Hazing Lawyers in Powell County, MT – Protecting Students from Abuse
Hazing Doesn’t Stop at State Lines – We Fight for Powell County Families
At Attorney 911, we’re currently litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston after a student was hospitalized with rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure from extreme physical abuse. This isn’t just a Texas problem – the same fraternities, the same “traditions,” and the same negligence exist at colleges near Powell County, MT.
If your child has been hazed in Powell County or at any university in Montana or nationwide, you have legal rights. We serve hazing victims across America, including Powell County families, through our federal court authority and commitment to traveling wherever justice demands.
This Happened in Houston. It Could Happen in Powell County.
The Hazing Crisis in Powell County, MT – What Every Parent Needs to Know
Our current case involves a University of Houston student who was:
- Waterboarded with a garden hose (simulated drowning)
- Forced to do 500 squats and 100 pushups until he collapsed
- Struck with wooden paddles
- Forced to eat until vomiting and then made to keep exercising
- Hospitalized for 4 days with severe rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure
This isn’t just happening in Texas. The same national fraternities – Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Pi Kappa Alpha, and others – operate chapters at universities near Powell County. The same “traditions” that hospitalized our client exist right here in Montana.
Powell County parents: If your child is pledging a fraternity or sorority, they face the same risks.
Why Powell County Families Choose Attorney 911 for Hazing Cases
1. We’re Fighting This Battle Right Now – $10 Million Lawsuit in Progress
While other law firms talk about hazing, we’re actively litigating a $10 million case against a national fraternity and university. Powell County families get the same aggressive representation we’re bringing to this landmark case.
2. Former Insurance Defense Attorneys – We Know Their Playbook
Both of our attorneys worked for insurance companies before switching sides. We know exactly how they try to minimize claims and deny liability. This insider knowledge gives Powell County victims a critical advantage.
3. Federal Court Authority – We Can Pursue Your Powell County Case Anywhere
Admitted to U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, we can litigate hazing cases nationwide, including Powell County, MT. Whether the hazing occurred at Montana Tech, the University of Montana, or any other institution, we have the authority to pursue justice.
4. Dual-State Licensed – Texas and New York Bars
This strategic advantage is crucial when suing national fraternities headquartered outside Montana. We can take on organizations no matter where they’re based.
5. Proven Track Record in High-Stakes Litigation
- BP Texas City Explosion – Handled multi-billion dollar mass tort litigation
- Multi-Million Dollar Settlements – Recovered millions for personal injury victims
- Wrongful Death Cases – Represented families who lost loved ones
- Federal Civil Rights Cases – Experience with institutional accountability
6. We Travel to Powell County
While headquartered in Texas, we will travel to Powell County for depositions, client meetings, and trials. Distance is not a barrier to justice.
7. Contingency Fee – $0 Upfront for Powell County Families
We understand the financial strain hazing victims and their families face. We take hazing cases on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case.
The Hazing Problem in Powell County and Montana
Universities Near Powell County with Greek Life
While Powell County itself may not have a major university, Montana is home to several institutions with active Greek organizations where hazing commonly occurs:
| University | Location | Greek Organizations Present |
|---|---|---|
| University of Montana | Missoula, MT | Multiple fraternities and sororities |
| Montana State University | Bozeman, MT | Multiple fraternities and sororities |
| Montana Tech | Butte, MT | Greek life presence |
| Carroll College | Helena, MT | Greek organizations |
| Rocky Mountain College | Billings, MT | Greek life presence |
Powell County parents: If your child attends or plans to attend any of these institutions, they are at risk of hazing.
National Fraternities Operating Near Powell County
The same organizations involved in our current lawsuit have chapters at Montana universities:
| Fraternity | Known Hazing Cases | Montana Chapters |
|---|---|---|
| Pi Kappa Phi | Andrew Coffey (2017, death), Leonel Bermudez (2025, hospitalization) | University of Montana, Montana State University |
| Sigma Alpha Epsilon | Multiple hazing deaths nationwide | Montana State University |
| Pi Kappa Alpha | Stone Foltz (2021, death) | University of Montana |
| Beta Theta Pi | Timothy Piazza (2017, death) | Montana State University |
| Phi Delta Theta | Maxwell Gruver (2017, death) | University of Montana |
These are not isolated incidents. These organizations have paid millions in settlements for hazing deaths and injuries. The same culture exists at their Montana chapters.
What Constitutes Hazing in Montana?
Montana law (MCA § 45-5-627) defines hazing as:
“Any activity expected of someone joining or participating in a group that humiliates, degrades, abuses, or endangers them, regardless of the person’s willingness to participate.”
Common hazing activities reported at Montana universities:
| Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Physical Abuse | Beatings, paddling, branding, forced exercise to exhaustion |
| Forced Consumption | Alcohol (binge drinking), food (eating until vomiting), non-food substances |
| Sleep Deprivation | Forced late nights, early mornings, disrupted sleep |
| Psychological Abuse | Humiliation, degradation, verbal abuse, threats |
| Sexual Abuse | Forced nudity, sexual acts, carrying sexual objects |
| Waterboarding/Simulated Drowning | As seen in our current case |
| Exposure | Cold weather exposure, heat exposure, confined spaces |
| Servitude | Forced cleaning, driving, errands for members |
Montana law makes it clear: Consent is NOT a defense. Even if your child “agreed” to participate, the organization can still be held liable.
Who Is Liable for Hazing in Powell County?
When hazing occurs, multiple parties can be held accountable, including:
| Defendant | Why They’re Liable |
|---|---|
| Local Chapter | Directly organized and conducted hazing |
| National Organization | Failed to supervise; knew about hazing culture |
| University | Failed to prevent hazing despite having oversight authority |
| Chapter Officers | Leadership responsibility; directed hazing activities |
| Individual Members | Participated in or failed to stop hazing |
| Housing Corporation | Owned/controlled property where hazing occurred |
| Alumni | Hosted hazing events; provided alcohol |
In our current case, we’re suing:
- Pi Kappa Phi National
- The local UH chapter
- The housing corporation
- The University of Houston
- Individual chapter officers and members
Powell County families: The same legal strategies apply to your case.
What to Do If Your Child Is Hazed in Powell County
Immediate Steps for Powell County Families
| Step | Action | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Seek Medical Attention | Document all injuries immediately |
| 2 | Preserve Evidence | Save texts, photos, videos, social media posts |
| 3 | Do NOT Confront the Organization | They will destroy evidence and coordinate stories |
| 4 | Do NOT Post on Social Media | Anything you post can be used against you |
| 5 | Contact an Attorney Immediately | Evidence disappears quickly; statutes of limitations apply |
| 6 | Consider Reporting to Authorities | File a police report; Montana law makes hazing a crime |
Powell County parents: The most critical step is preserving evidence. Text messages, GroupMe chats, photos, and videos are essential to building a strong case.
Damages Available for Powell County Hazing Victims
Hazing victims and their families may be entitled to compensation for:
| Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Medical Expenses | Hospital bills, rehabilitation, future medical care |
| Lost Wages | Time missed from work during recovery |
| Pain and Suffering | Physical and emotional trauma from abuse |
| Mental Anguish | PTSD, anxiety, depression, therapy costs |
| Educational Disruption | Tuition refunds, academic impact |
| Punitive Damages | To punish egregious conduct and deter future hazing |
In our current case, we’re seeking $10 million for our client’s rhabdomyolysis, kidney failure, and emotional trauma. Similar damages are available for Powell County victims.
Precedent Cases – Hazing Victims Win Millions
Hazing cases across the country have resulted in multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts, proving that victims can and do win big:
| Case | Fraternity | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Stone Foltz (BGSU, 2021) | Pi Kappa Alpha | $10.1 million settlement |
| Maxwell Gruver (LSU, 2017) | Phi Delta Theta | $6.1 million jury verdict |
| Timothy Piazza (Penn State, 2017) | Beta Theta Pi | $110+ million estimated settlement |
| Andrew Coffey (FSU, 2017) | Pi Kappa Phi | Confidential settlement |
Powell County families: These cases show that juries and courts take hazing seriously. The same results are possible for Montana victims.
Why Powell County Families Can’t Wait to Take Action
Statutes of Limitations – Don’t Lose Your Rights
- Montana personal injury claims: 3 years from the date of injury (MCA § 27-2-204)
- Wrongful death claims: 3 years from the date of death (MCA § 27-2-204)
Every day you wait:
- Evidence disappears
- Witnesses forget details
- Organizations destroy records
- Your legal rights expire
Our client in the Pi Kappa Phi case acted immediately. He was hospitalized on November 6, 2025, and we filed a $10 million lawsuit within weeks. This is how you protect your rights.
Common Defenses in Hazing Cases – And How We Defeat Them
Defense: “He Consented to Participate”
Our Response:
- Montana law explicitly states: Consent is NOT a defense to hazing (MCA § 45-5-627)
- Peer pressure and coercion negate true consent
- Victims often don’t know what they’re agreeing to until it’s too late
Defense: “It Was Just Tradition”
Our Response:
- “Tradition” does not justify illegal activity
- Assault is assault – even if it’s been happening for years
- Organizations have a duty to change harmful traditions
Defense: “The University Didn’t Know”
Our Response:
- Universities are responsible for overseeing student organizations
- They have the power to investigate, discipline, and shut down chapters
- In our case, UH owned the fraternity house – they absolutely knew
Defense: “Insurance Won’t Cover This”
Our Response:
- National organizations have deep pockets and substantial insurance policies
- Universities have institutional insurance covering student injuries
- Individual members may have homeowner’s insurance that provides coverage
How We Build a Strong Case for Powell County Victims
1. Evidence Preservation
- Immediate preservation letters to all defendants
- Digital evidence collection – texts, social media, emails
- Physical evidence – photos, videos, clothing, objects used in hazing
2. Expert Witnesses
- Medical experts to explain injuries and long-term impact
- Hazing culture experts to testify about fraternity/sorority practices
- Economic experts to calculate future damages
3. Pattern Evidence
- Prior hazing incidents at the same chapter
- National organization’s history of hazing violations
- University’s failure to address known problems
4. Aggressive Litigation
- Depositions of all defendants – chapter officers, national leadership, university administrators
- Third-party subpoenas for communications and records
- Motions to compel when defendants hide evidence
5. Media and Public Pressure
- Strategic media outreach to expose the organization
- Legislative advocacy for stronger hazing laws
- Alumni and donor pressure to force institutional change
What Powell County Families Can Expect When Working With Us
Step 1: Free Consultation – No Obligation
- Call 1-888-ATTY-911 or email ralph@atty911.com
- Video consultation available for Powell County families
- We evaluate your case and explain your legal options
Step 2: Evidence Collection
- We guide you on preserving critical evidence
- We issue preservation letters to all defendants
- We begin gathering medical records and witness statements
Step 3: Demand and Negotiation
- We send a demand letter to all defendants
- We negotiate with insurance companies and attorneys
- We fight for a fair settlement that compensates you fully
Step 4: Litigation (If Necessary)
- We file a lawsuit in the appropriate court
- We conduct discovery – depositions, document requests
- We prepare your case for trial or mediation
Step 5: Resolution
- Settlement: Most cases resolve through negotiation
- Trial: If necessary, we present your case to a judge and jury
- Recovery: You receive compensation for your damages
Throughout the process, we keep Powell County families informed and involved.
Frequently Asked Questions for Powell County Families
Q: My child was hazed but doesn’t want to “rat out” the fraternity. What should we do?
A: We understand the fear of retaliation. You don’t have to confront the fraternity directly. We handle all communications with the organization and its attorneys. Your child’s safety and well-being come first.
Q: The fraternity says this was just “boys being boys.” Is that a valid defense?
A: No. Hazing is illegal in Montana. “Boys being boys” is not an excuse for abuse, assault, or torture. Waterboarding, forced exercise to collapse, and paddling are not traditions – they’re crimes.
Q: The university says they didn’t know about the hazing. Can they still be held liable?
A: Yes. Universities have a duty to protect students and oversee student organizations. If they failed to implement proper safeguards despite knowing the risks of Greek life, they can be held liable for negligent supervision.
Q: My child signed a waiver. Does that mean we can’t sue?
A: No. Waivers do not protect organizations from liability for illegal activities. Montana law explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. Even if your child signed something, it doesn’t waive their right to justice.
Q: How much is my child’s hazing case worth?
A: Every case is unique. Factors that affect case value include:
- Severity of injuries (physical and psychological)
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Impact on education and career
- Egregiousness of conduct (waterboarding, forced consumption, etc.)
- Pattern of hazing at the organization
In our current case, we’re seeking $10 million for rhabdomyolysis, kidney failure, and emotional trauma. Similar damages may be available for your child.
Q: What if the hazing happened off-campus?
A: It doesn’t matter. Hazing is illegal whether it occurs on or off campus. The location does not affect liability.
Q: My child is afraid of being blacklisted if we sue. What can we do?
A: We understand this concern. We handle cases discreetly and professionally. Many hazing victims choose to remain anonymous during litigation. Your child’s privacy and future are our priority.
Q: How long will a hazing case take?
A: Most cases settle within 12-24 months. More complex cases involving multiple defendants may take longer. We work aggressively to resolve cases as quickly as possible.
Q: Do we have to go to court?
A: Most cases settle out of court. We negotiate aggressively with defendants and their insurance companies. If a fair settlement can’t be reached, we are prepared to take your case to trial.
Q: What if my child was hazed at a university outside Montana?
A: We can still help. We represent hazing victims nationwide, including those hazed at out-of-state universities. Our federal court authority allows us to pursue cases anywhere in the U.S.
Powell County Families – You Are Not Alone
Hazing is a national crisis, and Powell County families deserve justice. You are not powerless. The organizations that harmed your child can be held accountable, and the culture that allows hazing can be changed.
We are fighting this battle right now. Our $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston is sending a message that hazing will not be tolerated.
If your child has been hazed in Powell County or anywhere in Montana, contact us immediately.
📞 Call Now for a Free Consultation: 1-888-ATTY-911
Email: ralph@atty911.com
Website: attorney911.com
Available 24/7 for Powell County hazing emergencies.
We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case.
Together, We Can Stop Hazing in Powell County and Beyond
Enough is enough. It’s time to hold fraternities, sororities, and universities accountable. If you’re ready to fight for your child, we’re ready to fight for you.
Powell County families – call Attorney 911 today.
