Hazing on Texas Campuses: A Comprehensive Guide for Hill County Families

The phone rings at 3 AM. A hushed, frantic voice on the other end. Your child, a student at a Texas university, is at an off-campus fraternity house, pressured to drink far beyond safe limits. Others are filming on phones, chanting, laughing, but the fear in your child’s voice is unmistakable. Someone gets hurt, perhaps your child falls or vomits, but everyone is afraid to call 911—afraid of “getting the chapter shut down” or “getting in trouble.” Your child feels trapped between loyalty to the group and their own safety, miles away from your home in Hill County.

This terrifying scenario is not uncommon, and it can unfold at any Texas university—including schools where Hill County families send their children. What starts as a desire for belonging can quickly spiral into dangerous and illegal behavior that leaves lasting physical and psychological scars.

This comprehensive guide to hazing and the law in Texas has been created for families in Hill County and across our great state who need to understand: what hazing looks like in 2025, how Texas and federal law treat hazing, what we can learn from major national cases and how they apply to Texas families, what has been happening at institutions like the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor, and what legal options victims and families in Hill County and throughout Texas may have.

This article provides general information and is not specific legal advice. The Manginello Law Firm can evaluate individual cases based on their specific facts. We serve families throughout Texas, including Hill County and its surrounding communities, by providing expert legal counsel when hazing impacts a loved one.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES

If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW, prioritizing their safety is paramount.

Call 911 for medical emergencies without hesitation. Good-faith reporter immunity laws exist to protect those calling for help in an emergency.
Then call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911). We provide immediate guidance—that’s why we’re the Legal Emergency Lawyers™.

In the first 48 hours following a hazing incident, critical steps must be taken to preserve evidence and protect your child:

Get medical attention immediately, even if the student insists they are “fine.” Prioritize their health above all else.
Preserve evidence BEFORE it’s deleted: Screenshot group chats, texts, and direct messages immediately. Photograph any injuries from multiple angles and save any physical items such as clothing, receipts, or objects involved in the hazing.
Write down everything while your memory is fresh: who, what, when, where, and any details shared by your child.
Do NOT:
- Confront the fraternity, sorority, or organization directly.
- Sign anything from the university or an insurance company without legal counsel.
- Post details on public social media before speaking with an attorney.
- Allow your child to delete messages or “clean up” any evidence.

Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours. Evidence disappears quickly through deleted group chats, destroyed objects, and coached witnesses. Universities also tend to move quickly to control the narrative. We can help preserve crucial evidence and protect your child’s rights. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for an immediate, confidential consultation.

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like

The perception of hazing often lags behind its modern reality. For Hill County families navigating the complexities of college life, it’s crucial to understand that hazing in 2025 extends far beyond harmless pranks or traditional rituals. It involves any forced, coerced, or strongly pressured action tied to joining, maintaining membership, or gaining status in a group, where the behavior endangers physical or mental health, humiliates, or exploits. Emphatically, a student’s statement of “I agreed to it” does not automatically make the activity safe or legal when peer pressure and power imbalance are at play.

Main Categories of Modern Hazing

Hazing has evolved, often becoming more insidious and harder to detect from the outside. The Manginello Law Firm categorizes hazing into several key areas:

Alcohol and Substance Hazing: This remains one of the most perilous forms. It includes forced or coerced drinking, challenging new members to chug large amounts of alcohol, participation in “lineups” or games that require rapid consumption, and being pressured to consume unknown or mixed substances. The goal is often extreme intoxication, which can lead to severe injury or death.
Physical Hazing: While some might consider this “old school,” it’s still prevalent. This includes paddling and beatings, extreme calisthenics, “workouts,” or “smokings” that go far beyond normal physical conditioning, sleep deprivation, and food or water deprivation. Exposure to extreme cold or heat, or dangerous environments, also falls into this category.
Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing: These acts are designed to degrade and shame. They involve forced nudity or partial nudity, simulated sexual acts (sometimes referred to as “roasted pig” positions), wearing degrading costumes, and acts with racial or sexist overtones, slurs, or role-play. Such hazing can cause profound psychological damage.
Psychological Hazing: Often overlooked but deeply damaging, psychological hazing involves verbal abuse, threats, and deliberate isolation. It can include manipulation or forced confessions, and public shaming on social media or during meetings. This type of hazing erodes self-esteem and trust, leaving victims emotionally vulnerable.
Digital/Online Hazing: This is a rapidly growing area in 2025. It encompasses group chat dares, “challenges,” and public humiliation orchestrated via platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, and Discord. It also includes pressure to create or share compromising images or videos, or demands for 24/7 responsiveness that lead to sleep deprivation.

Where Hazing Actually Happens

Hazing is unfortunately not restricted to stereotypical fraternities. It manifests across a wide array of campus organizations and settings:

Fraternities and Sororities: This includes those affiliated with Interfraternity Council (IFC), Panhellenic, National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), and various multicultural Greek councils.
Corps of Cadets / ROTC / Military-Style Groups: These groups, often emphasizing tradition and discipline, can sometimes foster environments where hazing behaviors develop.
Spirit Squads, Tradition Clubs: Organizations designed to promote school spirit or uphold specific traditions can also engage in hazing. Examples include groups akin to the Texas Cowboys at UT Austin.
Athletic Teams: From football to basketball, baseball, and even cheerleading squads, hazing can occur within athletic programs under the guise of team building or initiation.
Marching Bands and Performance Groups: Even artistic and performance-oriented groups can experience hazing as part of their “initiation” or group bonding activities.
Service, Cultural, and Academic Organizations: Hazing can take root in almost any student group where power dynamics and a desire for membership create a coercive environment.

These practices often persist because of deep-seated social status, tradition, and a code of secrecy. Even when members, and sometimes administrators, are aware that hazing is illegal and dangerous, these factors make it difficult to prevent or report.

Law & Liability Framework (Texas + Federal)

Understanding the legal landscape surrounding hazing is essential for Hill County families whose children attend Texas universities. Texas has clear laws prohibiting hazing, and federal regulations also play a role in campus safety and accountability. Our firm aims to explain this framework in practical terms, demystifying the legal jargon.

Texas Hazing Law Basics (Education Code)

The State of Texas has specific anti-hazing provisions outlined in the Texas Education Code. This framework defines hazing broadly as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, committed by one person or a group, on or off campus, and directed against a student. Such an act must:

Endanger the physical health or safety of a student (e.g., beating, forced exercise, coerced consumption of alcohol or drugs).
Substantially affect the mental health or safety of a student (e.g., extreme humiliation, intimidation, sleep deprivation).
Occur for the purpose of pledging, initiation into, affiliation with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization whose members include students.

Crucially, consent is not a defense in Texas hazing cases. Even if a student technically “agreed” to participate, the law recognizes that power imbalances and social pressure often negate true voluntary consent.

Criminal Penalties

Hazing is a criminal offense in Texas, with penalties varying based on the severity of the act:

Class B Misdemeanor is the default for hazing that does not result in serious injury, carrying potential fines and jail time.
Class A Misdemeanor if hazing causes injury that requires medical treatment.
State Jail Felony if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. This highlights the state’s severe stance on dangerous hazing practices.
Additionally, failing to report hazing (if you are a member or officer with knowledge) and retaliating against someone who reports hazing are also misdemeanors under Texas law.

Organizational Liability

Beyond individual culpability, organizations themselves can face criminal prosecution for hazing if they authorized or encouraged the hazing, or if an officer or member acting in an official capacity knew about the hazing and failed to report it. Penalties for organizations can include fines and the university revoking official recognition, banning them from campus. This dual liability (individual and organizational) is significant for both criminal and civil cases.

Reporter Protections

Texas law offers some safeguards for those who come forward. A person who, in good faith, reports a hazing incident to a university or law enforcement is immune from civil or criminal liability that might otherwise result from the report. Moreover, in medical emergencies, Texas law and university policies typically grant amnesty to students who call 911 for help, even if they were drinking underage or involved in the hazing themselves. This encourages critical calls for assistance without fear of penalty.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases

It is important for Hill County families to understand the distinction between criminal and civil legal actions related to hazing:

Criminal Cases: These are initiated by the state (a prosecutor) and aim for punishment such as jail time, fines, or probation. Hazing-related criminal charges often include specific hazing offenses, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, or, in tragic fatal cases, manslaughter.
Civil Cases: These lawsuits are brought by victims or their surviving families, with the goal of securing monetary compensation and achieving accountability. Civil claims in hazing cases typically focus on negligence, gross negligence, wrongful death, negligent hiring or supervision, premises liability, and emotional distress.

Crucially, a criminal conviction is not required to pursue a civil case. Both legal paths can proceed independently or in parallel.

Federal Overlay: Stop Campus Hazing Act, Title IX, Clery

Beyond state laws, federal regulations also impose obligations on universities regarding hazing:

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This significant federal legislation mandates that colleges and universities receiving federal funding increase transparency in hazing reporting and enhance prevention efforts. Institutions will be required to maintain and publicly release comprehensive hazing data, with full implementation phased in by around 2026. This act aims to provide Hill County families with more information to make informed decisions about their children’s safety.
Title IX / Clery Act: When hazing incidents involve elements of sexual harassment, sexual assault, or gender-based hostility, Title IX obligations are triggered, requiring universities to investigate and address such misconduct. The Clery Act mandates that universities report certain campus crimes and maintain detailed safety statistics; hazing incidents frequently overlap with these reporting requirements when assaults, alcohol- or drug-related crimes occur.

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit

Determining liability in a civil hazing lawsuit can be complex, involving multiple parties:

Individual Students: Those who planned, supplied alcohol, directly participated in the hazing acts, or contributed to a cover-up can be held personally liable.
Local Chapter / Organization: The fraternity, sorority, club, or team itself (if it is a recognized legal entity) can be sued. Individuals acting as officers or “pledge educators” often hold key positions in these lawsuits.
National Fraternity / Sorority: The national headquarters, which sets policies, collects dues, and is responsible for overseeing its local chapters, can face liability. Key factors often include what the national organization knew or should have known about prior incidents.
University or Governing Board: The educational institution itself, or its governing board, may be sued under theories of negligence or civil rights violations. Critical questions include whether the university received prior warnings, adequately enforced policies, or demonstrated deliberate indifference to known risks.
Third Parties: This can include landlords or owners of houses or event spaces where hazing occurred, bars or other alcohol providers (under “dram shop” laws if they served obviously intoxicated individuals), and even security companies or event organizers who may have failed in their duties.

It is important to remember that every case is fact-specific; not every party is liable in every situation. An experienced attorney can identify all potentially liable parties and build a robust case.

National Hazing Case Patterns (Anchor Stories)

When Hill County families are confronted with the reality of hazing, it’s natural to feel isolated. However, tragic hazing incidents are a national problem with recurring patterns. Understanding these anchor stories—major cases that have shaped legal precedent and public awareness—helps illustrate the serious nature of these claims, the potential for extensive civil and criminal liability, and what can be learned from them. These cases, though sometimes occurring far from Texas, directly inform how hazing cases at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, or Baylor might proceed.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

Forced alcohol consumption remains the leading cause of hazing fatalities across the nation. The following cases demonstrate recurring themes:

Timothy Piazza – Penn State University, Beta Theta Pi (2017): Timothy Piazza, a 19-year-old pledge, died from traumatic brain injuries after a “bid acceptance” night where he was forced to consume excessive amounts of alcohol. Fraternity security cameras captured him falling repeatedly, yet members delayed calling for medical help for nearly 12 hours. The aftermath involved dozens of criminal charges against fraternity members, civil litigation, and prompted Pennsylvania to enact the Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law. This case highlighted how extreme intoxication, a delay in calling 911, and a pervasive culture of silence can be legally devastating for both individuals and organizations.
Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (2017): Andrew Coffey died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” event where pledges were given handles of hard liquor. This tragedy led to criminal hazing charges against multiple members and prompted Florida State University to temporarily suspend all Greek life before overhauling its policies. Coffey’s death serves as a stark reminder that formulaic “tradition” drinking nights are a repeating script for disaster.
Max Gruver – Louisiana State University, Phi Delta Theta (2017): Maxwell “Max” Gruver, 18, died after a “Bible study” drinking game where pledges were forced to drink whenever they answered questions incorrectly. His blood alcohol content (BAC) was 0.495%. The incident led to criminal charges, including a negligent homicide conviction against one member, and spurred Louisiana to pass the Max Gruver Act, a felony hazing statute. This case exemplifies how legislative change often follows public outrage and clear proof of hazing’s lethal consequences.
Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021): Stone Foltz, 20, died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to consume an entire bottle of whiskey during a “Big/Little” pledge night. Multiple fraternity members faced criminal convictions, and the Foltz family reached a $10 million settlement in 2023, with approximately $3 million from Bowling Green State University and $7 million from the national Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity. This landmark case underlined that universities can face significant financial and reputational consequences alongside fraternities.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Beyond alcohol, physical and ritualized hazing can also lead to catastrophic injury or death.

Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013): Michael Deng, 19, died from a traumatic brain injury during a fraternity retreat in the Pocono Mountains. He was blindfolded, weighted with a backpack, and repeatedly tackled in a ritual called “glass ceiling.” Medical help was severely delayed. Multiple members were convicted, and the national Pi Delta Psi fraternity was banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years. This case demonstrated that off-campus “retreats” can be as dangerous or worse than on-campus incidents, and national organizations can face severe criminal and civil sanctions for events occurring far from campus.

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Hazing is not exclusive to Greek life; it frequently permeates athletic programs.

Northwestern University Football (2023–2025): Multiple former football players alleged widespread sexualized and racist hazing within the program over many years. This scandal led to numerous lawsuits against the university and coaching staff, the firing of head coach Pat Fitzgerald (who later settled a wrongful-termination lawsuit confidentially), and a re-evaluation of institutional oversight. Northwestern’s scandal illustrated that hazing extends beyond Greek life, with major athletic programs sometimes harboring systemic abuse.

What These Cases Mean for Texas Families

These national anchor stories share common, tragic threads: forced drinking, physical abuse, psychological torment, humiliation, delayed or denied medical care, and concerted efforts at cover-ups. Reform and multi-million-dollar settlements often follow only after tragedy and subsequent litigation. Hill County families whose children attend or plan to attend UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, or Baylor should understand that they are operating within a legal landscape profoundly shaped by these national lessons. These precedents provide a roadmap for accountability and justice, demonstrating that powerful institutions and individuals can be held responsible for the harm caused by hazing.

Texas Focus: UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor

For Hill County families, understanding the hazing landscape at specific Texas universities is crucial. This section provides an overview of five major institutions in Texas, detailing their policies, documented incidents, and how a hazing case might proceed for students attending these schools. We connect this information to Hill County where relevant, recognizing that many students from our area attend these universities.

University of Houston (UH)

The University of Houston is a large urban campus situated in the heart of Houston, with a vibrant and diverse community. Many students from Hill County and the broader Central Texas region choose UH for its academic programs and opportunities, often residing in campus housing or nearby apartments. UH boasts an active Greek life, encompassing IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, and multicultural fraternities and sororities, alongside numerous other student organizations.

UH Hazing Policy & Reporting

UH publicly prohibits hazing, both on-campus and off-campus. Its policies explicitly forbid forced consumption of alcohol, food, or drugs, sleep deprivation, physical mistreatment, and acts causing mental distress as part of initiation or membership. UH provides clear reporting channels through its Dean of Students office, Student Conduct offices, and the University of Houston Police Department (UHPD). The university also posts its hazing statement and some disciplinary information on its website.

Selected Documented Incidents & Responses at UH

UH has experienced its share of hazing incidents:

A notable case around 2016 involved a Pi Kappa Alpha chapter where pledges were allegedly deprived of sufficient food, water, and sleep during a multi-day event. One student reportedly suffered a lacerated spleen after being slammed onto a table or similar surface. The chapter faced misdemeanor hazing charges and was suspended by the university.
Other disciplinary actions have periodically involved fraternities for behavior described as “likely to produce mental or physical discomfort,” including alcohol misuse and policy violations, resulting in various suspensions or probationary periods.

UH has shown a willingness to suspend chapters when hazing occurs. However, the level of publicly detailed information on violations may not be as extensive as some other Texas universities.

How a UH Hazing Case Might Proceed

For a Hill County family facing a hazing incident at UH, legal proceedings would typically involve:

Law Enforcement: Depending on the incident’s location within Houston, the UHPD and/or the Houston Police Department would be the primary law enforcement agencies.
Civil Courts: Civil lawsuits would be filed in courts with jurisdiction over Houston and Harris County. Our firm, based in Houston, has deep familiarity with these judicial systems.
Potential Defendants: These could include the individual students involved, the local fraternity chapter, the national fraternity or sorority, and potentially the university itself, as well as property owners if the incident occurred off-campus.

What UH Students & Parents in Hill County Should Do

If you are a Hill County resident with a child at UH who has experienced hazing:

Report hazing directly to the UH Dean of Students Office, UHPD, or utilize their online reporting forms.
If your child was injured, ensure you have documented prior complaints and any past incidents related to the organization. Legal action can often reveal these records.
Contact a lawyer experienced in Houston-based hazing cases like Attorney911. Our team can help uncover prior discipline and internal university files, which are crucial for building a strong case.

Texas A&M University

Texas A&M, located in College Station, is deeply rooted in tradition, known for its Corps of Cadets, passionate Aggie spirit, and robust Greek life. Students from Hill County are drawn to A&M for its esteemed academic programs, strong sense of community, and the unique traditions associated with the university.

Texas A&M Hazing Policy & Reporting

Texas A&M takes hazing seriously, prohibiting it explicitly within its student rules. This prohibition covers any act that endangers mental or physical health for the purpose of initiation, affiliation, or membership in any organization. Reporting channels are available through the Student Conduct Office, the Dean of Student Life, and the Texas A&M University Police Department (TAMU Police). Specific regulations also apply to the Corps of Cadets, which has its own chain of command for reporting and addressing misconduct.

Selected Documented Incidents & Responses at Texas A&M

Hazing at Texas A&M has involved both Greek life and the Corps of Cadets:

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) Lawsuit (around 2021): Two pledges alleged that during a hazing ritual, they were forced into strenuous physical activity and had substances, including an industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit, poured on them. This resulted in severe chemical burns requiring multiple skin graft surgeries. The pledges subsequently sued the fraternity for $1 million, and the chapter was suspended by the university for two years.
Corps of Cadets Lawsuit (2023): A former cadet filed a lawsuit alleging degrading hazing, including simulated sexual acts and being bound between beds in a “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth. The lawsuit sought over $1 million, highlighting the dangers that can persist within even highly structured, tradition-rich organizations. Texas A&M stated it addressed the matter under its internal rules.
In 2023, the Kappa Sigma chapter at Texas A&M faced allegations of hazing resulting in severe injuries, specifically rhabdomyolysis—a severe muscle breakdown often triggered by extreme physical exertion. This case further emphasizes the critical need for a specialized legal representation focused on rhabdomyolysis injury recovery.

How a Texas A&M Hazing Case Might Proceed

For a Hill County family whose child experiences hazing at Texas A&M, the legal process may involve:

Law Enforcement: The TAMU Police Department and/or the College Station Police Department would investigate criminal aspects.
Civil Courts: Lawsuits would typically be filed in courts with jurisdiction over Brazos County.
Dual Focus: Cases at A&M often involve examining liability stemming from both Greek life organizations and the specific Corps of Cadets policies and culture. This requires a nuanced understanding of both systems.

What Texas A&M Students & Parents in Hill County Should Do

If you are a Hill County resident with a child at Texas A&M who has been affected by hazing:

Report incidents directly through the Student Conduct Office, Dean of Student Life, or TAMU Police.
Document any unusual physical conditioning requirements or “traditions” that seem unsafe, particularly within the Corps of Cadets.
Seek legal counsel from an experienced hazing attorney who understands the unique legal landscape of Texas A&M and Brazos County.

University of Texas at Austin (UT)

The University of Texas at Austin stands as a flagship institution in the state, attracting students from Hill County and all corners of Texas with its prestigious academics and vibrant urban campus. UT’s Greek system is one of the largest and most active in the nation, and its various student organizations contribute to a bustling extracurricular landscape.

UT Hazing Policy & Reporting

UT Austin maintains a strict anti-hazing policy, clearly defining prohibited behaviors. The university is notably transparent, publishing a comprehensive “Hazing Violations” page on its website (hazing.utexas.edu). This page lists organizations, dates of incidents, descriptions of misconduct, and the disciplinary sanctions imposed, making it a valuable public resource. Reporting channels include the Dean of Students, student conduct offices, Title IX coordinator (if applicable), and the University of Texas Police Department (UTPD).

Selected Documented Incidents & Responses at UT

UT’s public hazing log reveals a recurring pattern of violations:

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): This chapter was sanctioned after new members were directed to consume excessive amounts of milk and perform strenuous calisthenics, which the university determined constituted hazing. The chapter was placed on probation and required to implement new hazing-prevention education.
Other Student Organizations: Beyond traditional Greek life, other groups such as the Texas Wranglers (a spirit organization) and various club sports teams have been sanctioned for violations including forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing, or punishment-based initiation practices.
Sigma Alpha Epsilon (2024): This chapter faced a lawsuit seeking over $1 million from an Australian exchange student who alleged assault by fraternity members at a party, resulting in severe injuries including a dislocated leg, broken ligaments, fractured tibia, and broken nose. The chapter was already under suspension for prior hazing and safety violations at the time of the alleged assault.

UT’s transparency, while commendable, also highlights the persistent challenges in eradicating hazing, as the same organizations sometimes appear on the violations list multiple times.

How a UT Hazing Case Might Proceed

For Hill County families involved in hazing incidents at UT Austin:

Law Enforcement: UTPD and/or Austin Police Department would be involved in criminal investigations.
Civil Courts: Lawsuits would typically be filed in courts with jurisdiction over Travis County.
Prior Violations: The wealth of publicly available information on UT’s hazing log can be a powerful tool for civil suits, demonstrating patterns of misconduct and the university’s prior knowledge of an organization’s history.

What UT Students & Parents in Hill County Should Do

If you are a Hill County resident with a child at UT Austin facing hazing:

Utilize UT’s robust reporting mechanisms, including their specific hazing reporting forms and the UTPD.
Consult the university’s public Hazing Violations page at hazing.utexas.edu to check for any prior incidents involving the specific organization. This information can be critical.
Contact an experienced hazing attorney who understands both Texas law and the complex institutional dynamics of flagship universities like UT Austin to navigate your child’s legal options.

Southern Methodist University (SMU)

Southern Methodist University, a private institution located in Dallas, is known for its prestigious academic programs and a strong, affluent Greek life that plays a significant role in student social culture. Many Hill County families with a connection to the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex consider SMU for their children’s higher education.

SMU Hazing Policy & Reporting

SMU maintains clear anti-hazing policies, prohibiting any acts that endanger physical or mental well-being for the purpose of initiation or membership. As a private university, SMU handles its disciplinary actions internally, though it emphasizes prevention and providing confidential reporting forms and anonymous systems (such as Real Response) to ensure student safety.

Selected Documented Incidents & Responses at SMU

SMU has also addressed significant hazing incidents:

Around 2017, the Kappa Alpha Order chapter at SMU faced allegations of hazing that included paddling, forced alcohol consumption, and sleep deprivation for new members. The chapter was suspended, and severe restrictions were placed on its recruiting and activities for several years.
Other incidents have periodically led to individual or organizational disciplinary sanctions, though precise details for private institutions are often less publicly accessible than for state universities.

How an SMU Hazing Case Might Proceed

For a Hill County family dealing with a hazing incident at SMU:

Law Enforcement: The University Park Police Department (which serves SMU and the surrounding area) and/or Dallas Police Department would handle criminal investigations.
Civil Courts: Lawsuits would typically proceed in courts within Dallas County.
Discovery Process: As a private institution, SMU’s internal records are not subject to public information laws. However, civil litigation provides powerful discovery tools to compel the university and organizations to produce internal reports, communications, and historical hazing documentation that might not otherwise be public.

What SMU Students & Parents in Hill County Should Do

If you are a Hill County resident with a child at SMU impacted by hazing:

Utilize SMU’s internal reporting mechanisms, including anonymous options if fear of retaliation is a concern.
Understand that while SMU is a private university, it still has a duty of care to its students. Our firm can advise on how to pursue accountability through legal channels.
Engage with a hazing litigation attorney experienced in navigating the complexities of private university policies and the Dallas County legal system.

Baylor University

Baylor University, a private Baptist university in Waco, is known for its strong community, academic rigor, and a deeply ingrained faith tradition. Students from Hill County and Central Texas often choose Baylor for these distinct characteristics. The university has faced intense scrutiny in recent years regarding its handling of athletic and Title IX issues, which provides an important context for understanding its approach to student misconduct, including hazing.

Baylor Hazing Policy & Reporting

Baylor maintains a “zero-tolerance” stance on hazing, with policies explicitly outlining prohibited activities and the potential disciplinary actions. The university provides resources through its Student Conduct Administration, Title IX Office, and the Baylor University Police Department (BUPD). Baylor’s commitment to protecting students from harm is often articulated alongside its Christian mission, though past controversies have shown the challenges in consistent enforcement.

Selected Documented Incidents & Responses at Baylor

Baylor has encountered hazing issues, notably within its athletic programs:

Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020): An investigation into hazing allegations within the Baylor baseball program led to the suspension of 14 players. The suspensions were staggered across the early season, indicating the university’s response to significant misconduct within a high-profile athletic team. This incident took place against the backdrop of Baylor’s broader cultural and oversight challenges, particularly its prior sexual assault scandal, which placed significant pressure on the university to demonstrate robust institutional control.

While Baylor’s official statements emphasize strong policies, recurring misconduct highlights the ongoing battle many institutions face against deeply embedded peer behaviors.

How a Baylor Hazing Case Might Proceed

For a Hill County family whose child has been impacted by hazing at Baylor:

Law Enforcement: The BUPD and/or Waco Police Department would be the investigating agencies for criminal complaints.
Civil Courts: Lawsuits would typically be filed in courts with jurisdiction over McLennan County.
Institutional History: Any legal action against Baylor would consider its specific institutional history, particularly its prior scandals and the scrutiny it has received regarding institutional control and student safety. This can influence how hazing and other misconduct claims are framed and pursued.

What Baylor Students & Parents in Hill County Should Do

If you are a Hill County resident with a child at Baylor who has experienced hazing:

Report incidents to Baylor’s Student Conduct Administration or the BUPD. If the hazing involved sexual misconduct, the Title IX Office is the appropriate contact.
Document all communications with the university and any evidence of the hazing.
Consult with an attorney who has experience in institutional accountability cases and who understands the unique legal and cultural environment of private universities like Baylor, especially in light of the university’s past challenges.

Fraternities & Sororities: Campus-Specific + National Histories

For Hill County families, understanding the connection between local chapters at Texas universities and their national organizations is vital when confronting hazing. Many fraternities and sororities active at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor are part of vast national networks. These national bodies play a critical role in setting policy, providing oversight, and unfortunately, often bear a historical record of hazing incidents that can directly impact current cases.

Why National Histories Matter

National fraternity and sorority headquarters often possess extensive anti-hazing manuals and elaborate risk management policies. These exist precisely because they have faced deaths, catastrophic injuries, and multi-million-dollar lawsuits from prior hazing incidents across their network of chapters. They know the patterns: forced consumption nights, physical “traditions,” and humiliating rituals have led to tragedy repeatedly.

When a local chapter in Texas—whether at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, or Baylor—repeats the same dangerous behaviors that shut down another chapter or resulted in a lawsuit in a different state, this pattern can be powerful evidence. It establishes foreseeability, demonstrating that the national organization knew or should have known about the serious risk of harm. This knowledge can strongly support arguments for negligence or gross negligence and is often central to holding national entities accountable.

Organization Mapping: National Histories & Texas Campuses

While we cannot list every single chapter, many major national fraternities and sororities with well-documented hazing issues maintain a presence at Texas’s prominent universities. Below is a synthesized overview connecting some of these national organizations to their broader hazing histories, which can be relevant to Hill County families.

Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / Pike): Active at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and Baylor. Nationally, Pi Kappa Alpha has been at the center of numerous high-profile hazing cases involving forced alcohol consumption. The tragic death of Stone Foltz at Bowling Green State University (2021), where he was forced to consume a bottle of whiskey, resulted in a $10 million settlement for his family, including a significant amount from the national fraternity. Another case involved David Bogenberger at Northern Illinois University (2012), who died from alcohol poisoning, leading to a $14 million settlement. These incidents highlight a recurring pattern of dangerous “pledge nights” that can serve as crucial pattern evidence when similar events occur in Texas chapters.
Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / SAE): Present at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and SMU. SAE has a national history marred by multiple hazing-related deaths and severe injuries, particularly involving alcohol abuse. High-profile lawsuits against SAE include a traumatic brain injury suit at the University of Alabama (filed 2023), allegations of chemical burns requiring skin grafts at Texas A&M (2021), and an assault case at the University of Texas at Austin (2024), where an exchange student suffered serious injuries. These cases demonstrate a pattern of severe physical abuse and reckless endangerment that can make national liability clear.
Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ): Chapters are found at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor. The national organization gained national notoriety after the death of Maxwell “Max” Gruver at Louisiana State University (2017) from alcohol poisoning during a “Bible study” drinking game. Max’s death led to Louisiana’s felony hazing statute, the Max Gruver Act. This case is a powerful precedent for demonstrating national responsibilities for a chapter’s dangerous rituals.
Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ): Active at UH, Texas A&M, and UT Austin. Pi Kappa Phi was specifically implicated in the tragic death of Andrew Coffey at Florida State University (2017), who died from acute alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink a handle of hard liquor during a “Big Brother Night.” This incident underscored the widespread problem of forced alcohol consumption during initiation.
Beta Theta Pi (ΒΘΠ): Found at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and SMU. The national organization was at the center of the egregious hazing death of Timothy Piazza at Penn State University (2017). Piazza died from injuries sustained after falling down stairs while severely intoxicated; fraternity members delayed calling for help for hours. This case resulted in extensive criminal charges and was a catalyst for Pennsylvania’s landmark anti-hazing law.
Kappa Alpha Order (ΚΑ): Active at Texas A&M and SMU. Chapters of Kappa Alpha Order have faced numerous hazing accusations and suspensions, including the significant episode at SMU in 2017 where pledges reportedly endured paddling, forced alcohol consumption, and sleep deprivation.
Sigma Chi (ΣΧ): Active at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and Baylor. Sigma Chi has been involved in several hazing incidents, including a significant event at the College of Charleston (2024) where a family received more than $10 million in damages for physical beatings, forced drug/alcohol consumption, and psychological torment during hazing. Another case at the University of Texas at Arlington (2020) resulted in a pledge being hospitalized with alcohol poisoning and subsequent settlement.

This synthesis demonstrates that many national organizations have a documented history of hazing. For Hill County families considering legal action, these national patterns are not isolated incidents but rather critical pieces of evidence to show that hazing behaviors were foreseeable and preventable.

Tie Back to Legal Strategy

The patterns observed across states and campuses are central to building a strong hazing case in Texas. They illustrate that certain organizations, particularly national fraternities and sororities, have received repeated warnings about specific dangerous behaviors. In civil litigation, courts can consider whether national organizations:

Meaningfully enforced their anti-hazing policies, or if these policies were mere “paper policies” ignored in practice.
Responded to prior incidents with sufficient aggression and effectiveness to prevent recurrence.

This historical context is crucial for several aspects of a legal strategy:

Settlement Leverage: A clear pattern of past violations and injuries strengthens the victim’s position in settlement negotiations, as defendants face increased risk at trial.
Insurance Coverage Disputes: Our firm, with its insider knowledge of insurance companies, can better navigate claims by insurers that hazing was an “unforeseeable” or “intentional” act excluded from coverage. Prior incidents demonstrate foreseeability and can help overcome such exclusions.
Punitive Damages: In egregious cases, the evidence of a national organization’s repeated pattern of ignoring or inadequately addressing hazing can support claims for punitive damages. These damages aim to punish the defendant for reckless or malicious conduct and deter future similar acts.

For Hill County families, understanding these intricate connections between local chapters and national patterns is key to identifying all responsible parties and pursuing the fullest extent of accountability and compensation.

Building a Case: Evidence, Damages, Strategy

Successfully navigating a hazing lawsuit requires meticulous investigation, a thorough understanding of the law, and strategic advocacy. For Hill County families facing the aftermath of hazing, our firm focuses on assembling irrefutable evidence, accurately valuing damages, and employing a comprehensive legal strategy to hold all responsible parties accountable.

Evidence in Modern Hazing Cases

The landscape of evidence in hazing cases has significantly evolved. We leverage every available avenue to uncover the truth:

Digital Communications: In today’s interconnected world, group messages are often the most potent evidence. This includes GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Slack, and fraternity-specific apps, as well as Instagram DMs, Snapchat messages, and TikTok comments. We seek both live messages and work with digital forensics experts to recover deleted content. These communications reveal planning, intent, knowledge, who was involved, and what was said before, during, and after an incident. We’ve published videos, such as “Use Your Cellphone to Document a Legal Case” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs), explaining how to preserve this crucial evidence.
Photos & Videos: Visual evidence is incredibly powerful. This includes content filmed by members during hazing events, footage shared in group chats or posted on social media (even if quickly deleted), and security camera footage from houses or venues.
Internal Organization Documents: We meticulously gather and analyze pledge manuals, initiation scripts, lists of “traditions,” emails or texts from officers discussing plans for new members, and national organization policies and training materials. These reveal official—and unofficial—rules and communications.
University Records: Through discovery, we obtain university records such as prior conduct files, documents related to probation or suspensions of the offending organization, incident reports from campus police or student conduct offices, and Clery Act reports. These can expose patterns of misconduct and the university’s prior knowledge or inaction.
Medical and Psychological Records: These are vital for documenting the physical and mental toll of hazing. We collect emergency room and hospitalization records, surgical reports, physical therapy notes, toxicology reports, and psychological evaluations (for PTSD, depression, anxiety, suicidality). These records quantify the extent of harm.
Witness Testimony: Critical insights come from witnesses, including other pledges, current or former members, roommates, Resident Advisors (RAs), coaches, trainers, and bystanders. Even former members who quit or were expelled can provide invaluable testimony once they feel safe collaborating.

Damages in Hazing Cases

Hazing can inflict a wide range of harm, and our goal is to ensure Hill County families receive compensation for every aspect of that suffering:

Medical Bills & Future Care: This covers immediate costs like ER visits and ambulance transport, extensive hospitalization, surgeries, ongoing treatments, physical therapy, and medications. For victims with catastrophic injuries like brain damage or organ failure, it includes the cost of long-term, lifelong care.
Lost Earnings / Educational Impact: This includes compensation for semesters missed due to injury or trauma, delays in graduation, and associated setbacks in entering the workforce. If injuries result in permanent disability, we work with economists to calculate reduced lifetime earning capacity.
Non-Economic Damages: These intangible, yet profound, losses include physical pain and suffering, the emotional distress, trauma, and humiliation endured, and the loss of enjoyment of life (e.g., inability to participate in sports or hobbies, withdrawal from social activities).
Wrongful Death Damages: In the most tragic cases, families of students who die due to hazing can seek compensation for funeral and burial costs, loss of financial support, loss of companionship, love, and society, and the profound grief and emotional suffering experienced by parents and siblings. Learn more about Attorney911’s wrongful death practice at https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/.

It’s important to understand these describe types of damages; we never promise or predict specific dollar amounts, as every case is unique.

Role of Different Defendants and Insurance Coverage

Holding powerful institutions accountable often means confronting their defense strategies and insurance companies. National fraternities, sororities, and universities typically carry substantial insurance policies designed to protect them from liability. However, insurers frequently try to:

Argue that hazing or intentional acts are excluded from coverage, claiming such actions fall outside the scope of their policies.
Deny coverage for certain defendants or specific types of damages.

This is where our firm’s experience becomes invaluable. Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/), understands these legal maneuvers intimately. Our experienced hazing lawyers:

Identify all potential sources of coverage, including general liability, umbrella policies, and even homeowners’ policies of individual members.
Navigate complex disputes about policy exclusions and the nature of “intentional” versus “negligent” conduct. We argue that even if hazing was intentional, the institution’s failure to supervise or prevent it was negligent, making it a covered event.

This specialized knowledge is critical for maximizing recovery for Hill County families.

Practical Guides & FAQs

When hazing impacts a family in Hill County, the immediate questions are often: “What do I do?”; “Is this really hazing?”; “Who can I tell?” This section provides practical, actionable advice for parents, students, and even former members or witnesses, along with answers to common legal questions.

For Parents: Recognizing & Responding to Hazing

As a parent, your intuition is powerful. Trust it. Here are key indicators and steps:

Warning Signs of Hazing: Look for unexplained injuries (bruises, burns, cuts) or repeated “accidents.” Observe sudden exhaustion, extreme sleep deprivation, drastic changes in mood, increased anxiety, or withdrawal from family and old friends. Be wary of constant secret phone use for group chats and a fear of missing “mandatory” events.
How to Talk to Your Child: Approach the conversation with empathy, not judgment. Ask open-ended questions like, “How are things really going with the fraternity/sorority?” or “Is there anything happening that makes you uncomfortable?” Emphasize their safety and well-being above any organizational “status,” reassuring them that you will support them no matter what.
If Your Child Is Hurt: Get them immediate medical attention. Document everything meticulously: photograph injuries (multiple angles, over several days as bruising develops), screenshot any texts or group chats they show you, and write down exactly what they tell you, including names, dates, and locations.
Dealing with the University: Document every communication with university administrators. Ask specific questions about any prior incidents involving the same organization and what the school did or did not do in response. Universities sometimes minimize incidents to protect their image, so having a detailed record is crucial.
When to Talk to a Lawyer: If your child sustains significant physical or psychological harm, or if you feel the university or organization is minimizing, stonewalling, or hiding what happened, it is time to contact an experienced hazing attorney.

For Students / Pledges: Self-Assessment & Safety Planning

If you are a student or new member in Hill County, Texas, who is questioning your experience, this guide is for you:

Is This Hazing or Just Tradition? Ask yourself: Do I feel unsafe, humiliated, or coerced? Am I being forced to drink or endure physical pain? Is this activity hidden from the public or administrators? If you answered yes to any of these, it is likely hazing, regardless of how it’s labeled.
Why “Consent” Isn’t the End of the Story: The law, and common sense, recognize that “consent” given under intense peer pressure, fear of exclusion, or intoxication is often not true, voluntary agreement. The power dynamic inherent in initiation processes means you are not truly “free to say no” without consequence.
Exiting and Reporting Safely: You have the right to leave any organization at any time. If you feel unsafe, remove yourself from the situation immediately and seek help. Report privately or anonymously through campus channels (Dean of Students, Title IX Office, campus police) or anonymous tip lines like the National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293).
Good-Faith Reporting and Amnesty: Many schools and Texas law encourage calling for help in an emergency by offering protections. You will not typically be punished for seeking medical assistance for yourself or a peer, even if underage drinking was involved.

For Former Members / Witnesses

If you are a former member or a witness to hazing, you are in a unique position to help prevent future tragedies:

We understand the conflicting feelings of guilt, fear of retaliation, and loyalty you may feel. However, your testimony and evidence can prevent future harm and save lives.
While you may want your own legal advice, cooperating with an investigation can be an important step toward accountability. Our lawyers can help you navigate your role as a witness without sacrificing your own legal protections.

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

For Hill County families and students, avoiding common missteps is just as important as taking the right actions. These crucial mistakes can severely damage or entirely ruin a valid hazing case:

Letting your child delete messages or “clean up” evidence: Parents might think they are protecting their child from further trouble, but it can look like a cover-up, potentially constituting obstruction of justice, and makes building a case nearly impossible. Instead: Preserve everything immediately, even embarrassing or seemingly minor content. Our video “Use Your Cellphone to Document a Legal Case” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs) provides invaluable guidance.
Confronting the fraternity/sorority directly: While your instinct may be to “give them a piece of your mind,” direct confrontation will alert them to impending legal action. This prompts them to lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses, and prepare defenses. Instead: Document everything privately, then call a lawyer who can strategize the appropriate approach.
Signing university “release” or “resolution” forms: Universities often pressure families into signing waivers or “internal resolution” agreements. These documents can waive your right to sue, and any settlements offered are typically far below the true value of your case. Instead: Do NOT sign anything from the university without legal counsel reviewing it first.
Posting details on social media before talking to a lawyer: Sharing details on public platforms, even with good intentions, can be dangerous. Defense attorneys heavily monitor social media, and any inconsistencies can hurt credibility or compromise your case. Instead: Keep all documentation private and let your lawyer control any public messaging strategically.
Letting your child go back to “one last meeting”: Once you are considering legal action, organizations may try to convince your child to attend “one last meeting” to “talk things over.” This is often a tactic to pressure them, extract statements against their interest, or intimidate them. Instead: Once you’re considering legal action, all communication from the organization should be directed through your lawyer.
Waiting “to see how the university handles it”: Universities often promise internal investigations, but crucial evidence can disappear, witnesses graduate, and the statute of limitations can run during this waiting period. The university’s process may prioritize its reputation over your child’s full recovery and accountability. Instead: Preserve evidence NOW and consult a lawyer immediately.
Talking to insurance adjusters without a lawyer: Insurance adjusters, even those who seem compassionate, represent the insurance company’s interests, not yours. Recorded statements can be used against you, and early settlement offers are almost always lowball. Instead: Politely decline to speak with them and tell them that your attorney will contact them. Our video “Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Injury Case” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY) delves deeper into these pitfalls.

Short FAQ

“Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities (like UH, Texas A&M, UT) have some sovereign immunity, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, serious misconduct, and Title IX violations. Private universities (like SMU, Baylor) have fewer immunity protections. Every case depends on its specific facts. Contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a case-specific analysis.

“Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
It can be. While generic hazing is often a Class B misdemeanor, it becomes a state jail felony under Texas law if it causes serious bodily injury or death. Individuals, including officers, can also face misdemeanor charges for failing to report hazing.

“Can my child bring a case if they ‘agreed’ to the initiation?”
Yes. Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. The law recognizes that “consent” given under peer pressure, a power imbalance, or fear of exclusion is not true voluntary consent.

“How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit in Texas?”
Generally, there is a 2-year statute of limitations from the date of injury or death in Texas. However, the “discovery rule” may extend this if the harm or its cause wasn’t immediately known. In cases of cover-ups or fraud, the statute may be “tolled” (paused). Time is critical as evidence disappears and witnesses forget. Learn more about the statute of limitations in our video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c). Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately to protect your rights.

“What if the hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?”
The location does not automatically eliminate liability. Universities and national fraternities/sororities can still be liable based on their sponsorship, control, knowledge, and whether the hazing was foreseeable. Many major hazing cases (like the Pi Delta Psi retreat or the Sigma Pi unofficial house death) occurred off-campus yet resulted in multi-million-dollar judgments.

“Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”
Most hazing cases settle confidentially before trial. While public cases do happen, we prioritize your family’s privacy and can often negotiate for sealed court records and confidential settlement terms.

About The Manginello Law Firm + Call to Action

When your family faces a hazing case, particularly one that has occurred at a major Texas university, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how powerful institutions fight back—and how to win anyway. This is where The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, operating as Attorney911, stands apart.

From our Houston office, we serve clients throughout Texas, including Hill County and its surrounding communities. We understand that hazing at Texas universities deeply impacts families in Hill County.

Why Attorney911 for Hazing Cases

Our firm brings unique qualifications to hazing litigation:

Insurance Insider Advantage: Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, brings invaluable experience as a former insurance defense attorney at a national firm. She understands precisely how fraternity and university insurance companies value (and undervalue) hazing claims. She knows their delay tactics, coverage exclusion arguments, and settlement strategies because she used to implement them. This insider knowledge is a critical asset for Hill County families. You can learn more about Lupe Peña at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/.
Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions: Ralph Manginello, our managing partner, has an extensive background in complex litigation, including being one of the few Texas attorneys involved in the BP Texas City explosion litigation. With federal court experience in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, our team is not intimidated by national fraternities, powerful universities, or their well-resourced defense teams. We’ve taken on billion-dollar corporations and won. We know how to fight powerful defendants on behalf of Hill County families. More on Ralph Manginello’s background is available at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/.
Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death and Catastrophic Injury Experience: We have a proven track record in complex wrongful death cases, collaborating with economists to accurately value the full scope of loss. Our experience extends to cases involving severe catastrophic injuries, where we assess lifetime care needs for victims with brain injuries or permanent disabilities. We don’t settle cheap; we build cases that force genuine accountability for Hill County families.
Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise: Ralph’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) provides a distinct edge. We understand how criminal hazing charges interact with potential civil litigation, enabling us to advise witnesses and former members who may face dual exposure. Attorney911’s criminal defense expertise is detailed at https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/.
Investigative Depth: We utilize a comprehensive network of experts, including medical professionals, digital forensics specialists, economists, and psychologists. Our experience includes obtaining hidden evidence, such as deleted group chats, social media records, and national fraternity and university files through robust discovery and public records requests. We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does.

We understand how fraternities, sororities, Corps programs, and athletic departments actually work behind closed doors. Our team is adept at investigating modern hazing by obtaining elusive digital evidence and subpoenaing national records that show patterns of warning and inaction. We know what makes hazing cases different: the powerful institutional defendants, the complex insurance coverage fights, and the need to balance victim privacy with public accountability while proving coercion within Greek culture and tradition.

Above all, we emphasize empathy and victim advocacy. We know this is one of the hardest things a family from Hill County can face. Our job is to get you answers, hold the right people accountable, and help prevent this from happening to another family. We believe in thorough investigation and real accountability, not just quick settlements.

Call to Action for Hill County Families

If you or your child experienced hazing at any Texas campus—whether it be UT Austin, Texas A&M, UH, SMU, or Baylor—we want to hear from you. Families in Hill County and throughout the surrounding Central Texas region have the right to answers and accountability.

Contact The Manginello Law Firm for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. We’ll listen to what happened, explain your legal options, and help you decide on the best path forward.

In your free consultation, you can expect:

We will listen to your story without judgment.
We will review any evidence you have, such as photos, texts, or medical records.
We will explain your legal options, including criminal reporting, pursuing a civil lawsuit, or both.
We will discuss realistic timelines and what to expect throughout the legal process.
We will answer your questions about costs, as we work on a contingency fee basis—meaning we don’t get paid unless we win your case. Watch our video explaining contingency fees (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc).
There’s no pressure to hire us on the spot; we encourage you to take the time you need to decide.
Everything you tell us is strictly confidential.

Whether you’re in Hill County or anywhere across Texas, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone. Call us today.

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC / Attorney911
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

Hablamos Español
For consultation in Spanish, please contact Lupe Peña at lupe@atty911.com. Servicios legales en español disponibles.

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