Hazing Lawyers in Forsyth County, GA | Attorney 911
Fighting for Hazing Victims and Families in Forsyth County
If your child was hazed at a fraternity, sorority, or other student organization in Forsyth County, you have legal rights. Attorney 911 is here to help.
We are currently litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston, where a student was hospitalized with kidney failure after being waterboarded, forced to do 500 squats, and beaten with wooden paddles. The same fraternities operate at universities near Forsyth County. The same negligence exists at Forsyth County institutions. And we will fight for Forsyth County families with the same aggression we’re bringing to this case.
Forsyth County hazing victims deserve justice. Call us now for a free consultation: 1-888-ATTY-911
Why Forsyth County Families Need Hazing Lawyers
Hazing isn’t just “boys being boys” or “tradition.” It’s assault. It’s battery. It’s torture. And it happens right here in Forsyth County.
The Reality of Hazing in Forsyth County
Forsyth County is home to outstanding educational institutions and vibrant student communities. But with Greek life and student organizations comes the risk of hazing:
- Fraternities and sororities at universities near Forsyth County engage in dangerous hazing rituals
- Sports teams, marching bands, and clubs also have hazing cultures
- Victims are often too afraid to speak up due to fear of retaliation or social ostracism
- Universities and national organizations turn a blind eye until someone gets seriously hurt
This isn’t happening somewhere else. It’s happening in Forsyth County’s backyard.
The Same Fraternities That Hazed Our Client Operate Near Forsyth County
In our current case, Pi Kappa Phi fraternity members at the University of Houston:
- Waterboarded a student with a garden hose (simulated drowning)
- Forced him to do 500 squats and 100 pushups until he couldn’t stand
- Beat him with wooden paddles
- Forced him to eat until he vomited, then made him keep running
- Hospitalized him with rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure — a life-threatening condition
Pi Kappa Phi has 150+ chapters across America — including near Forsyth County. The same national organization that allowed this to happen oversees chapters where your child might be pledging.
If your child is being hazed in Forsyth County, we will fight for you just like we’re fighting for our client in Houston.
What Is Hazing? Forsyth County Parents Need to Know
Under Georgia law, hazing includes any activity that:
- Endangers the physical or mental health of a student
- Is required for membership in an organization
- Involves physical brutality, forced consumption, sleep deprivation, or exposure to the elements
Examples of hazing we’ve seen in our cases:
- Physical abuse: Beatings, paddling, branding, forced exercise to exhaustion
- Forced consumption: Alcohol, food, or non-food substances until vomiting
- Waterboarding/simulated drowning: As seen in our current case
- Sleep deprivation: Forced late-night activities causing exhaustion
- Psychological torture: Humiliation, degradation, verbal abuse, threats
- Sexual abuse: Forced nudity, sexual acts, carrying sexual objects
This is not tradition. This is not bonding. This is abuse.
Who Is Liable for Hazing in Forsyth County?
When hazing occurs, multiple parties can be held legally responsible — and we sue them all.
1. The Local Chapter
The fraternity or sorority chapter that directly organized and conducted the hazing.
Example: The Pi Kappa Phi chapter at University of Houston that waterboarded our client.
2. The National Organization
The national fraternity or sorority that failed to supervise and enforce anti-hazing policies.
Example: Pi Kappa Phi National knew about their “hazing crisis” but did nothing to stop it.
3. The University
The college or university that failed to protect students from hazing.
Example: University of Houston owned the fraternity house where our client was tortured.
4. Individual Members
The specific people who participated in or facilitated the hazing.
Example: The fraternity president, pledgemaster, and members who waterboarded our client.
5. Housing Corporations
Entities that own or control the property where hazing occurred.
Example: The corporation that owns the fraternity house near Forsyth County.
6. Alumni and Former Members
People who hosted hazing events at their homes.
Example: A former member and his spouse who allowed hazing at their residence.
Forsyth County families: We pursue every single liable party to maximize your compensation and ensure full accountability.
What Can Forsyth County Hazing Victims Recover?
Hazing victims in Forsyth County can recover substantial compensation for:
Economic Damages
- Medical bills — hospital stays, treatments, medications, future care
- Lost wages — time missed from work during recovery
- Educational expenses — tuition, fees, lost scholarships
- Future earning capacity — if injuries affect career prospects
Non-Economic Damages
- Physical pain and suffering — the agony of rhabdomyolysis, broken bones, or other injuries
- Mental anguish — trauma from waterboarding, beatings, or psychological abuse
- Emotional distress — PTSD, anxiety, depression, fear of retribution
- Loss of enjoyment of life — inability to participate in normal activities
- Disfigurement — scars from branding, burns, or other injuries
Punitive Damages
- Punishment for egregious conduct — when hazing involves torture, reckless disregard, or intentional harm
- Deterrence for other organizations — to prevent future hazing
In our current case, we are seeking $10 million for our client’s injuries. This amount is supported by precedent — other hazing cases have resulted in $6 million to $110 million in settlements and verdicts.
Precedent Cases: Hazing Victims CAN and DO Win Big
Hazing cases win in court — and the settlements are massive. Forsyth County families can achieve the same results.
Stone Foltz — $10.1 Million (2021)
- Victim: Stone Foltz, 20, Bowling Green State University
- Fraternity: Pi Kappa Alpha
- Hazing: Forced to drink entire bottle of alcohol
- Result: Died from alcohol poisoning
- Outcome: $10.1 million settlement (largest public university hazing payout in Ohio history)
Maxwell Gruver — $6.1 Million Verdict (2017)
- Victim: Maxwell Gruver, 18, Louisiana State University
- Fraternity: Phi Delta Theta
- Hazing: Forced drinking during “Bible Study” pledge event
- Result: Died from alcohol poisoning (BAC 0.495 — more than 6x legal limit)
- Outcome: $6.1 million jury verdict; Max Gruver Act made hazing a felony in Louisiana
Timothy Piazza — $110+ Million (2017)
- Victim: Timothy Piazza, 19, Penn State University
- Fraternity: Beta Theta Pi
- Hazing: Forced to drink 18 drinks in 82 minutes; fell down stairs repeatedly
- Result: Died from traumatic brain injury; fraternity members waited 12 hours to call 911
- Outcome: $110+ million settlement; Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law passed in Pennsylvania
Forsyth County families: These cases prove that hazing victims can and do win millions in compensation. The same legal strategies apply to Forsyth County cases.
Georgia Hazing Laws: What Forsyth County Families Need to Know
Georgia has strong laws against hazing, and Forsyth County victims have legal rights.
Georgia Code § 16-5-61 — Hazing
Definition: Any intentional, knowing, or reckless act that endangers the physical health of a student for the purpose of initiation or admission into an organization.
Penalties:
- Misdemeanor: Up to 12 months in jail and/or $1,000 fine
- Felony: If hazing results in serious bodily injury or death, up to 5 years in prison
Key Provision: Consent is not a defense. Even if a student “agrees” to participate, the hazing is still illegal.
Georgia Code § 20-2-751.1 — Institutional Responsibility
Universities and colleges can be held liable for hazing that occurs on their campuses or in organizations they recognize.
This means: If your child was hazed at a Forsyth County university or by a recognized student organization, the institution can be sued.
What to Do If Your Child Was Hazed in Forsyth County
If your child is a victim of hazing in Forsyth County, take these steps immediately:
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Get medical attention
- Even if injuries seem minor, get checked by a doctor
- Document all symptoms and treatments
- Rhabdomyolysis, alcohol poisoning, and psychological trauma can be life-threatening
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Preserve all evidence
- Photos/videos: Take pictures of injuries, hazing locations, and any physical evidence
- Communications: Save all texts, social media messages, emails, and GroupMe chats about hazing
- Witness information: Get names and contact info of other victims and witnesses
- Documents: Save pledge manuals, schedules, or any written materials about hazing
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Do NOT talk to the organization or university alone
- They will try to control the narrative and minimize liability
- Do not give statements without legal counsel present
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Do NOT post on social media
- Anything you post can be used against you in court
- Avoid discussing the incident online
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Call a hazing lawyer immediately
- 2-year statute of limitations in Georgia for personal injury claims
- Evidence disappears quickly
- Witnesses forget details
- The sooner you act, the stronger your case
Why Forsyth County Families Choose Attorney 911
1. We’re Fighting This Fight Right Now
We are currently litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston. This isn’t theoretical — we’re in the battle for hazing victims right now. Forsyth County families get the same aggressive representation.
2. Former Insurance Defense Attorneys
Both of our attorneys (Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena) worked for insurance companies before switching sides to represent victims. We know their playbook — and we use it against them.
3. Federal Court Authority
We are admitted to practice in U.S. District Court, allowing us to pursue hazing cases in federal jurisdiction. This is critical for cases involving national fraternities and universities.
4. Dual-State Bar Admission
We are licensed in Texas and New York, giving us strategic advantage in cases against national organizations headquartered in different states.
5. Nationwide Reach
While based in Texas, we represent hazing victims across America, including Forsyth County. We offer:
- Video consultations for Forsyth County families
- Willingness to travel to Forsyth County for depositions and trials
- Remote case management so distance is never a barrier
6. Contingency Fee Representation
We work on contingency — you pay $0 upfront. We only get paid if we win your case. This ensures every Forsyth County family can afford top-tier legal representation, regardless of financial means.
7. Bilingual Services (Se Habla Español)
We provide comprehensive legal services in Spanish, ensuring language is never a barrier to justice for Hispanic families in Forsyth County.
8. Proven Track Record
We have recovered millions of dollars for personal injury victims, including:
- $10+ million in our current hazing case
- Multi-million dollar settlements in wrongful death, trucking, and workplace injury cases
- Hundreds of cases won by exposing flawed evidence and insurance company tactics
9. Personal Investment in Hazing Victims
We don’t see hazing victims as paychecks. We see them as our children. We are fathers. We understand what’s at stake when a Forsyth County family’s child is harmed. We will fight for your child like they’re our own.
Forsyth County Hazing Lawyers: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: My child was hazed at a fraternity near Forsyth County. Can you help even if we’re not in Texas?
A: Yes. While we are based in Texas, we represent hazing victims nationwide, including Forsyth County. We offer video consultations, travel to Forsyth County for key meetings, and manage cases remotely. Distance is not a barrier to justice.
Q: The fraternity says my child “consented” to the hazing. Does that matter?
A: No. Under Georgia law, consent is not a defense to hazing. Even if your child “agreed” to participate, the hazing is still illegal and the perpetrators can be held liable.
Q: The university says they didn’t know about the hazing. Can they still be sued?
A: Yes. Universities have a duty to protect students from foreseeable harm. If they knew or should have known about hazing risks (especially if there were prior incidents), they can be held liable for failing to act.
Q: How much is my child’s hazing case worth?
Every case is unique, but hazing cases typically result in substantial compensation due to the egregious nature of the conduct. Factors that increase case value include:
- Severity of physical injuries
- Psychological trauma (PTSD, anxiety, depression)
- Whether the university or national organization knew about prior hazing
- Attempts to cover up the hazing
- Wrongful death (if applicable)
In our current case, we are seeking $10 million — an amount supported by precedent.
Q: How long do we have to file a lawsuit?
Georgia has a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims. This means you have 2 years from the date of the hazing incident to file a lawsuit. However, you should act immediately — evidence disappears, witnesses forget, and the process takes time.
Q: Will my child have to testify in court?
Most hazing cases settle out of court. However, if the case goes to trial, your child may need to testify. We prepare our clients thoroughly and ensure they are supported throughout the process.
Q: Can we afford a hazing lawyer?
Yes. We work on contingency — you pay $0 upfront. We only get paid if we win your case. This ensures every Forsyth County family can pursue justice, regardless of financial means.
Q: The fraternity already suspended the chapter. Isn’t that enough?
No. Suspending a chapter is damage control, not accountability. It doesn’t compensate your child for their injuries. It doesn’t send a message to other organizations. And it doesn’t prevent them from reopening under a new name (as Pi Kappa Phi has already stated they intend to do).
Real accountability requires financial consequences — and that’s what we fight for.
Forsyth County Hazing Lawyers: Our Commitment to You
When you hire Attorney 911 for your Forsyth County hazing case, this is what you can expect:
1. Immediate Action
- Preservation letters sent to all defendants demanding evidence preservation
- Public records requests to universities for hazing policies and prior incidents
- Background checks on all liable parties
- Asset discovery to ensure defendants can pay
2. Aggressive Investigation
- Interview all witnesses to build a comprehensive case
- Obtain all evidence — texts, photos, videos, social media
- Consult medical experts to document injuries and future needs
- Research prior incidents at the same chapter or university
3. Relentless Negotiation
- Demand policy limits from all insurance carriers
- Negotiate from strength — we’re currently litigating a $10 million hazing case
- Refuse lowball offers — we don’t settle for less than your case is worth
4. Trial-Ready Preparation
- Prepare for litigation from day one
- File lawsuits if defendants refuse to settle fairly
- Depose all liable parties — we don’t let them hide
- Take cases to trial when necessary to achieve justice
5. Compassionate Support
- 24/7 availability for Forsyth County families
- Bilingual services (English and Spanish)
- Emotional support through the legal process
- Guidance on medical care and academic accommodations
Forsyth County Hazing Resources
Georgia Anti-Hazing Organizations
- Georgia Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- StopHazing.org: Resources for students, parents, and educators
- HazingPrevention.org: National organization with Georgia chapters
Forsyth County Universities and Colleges
While we cannot confirm specific hazing incidents at these institutions, Greek life and student organizations exist at many Forsyth County-area schools, including:
- University of North Georgia (Gainesville campus)
- Brenau University
- Lanier Technical College
- Nearby institutions: University of Georgia, Georgia Tech, Georgia State University
If your child attends any of these schools, they may be at risk of hazing.
National Hazing Incident Database
- Hank Nuwer’s Hazing Database: Comprehensive list of hazing incidents and deaths
- Inside Hazing: Research and resources on hazing culture
Contact Forsyth County Hazing Lawyers
If your child was hazed in Forsyth County, don’t wait. Call us now for a free, confidential consultation.
📞 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
📧 Email: ralph@atty911.com
🌐 Website: attorney911.com
We offer:
- Free case evaluations for Forsyth County families
- Video consultations for remote meetings
- Willingness to travel to Forsyth County for key meetings
- Contingency fee representation — $0 upfront
- Bilingual services (English and Spanish)
Available 24/7 for Forsyth County hazing emergencies.
Forsyth County Parents: You Are Not Alone
We understand the pain, anger, and confusion Forsyth County families feel when their child is hazed. We understand the fear of retaliation. We understand the desire to protect your child’s future.
You are not alone.
We are fighting this battle right now in Houston — and we will bring that same fight to Forsyth County. We will hold every liable party accountable. We will pursue every dollar of compensation. And we will ensure this never happens to another Forsyth County family.
Call us today. Let’s fight for your child together.
Attorney 911 — Legal Emergency Lawyers™
Serving Forsyth County, Georgia and Nationwide
1-888-ATTY-911 | ralph@atty911.com
We don’t just talk about hazing. We’re fighting it in court right now.
