotiate from strength, not desperation

Dual Criminal + Civil Capability:
Ralph’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) means we understand:

How criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation
How to advise witnesses with potential criminal exposure
What prosecutors need to build criminal cases

Investigative Depth That Makes the Difference:
Our network includes:

Medical experts (rhabdomyolysis, TBI, PTSD specialists)
Digital forensics experts for recovering deleted messages
Greek life culture experts who understand group dynamics
Economists for life care planning and damages calculation

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

Our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine: Data-Driven Advocacy

While other firms start from scratch, we maintain proprietary databases on Texas Greek organizations:

IRS B83 Organization Database:
125+ Texas-registered Greek entities with EINs, addresses, and organizational details

Texas University Mapping:
96 campuses tracked with Greek life profiles and incident histories

Metro-Level Greek Analysis:
1,423 Greek organizations across 25 Texas metros analyzed for patterns

National Organization Histories:
Comprehensive incident tracking showing repeating patterns across states

This means when you call us about a hazing incident, we already understand:

The national organization’s history of similar incidents
The university’s pattern of responses to hazing
Which insurance companies likely provide coverage
What evidence is most critical to preserve immediately

The Attorney911 Difference: Why Immediate Action Matters

We’re the Legal Emergency Lawyers™ for a reason. Hazing cases require immediate action because:

Evidence disappears in hours: Group chats deleted, phones “lost,” witnesses coached
Universities move quickly to control narratives and limit liability
Statutes of limitations are running from day one
Your child needs protection from retaliation and further harm

Our Immediate Response Protocol:

24/7 availability: Call 1-888-ATTY-911 anytime
Evidence preservation guidance: We tell you exactly what to save and how
University communication strategy: We handle all contact with the school
Medical care coordination: We ensure proper documentation for both health and legal needs
Witness protection planning: We advise on safety from retaliation

Your Next Steps: A Clear Path Forward for Kenedy Families

If hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to navigate this alone. The path to accountability and recovery starts with one confidential conversation.

What to Expect in Your Free Consultation

When you call 1-888-ATTY-911, you’ll speak directly with our legal team. We’ll:

Listen Without Judgment:
We understand this is traumatic. We’ll listen to your story carefully and compassionately.

Review Your Evidence:
We’ll look at any photos, texts, medical records, or other documentation you have.

Explain Your Legal Options:
We’ll outline potential paths forward: criminal reporting, civil lawsuit, both, or neither.

Discuss Realistic Expectations:
We’ll explain likely timelines, challenges, and what true recovery looks like.

Answer Your Questions About Cost:
We work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.

No Pressure to Hire Immediately:
Take time to decide. Everything you tell us is confidential either way.

Why Kenedy Families Choose Attorney911

Local Understanding, Statewide Reach:
While based in Houston, we serve families throughout Texas. We understand Karnes County communities, Texas values, and how to represent families with dignity and determination.

Spanish-Language Services Available:
Hablamos Español. Contact Mr. Lupe Peña at lupe@atty911.com for consultation in Spanish.

Proven Results Against Powerful Institutions:
From BP to national fraternities to major universities, we’ve faced well-funded opponents and secured justice for Texas families.

Compassionate Representation During Crisis:
We know this is one of the hardest things a family can face. Our job is to carry the legal burden so you can focus on healing.

Call Today for Immediate Help

Whether you’re in Kenedy, Three Rivers, Runge, or anywhere in Karnes County, if hazing has impacted your family, you have rights and options. The institutions responsible must be held accountable, not just for compensation, but to prevent this from happening to another Texas family.

Contact The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC / Attorney911 today:

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

For Spanish Services: lupe@atty911.com

We offer confidential, no-obligation consultations. We’ll listen to your story, explain your legal options, and help you decide the best path forward for your family. Don’t let evidence disappear or statutes run while you’re deciding. Call us today.

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