Hazing Lawsuits and Greek Life Accountability: A Comprehensive Guide for La Vernia and Wilson County Families

If Your Child Was Hazed at a Texas University, You Have Rights

For parents in La Vernia, Stockdale, Floresville, and across Wilson County, sending your child to college represents hope, opportunity, and that proud Texas tradition of building a better future. You’ve watched them grow up in our tight-knit communities, cheered at their high school games, and helped them prepare for the next chapter at schools like Texas A&M, UT Austin, or Texas State University. But what happens when that college experience turns dangerous? When the fraternity, sorority, Corps program, or campus organization you trusted with your child’s wellbeing subjects them to humiliation, violence, or life-threatening abuse?

Right now, we’re fighting one of the most serious hazing cases in Texas history. In late 2025, we filed a $10 million hazing and abuse lawsuit on behalf of Leonel Bermudez, a University of Houston student who suffered rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure after extreme hazing by the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter. The detailed allegations in that case—forced consumption rituals, “waterboarding” with a hose, humiliating “pledge fanny pack” requirements, and workouts so brutal they caused muscle breakdown and organ failure—show exactly how hazing operates in modern Texas Greek life. This isn’t isolated to Houston. The same national organizations, the same dangerous traditions, and the same institutional failures affect students from La Vernia attending universities across our state.

If you’re a parent in Wilson County whose child has been injured, hospitalized, or traumatized by hazing, this comprehensive guide explains your family’s legal rights, the patterns we see across Texas campuses, and how experienced hazing attorneys build cases that hold powerful institutions 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

Many La Vernia parents remember hazing as “boys being boys” or harmless pranks from decades past. Today’s hazing is different—more organized, more digitally documented, and often more dangerous. Modern hazing falls into three escalating categories that every Wilson County family should recognize.

The Three Tiers of Modern Hazing

Tier 1: Subtle Hazing – Often dismissed as “tradition” but creates psychological harm and power imbalance

Constant “on-call” demands via group chat at all hours
Forced servitude (cleaning, chauffeuring, running errands for older members)
Social isolation from non-Greek friends
Mandatory attendance at events that interfere with academics
Derogatory nicknames and demeaning requirements

Tier 2: Harassment Hazing – Causes measurable physical or emotional harm

Sleep deprivation through late-night meetings or early wake-ups
Food/water restriction or forced consumption of unpleasant substances
Verbal abuse, yelling, threats
“Smokings” or extreme calisthenics beyond safe limits
Public humiliation in front of peers or on social media

Tier 3: Violent Hazing – High potential for serious injury or death

Forced alcohol consumption (chugging, “Big/Little” nights, drinking games)
Physical beatings, paddling, branding
Dangerous physical “tests” (blindfolded tackles, extreme workouts)
Sexualized hazing (forced nudity, simulated acts)
Kidnapping, restraint, or exposure to extreme environments

The Digital Transformation of Hazing

Today’s hazing leaves a digital trail that can become crucial evidence:

Group chat evidence: Platforms like GroupMe, WhatsApp, Discord, and Snapchat where members plan, document, and discuss hazing
Social media humiliation: Forced TikTok challenges, Instagram story dares, public shaming
Location tracking: Demands for continuous location sharing via Find My Friends or Life360
Deleted evidence recovery: Our digital forensics experts can often recover “deleted” messages and photos

These modern tactics often target students from communities like ours in Wilson County—students who value tradition, want to belong, and may be less familiar with the darker realities of some Greek life cultures at major Texas universities.

Texas Hazing Law: What La Vernia Families Need to Know

Under Texas Education Code Chapter 37, hazing is defined as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act—on or off campus—directed against a student that endangers mental or physical health for purposes of pledging, initiation, affiliation, or maintaining membership in any organization. For Wilson County families, several key provisions matter most.

Criminal Penalties Under Texas Law

Texas classifies hazing offenses based on severity:

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 charges: Individuals can also face charges for failing to report hazing or retaliating against reporters

Critical Texas Legal Protections

Consent Is NOT a Defense: Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that the victim’s “consent” to hazing activities is not a defense to prosecution. Courts recognize that power imbalance, peer pressure, and fear of exclusion create coerced environments, not genuine consent.

Good-Faith Reporter Immunity: Students who report hazing or call for medical help in good faith receive immunity from civil or criminal liability that might otherwise result from their own involvement. This “medical amnesty” encourages life-saving calls to 911.

Organizational Liability: Fraternities, sororities, and other organizations can face criminal fines up to $10,000 per violation and civil liability for hazing they authorized, encouraged, or failed to stop.

Federal Overlays That Affect Texas Cases

Title IX: When hazing involves sexual harassment, assault, or gender-based hostility, federal Title IX obligations require universities to investigate and respond appropriately. This applies regardless of whether the conduct occurred on or off campus.

Clery Act: Requires colleges to report certain crimes and maintain safety statistics. Hazing incidents often overlap with reported assaults, alcohol offenses, or other Clery-reportable crimes.

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This new federal legislation requires colleges receiving federal aid to report hazing incidents more transparently and strengthen prevention programs. Texas universities are implementing these requirements through 2026.

National Hazing Case Patterns: What Texas Universities Should Have Learned

The hazing incidents affecting Wilson County students today follow patterns established in high-profile national cases. These precedents matter because they show what universities and national fraternities knew—or should have known—about foreseeable risks.

Alcohol Poisoning Deaths: The Most Common Fatal Pattern

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021): A 20-year-old pledge died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol during a “Big/Little” event. The case resulted in a $10 million settlement ($7 million from Pi Kappa Alpha national, $3 million from BGSU) and multiple criminal convictions. This pattern of forced drinking during “Big/Little” or bid acceptance nights repeats across campuses, including in Texas.

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017): The 19-year-old pledge died with a 0.495% BAC after a “Bible study” drinking game where incorrect answers mandated drinking. His death led to Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act, upgrading hazing to felony status. The family’s civil case ended with substantial confidential settlements.

Timothy Piazza – Penn State, Beta Theta Pi (2017): The 19-year-old’s death after a bid acceptance night with extreme drinking led to one of the largest hazing prosecutions in U.S. history, with 18 fraternity members facing over 1,000 criminal counts total. The security camera footage showing the delayed 911 call became emblematic of how cover-up culture can turn tragedy into catastrophe.

Physical and Ritualized Hazing Injuries

Danny Santulli – University of Missouri, Phi Gamma Delta (2021): The 18-year-old pledge suffered permanent, severe brain damage after being forced to drink excessively during a “pledge dad reveal” night. He now requires 24/7 care and cannot walk, talk, or see. His family settled with 22 defendants, showing how multiple parties share liability in catastrophic injury cases.

Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013): The pledge died from traumatic brain injuries during a violent “glass ceiling” ritual at a remote retreat. The national fraternity was criminally convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter—a landmark case showing national organizations can face criminal liability, not just civil.

Collin Wiant – Ohio University, Sigma Pi (2018): The 18-year-old died after collapsing at an off-campus house following alleged hazing involving nitrous oxide and other substances. His death led to Collin’s Law: The Anti-Hazing Act in Ohio, which makes hazing a felony when drugs/alcohol cause physical harm.

What These Cases Mean for Wilson County Families

These national precedents establish several critical principles that apply to Texas cases:

Foreseeability: Universities and national fraternities cannot claim they “didn’t know” these activities were dangerous—the patterns are well-established
Institutional Accountability: Both local chapters AND national headquarters can be held liable
Cover-Up Consequences: Delaying medical care or destroying evidence dramatically increases liability
Legislative Impact: Major cases often drive new laws (as seen in Ohio, Louisiana, Pennsylvania, and Florida)

When your child from La Vernia suffers similar harm at a Texas university, these national cases provide legal precedents, settlement benchmarks, and strategic roadmaps for holding responsible parties accountable.

Texas University Focus: Where Wilson County Students Face Hazing Risks

Wilson County families send their children to universities across Texas, from nearby Texas State University in San Marcos to flagship institutions hours away. Understanding the specific hazing landscapes at these schools helps families recognize risks and respond effectively.

University of Houston: The Current Frontline

For Wilson County families with students at UH: The 45-minute drive from La Vernia to Houston means many local students choose UH for its proximity and programs. The university’s current hazing crisis—exemplified by our Leonel Bermudez case—reveals systemic issues affecting Houston-area families.

The Leonel Bermudez / Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu Case:

Injury: Rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure requiring four-day hospitalization
Hazing Methods: “Pledge fanny pack” humiliation, forced consumption rituals, hosing “similar to waterboarding,” extreme workouts (100+ push-ups, 500 squats)
Defendants: UH, UH System Board of Regents, Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters, Beta Nu housing corporation, and 13 individual fraternity leaders
Institutional Response: Chapter suspended November 6, 2025; members voted to surrender charter November 14, 2025; UH called conduct “deeply disturbing”

This active litigation demonstrates how serious hazing cases require investigating every layer of responsibility—from individual members to national headquarters to the university itself.

Texas A&M University: Corps and Greek Life Intersections

For Aggie families from Wilson County: Many La Vernia students pursue the unique tradition and opportunity of Texas A&M. The university’s dual Greek and Corps cultures present specific hazing risks Wilson County parents should understand.

Documented Incidents:

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (2021): Pledges allegedly had industrial-strength cleaner poured on them, causing severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries. The $1 million lawsuit highlighted how physical hazing has evolved beyond traditional paddling.
Corps of Cadets “Roasted Pig” Case (2023): A cadet alleged degrading hazing including being bound between beds in a simulated sexual position with an apple in his mouth. The lawsuit sought over $1 million and revealed hazing risks beyond Greek life.
Corps Tradition vs. Hazing: The fine line between “character-building” tradition and illegal hazing requires careful legal analysis, especially for families unfamiliar with military-style environments.

Texas A&M’s Greek Life Scale: With one of the largest Greek systems in the South, Texas A&M faces constant hazing prevention challenges. Recent transparency initiatives provide more public data, but incidents continue affecting students from communities like ours.

University of Texas at Austin: Transparency and Ongoing Issues

For UT families in Wilson County: Austin’s flagship university offers world-class education but maintains a significant Greek culture with documented hazing patterns.

UT’s Public Hazing Violations Database provides unprecedented transparency:

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics; chapter placed on probation
Texas Wranglers (multiple years): Sanctioned for forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing
Various IFC and Panhellenic chapters: Repeated sanctions show ongoing compliance challenges

For Wilson County families: UT’s public database allows you to check an organization’s history before your child joins. This transparency also strengthens civil cases by providing evidence of prior incidents and institutional knowledge.

Texas State University: The Local Option

For many La Vernia families: Texas State University in San Marcos represents the closest major university option, with many Wilson County students commuting or living on campus.

San Marcos Greek Life Context:

Proximity to Austin: Creates overlapping Greek networks and social scenes
Growing University: Expanding Greek life brings both opportunity and risk
Documented Incidents: Like most Texas universities, Texas State has faced hazing investigations and sanctions, though less publicly documented than larger schools

Legal Jurisdiction Note: Hazing incidents involving Texas State students may involve both Hays County (where San Marcos is located) and Wilson County authorities, especially if students return home injured to La Vernia.

Baylor University and Southern Methodist University: Private School Considerations

For Wilson County families at private universities: Baylor and SMU present different legal landscapes than public institutions.

Key Differences:

Sovereign Immunity: Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT) have some immunity protections; private schools (Baylor, SMU) do not
Religious Affiliation: Baylor’s religious identity affects campus culture and potentially legal arguments
Financial Resources: Both schools have significant resources but different risk management approaches

Documented Issues:

Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020): 14 players suspended following hazing investigation
SMU Kappa Alpha Order (2017): Chapter suspended for paddling, forced drinking, sleep deprivation

The Texas Greek Ecosystem: What Wilson County Families Are Up Against

Behind every fraternity or sorority chapter at Texas universities stands a complex network of legally recognized organizations. Our firm maintains what we call the Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine—a comprehensive database of every Greek organization registered in Texas. This investigative advantage helps us identify all potentially liable parties when building cases for families like yours.

Public Records Directory: Fraternities, Sororities & Greek Organizations Serving Wilson County Families

As a parent in La Vernia, you deserve to know who really stands behind the Greek organizations connected to your child. These are not just social clubs—they are legal entities with IRS recognition, insurance policies, and organizational structures. Below are examples from our database of Texas-registered Greek organizations.

IRS B83-Registered Texas Greek Organizations (Sample Listings):

Kappa Sigma – Mu Camma Chapter Inc | EIN: 133048786 | 3007 Earl Rudder Fwy S, College Station, TX 77845 | IRS B83 filing
Pi Kappa Phi Delta Omega Chapter Building Corporation | EIN: 371768785 | 4102 Eastshore St, Missouri City, TX 77459 | House corporation filing
Sigma Phi Epsilon New York Chi Alumni Association Inc | EIN: 262710856 | 618 Rutland St, Houston, TX 77007 | Alumni association filing
Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation Inc | EIN: 462267515 | 10601 Big Horn Trl, Frisco, TX 75035 | Housing corporation filing
Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi – Texas A&M University Chapter | EIN: 900293166 | 114 Henderson Hall, College Station, TX 77843 | Academic honor society
Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity Inc – Theta Delta Chapter | EIN: 475370943 | 5019 Calhoun Rd, Houston, TX 77204 | Fraternity chapter filing
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc – Sigma Gamma Chapter | EIN: 392352450 | PO Box 540026, Houston, TX 77254 | Sorority chapter filing
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity – Arlington-Grand Prairie Alumni Chapter | EIN: 232452759 | PO Box 542901, Grand Prairie, TX 75054 | Alumni chapter filing

San Antonio Metro Area Greek Organizations (Serving Wilson County Students):

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority – San Antonio Alumnae | San Antonio, TX | Graduate chapter serving area universities
Kappa Alpha Psi – San Antonio Alumni | San Antonio, TX | Alumni network supporting local chapters
Alpha Lambda Chapter of Sigma Chi | San Antonio, TX | Trinity University chapter
Xi Omicron Iota House Association | San Antonio, TX | Trinity University housing association

These organizations matter because:

Insurance Coverage: Each may carry liability insurance that could cover hazing claims
Asset Identification: Legal entities hold assets that can satisfy judgments
Responsibility Tracing: Multiple layers of organization share responsibility for chapter conduct
National Pattern Evidence: The same national brands appear across Texas metros and campuses

National Fraternity Histories That Repeat in Texas

The same national organizations involved in high-profile hazing deaths and injuries nationwide operate chapters at Texas universities attended by Wilson County students:

Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike): Stone Foltz death ($10M settlement), David Bogenberger death ($14M settlement). Texas chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT, Baylor, Texas State.

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE): Multiple hazing deaths nationwide, traumatic brain injury case at Alabama, chemical burns case at Texas A&M. Known for alcohol-related hazing patterns.

Phi Delta Theta: Max Gruver death (led to Louisiana felony hazing law). Active at multiple Texas campuses with documented risk patterns.

Pi Kappa Phi: Andrew Coffey death at Florida State, currently involved in our UH Bermudez case. Demonstrates how national patterns repeat locally.

Kappa Alpha Order: Multiple hazing suspensions including at SMU. Traditional “Southern gentleman” image contrasted with documented physical hazing.

When these national organizations face similar allegations in Texas, their prior knowledge and nationwide patterns become crucial evidence. They cannot claim “we didn’t know” when their own history shows repeated warnings.

Why This Database Matters for Your Case

For Wilson County families, our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine means:

We start ahead: We already know the legal names, EINs, and addresses of organizations that may share liability
Insurance identification: We track which entities likely carry insurance coverage
Pattern evidence: We can show how the same national brands have faced similar allegations elsewhere
Comprehensive accountability: We ensure no responsible party escapes notice because of corporate complexity

This investigative depth distinguishes serious hazing litigation from generic personal injury claims. Universities and national fraternities have sophisticated legal teams who count on families giving up when faced with bureaucratic complexity. We don’t let that happen.

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

When Wilson County families come to us after a hazing incident, they’re often overwhelmed, angry, and unsure what to expect. Here’s how we build cases that seek accountability and compensation while protecting your family’s wellbeing.

Critical Evidence That Wins Hazing Cases

Digital Evidence (Most Important Category):

Group chats: GroupMe, WhatsApp, Discord, iMessage threads showing planning, boasting, or cover-up attempts
Social media: Instagram stories, Snapchat posts, TikTok videos documenting events
Deleted message recovery: Our digital forensics experts can often recover “permanently deleted” content
Location data: Geo-tags, Find My Friends histories, Uber/Lyft receipts establishing where events occurred

Medical Documentation:

ER records: Immediate documentation of injuries, intoxication levels, and patient statements
Specialist reports: Follow-up care documenting ongoing physical or psychological harm
Psychological evaluations: PTSD, depression, anxiety, or other trauma diagnoses
Economic impact assessments: Documentation of academic disruption, missed semesters, or career impacts

Institutional Records (Obtained Through Legal Process):

University conduct files: Prior complaints against the same organization
National fraternity records: Risk management files, prior incident reports
Insurance policies: Coverage documents from multiple potentially liable entities
Property records: Ownership information for houses where hazing occurred

Witness Testimony:

Other pledges: Often the most credible witnesses once they feel safe to talk
Former members: Those who quit or were expelled frequently provide crucial inside information
Roommates and friends: Corroborating witnesses who observed changes or heard admissions
Medical providers: Objective documentation of injuries and their likely causes

Damages: What Families Can Recover in Hazing Cases

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Financial Losses):

Medical expenses: Past and future treatment, including therapy, medications, and long-term care
Lost educational opportunity: Tuition for missed semesters, lost scholarships, delayed graduation
Diminished earning capacity: For permanent injuries affecting career prospects
Other costs: Relocation expenses, tutoring, academic support services

Non-Economic Damages (Subjective but Compensable):

Physical pain and suffering: From injuries and ongoing conditions
Emotional distress: PTSD, depression, anxiety, humiliation, loss of enjoyment of life
Reputational harm: Social stigma and privacy invasion

Wrongful Death Damages (When Tragedy Strikes):

Funeral and burial expenses
Loss of companionship, love, and guidance for parents and siblings
Grief and emotional suffering of surviving family members
Economic support the deceased would have provided

Punitive Damages (When Conduct Is Especially Reckless):

Available when defendants show gross negligence, willful disregard, or intentional misconduct
Designed to punish egregious behavior and deter future hazing
Texas has statutory caps on punitive damages in many cases, but exceptions exist

Realistic Expectations and Timelines

Most Cases Settle Confidentially:

90%+ of hazing cases settle before trial through mediation or negotiation
Confidential settlements protect family privacy while providing compensation
Settlement amounts vary based on injury severity, liability clarity, and defendant resources

When Cases Go to Trial:

We prepare every case as if it will go to trial (because that maximizes settlement leverage)
Trial is public, emotionally taxing, and uncertain—but sometimes necessary for accountability
Recent hazing verdicts have ranged from $375,000 to $14 million

Typical Timeline:

Months 1-3: Evidence preservation, initial investigation, medical treatment
Months 4-9: Formal discovery, document requests, depositions
Months 10-18: Mediation attempts, settlement negotiations
Months 18-36+: Trial preparation and potential trial

Your family’s emotional recovery timeline may differ from the legal timeline. We work to resolve cases efficiently while ensuring thorough investigation.

Practical Guide for Wilson County Parents and Students

For Parents: Warning Signs and Immediate Response

Behavioral Red Flags Your Child May Be Being Hazed:

Sudden secrecy about organization activities (“I can’t talk about it”)
Unexplained injuries, bruises, or burns with inconsistent explanations
Extreme fatigue, sleep deprivation beyond normal college stress
Personality changes: increased anxiety, depression, irritability, or withdrawal
Constant phone monitoring, anxiety about missing group chat messages
Financial strain from unexplained expenses (alcohol purchases, “fines,” gifts for older members)
Academic decline from missing classes or falling behind due to “mandatory” events

Questions to Ask (Non-Confrontationally):

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

48-Hour Action Checklist for Parents:

HOUR 1-6 (Immediate Crisis):

Get medical attention for any injuries or intoxication
Remove your child from the dangerous situation
Screenshot any messages they show you; photograph visible injuries
Write down everything they tell you (date, time, what happened, who was there)
Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal guidance

HOUR 6-24 (Evidence Preservation):

Help your child preserve all group chats, DMs, texts (do NOT delete anything)
Secure any physical evidence (clothing, receipts, objects used in hazing)
Request copies of all medical records from ER/hospital visits
Document names and contact information for other pledges or witnesses
Note any communications from the university but do not respond yet

HOUR 24-48 (Strategic Decisions):

Speak with an experienced hazing attorney (Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911)
Decide whether to report to campus police, local police, or Dean of Students (with legal guidance)
If the school contacts you, refer them to your attorney
Do NOT talk to any insurance adjuster without your lawyer present
Upload all evidence to secure cloud storage

For Students: Recognizing Hazing and Protecting Yourself

Is This Hazing? Questions to Ask Yourself:

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 or fear of being “cut”?
Is this activity dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
Would the university or my parents 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 Answer YES to Any of These, It’s Likely Hazing.

How to Exit Safely:

If in immediate danger: Call 911, get to a safe location, then call your parents
If you want to quit: Send a written resignation (email/text) to chapter leadership, not just verbal
Do NOT attend “one last meeting” where pressure or retaliation might occur
Document any threats or retaliation and report to campus authorities
Seek support from university counseling centers, trusted professors, or family

Your Legal Rights in Texas:

You cannot be punished for calling 911 or seeking medical help in an emergency (good-faith reporter immunity)
Hazing is a crime—you are the victim, not the perpetrator
You can request no-contact orders through the university if you’re harassed after reporting
Texas law explicitly states that “consent” is not a defense to hazing charges

For Witnesses and Former Members: Doing the Right Thing

If you participated in hazing and now regret it, or if you witnessed hazing and feel conflicted:

Your testimony could prevent future injuries or deaths
Cooperating with investigations can sometimes mitigate your own legal exposure
Seeking legal advice for yourself is smart before making statements
Many find that helping achieve accountability provides emotional closure

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Hazing Case

Through years of representing families like yours, we’ve seen these common errors undermine otherwise strong cases:

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 obstruction of justice; destroys crucial evidence; makes case nearly 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, then call a lawyer before any confrontation

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

What universities do: Pressure families to sign waivers or “internal resolution” agreements
Why it’s wrong: You may waive your right to sue; settlements are often far below case value
What to do instead: Do NOT sign anything without an attorney reviewing it 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 statements that hurt the case
What to do instead: Once you’re considering legal action, all communication goes 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 of limitations runs
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 are used against you; early settlements are lowball
What to do instead: Politely decline: “My attorney will contact you”

Why Attorney911 for Wilson County Hazing Cases

When your family faces a hazing crisis, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how universities and national fraternities fight back—and how to win anyway. Here’s why Wilson County families choose The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC (Attorney911) for hazing litigation.

Our Texas Hazing Litigation Credentials

Current Major Case: Leonel Bermudez v. UH & Pi Kappa Phi
, we’re actively litigating one of Texas’s most serious hazing cases. This isn’t theoretical experience—it’s current, high-stakes work that keeps us at the forefront of hazing law developments. Our work on this case informs how we approach every hazing matter for Wilson County families.

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

Value (and undervalue) hazing claims
Use delay tactics to pressure families
Argue coverage exclusions for “intentional acts”
Negotiate settlements behind the scenes
As Mr. Peña says: “We know their playbook because we used to run it.”

Complex Institutional Litigation Experience:
Managing partner Ralph Manginello brings experience from BP Texas City explosion litigation—one of the few Texas firms involved. This matters because:

We’re not intimidated by billion-dollar defendants or unlimited legal budgets
We understand how to trace institutional knowledge and cover-up patterns
We have federal court experience (U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas)
Our HCCLA membership signals elite criminal defense capability

Texas-Specific Investigative Resources:
Our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine—the database of 1,423 Greek organizations across 25 Texas metros—gives us an investigative head start. While other firms are figuring out who to sue, we already know:

Legal names and EINs of potentially liable entities
Insurance coverage likely available
Prior incident patterns for specific organizations
Organizational relationships across the state

How We Approach Wilson County Cases Differently

Local Understanding, Statewide Reach:
Though based in Houston, we serve families throughout Texas, including La Vernia, Floresville, Stockdale, and all of Wilson County. We understand:

The community values that make our children vulnerable to wanting to belong
The educational aspirations that lead Wilson County students to Texas universities
The practical realities of pursuing cases that may involve multiple counties and jurisdictions

Comprehensive Damage Assessment:
We don’t just tally medical bills. We work with:

Economists to calculate lifetime earning impacts for serious injuries
Life care planners for catastrophic injury cases requiring ongoing care
Psychologists to document emotional trauma and PTSD
Vocational experts to assess career limitations from injuries or trauma

Privacy Protection Priority:
We know Wilson County families value privacy. We work to:

Keep cases confidential through settlement whenever possible
Request sealed court records when litigation is necessary
Control public messaging to protect your family’s reputation
Secure non-disclosure agreements as part of settlements

Spanish-Language Services:
, Mr. Peña speaks fluent Spanish and can serve Hispanic families in their preferred language.

Frequently Asked Questions from Wilson County Families

“Can we sue a Texas university for hazing?”
Yes, under specific circumstances. Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT) have some sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and when suing individuals in personal capacity. Private universities (SMU, Baylor) have fewer immunity protections. Every case depends on specific facts—call 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 it becomes a state jail felony if the 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 activities?”
Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. Courts recognize that “consent” under peer pressure, power imbalance, and fear of exclusion is not true voluntary consent. This is one of Texas’s strongest legal protections for hazing victims.

“How long do we have to file a lawsuit?”
Generally 2 years from the date of injury or death in Texas, but exceptions exist. The “discovery rule” may extend this if the harm or its cause wasn’t immediately known. In cases involving cover-ups or fraud, the statute may be tolled (paused). Time is critical—evidence disappears, witnesses forget, organizations destroy records. Call us immediately.

“What if the hazing happened off-campus at a private house?”
Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and national fraternities can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, knowledge, and foreseeability. Many major hazing cases (like the Pi Delta Psi retreat death) 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.

“How much does it cost to hire your firm?”
We work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing upfront, and we only receive a fee if we recover compensation for you. Initial consultations are always free and confidential.

“What should we bring to our first consultation?”
Bring any evidence you’ve preserved: screenshots, photos, medical records, correspondence with the university, and notes about what happened. If you haven’t preserved evidence yet, just bring your knowledge of the situation—we’ll guide you through next steps.

Your Next Step: Confidential Consultation

If your child has been hazed at any Texas university, we want to hear from you. Families in La Vernia, Floresville, Stockdale, and throughout Wilson County have the right to answers and accountability.

What to Expect in Your Free Consultation:

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

Contact 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

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

Whether you’re in La Vernia or anywhere across Wilson County, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone. The institutions responsible for your child’s safety must be held accountable. Call us today to discuss your family’s situation and legal options.

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

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

News Coverage of the Leonel Bermudez / UH Pi Kappa Phi Hazing Lawsuit:

Attorney911 Educational YouTube Videos:

Using your cellphone to document evidence: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs
Texas statutes of limitations explained: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c
Client mistakes that can ruin your case: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY
How contingency fees work: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

Attorney911 Main Website:

https://attorney911.com