Hazing Victim Legal Support in Clark County, South Dakota

Fraternity & Sorority Hazing Lawyers Serving Clark County Families

At Attorney 911, we are committed to protecting the rights of hazing victims and their families in Clark County, South Dakota, and across the nation. If your child has been subjected to dangerous hazing rituals at a fraternity, sorority, or any student organization, we are here to help. Our experienced hazing litigation team has successfully represented victims in high-profile cases, including a $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston—proving that institutions can and will be held accountable.

Why Clark County Families Need Legal Protection Against Hazing

Hazing is not just a college “tradition”—it is a dangerous, often illegal practice that can lead to severe physical and psychological harm. In Clark County, students attending universities and colleges—such as South Dakota State University (SDSU) in nearby Brookings—may face hazing risks in Greek organizations, sports teams, and other student groups.

Common hazing practices in Clark County and nationwide include:

Forced alcohol consumption leading to alcohol poisoning
Extreme physical exertion causing rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown) and kidney failure
Psychological abuse, humiliation, and sleep deprivation
Physical assault, paddling, and dangerous initiation rituals
Sexual harassment and assault

These acts are not harmless—they can result in lifelong injuries, trauma, or even death.

The Hazing Crisis in Clark County & South Dakota

While Clark County itself is a small, close-knit community, hazing incidents occur at universities across South Dakota, including:

South Dakota State University (SDSU) – Home to multiple fraternities and sororities with active Greek life
University of South Dakota (USD) – Another major institution with Greek organizations
Dakota State University, Northern State University, and other regional colleges

National fraternities like Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, and Kappa Sigma—the same organizations involved in multi-million-dollar hazing lawsuits nationwide—operate chapters near Clark County. If your child was hazed at a South Dakota university, you have legal rights, and we can help you pursue justice.

Recent Hazing Cases That Prove Institutions Can Be Held Accountable

Our firm is actively 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 due to extreme hazing. This case is just one example of how fraternities and universities fail to protect students—and how victims can fight back.

Other recent hazing cases with multi-million-dollar outcomes:

$10.1 million – Stone Foltz (Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha)
$6.1 million – Maxwell Gruver (LSU, Phi Delta Theta)
$110+ million – Timothy Piazza (Penn State, Beta Theta Pi)

These cases prove that hazing victims and their families can win substantial compensation—and force institutions to change their dangerous cultures.

Who Can Be Held Liable for Hazing in Clark County?

When hazing occurs, multiple parties may be legally responsible, including:

1. The Local Fraternity/Sorority Chapter

The chapter that organized and carried out the hazing
Chapter officers (President, Pledgemaster, Risk Manager)
Active members who participated in or allowed the abuse

2. The National Fraternity/Sorority Organization

Failed to enforce anti-hazing policies
Knew about prior hazing incidents but did nothing
Provided inadequate training and oversight

3. The University or College

Failed to monitor Greek organizations
Ignored prior hazing complaints
Owned or controlled the property where hazing occurred

4. Individual Perpetrators

Members who directly participated in hazing
Alumni who facilitated or hosted hazing events

Our attorneys will pursue every liable party to maximize your compensation.

What to Do If Your Child Was Hazed in Clark County

If your child has been a victim of hazing, time is critical. Evidence disappears quickly, and South Dakota has a statute of limitations on personal injury claims.

Step 1: Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Even if injuries seem minor, some conditions (like rhabdomyolysis) may not show symptoms right away.
Medical records are essential evidence in your case.

Step 2: Document Everything

Take photos of injuries, hazing locations, and any evidence (alcohol bottles, paddles, etc.).
Save all communications (texts, GroupMe messages, social media posts).
Get witness names and contact information (other pledges, bystanders).

Step 3: Do NOT Speak to the Fraternity, University, or Insurance Companies Alone

They will try to minimize your claim or shift blame.
Never give a recorded statement without an attorney present.

Step 4: Contact Attorney 911 Immediately

Free, confidential consultation – We’ll evaluate your case at no cost.
No upfront fees – We work on a contingency basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win.
Nationwide representation – We serve Clark County and all of South Dakota.

Why Choose Attorney 911 for Your Clark County Hazing Case?

1. Proven Experience in Hazing Litigation

Currently litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston.
Experience with rhabdomyolysis, alcohol poisoning, and wrongful death cases.
Knowledge of fraternity insurance policies and how to maximize recovery.

2. Former Insurance Defense Attorneys

We know how insurance companies try to deny or minimize claims.
Our attorneys have insider knowledge of how to fight back.

3. Federal Court Authority

Admitted to U.S. District Court (Southern District of Texas) – can pursue cases nationwide.
Can sue national fraternities in federal court if necessary.

4. Willingness to Go to Trial

Many firms settle for less than victims deserve.
We prepare every case for trial to ensure maximum compensation.

5. Compassionate, Personalized Representation

We understand the emotional toll hazing takes on families.
We treat every client like family.

Free Consultation for Clark County Hazing Victims

If your child has been hazed at a South Dakota university, you don’t have to stay silent. Attorney 911 is here to fight for justice and hold the responsible parties accountable.

Call Now: 1-888-ATTY-911

Email: ralph@atty911.com

We serve Clark County, Brookings, Watertown, and all of South Dakota—no matter where the hazing occurred.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hazing Cases in Clark County

1. Is hazing illegal in South Dakota?

Yes. South Dakota has anti-hazing laws that make it a crime to engage in or encourage hazing. Additionally, victims can sue for civil damages under personal injury laws.

2. Can I sue even if my child “consented” to hazing?

Yes. Under South Dakota and Texas law, consent is not a defense to hazing. Even if your child agreed to participate, the fraternity and university can still be held liable.

3. How much is my hazing case worth?

Every case is different, but hazing cases can result in substantial compensation, including:

Medical expenses (past and future)
Pain and suffering
Emotional distress
Lost wages
Punitive damages (to punish the wrongdoers)

Recent hazing cases have resulted in verdicts and settlements ranging from $4 million to over $100 million.

4. What if the hazing happened at a university outside Clark County?

We represent hazing victims nationwide, including at South Dakota State University (SDSU), University of South Dakota (USD), and other institutions. Distance is not a barrier—we can handle your case remotely or travel to you.

5. How long do I have to file a hazing lawsuit in South Dakota?

South Dakota has a 3-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims. However, it’s best to act immediately—evidence disappears, and witnesses forget details over time.

Clark County Families: You Are Not Alone

Hazing is a serious crime, and the institutions that allow it must be held accountable. If your child has been harmed by hazing, Attorney 911 is here to fight for you.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 Today for a Free, Confidential Consultation