Hazing at Texas Universities: A Complete Legal Guide for Families in City of Riverside

A Parent’s Worst Nightmare Can Happen Right Here in Texas

It’s late evening. Your child, a first-semester freshman at a Texas university, texts that they’re heading to a “new member event” at a fraternity house. You don’t think much of it—they’ve been excited about joining. Hours pass. Then your phone rings in the middle of the night. It’s another student, whispering that your child has been vomiting, can’t stand up, and their “urine is brown.” No one wants to call 911 because they’re afraid of getting the chapter shut down. Your child is hundreds of miles away in Houston, College Station, or Austin, and you’re sitting here in City of Riverside, feeling helpless.

This isn’t a hypothetical scenario. Right now, in Houston, we’re actively litigating one of the most serious hazing cases in Texas. We represent Leonel Bermudez, a University of Houston student who suffered rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure after enduring horrific hazing from the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter. His urine turned brown. He was hospitalized for four days. The fraternity chapter has been shut down, but the physical and psychological damage to this young man—and his family—remains.

If you’re a parent in City of Riverside, your child might attend nearby Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, or they might be at Texas A&M, UT Austin, Baylor, SMU, or any of Texas’s 96 college campuses. Wherever they are, the reality is the same: hazing isn’t just “boys being boys” or “harmless tradition.” It’s often systematic abuse that can cause permanent injury or death. And when it happens, universities and fraternities have teams of lawyers ready to protect their interests—not your child’s.

This comprehensive guide explains what Texas families in Walker County and across our state need to know about hazing in 2025: what it really looks like, Texas hazing laws, what’s happening at our universities, and what legal options exist when things go terribly wrong.

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

Hazing has evolved far beyond the old stereotypes of “hell week” and paddling. Today’s hazing is often digitally coordinated, psychologically sophisticated, and deliberately hidden from university oversight. For families in City of Riverside with students at Texas universities, understanding these modern realities is crucial.

The Three Tiers of Modern Hazing

Tier 1: Subtle Hazing (Often Dismissed as “Just Tradition”)

24/7 digital control: Pledges required to respond instantly to GroupMe messages at all hours
Mandatory servitude: Acting as designated drivers, cleaning members’ rooms, running errands
Social isolation: Cutting off contact with non-members, requiring permission to socialize
Deception training: Teaching pledges to lie to parents and university officials

Tier 2: Harassment Hazing (Creates Hostile Environment)

Sleep deprivation: Late-night “meetings,” 3 AM wake-up calls for mandatory activities
Food/water manipulation: Forced consumption of spoiled food, hot sauce, or excessive bland foods
Public humiliation: Forced embarrassing performances, degrading nicknames, “roasting” sessions
“Voluntary” coercion: Activities framed as optional but refusal means social exclusion

Tier 3: Violent Hazing (High Risk of Injury or Death)

Forced alcohol consumption: “Big/Little” nights, drinking games with wrong-answer penalties, chugging contests
Physical beatings: Paddling, slapping, punching under the guise of “tradition”
Extreme physical tests: Hundreds of push-ups, hours of calisthenics until collapse
Dangerous environments: Locked in freezing rooms, left outside in extreme weather
Sexualized abuse: Forced nudity, simulated sexual acts, sexual assault

The Bermudez Case: A Textbook Example of Tier 3 Hazing

The case we’re currently litigating at University of Houston illustrates how these tiers escalate:

Subtle control began immediately: Leonel Bermudez was required to carry a “pledge fanny pack” 24/7 containing condoms, a sex toy, nicotine devices, and humiliating items. Non-compliance meant punishment or expulsion.
Harassment escalated: Forced dress codes, hours-long “study blocks,” weekly interviews, overnight chauffeuring duties, and constant threats.
Violent hazing caused permanent damage:
- Being sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding”
- Forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting
- 100+ push-ups and 500 squats under threat of expulsion
- Cold-weather exposure in underwear
- Lying in vomit-soaked grass during “workouts”

The result? Rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown) and acute kidney failure. Brown urine. Four-day hospitalization. Ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage. This case, covered in detail by Click2Houston and ABC13, shows exactly what modern hazing looks like at Texas universities.

Where Hazing Happens: It’s Not Just Fraternities

While fraternities dominate headlines, hazing occurs across campus organizations:

Sororities: Often subtler but equally damaging psychological hazing
Corps of Cadets programs: Military-style “discipline” that crosses into abuse
Athletic teams: From football to cheerleading, “team bonding” that becomes dangerous
Spirit organizations: Texas Cowboys, cheer squads, and tradition groups
Marching bands and performance groups
Academic and service organizations

For City of Riverside families, this means your child doesn’t need to join a fraternity to be at risk. Any organization with power imbalances and initiation rituals can harbor hazing.

Texas Hazing Laws: What Walker County Families Need to Know

Texas has specific laws addressing hazing, but many families don’t understand how they work or what protections they offer. Here’s what you need to know:

Texas Education Code Chapter 37: The Anti-Hazing Statute

Definition (Plain English):
Hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act—on or off campus—directed against a student that:

Endangers mental or physical health or safety
Occurs for purposes of pledging, initiation, affiliation, or maintaining membership in any student organization

Key Provisions Every Parent Should Understand:

“Consent Is Not a Defense” (Section 37.155):
- Even if your child “agreed” to participate, it’s still hazing
- Texas law recognizes that power imbalances and peer pressure make true consent impossible
- This directly counters the common defense: “They wanted to do it”
Criminal Penalties (Section 37.152):
- Class B Misdemeanor: Basic hazing (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
- Also criminal: Failing to report hazing, retaliating against reporters
Organizational Liability (Section 37.153):
- Fraternities, sororities, clubs can be prosecuted
- Fines up to $10,000 per violation
- Universities can revoke recognition and ban organizations
Good-Faith Reporting Immunity (Section 37.154):
- Protects those who report hazing in good faith
- Many universities extend this to alcohol amnesty in medical emergencies

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding the Difference

Criminal Cases:

Brought by the State of Texas (prosecutor)
Purpose: Punishment (jail, fines, probation)
Burden of proof: Beyond a reasonable doubt
Your role: Victim/witness, not in control of the case

Civil Cases:

Brought by victims/families (you)
Purpose: Compensation and accountability
Burden of proof: Preponderance of the evidence (more likely than not)
Your control: You decide whether to file, when to settle, what to pursue

Why This Matters for Riverside Families:
Even if no criminal charges are filed—or if charges result in acquittal—you can still pursue a civil case. The standards of proof are different, and the purposes are complementary. We often handle both tracks simultaneously, ensuring comprehensive accountability.

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

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024):

Requires colleges receiving federal aid to report hazing transparently
Strengthens prevention education
Creates public hazing databases (phased in by 2026)
Impact: More transparency about which organizations have violations

Title IX:

Applies when hazing involves sexual harassment or gender-based hostility
Creates additional reporting obligations for universities
Can provide additional avenues for accountability

Clery Act:

Requires reporting of certain campus crimes
Hazing incidents often overlap with Clery reportable crimes (assault, alcohol offenses)

Who Can Be Liable in a Texas Hazing Lawsuit?

Individual Students:
- Those who planned, executed, or covered up hazing
- Officers with supervision responsibilities
Local Chapter/Organization:
- The fraternity/sorority chapter as an entity
- Housing corporations that own chapter houses
National Fraternity/Sorority Headquarters:
- Organizations that set policies, collect dues, supervise chapters
- Liability based on knowledge of patterns and failure to intervene
Universities:
- Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT) with some sovereign immunity limitations
- Private universities (SMU, Baylor) with fewer immunity protections
- Liability based on knowledge and failure to protect students
Third Parties:
- Property owners/landlords
- Alcohol providers (under dram shop laws)
- Security companies

National Hazing Case Patterns: What Texas Can Learn from Tragedies

The hazing incidents at Texas universities don’t occur in a vacuum. They follow patterns established in nationally publicized cases. Understanding these patterns helps families recognize warning signs and strengthens legal claims.

Alcohol Poisoning Pattern: The Deadliest Formula

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

Forced to drink entire bottle of alcohol during “Big/Little” night
Died from alcohol poisoning
$10 million settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, ~$3M from BGSU)

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017):

“Bible study” drinking game: wrong answers = forced drinking
Blood alcohol content: 0.495%
Died from alcohol toxicity
Louisiana enacted “Max Gruver Act” creating felony hazing statute

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

“Big Brother Night” with handles of hard liquor given to pledges
Died from acute alcohol poisoning
FSU temporarily suspended all Greek life

Pattern Recognition for Texas Families:
If your child describes any “drinking games” tied to pledging, especially with wrong-answer penalties or “Big/Little” events, immediate intervention is needed. These rituals have killed students repeatedly.

Physical Hazing Pattern: When “Tradition” Becomes Torture

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

Blindfolded, weighted with backpack, repeatedly tackled during “glass ceiling” ritual
Died from traumatic brain injury
Help delayed for hours
Pi Delta Psi banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years

Danny Santulli – University of Missouri, Phi Gamma Delta (2021):

Forced to consume excessive alcohol during “pledge dad reveal”
Severe, permanent brain damage: cannot walk, talk, or see; requires 24/7 care
Settlements with 22 defendants (confidential multi-million dollar amounts)

Pattern Recognition:
Physical “tests,” blindfolded rituals, and endurance challenges aren’t team building—they’re potentially deadly hazing. The line between “challenging” and “dangerous” is often crossed.

Athletic Hazing Pattern: Not Just Greek Life

Northwestern University Football (2023–2025):

Sexualized and racist hazing within football program
Multiple lawsuits against university
Head coach fired, then settled wrongful-termination suit confidentially
Takeaway: Big-money athletic programs aren’t immune

Western Kentucky University Swim Team (2012–2015):

Verbal and physical abuse spanning years
Entire swim program suspended for five years
$75,000 settlement with former team member

What These Cases Mean for City of Riverside Families

Patterns repeat: The same hazing methods that killed students in other states are used at Texas universities
Cover-up culture is universal: Delaying medical help, destroying evidence, intimidating witnesses happens everywhere
Legal accountability is possible: Multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts show institutions can be held responsible
Legislative change follows tragedy: Many states upgraded hazing laws only after deaths

Texas University Focus: Where Riverside Students Attend

City of Riverside families have strong connections to Texas higher education. Many students attend nearby Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, while others head to major universities across the state. Here’s what’s happening at campuses relevant to Walker County families.

Sam Houston State University (Local to Walker County)

For City of Riverside families, Sam Houston State represents the most direct local connection. Located just minutes away in Huntsville, SHSU serves many Walker County students.

Greek Life at SHSU:

Active fraternity and sorority community
University oversight through Office of Student Activities
Both IFC fraternities and Panhellenic sororities

What Riverside Families Should Know:

Proximity doesn’t prevent hazing: Local chapters follow the same national patterns
Reporting channels: SHSU Dean of Students office, campus police, online reporting
Jurisdiction: Cases may involve Walker County courts and law enforcement
Local legal resources matter: Having attorneys familiar with Walker County procedures can be advantageous

Practical Advice for SHSU Families:

Document everything immediately—evidence preservation is critical
Report to both SHSU authorities and local Huntsville police if crimes occurred
Understand that national fraternity policies apply here too
Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate guidance on SHSU-specific procedures

University of Houston: Our Current Active Case

The Leonel Bermudez/Pi Kappa Phi Case Details:

What happened: Systematic hazing including forced drinking, physical abuse, humiliation
Medical consequences: Rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney failure, 4-day hospitalization
Legal response: $10 million lawsuit against UH, Pi Kappa Phi national, 13 individuals
Chapter status: Suspended Nov 6, 2025; charter surrendered Nov 14, 2025
UH statement: Conduct “deeply disturbing,” cooperation with law enforcement

UH’s Greek Ecosystem (Based on Official Rosters):

Interfraternity Council: Alpha Epsilon Pi, Alpha Sigma Phi, Beta Theta Pi, Delta Upsilon, Kappa Sigma, Lambda Chi Alpha, Lambda Phi Epsilon, Phi Delta Theta, Pi Kappa Alpha, Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Sigma Chi, Sigma Nu, Sigma Phi Epsilon, Sigma Pi, Tau Kappa Epsilon, Theta Chi
Panhellenic Council: Alpha Chi Omega, Chi Omega, Delta Gamma, Delta Zeta, Phi Mu, Zeta Tau Alpha
NPHC (Divine Nine): All nine historically Black organizations represented

UH’s Transparency Challenge:
Unlike UT Austin’s public violations log, UH provides limited public information about hazing incidents. This makes legal discovery critical for uncovering prior incidents and patterns.

For Riverside Families with Students at UH:

The Bermudez case shows UH is not immune to severe hazing
Off-campus locations (Culmore Drive residence, Yellowstone Park) are common hazing sites
Evidence collection must be immediate before digital evidence disappears
Medical attention is non-negotiable for any suspected rhabdomyolysis symptoms

Texas A&M University: Corps Culture and Greek Life

Corps of Cadets Hazing History:

2023 lawsuit alleging cadet was bound between beds in “roasted pig” pose with apple in mouth
Allegations of simulated sexual acts and degradation
Takeaway: Military-style programs have unique hazing risks

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
$1 million lawsuit filed by injured pledges

Texas A&M’s Greek Landscape:

One of nation’s largest Greek communities
Strong tradition and social pressure
Both Corps and Greek life hazing risks

For Riverside Families at Texas A&M:

Understand both Greek and Corps risks
Document any “physical training” that seems excessive or punitive
Chemical exposure incidents require immediate medical documentation
Urgent care documentation is better than no documentation

University of Texas at Austin: Public Transparency Leader

UT’s Public Hazing Violations Log:
UT maintains one of Texas’s most transparent public records at hazing.utexas.edu

Recent Examples from UT’s Log:

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics; chapter probation
Texas Wranglers: Multiple hazing violations over years
Various spirit groups sanctioned for forced workouts, alcohol hazing

Sigma Alpha Epsilon at UT (2024):

Australian exchange student assaulted at party
Injuries: dislocated leg, broken ligaments, fractured tibia, broken nose
Over $1 million lawsuit filed
Chapter already under suspension for prior violations

UT’s Investigative Process:

Public reporting through Dean of Students
Transparent sanctioning (when violations are confirmed)
But: Repeated violations suggest ongoing systemic issues

For Riverside Families at UT:

Check UT’s public hazing log for your child’s organization
Understand that public sanctions mean prior knowledge exists
Repeated violations strengthen negligence claims
Pattern evidence is powerful in UT cases

Southern Methodist University: Private University Dynamics

Kappa Alpha Order Incident (2017):

New members reportedly paddled, forced to drink, sleep deprived
Chapter suspended until approximately 2021
Pattern: Traditional fraternity with national hazing history

SMU’s Greek Profile:

Affluent student population
Strong social pressure to join Greek life
Private university means less public transparency

Legal Considerations at SMU:

Fewer sovereign immunity issues (private institution)
Potentially deeper insurance coverage
But: Less public information about prior incidents

For Riverside Families at SMU:

Pressure to belong can be particularly intense
Document financial aspects (excessive dues, forced purchases)
Understand that private settlements are common
Early legal consultation is crucial before signing any university agreements

Baylor University: Religious Identity and Accountability

Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020):

14 players suspended following hazing investigation
Suspensions staggered over season
Pattern: Athletic team hazing occurs even at religious institutions

Baylor’s Broader Context:

History of Title IX and sexual assault scrutiny
Religious identity creates unique messaging challenges
“Zero tolerance” policies vs. actual enforcement

For Riverside Families at Baylor:

Religious affiliation doesn’t prevent hazing
Document any spiritual manipulation aspects
Understand Baylor’s specific reporting channels
Legal strategy must account for religious institutional dynamics

Texas Fraternity & Sorority Organizations: The Public Records Reality

For City of Riverside families, understanding that fraternities and sororities are real legal entities—not just social clubs—is crucial. Texas public records reveal the extensive network of organizations operating across our state.

Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine: What We Track

Our firm maintains what we call the “Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine”—a comprehensive database of Greek organizations drawn from public records. Here’s what exists in Texas:

IRS B83 Registered Organizations: 125 Texas Entities
These are tax-exempt organizations the IRS classifies as fraternities, sororities, and related Greek organizations. Examples from public records include:

Kappa Sigma – Mu Camma Chapter Inc (EIN: 133048786) – 3007 Earl Rudder Fwy S, College Station, TX 77845
Gamma Phi Beta Sorority Inc (EIN: 161675890) – 115 Wild Wick Way, The Woodlands, TX 77382
Pi Kappa Phi Delta Omega Chapter Building Corporation (EIN: 371768785) – 4102 Eastshore St, Missouri City, TX 77459
Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation Inc (EIN: 462267515) – 10601 Big Horn Trl, Frisco, TX 75035
Sigma Chi Fraternity Epsilon Xi Chapter (EIN: 746084905) – 4300 Martin Luther King Blvd, Houston, TX 77204

Texas Universities with Greek Life: 96 Campuses
From our Texas Universities database, institutions with active Greek communities include not just the major names but regional campuses throughout Texas.

Cause IQ Metro Organizations: 1,423 Across 25 Metros
This commercial database shows Greek organizations’ metro concentration:

Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington: 510 organizations
Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land: 188 organizations
Austin-Round Rock: 154 organizations
San Antonio: 86 organizations
College Station-Bryan: 42 organizations
Waco: 27 organizations

Why This Data Matters for Your Case

Identifying All Potentially Liable Entities:
- National headquarters
- Chapter housing corporations
- Alumni associations
- Educational foundations
Insurance Coverage Tracing:
- Multiple entities often mean multiple insurance policies
- Different coverage limits and exclusions
- Our insurance insider knowledge helps navigate this complexity
Pattern Evidence Development:
- Same national organizations appear across multiple Texas campuses
- Prior incidents at other chapters establish foreseeability
- National knowledge of problems strengthens negligence claims

National Histories Matter: Pattern Recognition

Pi Kappa Alpha National Pattern:

Stone Foltz death at Bowling Green ($10M settlement)
David Bogenberger death at Northern Illinois ($14M settlement)
Texas connection: Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT, Baylor, SMU

Sigma Alpha Epsilon National Pattern:

Carson Starkey death at Cal Poly (confidential settlement)
Traumatic brain injury lawsuit at Alabama
Chemical burns at Texas A&M
Texas connection: Chapters at all major Texas universities

Phi Delta Theta National Pattern:

Max Gruver death at LSU ($6.1M verdict)
Texas connection: Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT, Baylor

Why These Histories Matter for Riverside Families:
When a Texas chapter repeats hazing methods that have killed students elsewhere, it demonstrates:

Foreseeability: Nationals knew or should have known the risks
Negligence: Inadequate supervision and enforcement
Pattern and practice: Systematic failure to address known dangers

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Strategy, and Realistic Expectations

When hazing causes injury or death, building a strong case requires specific expertise. Here’s how we approach these complex matters for Texas families.

Critical Evidence Categories

1. Digital Communications (Most Important Evidence):

Group chats: GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord
Social media: Instagram DMs, Snapchat, TikTok, Facebook
Deleted message recovery: Digital forensics can often recover “deleted” content
Timing patterns: Messages before/during/after incidents show planning and cover-up

2. Photo and Video Evidence:

Injury documentation: Multiple angles, scale references, progression over days
Event footage: Social media posts, shared videos, surveillance footage
Location documentation: Houses, rooms, specific areas where hazing occurred

3. Medical Records:

Immediate care: ER reports, ambulance records, hospital admissions
Specialist documentation: Orthopedic, renal, psychological evaluations
Ongoing treatment: Physical therapy, counseling, medication records
Critical notation: Ensure providers document “hazing” as cause of injury

4. Organizational Documents:

Pledge manuals: Often contain prohibited activities
National policies: Risk management manuals showing known dangers
Chapter communications: Emails, texts about “traditions”
University records: Prior incident reports, disciplinary history

5. Witness Information:

Other pledges: Often afraid but may cooperate with protection
Former members: Those who quit may be willing to testify
Bystanders: Roommates, neighbors, other students
Experts: Medical, psychological, Greek life culture experts

Our Evidence Preservation Process

Within 24 Hours:

Digital preservation: Forensic capture of phones and devices
Medical advocacy: Ensuring proper documentation of injuries
Witness identification: Initial contact before stories align
University communication: Strategic engagement to preserve records

First Week:

Subpoena preparation: For university and fraternity records
Expert retention: Medical, psychological, digital forensic experts
Insurance identification: All potential coverage sources
Legal strategy development: Criminal vs. civil, jurisdictional decisions

First Month:

Comprehensive discovery: Official records requests
Formal demand letters: To preserve evidence and begin negotiations
Liability analysis: All potential defendants identified
Damage modeling: Economic and non-economic impact assessment

Damages in Hazing Cases: What Families Can Recover

Economic Damages (Quantifiable):

Medical expenses: Past and future care, including lifelong needs for catastrophic injuries
Lost educational opportunity: Tuition, fees, scholarships, delayed graduation
Lost earning capacity: Lifetime impact of disabilities
Therapy and counseling: Often needed for years

Non-Economic Damages:

Physical pain and suffering: From injuries and treatment
–Emotional distress: PTSD, depression, anxiety, humiliation
Loss of enjoyment: Changed life trajectory, damaged relationships
Punitive damages: When conduct is particularly egregious (limited in Texas)

Wrongful Death Damages:

Funeral and burial costs
Loss of companionship and support
Emotional suffering of family members
Loss of guidance for younger siblings

Insurance Coverage Battles: Why Experience Matters

Fraternity and university insurance companies use sophisticated tactics to limit payouts:

Common Insurance Defenses:

“Intentional act” exclusion: Arguing hazing is intentional, not negligent
“Criminal act” exclusion: Claiming criminal behavior isn’t covered
“Known danger” arguments: Saying victims assumed the risk
Multiple policy coordination disputes: Determining which policy pays first

Our Insurance Insider Advantage:
Mr. Lupe Peña spent years as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm. He knows:

How insurers value claims and set reserves
Their delay and lowball tactics
How to counter “intentional act” exclusions
Which arguments actually work in negotiations

Multi-Policy Strategy:
We identify ALL potential insurance sources:

National fraternity policies
Chapter/housing corporation policies
University liability coverage
Individual members’ homeowner policies
Umbrella and excess policies

Practical Guide for City of Riverside Parents and Students

For Parents: Warning Signs and Immediate Actions

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Being Hazed:

Physical indicators: Unexplained bruises, burns, injuries; extreme fatigue; weight changes
Behavioral changes: Sudden secrecy; withdrawal from family/friends; personality shifts
Academic red flags: Grades dropping; missing classes; losing scholarships
Digital patterns: Constant phone monitoring; anxiety about messages; deleted conversations
Financial issues: Unexpected large expenses; requests for money without clear reasons

Questions to Ask (Non-Confrontationally):

“How are things going with your new organization?”
“Are they respectful of your time for classes and sleep?”
“Is there anything that makes you uncomfortable?”
“Have you seen anyone get hurt, or have you been hurt?”
“Do you feel like you could leave if you wanted to?”

If Your Child Opens Up:

Listen without judgment: They’re likely scared and ashamed
Prioritize safety: Medical attention comes before everything
Preserve evidence: Screenshot everything before it disappears
Contact us immediately: 1-888-ATTY-911 for strategic guidance

For Students: Recognizing and Escaping Hazing

Is This Hazing? Simple Test:

Would you do this if you had a real choice (no social consequences)?
Is it dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
Would the university approve if they knew?
Are you being told to keep secrets?

Safe Exit Strategies:

Immediate danger: Call 911, then get to a safe location
Medical emergency: Texas law protects those who call for help
De-pledging: Send written resignation, don’t go to “one last meeting”
University reporting: Dean of Students, anonymous hotlines
Legal protection: We can help with no-contact orders if needed

Evidence Collection for Students:

Screenshots: Full conversations with timestamps
Photos: Injuries, locations, objects used
Medical documentation: Tell providers you were hazed
Witness information: Names and contacts
Our video guide: Using your phone to document evidence

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

Letting Evidence Disappear:
- Mistake: Deleting messages to “protect” others
- Consequence: Case becomes nearly impossible to prove
- Solution: Preserve everything immediately
Confronting the Organization:
- Mistake: Yelling at fraternity members or advisors
- Consequence: They lawyer up and destroy evidence
- Solution: Document quietly, let attorneys handle communication
Signing University Agreements:
- Mistake: Accepting quick “internal resolution”
- Consequence: May waive right to sue; settlements are often low
- Solution: Nothing gets signed without attorney review
Social Media Posts:
- Mistake: Venting online before case is filed
- Consequence: Defense attorneys use inconsistencies against you
- Solution: All communication goes through your lawyer
Waiting Too Long:
- Mistake: “Letting the university handle it”
- Consequence: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statutes run
- Solution: Legal consultation within 48 hours

Watch our detailed explanation of client mistakes that can ruin your case.

Frequently Asked Questions for Texas Families

“Can we sue a Texas university for hazing?”
Yes, under specific circumstances. Public universities have sovereign immunity limitations, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and when suing individuals. Private universities have fewer immunity protections. Every case requires specific analysis—call us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for case evaluation.

“Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
It can be. Texas law makes basic hazing a Class B misdemeanor, 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?”
Consent is not a defense to hazing under Texas Education Code § 37.155. 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 the date of injury or death in Texas, but exceptions exist for minors, delayed discovery of injuries, and fraudulent concealment. Time is critical—evidence disappears quickly. Learn more in our statute of limitations video.

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

“Will this be confidential?”
Most cases settle confidentially before trial. We prioritize your family’s privacy while pursuing accountability. Public trials are rare but sometimes necessary for true accountability.

“How much does this cost?”
We work on contingency—no fee unless we recover compensation. Learn how contingency fees work.

Why Attorney911 for Texas Hazing Cases

Our Unique Qualifications for Hazing Litigation

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.

Insurance Insider Knowledge (Lupe Peña’s Defense 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 and lowball offers
Argue coverage exclusions for “intentional acts”
We know their playbook because we used to run it

Complex Institutional Litigation (Ralph Manginello’s Experience):

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 and won

Multi-Million Dollar Results:

Wrongful death settlements and verdicts
Catastrophic injury cases with lifetime care planning
Experience working with economists to value losses
We don’t settle cheap—we build cases that force accountability

Criminal + Civil Dual Expertise:

Ralph’s HCCLA membership signals elite criminal defense capability
Understands how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation
Can advise witnesses and former members with dual exposure
Navigates parallel criminal and civil proceedings

Investigative Depth:

Network of experts: medical, digital forensics, Greek life culture, economists
Experience obtaining hidden evidence through discovery
Track record of uncovering institutional knowledge of dangers
We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does

Our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine

Unlike firms that start from scratch, we maintain a comprehensive database of Texas Greek organizations drawn from:

IRS public records (125 Texas-registered entities)
University rosters (96 Texas campuses)
Commercial databases (1,423 organizations across 25 metros)
National incident tracking (patterns across states)

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

The legal entities behind the Greek letters
Prior incidents at that chapter and nationally
Insurance structures and coverage likely available
University track records with similar cases

Our Approach: Empathetic but Strategic

We understand this is one of the hardest things a family can face. Our approach balances:

Human Compassion:

We listen without judgment
We prioritize your child’s recovery
We respect your family’s privacy needs
We communicate clearly and regularly

Legal Aggression:

We investigate thoroughly and quickly
We identify all potentially liable parties
We preserve evidence before it disappears
We’re prepared to go to trial if necessary

Strategic Patience:

We don’t rush into ill-advised settlements
We build cases methodically
We wait for medical outcomes to stabilize
We time negotiations for maximum leverage

Call to Action for City of Riverside Families

If hazing has impacted your family—whether your child attends Sam Houston State here in Walker County or any Texas university—you don’t have to face this alone.

What You Should Do Right Now:

Prioritize Safety and Health:
- Get medical attention immediately for any injuries
- Seek psychological support for trauma
- Remove your child from dangerous situations
Preserve Evidence:
- Screenshot all digital communications
- Photograph injuries and locations
- Write down everything while memories are fresh
- Save physical evidence (clothing, objects)
Contact Attorney911 for Free Consultation:
- Call: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
- Direct: (713) 528-9070
- Cell: (713) 443-4781
- Email: ralph@atty911.com or lupe@atty911.com
- Website: https://attorney911.com

What to Expect in Your Free Consultation:

We Listen: You tell your story without interruption or judgment
We Review: Any evidence you’ve preserved (photos, messages, medical records)
We Explain: Your legal options in plain English
We Strategize: Initial thoughts on best approach for your situation
We Answer: Your questions about process, timing, and costs
No Pressure: Take time to decide what’s right for your family

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

Why Call Now Instead of Waiting?

Evidence disappears: Group chats are deleted, witnesses are coached, memories fade
University processes aren’t accountability: Internal discipline rarely provides compensation or prevents future harm
Statutes of limitations run: Texas generally gives you 2 years, but building a case takes time
Early legal guidance prevents mistakes: We help you avoid actions that could hurt your case

We Serve All of Texas from Our Houston Office:
While our main office is in Houston, we serve families throughout Texas, including City of Riverside and all of Walker County. Distance doesn’t matter—we handle everything remotely when needed, and we’re familiar with courts and procedures across Texas.

Your Next Step:
Pick up the phone right now and call 1-888-ATTY-911. We answer 24/7 because legal emergencies don’t wait for business hours. We’ll listen to what happened, explain your options, and help you decide on the best path forward for your family.

You have rights. Your child deserves accountability. And you don’t have to face this alone.

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