Hazing Lawyers Serving Ottawa County, Michigan – Attorney 911

Hazing Doesn’t Stop at State Lines – And Neither Do We

Ottawa County families: If your child has been hazed at a college or university near you, you don’t have to face this alone. The same fraternities that hospitalized our client in Houston operate right here in Michigan. The same negligence that allowed torture at the University of Houston exists at institutions across Ottawa County.

We are Attorney 911 – and we are fighting this battle right now. While we’re based in Texas, our federal court authority and nationwide experience allow us to represent hazing victims in Ottawa County, Michigan and beyond. We’ve seen what happens when institutions prioritize reputation over safety. We know how to hold them accountable.

This Happened in Houston. It Could Happen Here in Ottawa County.

🚨 The Case That Shows Ottawa County Families What’s at Stake

In November 2025, our attorneys filed a $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity and the University of Houston on behalf of Leonel Bermudez, a young man who was systematically abused during fraternity hazing rituals. What happened to him wasn’t “tradition” or “brotherhood” – it was torture.

What They Did to Him in Houston – And What Could Be Happening in Ottawa County Right Now:

✔ Waterboarded with a garden hose – simulated drowning, a form of torture
✔ Forced to do 500+ squats and 100+ pushups until his muscles broke down, causing rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure
✔ Struck with wooden paddles – physical assault with weapons
✔ Forced to eat until vomiting, then made to lie in his own vomit
✔ Another pledge was hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour
✔ A pledge lost consciousness during a workout – and they kept going
✔ Hospitalized for 3 nights and 4 days with life-threatening kidney failure

The Same Fraternities Operate Near Ottawa County

Pi Kappa Phi has 150+ chapters nationwide, including active chapters at Michigan universities. If they’re doing this in Houston, they could be doing it right here in Ottawa County.

This isn’t just a Texas problem. This is an Ottawa County problem.

Why Ottawa County Families Need Us

1. We’re Fighting This Battle Right Now – And Winning

While other firms talk about hazing, we’re actively litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit. We know how these organizations operate, and we know how to make them pay.

2. We Know How to Beat the “Consent” Defense

Fraternities will argue your child “agreed” to participate. Michigan law says consent is not a defense to hazing. We’ll make sure the court hears that loud and clear.

3. We Don’t Let Institutions Hide Behind Bureaucracy

Universities and national fraternities will try to bury the truth in paperwork. We’ve seen it before. We know how to cut through the red tape and expose their failures.

4. We Serve Ottawa County – No Matter Where the Hazing Happened

While we’re based in Texas, our federal court authority and willingness to travel mean we can represent Ottawa County families regardless of where the hazing occurred. Distance is not a barrier to justice.

5. We Work on Contingency – $0 Upfront for Ottawa County Families

We understand the financial strain hazing can cause. That’s why we take cases on contingency – you pay nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we win your case.

Who Is Liable for Hazing in Ottawa County?

Hazing doesn’t happen in a vacuum. Multiple parties can – and should – be held accountable.

We don’t just sue one person. We sue everyone responsible.

What Ottawa County Families Can Recover

Hazing causes real harm – physically, emotionally, and financially. Ottawa County families deserve full compensation for what they’ve endured.

Economic Damages – The Tangible Costs

• Medical bills (hospitalization, therapy, future treatment)
• Lost wages (time missed from work or internships)
• Educational disruption (tuition refunds, academic setbacks)
• Future medical expenses (if injuries cause long-term complications)

Non-Economic Damages – The Invisible Scars

• Physical pain and suffering from hazing activities
• Emotional distress (PTSD, anxiety, depression)
• Humiliation and shame from degrading rituals
• Loss of enjoyment of life (impact on college experience)

Punitive Damages – Punishing Egregious Conduct

When hazing involves torture, cover-ups, or deliberate indifference, courts can award punitive damages to punish the wrongdoers and prevent future harm.

Our $10 million demand in the Houston case is not an outlier. Juries have awarded millions in hazing cases, including:

• $10.1 million (Stone Foltz, Pi Kappa Alpha)
• $6.1 million (Maxwell Gruver, Phi Delta Theta)
• $110+ million (Timothy Piazza, Beta Theta Pi)

Ottawa County families deserve the same justice.

What to Do If Your Child Was Hazed in Ottawa County

Step 1: Get Medical Attention Immediately

Even if injuries seem minor, get them checked out. Some conditions (like rhabdomyolysis) don’t show symptoms right away. Medical records are critical evidence.

Step 2: Preserve All Evidence

• Take photos/videos of injuries, hazing locations, and any items used
• Save all communications (texts, GroupMe, Snapchat, Instagram DMs)
• Write down everything (dates, times, what was said, who was involved)
• Get witness names and contact info (other pledges, bystanders)

Step 3: Do NOT Talk to the Fraternity, University, or Their Lawyers

They will try to control the narrative. Do not give statements without legal counsel.

Step 4: Do NOT Post on Social Media

Anything you post can be used against you. Stay quiet until you’ve spoken with an attorney.

Step 5: Call Us Immediately – 1-888-ATTY-911

Time is critical. Evidence disappears. Witnesses forget. Statutes of limitations expire. The sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be.

We Come to Ottawa County – For Depositions, Meetings, and Trials

While we’re based in Texas, we travel to Ottawa County for:
✔ Client meetings (in-person or video consultations)
✔ Depositions of fraternity members and university officials
✔ Court appearances if your case goes to trial

Distance is not a barrier to justice. We will fight for Ottawa County families as aggressively as we fight for our local clients.

Why Choose Attorney 911 for Your Ottawa County Hazing Case?

1. We’re Currently Litigating a $10 Million Hazing Lawsuit

We’re not just talking about hazing – we’re in the courtroom fighting it right now. Our experience gives Ottawa County families a real advantage.

2. Former Insurance Defense Attorneys – We Know Their Playbook

Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena both worked for insurance companies before switching sides. We know exactly how they try to minimize claims – and how to beat them.

3. Federal Court Authority – Nationwide Representation

We’re admitted to U.S. District Court, meaning we can pursue Ottawa County hazing cases in federal jurisdiction. National fraternities can’t hide behind state lines.

4. Dual-State Bar Admission – Texas AND New York

This gives us strategic flexibility when pursuing national organizations headquartered in different states.

5. We Speak Spanish – Se Habla Español

Hazing affects students from all backgrounds. We ensure language barriers don’t prevent justice.

6. 25+ Years of Litigation Experience

We’ve handled hundreds of personal injury cases, including multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements. We know how to win.

7. Aggressive, Compassionate Representation

We treat Ottawa County families like our own. We understand the trauma of hazing, and we fight for victims with both legal skill and genuine care.

Ottawa County Universities Where Hazing Could Be Happening

While we can’t name specific incidents without evidence, we know that hazing occurs at universities across Michigan, including those near Ottawa County. Some institutions with active Greek life include:

• Grand Valley State University (Allendale, MI)
• Hope College (Holland, MI)
• Western Michigan University (Kalamazoo, MI)
• Michigan State University (East Lansing, MI)
• University of Michigan (Ann Arbor, MI)

If your child attends or pledged at any of these schools – or any other institution near Ottawa County – they could be at risk.

Hazing Laws in Michigan – What Ottawa County Families Need to Know

Michigan Compiled Laws § 750.411t – Hazing Prohibited

Michigan law defines hazing as:

“Any intentional, knowing, or reckless act by a person acting alone or with others that is directed against an individual and that the person knew or should have known endangers the physical health or safety of the individual, and that is done for the purpose of pledging, being initiated into, affiliating with, participating in, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization.”

Penalties for Hazing in Michigan:

• Misdemeanor: Up to 93 days in jail and/or $1,000 fine
• Felony (if death or serious injury occurs): Up to 5 years in prison and/or $2,500 fine

Consent is NOT a defense – just like in Texas, Michigan law explicitly states that a victim’s consent does not excuse hazing.

What Ottawa County Families Can Do Now

If Your Child Was Hazed:

1. Call us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, confidential consultation
2. Preserve all evidence (photos, texts, medical records)
3. Do not speak to the fraternity, university, or their lawyers without us
4. Follow our guidance – we’ll help you take the right steps

If You Suspect Hazing Is Happening:

1. Talk to your child – ask about their experiences
2. Look for warning signs:
   • Sudden changes in behavior (withdrawal, anxiety, depression)
   • Unexplained injuries
   • Avoidance of certain people or places
   • Talk of “traditions” that sound abusive
3. Report it – to the university, local authorities, or call us for guidance

If Your Child Died from Hazing:

We are so sorry for your loss. Nothing can bring your child back, but we can help you fight for justice. Wrongful death claims can provide compensation for:

• Funeral expenses
• Loss of companionship
• Future lost earnings
• Pain and suffering

Ottawa County Hazing Victims – You Are Not Alone

Hazing thrives in secrecy. But you don’t have to stay silent.

The fraternities, universities, and national organizations want you to believe you have no power. They’re wrong.

You have the power to:
✔ Hold them accountable
✔ Protect the next student
✔ Change the culture

We can help you do it.

Call Now – 1-888-ATTY-911

Free Consultation • No Upfront Costs • We Only Get Paid If You Win

Email: ralph@atty911.com
Website: attorney911.com

Serving Ottawa County, Michigan and nationwide.

🚨 Don’t Wait – Evidence Disappears

Every day you wait is a day closer to losing your legal rights. Call us now.

Frequently Asked Questions for Ottawa County Families

1. Can we really sue a fraternity in Ottawa County if the firm is based in Texas?

Yes. While we’re based in Texas, our federal court authority allows us to represent clients nationwide. We’ve handled cases across the country, and we’re fully prepared to fight for Ottawa County families.

2. What if the hazing didn’t cause serious physical injuries?

Hazing causes more than just physical harm. Even if your child wasn’t hospitalized, they may have suffered:

• PTSD, anxiety, or depression
• Humiliation and emotional trauma
• Academic disruption
• Financial losses

Psychological harm is just as real – and just as compensable.

3. What if my child “consented” to the hazing?

Consent is not a defense under Michigan law. The legislature specifically eliminated this argument because they recognized that peer pressure, coercion, and fear of social exclusion negate true consent.

4. How long do we have to file a lawsuit?

Michigan’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is typically 3 years, but you should not wait. Evidence disappears, witnesses forget, and institutions destroy records. The sooner you act, the stronger your case will be.

5. What if the fraternity is already suspended or closed?

That doesn’t end their liability. In fact, it can be evidence of their guilt. We’ll pursue:

• The national organization (which often has deep pockets)
• The individual members who participated
• The university that failed to prevent it
• Any insurance policies that cover the incident

6. What if my child is afraid of retaliation?

We understand the fear of retaliation. We protect our clients. We can:

• File anonymous reports on your behalf
• Seek protective orders to prevent harassment
• Pursue confidential settlements when appropriate
• Ensure your child’s identity is protected during litigation

7. How much is our case worth?

Every case is different, but hazing cases can be worth millions when:

• The conduct was egregious (torture, extreme physical abuse)
• The injuries were severe (hospitalization, permanent damage)
• The institution knew about prior hazing and did nothing
• The fraternity has a history of abuse

Our $10 million demand in the Houston case is based on these exact factors.

Ottawa County Families: This Is Your Moment

For too long, hazing has been dismissed as “boys being boys” or “just tradition.” But it’s not tradition – it’s torture. It’s assault. It’s abuse.

The fraternities and universities want you to believe you have no power. They’re wrong.

You have the power to:
✔ Hold them accountable
✔ Protect the next student
✔ Change the culture

We can help you do it.

Call Now – 1-888-ATTY-911

Free Consultation • No Upfront Costs • We Only Get Paid If You Win

Email: ralph@atty911.com
Website: attorney911.com

Serving Ottawa County, Michigan and nationwide.

🚨 Time Is Running Out – Call Today

Every day you wait is a day closer to losing your legal rights. Don’t let them silence you.