The Complete Guide to Hazing Lawsuits for Lakeway Families: Protecting Your Student at Texas Universities

A Texas Parent’s Worst Nightmare: It Happened Right Here

Imagine your child, a bright student you raised here in the quiet, family-oriented community of Lakeway, eagerly beginning their college journey at the University of Texas or Texas A&M. They join what they believe is a reputable fraternity or sorority, hoping to find friendship and belonging. Then, the late-night phone calls start. Their texts become secretive and anxious. You notice unexplained injuries during their weekend visit home. Then comes the worst call of your life—your child has been hospitalized after a fraternity “event,” suffering from acute kidney failure from extreme physical hazing. Their urine is brown. Their muscles are breaking down. For families in Lakeway and across Travis County, this isn’t a hypothetical scenario—it’s the reality of a landmark case happening right now in our state.

In November 2025, our law firm filed a $10 million lawsuit against the University of Houston, the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter, its national headquarters, and 13 individual fraternity leaders on behalf of Leonel Bermudez, a UH student who suffered catastrophic injuries during his fall pledge period. The details are severe: a humiliating “pledge fanny pack” rule, forced consumption of food until vomiting, a brutal workout of 100+ push-ups and 500 squats under threat of expulsion, and being sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding.” The result? Rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown) and acute kidney failure requiring a four-day hospitalization, with ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage. As reported by ABC13, the conduct was so extreme that Pi Kappa Phi’s national headquarters suspended the chapter within days, and members voted to surrender their charter. The University of Houston called the allegations “deeply disturbing.”

Why does this matter to families in Lakeway, nestled along the shores of Lake Travis in Central Texas? Because our community sends countless students to UH, UT Austin, Texas A&M, and other campuses where the same national fraternities operate with the same dangerous traditions. The legal principles, investigative strategies, and accountability we’re pursuing in Houston apply equally to cases involving students from Lakeway, Bee Cave, West Lake Hills, and throughout the Hill Country. If your child has been injured in connection with fraternity, sorority, Corps, athletic, or campus organization activities—whether they attend school in Austin, College Station, or anywhere in Texas—you have rights, and powerful institutions can be held accountable.

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 Lakeway who may associate hazing with outdated stereotypes of harmless pranks, the reality in 2025 is far more sophisticated, dangerous, and digitally enabled. Hazing today isn’t just about college students making poor choices—it’s about calculated systems of coercion, tradition, and secrecy that endanger physical and mental health.

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, degrades, or exploits
• Occurs within a power imbalance where refusal carries social or physical consequences

Critically, “I agreed to it” does not make it safe or legal. Texas law recognizes that consent given under peer pressure, fear of exclusion, and power imbalance isn’t true voluntary consent.

Main Categories of Modern Hazing

Alcohol and Substance Hazing

• Forced or coerced drinking games (“lineups,” “century club,” “Big/Little” nights)
• Consumption of unknown or mixed substances
• The most common fatal hazing method nationwide

Physical Hazing

• Extreme calisthenics beyond normal conditioning (“smokings,” “workouts”)
• Paddling, beatings, or physical punishment
• Sleep deprivation, food/water restriction
• Exposure to extreme environments (cold weather in underwear, as in the UH case)

Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing

• Forced nudity or partial nudity
• Simulated sexual acts, degrading costumes
• Acts with racial, sexist, or homophobic overtones

Psychological Hazing

• Verbal abuse, threats, isolation from non-members
• Public shaming or “roasting” sessions
• Forced confessions or compromising admissions

Digital/Online Hazing

• Group chat dares and “challenges” (GroupMe, WhatsApp, Discord)
• Public humiliation via Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok
• Geo-tracking demands and 24/7 message monitoring
• Forced creation or sharing of compromising content

Where Hazing Happens in Texas

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

• Fraternities and Sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural councils)
• Corps of Cadets / ROTC at Texas A&M and other military-style programs
• Athletic Teams (football, basketball, baseball, cheer)
• Spirit Squads and Tradition Clubs (Texas Cowboys, Silver Spurs, etc.)
• Marching Bands and Performance Groups
• Academic and Service Organizations

For Lakeway families, this means your child could be at risk in multiple organizations beyond Greek life, particularly at schools like UT Austin and Texas A&M where tradition-rich groups have deep histories.

Texas Law & Liability Framework: What Lakeway Families Need to Know

Texas Hazing Law Basics (Education Code Chapter 37)

Texas has specific anti-hazing provisions in the Education Code that apply to all educational institutions. For families in Lakeway dealing with a hazing incident, understanding these laws is crucial.

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

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

Key Points for Lakeway Families:

• Location Doesn’t Matter: Can happen on or off campus (at houses, retreats, Airbnbs)
• Mental or Physical Harm: Both qualify under the law
• “Reckless” is Enough: Doesn’t require malicious intent—just disregard for known risks
• No Consent Defense (§ 37.155): Even if the victim “agreed,” it’s still hazing under Texas law

Criminal Penalties under Texas Law

Severity Increases with Injury:

• Class B Misdemeanor: Hazing that doesn’t cause 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

Additional Criminal Exposure:

• Failing to report hazing when you’re a member/officer and know about it
• Retaliating against someone who reports hazing
• Furnishing alcohol to minors (common ancillary charge)

Organizational Liability (§ 37.153)

Organizations (fraternities, sororities, clubs) can be criminally prosecuted if:

• The organization authorized or encouraged the hazing
• An officer or member acting in official capacity knew and failed to report it

Penalties for Organizations:

• Fine up to $10,000 per violation
• University can revoke recognition and ban from campus

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding the Difference

Criminal Cases:

• Brought by the state (Travis County DA, Harris County DA, etc.)
• Aim: Punishment (jail, fines, probation)
• Common charges: Hazing, assault, furnishing alcohol to minors, manslaughter in fatal cases
• Example: Individual fraternity members facing criminal hazing charges

Civil Cases:

• Brought by victims or surviving families
• Aim: Monetary compensation and accountability
• Focus: Negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision, emotional distress
• Example: Our $10 million lawsuit against UH and Pi Kappa Phi

Critical Point: The two can run simultaneously, and a criminal conviction is not required to pursue a civil case. Many families pursue civil cases even when prosecutors decline to file criminal charges.

Federal Overlay: Additional Protections

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024):

• Requires colleges receiving federal aid to report hazing incidents more transparently
• Strengthens hazing education and prevention
• Phased implementation through 2026
• Will create more public data for families to research organizations

Title IX and Clery Act:

• Title IX obligations triggered when hazing involves sexual harassment or gender-based hostility
• Clery Act requires reporting certain crimes and maintaining safety statistics
• Both create additional layers of institutional responsibility

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit?

1. Individual Students:

• Those who planned, supplied alcohol, carried out acts, or helped cover up
• Chapter officers (president, pledge educator, risk manager)

2. Local Chapter/Organization:

• The fraternity/sorority or club as a legal entity
• Housing corporations that own chapter houses

3. National Fraternity/Sorority:

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

4. University or Governing Board:

• The school or regents (UT System, Texas A&M System, etc.)
• Based on negligence, deliberate indifference, or failure to enforce policies
• Sovereign immunity complications for public universities

5. Third Parties:

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

For a Lakeway family, identifying all potentially liable parties is crucial—each represents a potential source of recovery and accountability.

National Hazing Case Patterns: Lessons for Texas Families

The tragic cases below aren’t just headlines—they’re legal precedents that shape how Texas courts view hazing liability. They show patterns that repeat across campuses, including here in Texas.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

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

• Bid-acceptance event with extreme drinking
• Severe falls captured on chapter security cameras
• Hours delayed before calling for medical help
• Dozens of criminal charges; new Pennsylvania anti-hazing law
• Takeaway for Lakeway families: Delay in seeking medical help dramatically increases liability

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)

• “Bible study” drinking game: wrong answers = forced drinking
• Died from alcohol toxicity (BAC 0.495%)
• Max Gruver Act made hazing a felony in Louisiana
• Takeaway: Legislative change follows tragedy—Texas could see similar reforms

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

• Forced to drink nearly a bottle of whiskey
• $10 million settlement ($7M from national Pi Kappa Alpha, ~$3M from BGSU)
• Multiple criminal convictions
• Takeaway: Universities pay significant settlements alongside fraternities

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

• “Big Brother Night” with handles of hard liquor
• FSU temporarily suspended all Greek life
• Takeaway: Systematic problems trigger systemic responses

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

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

• Blindfolded “glass ceiling” ritual at retreat
• Fatal head injuries; help delayed
• National fraternity banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years
• Takeaway: Off-campus retreats don’t eliminate liability

Athletic Program Hazing

Northwestern University Football (2023–2025)

• Allegations of sexualized, racist hazing over years
• Multiple lawsuits against university and staff
• Head coach fired, then settled wrongful-termination suit
• Takeaway for Lakeway families: Hazing extends beyond Greek life to high-profile athletics

Texas-Specific Context

These national cases matter to Lakeway families because:

1. Same organizations operate here: Pi Kappa Alpha, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Phi Delta Theta all have chapters at Texas universities
2. Legal precedents transfer: Courts in Texas consider decisions from other states
3. Pattern evidence is powerful: Showing that a national organization had prior warnings supports negligence claims
4. Settlement ranges guide expectations: Multi-million dollar outcomes in other states inform Texas cases

Texas Focus: Where Lakeway Students Attend College

Lakeway families predominantly send students to universities within driving distance, with UT Austin being the most prominent destination given its proximity in Travis County. However, students also attend Texas A&M, Texas State, and other regional schools. Understanding the hazing landscape at these institutions is critical.

University of Texas at Austin: The Primary Destination for Lakeway Students

Campus & Culture Snapshot

UT Austin, just 25 miles from Lakeway, represents the most common university choice for local students. With over 50,000 students and one of the largest Greek life systems in the South, it’s both an academic powerhouse and a hub for traditional campus organizations. For Lakeway families, this proximity means your child might live at home or visit frequently, making behavioral changes more noticeable.

UT’s Hazing Transparency Advantage

Unlike many universities, UT Austin maintains a public hazing violations page that lists organizations, conduct, and sanctions. This transparency is invaluable for families researching organizations or building pattern evidence.

Recent UT Hazing Violations Include:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics; chapter placed on probation
• Texas Wranglers (spirit organization): Sanctioned for forced workouts and alcohol-related hazing
• Various Greek chapters: Probation for punishment-based practices and policy violations

How a UT Hazing Case Might Proceed

For Lakeway families dealing with a UT incident:

• Jurisdiction: Travis County courts, Travis County District Attorney’s office
• Police agencies: UTPD (campus) and Austin PD (off-campus)
• Potential defendants: Individuals, local chapter, national organization, UT System
• Key evidence: UT’s own hazing violation records showing prior incidents

What UT Students & Lakeway Parents Should Do

1. Report through proper channels: UT Dean of Students, Office of Student Conduct, UTPD
2. Preserve digital evidence: GroupMe chats are extremely common in UT Greek life
3. Check the public hazing log: Document prior violations of the same organization
4. Consult a Travis County attorney: Familiarity with local courts and procedures matters

Texas A&M University: A Common Choice for Lakeway Families

Campus & Culture Snapshot

Though farther from Lakeway, Texas A&M attracts many Central Texas students, particularly those interested in engineering, agriculture, or the Corps of Cadets. The Corps represents a unique hazing risk environment with military-style traditions and discipline systems.

Documented A&M Incidents

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (2021)

• Pledges allegedly covered in substances including industrial-strength cleaner
• Severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries
• Fraternity suspended for two years
• Pledges sued for $1 million

Corps of Cadets Lawsuit (2023)

• Cadet alleged degrading hazing including simulated sexual acts
• Bound between beds in “roasted pig” pose with apple in mouth
• Sought over $1 million in damages
• A&M stated it handled matter under its rules

How an A&M Case Might Proceed

• Jurisdiction: Brazos County courts
• Unique factors: Corps military structure, Ag/Tradition culture
• Potential defendants: Individuals, chapter, national, A&M System, Corps leadership

Texas State University: The San Marcos Option

Campus & Culture Snapshot

Just 35 miles from Lakeway, Texas State in San Marcos represents a popular choice for students seeking a slightly smaller environment. Its Greek life has grown significantly in recent years, with associated hazing risks.

Texas State’s Greek Growth & Risks

• Rapid expansion of fraternity/sorority system
• Historical incidents involving alcohol hazing and physical abuse
• University has strengthened policies but enforcement challenges remain

What Lakeway Families Should Know About Texas State

1. Proximity means frequent visits: Behavioral changes may be noticeable
2. Smaller Greek system = less oversight: National organizations may have fewer resources for chapter supervision
3. River culture: Off-campus events often involve the San Marcos River, adding drowning risks

Other Texas Universities Lakeway Students Attend

University of Houston

• As demonstrated by our active Pi Kappa Phi case, serious hazing occurs here
• Urban campus with significant commuter population
• Recent investments in Greek life infrastructure have increased risks

Baylor University

• Religious identity creates unique dynamics around accountability
• History of institutional protection challenges
• Greek life integrated with religious activities

Texas Tech, University of North Texas, Texas Christian University

• Common choices for students seeking different environments
• Each has documented hazing histories
• Distance from Lakeway complicates parental monitoring

Fraternities & Sororities: National Histories That Matter to Lakeway Families

The national organization behind a local chapter matters immensely in hazing litigation. When a Texas chapter repeats patterns that caused deaths elsewhere, that history creates powerful evidence of foreseeability and negligence.

Why National Histories Matter Legally

National fraternity/sorority headquarters:

• Have thick anti-hazing manuals because they’ve seen deaths before
• Know the dangerous patterns: forced drinking nights, paddling traditions, humiliating rituals
• Receive dues and exercise control over chapters
• Can be liable when they fail to enforce their own policies

For Lakeway families, this means your child’s local chapter at UT or Texas A&M doesn’t operate in a vacuum—it’s part of a national system with known risks.

Organization-Specific Histories Relevant to Texas

Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / “Pike”)

• Stone Foltz: Bowling Green State, 2021 – forced drinking death, $10M settlement
• David Bogenberger: Northern Illinois, 2012 – alcohol poisoning death, $14M settlement
• Texas Presence: Chapters at UT, Texas A&M, Texas State, Texas Tech
• Pattern: “Big/Little” drinking nights, alcohol hazing traditions

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / “SAE”)

• Multiple deaths nationwide: Known as “the deadliest fraternity”
• Texas A&M chemical burns case: 2021 – industrial cleaner injuries
• UT Austin assault case: 2024 – exchange student with serious injuries
• Pattern: Physical abuse, dangerous initiations, alcohol hazing

Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ)

• Andrew Coffey: Florida State, 2017 – Big Brother night death
• Leonel Bermudez: University of Houston, 2025 – our active case
• Pattern: Extreme physical hazing, forced consumption rituals

Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ)

• Max Gruver: LSU, 2017 – “Bible study” drinking game death
• Pattern: Alcohol hazing games, delayed medical response

Kappa Alpha Order (ΚΑ)

• SMU incident: 2017 – paddling, forced drinking, sleep deprivation
• Pattern: Traditional physical hazing, Southern heritage themes

How This History Helps Lakeway Families

In litigation, we use national histories to show:

1. Foreseeability: The national organization knew or should have known this could happen
2. Pattern evidence: This wasn’t an isolated incident but part of a known dangerous tradition
3. Negligent supervision: Nationals failed to adequately monitor or control chapters
4. Punitive damages potential: Repeated warnings ignored

For example, when we sue Pi Kappa Phi’s national headquarters in the Bermudez case, we can point to Andrew Coffey’s death at FSU as evidence they knew their “Big Brother” traditions were deadly.

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Damages, and Strategy for Lakeway Families

When hazing injures a Lakeway student, building a strong case requires immediate action, thorough investigation, and strategic legal thinking. Here’s what families need to know about the process.

Critical Evidence Categories

1. Digital Communications (Most Important)

• GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage: Screenshot entire threads with timestamps visible
• Fraternity-specific apps: Many nationals have their own communication platforms
• Social media DMs: Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok messages
• Recovered deleted messages: Digital forensics can often retrieve “disappeared” content
• Location data: Geo-tags, Find My Friends history, Snapchat maps

2. Photos & Videos

• Event footage: Content filmed by members during hazing
• Injury documentation: Multiple angles with scale reference (coin, ruler)
• Location photos: House interiors, specific rooms, event venues
• Medical documentation: Hospital scenes, medical devices, visible injuries

3. Internal Organization Documents

• Pledge manuals/education materials: Often contain coded language about traditions
• Chapter meeting minutes: May reference “education” or “traditions”
• National policies and training materials: Show what the organization claims to prohibit
• Risk management forms: Many nationals require event registration

4. University Records

• Prior conduct files: Showing pattern of violations
• Campus police reports: Incident documentation
• Clery Act reports: Required crime statistics
• Internal emails: University officials discussing the organization

5. Medical & Psychological Records

• Emergency room records: Initial treatment documentation
• Hospitalization records: Detailed medical findings
• Specialist reports: Nephrology (kidney), orthopedics, trauma surgery
• Psychological evaluations: PTSD, depression, anxiety diagnoses
• Toxicology reports: Blood alcohol content, drug screening

6. Witness Testimony

• Other pledges/victims: Often afraid but may cooperate with protection
• Former members: Those who quit or were expelled
• Roommates/hallmates: Observed behavioral changes
• Medical providers: Treatment observations
• University staff: Advisors, coaches, administrators

Damages: What Can Be Recovered

Economic Damages (Quantifiable)

• Medical bills: Past and future (ER, hospitalization, surgery, therapy)
• Lost educational costs: Tuition for withdrawn semesters, lost scholarships
• Lost earning capacity: Reduced future earnings from permanent disability
• Life care plans: Catastrophic injury cases requiring lifelong care

Non-Economic Damages

• Physical pain and suffering: From injuries and treatment
• Emotional distress: PTSD, depression, anxiety, humiliation
• Loss of enjoyment of life: Can’t participate in previously enjoyed activities
• Reputational harm: Social stigma and impact on future opportunities

Wrongful Death Damages (For Families)

• Funeral and burial costs
• Loss of companionship and support
• Parental and sibling grief and suffering
• Lost financial support the deceased would have provided

Punitive Damages

• Purpose: Punish extreme misconduct and deter future hazing
• When awarded: Particularly reckless behavior, cover-ups, prior warnings ignored
• Texas caps: Generally limited but can be significant in extreme cases

Insurance Coverage Strategy

Fraternity and university insurance fights are complex but crucial:

Common Insurance Tactics:

• Claiming hazing is an “intentional act” excluded from coverage
• Denying coverage for criminal activity
• Lowballing settlement offers early in the process

Our Insurance Insider Advantage:
Mr. Lupe Peña, our associate attorney, spent years as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm. He knows exactly how these companies:

• Value and undervalue claims
• Use delay tactics to pressure families
• Fight coverage under policy exclusions
• This insider knowledge is invaluable for maximizing recovery.

The Investigation Process

Phase 1: Immediate Evidence Preservation (First 48 Hours)

• Secure all digital communications before deletion
• Document injuries photographically
• Identify and contact witnesses while memories are fresh
• Obtain medical records authorization

Phase 2: Comprehensive Investigation (Weeks 2-8)

• Digital forensics for recovered deleted content
• Subpoena university records for prior incidents
• Request national fraternity/sorority files
• Medical expert review of injuries and prognosis
• Economic analysis of damages

Phase 3: Litigation Strategy Development

• Identify all potentially liable parties
• Analyze insurance coverage issues
• Determine optimal jurisdiction and venue
• Develop settlement vs. trial strategy

Practical Guides & FAQs for Lakeway Families

For Parents: Recognizing & Responding to Hazing

Warning Signs Your Lakeway Student May Be Being Hazed:

Physical Signs:

• Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts, or injuries
• Extreme fatigue beyond normal college stress
• Weight loss or gain from food/water restriction
• Sleep deprivation (constant late nights, 3 AM calls)
• Chemical burns, rashes, or skin damage
• Signs of alcohol poisoning (even if they don’t normally drink)

Behavioral & Emotional Changes:

• Sudden secrecy about organization activities
• Withdrawal from family, old friends, non-member activities
• Personality changes: anxiety, depression, irritability
• Defensive when asked about the organization
• Fear of “getting in trouble” or “letting the chapter down”
• Obsession with pleasing older members

Academic & Financial Red Flags:

• Grades dropping suddenly
• Missing classes or falling asleep in class
• Unexpected large expenses (“fines,” forced purchases)
• Buying excessive alcohol or items for older members
• Overdrafts, maxed credit cards, unexplained money requests

Digital/Social Behavior:

• Constant phone use for group chat monitoring
• Anxiety when phone buzzes (fear of missing messages)
• Deleting messages or clearing browser history obsessively
• Receiving calls/texts at all hours demanding immediate response
• Social media posts showing humiliating or concerning activities
• Newly installed geo-location tracking apps

How to Talk to Your Child (Non-Confrontationally):

1. “How are things going with [organization]? Are you enjoying it?”
2. “Have they been respectful of your time for classes and sleep?”
3. “What do they ask you to do as a new member?”
4. “Is there anything that makes you uncomfortable?”
5. “Have you seen anyone get hurt, or have you been hurt?”
6. “Do you feel like you can leave if you want to?”
7. “Are they asking you to keep secrets from me or the university?”

If You Suspect Hazing:

Immediate Safety:

• If in physical danger, call 911 or campus police
• Get medical attention immediately
• Prioritize health over “getting in trouble”

Document Everything:

• Write down dates, times, what your child tells you
• Screenshot texts, group chats, photos shown to you
• Photograph visible injuries
• Save physical items (damaged clothing, receipts, props)

Reporting Options:

• Campus authorities: Dean of Students, Office of Student Conduct
• Local police: If crimes occurred (assault, furnishing alcohol)
• University hotlines: Many have anonymous reporting
• National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (anonymous)

Legal Consultation:

• Contact a hazing-experienced lawyer early
• We can help preserve evidence before destruction
• Navigate university processes (which can be adversarial)
• Protect your child from pressure or retaliation

What NOT to Do:

• Don’t confront the organization directly
• Don’t sign anything from university or insurance without legal advice
• Don’t post details on public social media
• Don’t let university convince you “this is being handled internally” if you want real accountability

For Students: Self-Assessment & Safety Planning

Is This Hazing? Ask Yourself:

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

If You Answered YES to Any, It’s Likely Hazing.

How to Exit Safely:

If in Immediate Danger:

• Call 911 or campus police
• Get to a safe location (dorm, friend’s place, public area)
• You won’t get in trouble for calling for help in a medical emergency

If You Want to Quit/De-pledge:

• You have the legal right to leave at any time
• Tell someone outside the org first (parent, RA, friend)
• Send email/text to chapter president: “I resign my membership effective immediately”
• Do NOT go to “one last meeting” where they might pressure or retaliate
• If fearing retaliation, report that fear to Dean of Students and campus police

Protecting Yourself from Retaliation:

• Document any threats or harassment (screenshots, recordings if legal)
• File formal complaint with university if being stalked, harassed, or threatened
• In Texas, harassment and stalking are crimes—seek protective order if necessary

Your Legal Rights in Texas:

• You cannot be punished for calling 911 in an emergency (good-faith immunity)
• Hazing is a crime—you are the victim, not perpetrator
• You can file a civil lawsuit even if no criminal charges are filed
• You can request a no-contact order through the university

For Former Members/Witnesses: Coming Forward

If you participated and now regret it:

• Your testimony and evidence may prevent future harm
• Cooperating can be an important step toward accountability
• You may want your own legal advice about your role
• We can help navigate witness protection and cooperation agreements

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

1. Letting Your Child Delete Messages or “Clean Up” Evidence

• What parents think: “I don’t want them to get in more trouble”
• Why it’s wrong: Looks like cover-up; can be obstruction of justice; makes case impossible
• What to do instead: Preserve everything immediately, even embarrassing content

2. Confronting the Fraternity/Sorority Directly

• What parents think: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind”
• Why it’s wrong: They immediately lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses
• What to do instead: Document everything, call a lawyer before any confrontation

3. Signing University “Release” or “Resolution” Forms

• What universities do: Pressure families to sign waivers or internal agreements
• Why it’s wrong: You may waive right to sue; settlements often far below value
• What to do instead: Do NOT sign anything without attorney review first

4. Posting Details on Social Media Before Talking to a Lawyer

• What families think: “I want people to know what happened”
• Why it’s wrong: Defense attorneys screenshot everything; inconsistencies hurt credibility
• What to do instead: Document privately; let your lawyer control public messaging

5. Letting Your Child Go Back to “One Last Meeting”

• What fraternities say: “Come talk to us before you do anything drastic”
• Why it’s wrong: They pressure, intimidate, or extract damaging statements
• What to do instead: Once considering legal action, all communication through your lawyer

6. Waiting “To See How the University Handles It”

• What universities promise: “We’re investigating; let us handle this internally”
• Why it’s wrong: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs, university controls narrative
• What to do instead: Preserve evidence NOW; consult lawyer immediately

7. Talking to Insurance Adjusters Without a Lawyer

• What adjusters say: “We just need your statement to process the claim”
• Why it’s wrong: Recorded statements used against you; early settlements are lowball
• What to do instead: Politely decline: “My attorney will contact you”

Frequently Asked Questions

“Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
Yes, under certain 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 protections. Every case depends on specific facts—contact us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for case-specific analysis.

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

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

“How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?”
Generally 2 years from date of injury or death in Texas, but 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 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately.

“What if the hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?”
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 and still resulted in multi-million-dollar judgments.

“Will this be confidential, or 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 Attorney911 for Lakeway Hazing Cases

When your Lakeway family faces a hazing crisis, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how powerful Texas institutions fight back—and how to win anyway. From our work on the groundbreaking University of Houston Pi Kappa Phi case to our deep knowledge of Central Texas universities, we bring unique qualifications to hazing litigation.

Our Unique Qualifications for Texas Hazing Cases

Insurance Insider Advantage (Mr. Lupe Peña)
Mr. Peña, our associate attorney, 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
• Fight coverage under policy exclusions
• “We know their playbook because we used to run it.”

Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions (Ralph Manginello)

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

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death & Catastrophic Injury Experience

• Proven track record in complex wrongful death cases
• Economist collaboration for lifetime care valuation
• Experience with brain injury, permanent disability 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)
• Understands how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation
• Can advise witnesses and former members with dual exposure

Investigative Depth for Texas Cases

• Network of experts: medical, digital forensics, economists, psychologists
• Experience obtaining hidden evidence from Texas universities
• Knowledge of UT, Texas A&M, Texas State administrative systems
• “We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does.”

Local Understanding of Lakeway & Central Texas

• We understand the specific concerns of Lakeway families
• Knowledge of Travis County courts and procedures
• Experience with UT Austin administration and policies
• Connections to medical providers throughout Central Texas

How We Approach Hazing Cases Differently

1. Immediate Evidence Preservation
Within hours of your call, we guide you through critical evidence preservation:

• Digital forensics protocol for group chats and social media
• Medical documentation strategy that supports legal claims
• Witness identification and protection measures

2. Comprehensive Institutional Investigation
We don’t just sue individuals—we uncover systemic failures:

• National fraternity/sorority records showing prior incidents
• University disciplinary files demonstrating pattern of knowledge
• Insurance policy analysis identifying all potential coverage
• Expert network deployment (medical, economic, psychological)

3. Strategic Defendant Identification
From our active UH case experience, we know who to target:

• Individual members who planned or participated
• Chapter officers with supervisory responsibility
• National headquarters that failed to enforce policies
• University administrators who ignored red flags
• Third parties (property owners, alcohol providers)

4. Damages Maximization Strategy
We build cases for maximum impact:

• Life care plans for permanent injuries
• Economic loss calculations factoring Texas-specific costs
• Psychological harm documentation recognizing trauma impact
• Punitive damage arguments for particularly reckless conduct

Our Commitment to Lakeway Families

We understand that Lakeway represents a tight-knit community where reputation matters. Our approach balances:

• Aggressive advocacy for accountability and compensation
• Discreet handling to protect your family’s privacy
• Educational empowerment so you understand every step
• Emotional support recognizing this is deeply personal

From our work on the UH Pi Kappa Phi case featured in Click2Houston and Hoodline, we’ve seen firsthand how hazing devastates Texas families. We’re committed to using that experience to help Lakeway families navigate these challenges.

Call to Action for Lakeway Families

If your child has experienced hazing at any Texas campus—whether it’s UT Austin just down the road, Texas A&M, Texas State, or any other university—we want to hear from you. Families in Lakeway, Bee Cave, West Lake Hills, and throughout Travis County have the right to answers and accountability.

Contact The Manginello Law Firm for a Confidential, No-Obligation Consultation

What to Expect in Your Free Consultation:

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

Clear Contact Information

Call: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct: (713) 528-9070
Cell: (713) 443-4781
Website: https://attorney911.com
Email: ralph@atty911.com

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

Serving Lakeway & All of Texas

While our offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we serve families throughout Texas, including Lakeway and all Travis County communities. We understand the specific dynamics of Central Texas universities and will travel to meet with you wherever is most convenient.

Final Thoughts for Lakeway Families

Hazing thrives in secrecy and shame. By coming forward, you’re not just seeking justice for your child—you’re protecting other Lakeway students from suffering the same harm. The organizations behind hazing count on families staying quiet. Don’t let them.

Whether you’re in Lakeway proper, The Hills, or anywhere in the Lake Travis area, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone. The same legal strategies and institutional knowledge we’re using in our active University of Houston case can work for your family too.

Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911. Let’s discuss how we can help your family find answers, accountability, and a path forward.

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 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