The Complete Guide to Hazing in Texas: A Resource for Chico Families

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

For parents in Chico, Wise County, sending your child off to college is a milestone filled with pride and hope. You picture them thriving in classrooms, making lifelong friends, and building a bright future. The last thing you imagine is a late-night phone call, a frantic trip to a distant hospital, or the slow realization that the organization they joined to find community has instead caused them profound harm.

Right now, in Texas, we’re fighting one of the most serious hazing cases in recent history. We represent 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. His urine turned brown. He was hospitalized for four days. He faces ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage. This $10 million lawsuit names the university, the national fraternity, its housing corporation, and 13 individual members. As reported by Click2Houston and ABC13, the hazing included forced consumption of milk and hot dogs until vomiting, hours-long workouts, being sprayed with a hose “similar to waterboarding,” and carrying a humiliating “pledge fanny pack.”

This is not an isolated incident. It’s a pattern that affects families from Chico to Houston, from Decatur to Dallas. If your child has been hazed—whether at a fraternity, sorority, Corps program, athletic team, or campus organization—this guide is for you. We’ll explain what hazing really looks like in 2025, your legal rights under Texas law, and how to protect your child and hold accountable those responsible.

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 in Texas

Beyond the Stereotypes: Modern Hazing Methods

Hazing is no longer just about “hell week” or paddling in basements. Today’s hazing combines physical abuse, psychological manipulation, and digital control. For Chico families with children at Texas universities, understanding these evolving tactics is crucial.

Alcohol and Substance Hazing remains the most dangerous:

• Forced consumption games: “Big/Little” nights where pledges drink entire bottles
• “Bible study” or trivia where wrong answers mean drinking
• Lineups where pledges must rapidly consume alcohol
• Coerced use of drugs, nitrous oxide, or unknown substances

Physical Hazing has become more extreme:

• “Smokings” with hundreds of push-ups, squats, or bear crawls until collapse
• Rhabdomyolysis-inducing workouts like Leonel Bermudez endured
• Chemical burns from substances poured on skin (as in Texas A&M SAE cases)
• Sleep deprivation spanning multiple days
• Exposure to extreme cold or heat

Psychological and Digital Hazing creates 24/7 control:

• Group chat monitoring with required immediate responses at all hours
• Social media humiliation via TikTok challenges or Instagram stories
• Geo-tracking through Find My Friends or Life360
• Isolation from non-member friends and family
• Public shaming in meetings or online

Sexualized Hazing crosses into criminal territory:

• Forced nudity or partial nudity
• Simulated sexual acts (“elephant walk,” “roasted pig” positions)
• Degrading costumes or role-playing
• Coerced viewing of pornography

Where Hazing Happens: It’s Not Just Fraternities

While Greek organizations account for many cases, hazing occurs across campus:

• Fraternities and Sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural)
• Corps of Cadets and ROTC programs with military-style traditions
• Athletic Teams from football to swimming
• Spirit Organizations like cheer squads and Texas Cowboys-type groups
• Marching Bands and Performance Groups
• Academic and Service Organizations

For Chico families, this means your child could be at risk even if they never join Greek life. The common threads are power imbalance, tradition, and secrecy.

Texas Hazing Law: What Chico Families Need to Know

The Texas Education Code: Your Legal Foundation

Texas has specific anti-hazing laws under Chapter 37, Subchapter F of the Education Code. Here’s what matters for Wise County families:

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

1. Endangers mental or physical health or safety, AND
2. Occurs for pledging, initiation, affiliation, holding office, or maintaining membership

Key Points for Texas Families:

• Location doesn’t matter – on-campus, off-campus, or at retreats
• Mental OR physical harm qualifies
• “Reckless” is enough – they don’t need malicious intent
• “Consent is not a defense” (Section 37.155) – even if your child agreed

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

Organizational Liability (Section 37.153):

• Organizations can be fined up to $10,000 per violation
• Universities can revoke recognition and ban organizations

Good-Faith Reporting Protection (Section 37.154):

• Those who report hazing in good faith are immune from civil/criminal liability
• This includes calling 911 in medical emergencies, even if underage drinking was involved

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding the Difference

Criminal Cases:

• Brought by the state (DA’s office)
• Goal: Punishment (jail, fines, probation)
• Charges can include: hazing, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, manslaughter
• Example: In the Penn State Timothy Piazza case, 18 fraternity members faced over 1,000 criminal counts

Civil Cases:

• Brought by victims/families
• Goal: Compensation and accountability
• Claims can include: negligence, wrongful death, emotional distress, negligent supervision
• Example: The Stone Foltz family reached a $10 million settlement with Pi Kappa Alpha and Bowling Green State University

Both can proceed simultaneously. A criminal conviction isn’t needed for a civil case, but evidence from criminal investigations often strengthens civil claims.

Federal Laws That Apply in Texas

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024):

• Requires colleges receiving federal aid to report hazing transparently
• Strengthens prevention education
• Phased implementation through 2026

Title IX:

• Applies when hazing involves sexual harassment or gender-based hostility
• Requires universities to investigate and take appropriate action
• Can waive sovereign immunity for public universities

Clery Act:

• Requires reporting of certain crimes on campus
• Hazing incidents involving assault, alcohol crimes, or sexual offenses may trigger Clery reporting

National Hazing Cases: Patterns That Repeat in Texas

Alcohol Poisoning Deaths: The Most Common Pattern

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

• Bid acceptance night with forced drinking
• Fell multiple times, captured on chapter cameras
• 12-hour delay before calling 911
• Result: 18 members charged, Pennsylvania’s “Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law”

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

• “Bible study” drinking game
• BAC of 0.495% (six times legal limit)
• Result: Felony hazing convictions, Louisiana’s “Max Gruver Act”

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

• Forced to drink nearly entire bottle of whiskey
• Died from alcohol poisoning
• Result: $10 million settlement ($7M from national, $3M from university)

What This Means for Chico Families:
The same “Big/Little” nights, drinking games, and forced consumption that killed these students happen at Texas universities. National fraternities know these patterns but often fail to prevent them.

Physical and Ritualized Hazing

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

• “Glass ceiling” ritual at Pocono Mountains retreat
• Blindfolded, weighted with backpack, repeatedly tackled
• Fatal head injuries, delayed medical care
• Result: National fraternity convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter

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

• “Pledge dad reveal” night with forced drinking
• Suffered permanent brain damage (cannot walk, talk, or see)
• Result: Settlements with 22 defendants, chapter closed

What This Means for Chico Families:
Off-campus retreats and “traditions” can be as dangerous as parties. Organizations that move hazing off-campus to avoid detection still face full liability.

Athletic Program Hazing

Northwestern University Football (2023-2025):

• Allegations of sexualized, racist hazing
• Multiple lawsuits against university and staff
• Head coach fired, then settled wrongful-termination suit
• Result: Confidential settlements, program overhaul

What This Means for Chico Families:
Hazing isn’t limited to Greek life. Big-money athletic programs can harbor systemic abuse, and universities often prioritize protecting programs over protecting students.

Texas Universities: Where Chico Families Send Their Kids

Understanding Your Child’s Campus Environment

Chico families typically send students to a mix of local and major Texas universities. Here’s what you need to know about each:

Texas A&M University-Commerce (Local Option for Wise County)

Distance from Chico: Approximately 60 miles (under 1.5 hours drive)
Relevance to Chico Families: Many Wise County students choose TAMU-Commerce for its proximity and strong academic programs.

Greek Life at TAMU-Commerce:

• Multiple fraternities and sororities across IFC, Panhellenic, and NPHC
• Organizations present include Sigma Chi (Zeta Eta chapter), Sigma Gamma Rho, and others

Hazing History and Context:
While specific recent public incidents at TAMU-Commerce may be limited, the patterns seen at larger campuses occur here too. The university maintains disciplinary records that often reveal repeated violations.

What Chico Parents Should Know:

• TAMU-Commerce falls under the same Texas hazing laws
• Incidents may be investigated by campus police and Commerce PD
• Civil cases would likely be filed in Hunt County courts
• The university’s smaller size doesn’t eliminate hazing risk

Reporting at TAMU-Commerce:

• Dean of Students Office
• Campus Police Department
• Online reporting forms available

Major Texas Universities Chico Families Attend

University of North Texas (Denton)
Distance from Chico: Approximately 70 miles
Why Chico Families Choose UNT: Strong music, business, and education programs

UNT Greek Life:

• Over 50 fraternities and sororities
• Active IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, and multicultural councils
• Includes chapters of Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Pi Kappa Alpha, Kappa Sigma, and others with national hazing histories

Notable UNT Hazing Context:
While UNT maintains hazing prevention programs, the scale of Greek life (over 4,000 students) creates inherent risk. The university’s proximity to Dallas-Fort Worth means students often participate in metro-wide Greek events.

Texas Christian University (Fort Worth)
Distance from Chico: Approximately 75 miles
Why Chico Families Choose TCU: Private education with strong alumni networks

TCU Greek Life:

• Prominent Greek culture with approximately 40% undergraduate participation
• Includes Beta Theta Pi, Kappa Alpha Order, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, and others
• Chi Omega, Kappa Alpha Theta, and other sororities have strong presence

TCU Hazing Context:
As a private university, TCU has fewer public records requirements than public schools. However, their Greek life intensity means hazing risks are present. The university has faced lawsuits related to alcohol poisoning and injuries at Greek events.

University of Texas at Arlington
Distance from Chico: Approximately 75 miles
Why Chico Families Choose UTA: Strong engineering and nursing programs, commuter-friendly

UTA Greek Life:

• Growing Greek community with IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, and multicultural groups
• Includes Sigma Chi, Phi Delta Theta, and other nationals

UTA Hazing Context:
UTA’s status as a commuter school doesn’t eliminate hazing risk. Off-campus houses and events still present dangers. The university has dealt with alcohol-related hazing incidents in recent years.

The “Big 5” Texas Greek Life Hubs

While the above schools are geographically closest to Chico, many Wise County families send students to major Texas universities with intensive Greek life. These schools have documented hazing patterns that every Texas parent should understand.

University of Houston – Current Ground Zero for Texas Hazing Litigation

Our Active Case: Leonel Bermudez v. UH & Pi Kappa Phi
We’re currently leading this $10 million lawsuit that reveals how hazing operates in 2025:

Hazing Methods Documented:

• “Pledge fanny pack” with condoms, sex toy, nicotine devices
• Forced dress codes, overnight chauffeuring duties
• Extreme workouts at Yellowstone Boulevard Park
• Hose spraying “similar to waterboarding”
• Forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, peppercorns until vomiting
• The Nov 3 workout: 100+ push-ups, 500 squats under expulsion threats

Medical Consequences:

• Rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown)
• Acute kidney failure
• Brown urine, unable to stand without help
• Four-day hospitalization
• Ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage

Institutional Response:

• Pi Kappa Phi HQ suspended chapter Nov 6, 2025
• Chapter voted to surrender charter Nov 14, 2025
• UH called conduct “deeply disturbing,” promised disciplinary action
• 13 individual defendants named including chapter president, pledgemaster

What This Means for All Texas Families:
The detailed allegations in ABC13’s coverage show that even in 2025, with all the awareness and policies, severe hazing continues. When universities and nationals fail to prevent known patterns, families need legal action to force accountability.

University of Texas at Austin

Transparency Leader – But Problems Persist:
UT Austin maintains a public hazing violations page that reveals ongoing issues:

Recent Sanctions Include:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics
• Texas Wranglers (2022): Alcohol-related hazing during off-campus event
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (2024): Ongoing investigation into alleged assault of exchange student

UT’s Greek Scale:

• Approximately 60 fraternity/sorority chapters
• Over 5,000 students in Greek life
• Strong tradition and social status attached to membership

For Chico Families with UT Students:
UT’s transparency is valuable for seeing patterns, but the repeated violations show policies alone don’t prevent hazing. The university’s size means incidents may not get immediate attention unless families push for accountability.

Texas A&M University (College Station)

Corps of Cadets Adds Another Layer of Risk:
Beyond Greek life, Texas A&M’s Corps of Cadets has faced serious hazing allegations:

Recent Corps Cases:

• 2023 Lawsuit: Cadet alleged being bound between beds in “roasted pig” position with apple in mouth
• Historical Issues: Tradition-heavy environment with reported physical and psychological abuse

Greek Life Incidents:

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (2021): Pledges allegedly suffered chemical burns from industrial cleaner
• Multiple Organizations: Regular disciplinary actions for alcohol violations and hazing

What Chico Families Should Know:
Texas A&M’s combination of intensive Greek life and Corps traditions creates multiple risk environments. The university’s “traditions” can sometimes enable abusive behavior disguised as bonding.

Southern Methodist University

Private University, Different Transparency Rules:
As a private institution, SMU has fewer public reporting requirements but still faces hazing issues:

Documented Cases:

• Kappa Alpha Order (2017): Paddling, forced drinking, sleep deprivation
• Multiple Organizations: Regular disciplinary actions through Greek Life office

SMU’s Greek Culture:

• Approximately 35% undergraduate participation
• Affluent student body with strong social pressures
• Significant alumni networks and career implications

For Chico Families at SMU:
The lack of public records doesn’t mean absence of problems. Private universities often handle incidents internally, which can mean less accountability unless families pursue legal action.

Baylor University

Religious Identity Doesn’t Prevent Hazing:
Despite its Christian mission, Baylor has faced multiple hazing incidents:

Recent Issues:

• Baseball Team (2020): 14 players suspended following hazing investigation
• Greek Life: Regular disciplinary actions through student conduct office

Baylor’s Context:

• Ongoing reforms following sexual assault scandal
• Strong emphasis on institutional reputation
• Religious branding that can create additional pressure on victims not to report

The Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine: Tracking Organizations Behind the Letters

Why Organizational Data Matters for Your Case

When your child is hazed, you’re not just dealing with individual students. You’re facing:

• Local chapters with housing corporations
• National headquarters with insurance policies
• Alumni organizations that fund and influence chapters
• University systems with their own policies and protections

We maintain a Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine that tracks over 1,400 Greek organizations across 25 Texas metros. This data-driven approach means we don’t start from zero when investigating your case.

Texas Greek Organizations: The Public Records Reality

For Chico families, understanding who’s behind these organizations is crucial. Here are examples of Texas-registered Greek entities that might be involved in cases affecting Wise County students:

North Texas Region Organizations (Relevant to TAMU-Commerce, UNT, UTA families):

Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority
EIN: 364091267 | Waco, TX 76710
IRS B83 filing – Greek organization

Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi – Texas Woman’s University Chapter
EIN: 263170920 | Denton, TX 76204
Academic honor society with campus chapter

Sigma Phi Lambda Inc – Multiple Chapters
EIN: 201237505 | Corinth, TX 76210
Christian sorority with statewide chapters

Kappa Sigma – Mu Gamma Chapter Inc
EIN: 273662583 | Lufkin, TX 75904
Fraternity chapter housing corporation

Delta Kappa Gamma Society International – Multiple North Texas Chapters
Various EINs | Throughout North Texas
Educators’ society with local chapters

Dallas-Fort Worth Metro Organizations (510+ total Greek entities):

Beta Upsilon Chi Fraternity
Fort Worth, TX 76244
Christian fraternity with Texas chapters

Texas Kappa Sigma Educational Foundation Inc
Fort Worth, TX 76147
Fraternity educational foundation

Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity – Fort Worth Alumni Chapter
Fort Worth, TX 76101
NPHC fraternity graduate chapter

What This Data Means for Your Case:
Each of these organizations has legal standing, potential insurance coverage, and liability exposure. When we investigate a hazing case, we trace all connected entities to ensure full accountability.

National Brands with Texas Presence

These national organizations have both Texas chapters and national hazing histories:

Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike):

• National: Stone Foltz death ($10M settlement), David Bogenberger death ($14M settlement)
• Texas: Chapters at UT Austin, Texas A&M, UH, SMU, Baylor
• Pattern: Big/Little alcohol hazing events

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE):

• National: Multiple hazing deaths, traumatic brain injury lawsuits
• Texas: Chemical burns case at Texas A&M, assault case at UT Austin
• Pattern: Physical abuse combined with alcohol

Phi Delta Theta:

• National: Max Gruver death (LSU), felony convictions
• Texas: Chapters at major universities statewide
• Pattern: Drinking games disguised as “education”

Pi Kappa Phi:

• National: Andrew Coffey death (FSU)
• Texas: Our active UH case shows severe physical and psychological hazing
• Pattern: Extreme workouts and humiliation rituals

Kappa Alpha Order:

• National: Multiple paddling and alcohol hazing incidents
• Texas: SMU chapter suspended for hazing
• Pattern: Tradition-based physical abuse

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

Critical Evidence That Wins Cases

Digital Evidence (Most Important in 2025):

• Group Chats: GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Slack
• Social Media: Instagram stories, Snapchat, TikTok, Facebook
• Recovered Data: Deleted messages via digital forensics
• Location Data: GPS from phones, Find My Friends screenshots

How to Preserve Digital Evidence:

1. Screenshot immediately – don’t wait
2. Capture full context – show timestamps and participant names
3. Back up to cloud storage – email screenshots to yourself
4. Do NOT delete anything – even if embarrassing
5. Use screen recording for disappearing content (Snapchat, Instagram vanish mode)

Watch our video on using your cellphone to document evidence for detailed guidance.

Medical Documentation:

• ER records with hazing mentioned
• Lab results for alcohol toxicity, rhabdomyolysis (CK levels), kidney function
• Imaging showing injuries
• Psychological evaluations for PTSD, depression, anxiety

Physical Evidence:

• Clothing with blood, vomit, or substance stains
• Objects used in hazing (paddles, bottles, props)
• Receipts for forced purchases
• Photographs of injuries over time

Institutional Records (Obtained via Discovery):

• University conduct files on the organization
• Prior incident reports
• National fraternity risk management files
• Insurance policies and coverage information

The Damages You Can Recover

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Losses):

• Medical bills (past and future)
• Lost wages (for student or parents providing care)
• Educational costs (withdrawn semesters, lost scholarships)
• Future earning capacity reduction (for permanent injuries)

Non-Economic Damages (Subjective but Real Harm):

• Physical pain and suffering
• Emotional distress (PTSD, depression, anxiety)
• Humiliation and loss of dignity
• Loss of enjoyment of life

Wrongful Death Damages (When Tragedy Strikes):

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

Learn more about our wrongful death practice for information on how we handle these devastating cases.

Punitive Damages (When Conduct is Especially Bad):

• Available when defendants show reckless disregard or intentional harm
• Designed to punish and deter future conduct
• In Texas, subject to statutory caps in many cases

Realistic Timeline and Process

Phase 1: Immediate Response (First 48 Hours)

• Medical care and evidence preservation
• Initial consultation with attorney
• Decision on reporting to authorities

Phase 2: Investigation (1-6 Months)

• Gathering medical records
• Identifying and interviewing witnesses
• Preserving digital evidence
• Researching organizational histories

Phase 3: Pre-Litigation (3-12 Months)

• Demand letters to responsible parties
• Negotiation with insurance companies
• Settlement discussions

Phase 4: Litigation (1-3+ Years if Necessary)

• Filing lawsuit
• Discovery (documents, depositions, expert reports)
• Mediation and settlement conferences
• Trial if no fair settlement reached

Important: Most cases settle before trial, but preparation for trial is what creates settlement leverage.

Practical Guides for Chico Families

For Parents: Warning Signs and Action Steps

Red Flags Your Child May Be Being Hazed:

Physical Signs:

• Unexplained bruises, burns, or injuries
• Extreme exhaustion beyond normal college stress
• Weight changes from food/water restriction
• Sleep deprivation (constant late nights, early mornings)
• Signs of alcohol poisoning (even if they don’t normally drink)

Behavioral Changes:

• New secrecy about organization activities
• Withdrawal from family and old friends
• Personality changes: anxiety, depression, irritability
• Defensive when asked about the group
• Constant phone use for group chat monitoring

Academic Red Flags:

• Grades dropping suddenly
• Missing classes or assignments
• Losing scholarships or academic standing

Financial Red Flags:

• Unexpected large expenses
• Buying excessive alcohol or items for older members
• Requests for money without clear explanation

How to Talk to Your Child:

Do:

• Ask open questions: “How are things with [organization]?”
• Express concern without judgment: “I’m worried about your safety”
• Emphasize support: “Nothing is more important than your wellbeing”
• Listen more than you talk

Don’t:

• Accuse or blame: “I told you not to join”
• Minimize their experience: “It’s just part of college”
• Pressure for immediate decisions
• Contact the organization without legal advice

If You Suspect Hazing – Action Steps:

1. Prioritize Safety: If in danger, call 911
2. Get Medical Care: Even if they resist, insist on evaluation
3. Document Everything: Write down what they tell you with dates/times
4. Preserve Evidence: Help them screenshot messages, photograph injuries
5. Contact an Attorney: Before reporting or confronting anyone
6. Avoid Common Mistakes: Don’t sign university offers, don’t post on social media

For Students: Your Rights and Safety Planning

Is This Hazing? Questions to Ask Yourself:

• Am I being forced or pressured to do something unsafe?
• Would I do this if there were no social consequences?
• Is this activity dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
• Would my parents or the university approve if they knew?
• Am I being told to keep secrets or lie about this?

If You Answered Yes – It’s 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 seeking help in an emergency

If You Want to Quit:

• Tell someone outside the organization first (parent, RA, friend)
• Send an email/text to leadership: “I resign effective immediately”
• Do NOT go to “one last meeting” where you might be pressured
• If threatened, report to campus police and Dean of Students

Your Legal Rights in Texas:

• You can report hazing without punishment (good-faith immunity)
• Consent is not a defense to hazing charges
• You can pursue civil damages even if no criminal charges are filed
• You can request no-contact orders if being harassed

Critical Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Case

1. Deleting Evidence
What happens: “I don’t want this embarrassing stuff saved”
Why it’s wrong: Looks like cover-up, destroys your strongest evidence
What to do instead: Preserve everything, even embarrassing content

2. Confronting the Organization
What happens: “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, let your attorney handle communication

3. Signing University Agreements
What happens: University offers “quick resolution” with waiver
Why it’s wrong: You may waive right to sue, settlements are often lowball
What to do instead: Do NOT sign anything without attorney review

4. Posting on Social Media
What happens: “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 attorney control messaging

5. Waiting for University Investigation
What happens: “Let’s see how the university handles it first”
Why it’s wrong: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs
What to do instead: Preserve evidence NOW, consult attorney immediately

Watch our video on client mistakes that can ruin your case for more critical guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions for Chico Families

“Can we sue a university for hazing in Texas?”

Yes, under specific circumstances. Public universities (like TAMU-Commerce, UNT, UTA) have sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and when suing individuals. Private universities (like TCU) have fewer immunity protections. Every case requires specific analysis – contact 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 participate?”

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 lawsuit?”

Generally 2 years from the date of injury or death in Texas, but exceptions exist. The discovery rule may extend time if harm wasn’t immediately known. In cover-up cases, the statute may be tolled (paused). Time is critical – call us immediately.

“What if hazing happened off-campus?”

Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and nationals can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, and knowledge. Many major cases (Pi Delta Psi retreat, Sigma Pi unofficial house) occurred off-campus with full liability.

“Will this be confidential?”

Most hazing cases settle confidentially before trial. We prioritize your family’s privacy while pursuing accountability. You can request sealed court records and confidential settlement terms.

“How much does it cost to hire Attorney911?”

We work on a contingency fee basis – no upfront costs, no fee unless we win. Learn how contingency fees work in our educational video.

Why Attorney911 for Texas Hazing Cases

Our Unique Qualifications for Chico Families

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

• Value (and undervalue) hazing claims
• Use delay tactics to pressure families
• Argue coverage exclusions
• Set reserves and negotiate settlements

“We know their playbook because we used to run it.”

Complex Institutional Litigation Experience (Ralph Manginello):

• BP Texas City Explosion Litigation: One of few Texas firms involved against billion-dollar defendants
• Federal Court Admitted: U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
• HCCLA Member: Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association signals elite criminal defense capability
• 25+ Years Practice: Since 1998, founding firm in 2001

“We’ve taken on massive corporations with unlimited legal budgets. National fraternities and universities don’t intimidate us.”

Multi-Million Dollar Results:

• Wrongful death settlements in the millions
• Catastrophic injury cases with lifetime care planning
• Experience working with economists to value young lives
• Proven track record against institutional defendants

Hazing-Specific Investigation Skills:

• Digital Forensics: Recovering deleted group chats and social media
• Organizational Research: Our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine with 1,400+ organization profiles
• Expert Network: Medical specialists, psychologists, Greek life culture experts
• Evidence Preservation: Immediate action to prevent destruction of evidence

Spanish Language Services:
Mr. Peña speaks fluent Spanish – se habla español. We serve Hispanic families throughout Texas with cultural understanding and language accessibility.

How We Investigate Hazing Cases Differently

Phase 1: Immediate Evidence Preservation
Within hours of contact, we:

• Guide digital evidence preservation (screenshots, cloud backups)
• Document witness statements before memories fade
• Secure physical evidence before destruction
• Identify all potentially liable entities

Phase 2: Organizational Mapping
We use our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine to:

• Identify all connected entities (chapter, housing corp, national, alumni)
• Research prior incidents at same chapter and national
• Trace insurance coverage across entities
• Uncover patterns that show foreseeability

Phase 3: Strategic Liability Analysis

• Evaluate university duty and potential sovereign immunity issues
• Analyze national fraternity knowledge of patterns
• Identify individual actor liability
• Develop multi-defendant strategy

Phase 4: Comprehensive Damages Development

• Work with medical experts to document all harm
• Collaborate with economists on lifetime impact
• Engage psychologists for emotional trauma evaluation
• Build compelling narrative for settlement or trial

Our Commitment to Chico Families

We serve families throughout Texas from our Houston, Austin, and Beaumont offices. For Wise County families in Chico, Decatur, Bridgeport, and surrounding communities, we understand:

• The community values and concerns of North Texas families
• The educational pathways from Wise County to Texas universities
• The logistical realities of pursuing cases across Texas
• The importance of local understanding while bringing statewide expertise

Call to Action: Your Next Step

If Hazing Has Impacted Your Family

Whether you’re in Chico, Decatur, Bridgeport, or anywhere in Wise County – if hazing has hurt your child, you don’t have to face this alone.

What to Expect in Your Free Consultation:

1. We Listen: We’ll hear your story without judgment or interruption
2. We Explain: Clear overview of your legal options and realistic expectations
3. We Evaluate: Preliminary assessment of evidence and potential claims
4. We Plan: Discussion of immediate next steps to protect your child
5. No Pressure: Take time to decide – we never pressure immediate hiring

Contact Us Today:

Phone: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct: (713) 528-9070
24/7 Availability: We understand hazing emergencies don’t wait for business hours

Email:

• Ralph Manginello: ralph@atty911.com
• Lupe Peña (Spanish Services): lupe@atty911.com

Website: https://attorney911.com

Practice Area Information:

• Wrongful Death Claims: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/
• Criminal Defense (for related charges): https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/

Educational Resources:

• Evidence Preservation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs
• Statute of Limitations: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c
• Client Mistakes to Avoid: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY
• Contingency Fees Explained: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

Why Time Matters Most

Evidence Disappears Fast:

• Group chats are deleted within days
• Witnesses graduate and move away
• Universities initiate internal controls
• Physical evidence is destroyed

Statutes of Limitations Run:

• Texas generally allows 2 years from injury
• Exceptions exist but require legal analysis
• Early action preserves all options

Your Child’s Recovery Matters:

• Early intervention improves physical and psychological outcomes
• Accountability can be part of healing
• Preventing future harm honors your child’s experience

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 Today

From our Houston office, we serve Chico families and students across Texas. Whether your child attends TAMU-Commerce, UNT, UTA, or any Texas campus – if hazing has caused harm, we have the experience, resources, and determination to help you seek justice and accountability.

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