The Hidden Dangers: A Comprehensive Guide to Hazing in Texas for Lee County Families

The phone rings in the dead of night. Your child, home on a quick visit to Lee County from their university, sounds strange – slurred words, panicked whispers. They tell you they’re at an off-campus house where things are getting out of control. They’ve been forced to drink far too much, endure humiliating acts, and physical challenges that feel more like abuse than bonding. Someone else just collapsed, but no one wants to call 911 because they’re afraid of “getting the chapter shut down” or “getting in trouble.” Your child feels trapped between loyalty to a group that suddenly feels hostile and their own safety.

This isn’t just a hypothetical scenario. This is the frightening reality for countless families across Texas, including those right here in Lee County, whose children attend universities across our great state. The pressure to belong, the desire for acceptance, and the lure of “tradition” can quickly turn toxic, leading to severe injury, lasting trauma, or even death.

This comprehensive guide to hazing and the law in Texas is written specifically for families in Lee County and across our state who need to understand:

• What hazing looks like in 2025 (it’s often far more insidious than old stereotypes).
• How Texas and federal law treat hazing, and who can be held accountable.
• What we can learn from major national cases and how their precedents apply to Texas families.
• What has been happening at major Texas institutions like the University of Houston (UH), Texas A&M University, the University of Texas at Austin (UT), Southern Methodist University (SMU), and Baylor University.
• What legal options victims and families in Lee County and throughout Texas may have when their child is harmed by hazing.

Even if your child attends school far from Lee County, Texas hazing law and experienced Texas counsel can help. We understand that parents in Lee County send their children to universities across the state, and the concern for their safety follows them wherever they go.

Please remember, this article provides general information and is not specific legal advice. The Manginello Law Firm is here to evaluate individual cases based on their specific facts, and we proudly serve families throughout Texas, including our neighbors in Lee County.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES:

If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

• Call 911 for medical emergencies, and if possible, arrange for immediate safety.
• Then call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911). We provide immediate help—that’s why we’re the Legal Emergency Lawyers™.

In the first 48 hours:

• Get medical attention immediately, even if the student insists they are “fine.” Prioritize their health and safety above all else.
• Preserve evidence BEFORE it’s deleted:
  • Screenshot group chats, texts, and direct messages immediately.
  • Photograph any visible injuries from multiple angles and over time.
  • Save any physical items like damaged clothing, receipts for forced purchases, or unusual objects.
• Write down everything while memory is fresh: who, what, when, where, and any relevant details.
• Do NOT:
  • Confront the fraternity, sorority, or organization directly.
  • Sign anything from the university or an insurance company without legal advice.
  • Post details on public social media.
  • Let your child delete messages or “clean up” evidence of any kind.

Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours:

• Evidence disappears fast (deleted group chats, destroyed paddles, coached witnesses).
• Universities move quickly to control the narrative.
• An experienced legal team can help preserve crucial evidence and protect your child’s rights from the very beginning.
• Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate consultation.

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like

For Lee County families unfamiliar with modern Greek life or collegiate organizations, hazing is often misunderstood. It’s no longer just a “goofy prank” or “just part of joining.” Today’s hazing is sophisticated, often hidden, and frequently involves tactics that are psychologically damaging, physically dangerous, and digitally pervasive. We define hazing in plain English as any forced, coerced, or strongly pressured action tied to joining, keeping membership, or gaining status in a group, where the behavior endangers physical or mental health, humiliates, or exploits.

It’s crucial to understand that “I agreed to it” does not automatically make it safe or legal, especially when there is immense peer pressure, a significant power imbalance, or fear of exclusion. The law accounts for these coercive dynamics.

Main Categories of Hazing

Modern hazing manifests in various complex and dangerous forms:

• Alcohol and Substance Hazing: This is by far the most dangerous and deadly form of hazing. It involves forced or coerced drinking of excessive amounts of alcohol, often delivered through chugging challenges, “lineups,” or “games” that require rapid, dangerous consumption. Pledges may be pressured to consume unknown or mixed substances, leading to severe intoxication, alcohol poisoning, and even death.
• Physical Hazing: This category includes direct physical abuse, such as paddling and beatings. It also encompasses extreme calisthenics, “workouts,” or “smokings” that go far beyond healthy conditioning, pushing pledges to physical exhaustion and injury. Sleep deprivation, food and water deprivation, and exposure to extreme cold or heat, or dangerous environments, are also common tactics.
• Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing: These acts are designed to degrade and control. They can range from forced nudity or partial nudity to simulated sexual acts, like the “roasted pig” positions seen in some cases, or forcing individuals to wear degrading costumes. Hazing can also involve acts with racial or sexist overtones, the use of slurs, or forcing role-playing that is deeply offensive.
• Psychological Hazing: Often overlooked but profoundly damaging, this involves verbal abuse, threats, and purposeful isolation from friends and family. Manipulation, forced confessions, and public shaming—whether in person, in meetings, or particularly on social media—are frequent psychological tactics, leaving victims with lasting emotional and mental scars.
• Digital/Online Hazing: This is a rapidly evolving area of hazing that utilizes technology to exert control and perpetuate abuse. It includes group chat dares, “challenges,” and public humiliation orchestrated via platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, Discord, and others. Pledges may face immense pressure to create or share compromising images or videos, or to respond instantly to commands at all hours.

Where Hazing Actually Happens

Hazing is not confined to just one type of student organization. While often associated with fraternities and sororities (across IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, and multicultural councils), it is a dangerous practice found in a wide variety of groups, including:

• Corps of Cadets / ROTC / Military-Style Groups: These organizations, despite their discipline, can sometimes foster environments where hazing is mistaken for team-building or tradition.
• Spirit Squads, Tradition Clubs: Prestigious groups like spirit organizations or long-standing campus tradition groups can succumb to hazing pressure.
• Athletic Teams: From football and basketball to baseball, cheerleading, and even club sports, hazing can occur as a misguided form of initiation or “toughening up.”
• Marching Bands and Performance Groups: Even these artistic and highly collaborative groups can have hazing rituals.
• Service, Cultural, and Academic Organizations: Any group with an initiation process can fall prey to hazing, regardless of its stated mission.

The common threads that keep these dangerous practices alive, even when everyone “knows” hazing is illegal, are social status, tradition, and intense secrecy. This culture of silence makes it incredibly difficult for victims to come forward and for institutions to effectively address the problem.

Law & Liability Framework (Texas + Federal)

Understanding the legal landscape around hazing in Texas is crucial for Lee County families seeking accountability. This section provides a clear, practical explanation without unnecessary legal jargon.

Texas Hazing Law Basics (Education Code)

In Texas, hazing is not just a university policy violation; it’s explicitly prohibited by state law under Chapter 37, Subchapter F of the Texas Education Code. This law defines hazing broadly as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, committed on or off campus, by one person or with others, directed against a student for the purpose of pledging, initiation, affiliation, holding office, or maintaining membership in any student organization, that:

• Endangers the physical health or safety of a student (e.g., beating, forced exercise, forced consumption of alcohol/drugs, sleep deprivation).
• Or substantially affects the mental health or safety of a student (e.g., extreme humiliation, intimidation, verbal abuse).

Criminal penalties for hazing can include fines and possible jail time. The severity of these penalties can increase significantly if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death.

Reporter protections are also built into the law. Individuals who report hazing incidents in good faith to university authorities or law enforcement are generally granted immunity from civil or criminal liability stemming from that report. Furthermore, Texas law and most university policies often provide limited amnesty for individuals who call for help in good faith during a medical emergency involving alcohol or other substances, even if they were involved in the surrounding events.

It’s important to remember this is a summary. For the precise legal language and full details, we encourage consulting the Texas Education Code.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases

When hazing occurs, two distinct legal processes may unfold:

• Criminal Cases: These are brought by the state (prosecutors) to punish individuals or organizations that have violated criminal laws. In hazing incidents, criminal charges can vary from misdemeanor hazing offenses to more serious charges like furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, battery, or even manslaughter in cases resulting in death. The goal of a criminal case is to determine guilt and impose penalties like jail time, fines, or probation.
• Civil Cases: These are initiated by victims or their surviving families against the responsible parties. The aim is to obtain monetary compensation for the harm suffered and to hold those responsible accountable. Civil hazing lawsuits often focus on legal theories such as:
  • Negligence and Gross Negligence: For failing to uphold a duty of care, or acting with extreme disregard for safety.
  • Wrongful Death: When hazing leads to the death of a student.
  • Negligent Hiring/Supervision: When organizations or universities fail to properly oversee their members or employees.
  • Premises Liability: If the hazing occurred on property where the owner failed to provide a safe environment.
  • Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress: For severe trauma caused by extreme behavior.

A crucial point for Lee County families is that a criminal conviction is not required to pursue a civil case. Victims can seek justice and compensation through the civil system even if criminal charges are never filed or do not result in a conviction. Both types of cases can progress independently, or even simultaneously.

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

Beyond Texas state law, federal regulations also play a role in addressing hazing, particularly for colleges and universities that receive federal funding:

• Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This significant piece of legislation requires colleges and universities to report hazing incidents more transparently, strengthen their hazing education and prevention efforts, and publicly maintain hazing data. This will provide more clarity and accountability, eventually including a public database of hazing violations—a crucial tool for Lee County parents researching schools for their children.
• Title IX / Clery Act: When hazing involves elements of sexual harassment, sexual assault, or gender-based hostility, Title IX obligations are triggered. This requires universities to investigate and address such misconduct. The Clery Act requires institutions to collect and report statistics on certain crimes, including those often associated with hazing such as assaults, alcohol violations, and drug offenses, thereby providing a more complete picture of campus safety.

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit

Determining who is legally responsible in a hazing incident can be complex, but several parties may be held liable:

• Individual Students: Those who planned, orchestrated, supplied alcohol, carried out the acts, or actively participated in the hazing or its cover-up can face individual liability.
• Local Chapter / Organization: The fraternity, sorority, club, or team itself (if it’s a recognized legal entity) can be held responsible. Key leaders, such as officers or “pledge educators,” often bear significant responsibility.
• National Fraternity/Sorority: The national headquarters, which sets policies, collects dues, trains leadership, and oversees its chapters, can be held liable. Their liability often hinges on what they knew or should have known about a chapter’s hazing history or a specific hazing method from prior incidents at other campuses.
• University or Governing Board: The educational institution itself, or its governing board, may be sued under various legal theories, including negligent supervision, failure to enforce policies, or violations of federal acts like Title IX. This often depends on whether the university had prior warnings about hazing within an organization and whether they acted with “deliberate indifference” to known risks. Public universities like UH, Texas A&M, and UT, while protected by sovereign immunity in some cases, can still face liability under specific exceptions or when their employees are sued in their individual capacities.
• Third Parties: Other entities can also be implicated, including landlords or owners of properties where hazing occurred, bars or alcohol suppliers (under dram shop laws if they served intoxicated individuals who then caused harm), security companies, or event organizers if their negligence contributed to the incident.

Every hazing case is fact-specific, and not every party is liable in every situation. An experienced hazing attorney can meticulously investigate to identify all responsible parties and hold them accountable.

National Hazing Case Patterns (Anchor Stories)

Hazing deaths and catastrophic injuries often share chillingly similar patterns, regardless of where they occur. Examining these national anchor cases helps Lee County families understand the typical scenarios, the legal precedents established, and the high stakes involved in confronting powerful institutions.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

The most common, and often fatal, pattern in hazing involves extreme alcohol consumption. These cases highlight a systemic failure to protect young adults, often driven by destructive “traditions” and a culture of silence.

• Timothy Piazza – Penn State University, Beta Theta Pi (2017): In one of the most publicized hazing deaths, 19-year-old Timothy Piazza died after a “bid acceptance” event involving heavy drinking. He suffered multiple falls, captured on chapter security cameras, but brothers delayed calling for medical help for nearly 12 hours. The aftermath involved dozens of criminal charges against fraternity members, extensive civil litigation, and the creation of Pennsylvania’s Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law. This case underscored how extreme intoxication, delayed medical intervention, and a pervasive culture of silence can lead to legally devastating consequences for individuals and institutions.
• Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (2017): Andrew Coffey, a 20-year-old pledge, died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” event. Pledges were given handles of hard liquor and forced to consume dangerous amounts. Criminal hazing charges were brought against several members, and FSU temporarily suspended all Greek life, overhauling its policies in response. Coffey’s death highlighted how formulaic “tradition” drinking nights are a repeating script for disaster in fraternal organizations.
• Maxwell “Max” Gruver – Louisiana State University, Phi Delta Theta (2017): Max Gruver, 18, died after a “Bible study” drinking game where pledges were forced to drink large amounts of 190-proof alcohol if they answered questions incorrectly. His death led to Louisiana’s felony hazing law, the Max Gruver Act. This case demonstrated that legislative change often follows public outrage and clear proof of hazing-related abuse.
• Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021): Stone Foltz, a 20-year-old pledge, died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink nearly an entire bottle of whiskey during a “Big/Little” night. Multiple fraternity members faced criminal convictions, and Bowling Green State University, a public institution, agreed to a nearly $3 million settlement with the family, with additional settlements from the national fraternity and individuals. This case illustrated that universities, alongside fraternities, can face significant financial and reputational consequences for their role in hazing deaths.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Beyond alcohol, physical and ritualized hazing can be equally brutal and deadly, often involving calculated abuse and deliberate efforts to avoid detection.

• Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013): Michael Deng, 19, was a pledge subjected to a brutal, blindfolded “glass ceiling” ritual at a fraternity retreat in the Pocono Mountains. Members repeatedly tackled him while carrying a heavy backpack. He suffered fatal head injuries, and fraternity members delayed calling for help for hours. Multiple members were convicted, and the national fraternity was ultimately banned from Pennsylvania; some individuals received jail time. This landmark case showed that off-campus “retreats” can be as dangerous or worse than on-campus events, and national organizations can face severe criminal sanctions for the actions of their chapters.

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Hazing is not exclusive to Greek life; it infiltrates many other student organizations, including high-profile athletic programs where the stakes are often immense.

• Northwestern University Football (2023–2025): This scandal revealed allegations from multiple former football players describing widespread sexualized and racist hazing within the program over a period of years. The fallout included the firing of head coach Pat Fitzgerald, who later settled a wrongful-termination lawsuit confidentially, and multiple lawsuits against the university and coaching staff. This case brought national attention to the fact that hazing is not limited to Greek life, and big-money athletic programs can harbor systemic abuse, raising critical questions about institutional oversight.

What These Cases Mean for Lee County Families

These national incidents, though geographically distant, represent a crucial pattern for Lee County families. They demonstrate:

• Common threads of abuse: Forced drinking, humiliation, violence, delayed or denied medical care, and concerted efforts to cover up incidents are recurring elements.
• Accountability is possible: While tragic, these cases show that litigation can lead to multi-million-dollar settlements or verdicts and drive significant legislative and institutional reforms.
• Texas is not immune: The lessons learned from these tragedies directly inform how hazing cases involving UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, or Baylor students might proceed in Texas courts. Lee County families facing hazing are not alone, and they are navigating a legal landscape shaped by these national lessons.

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

The Manginello Law Firm serves families throughout Texas, including those in Lee County whose children attend colleges and universities across our state. While our Houston office may be a drive from Lee County, we understand the specific nuances of hazing incidents at Texas’s major universities. For Lee County families, understanding the specific context of these institutions is critical.

5.1 University of Houston (UH)

Lee County families whose children attend the University of Houston often find themselves dealing with the unique challenges of an urban campus that blends a strong commuter culture with a vibrant residential population. UH, located in Houston, is home to a diverse and active Greek life, encompassing the Houston Panhellenic Council, Interfraternity Council, Multicultural Greek Council, and National Pan-Hellenic Council. This proximity means that incidents occurring at UH are often handled by Houston Police Department (HPD) and the University of Houston Police Department (UHPD), with civil lawsuits falling under the jurisdiction of Harris County courts.

5.1.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

The University of Houston is a sprawling urban campus known for its strong academic programs and a dynamic student body. Its Greek life is a significant part of the student experience, with dozens of fraternities and sororities from various councils. Beyond Greek organizations, UH also boasts a wide array of student groups, including cultural associations, academic societies, and sports clubs, all of which may have initiation processes susceptible to hazing.

5.1.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting

UH maintains a strict anti-hazing policy, clearly stating that hazing is prohibited whether it occurs on-campus or off-campus. The policy explicitly forbids forced consumption of alcohol, food, or drugs; sleep deprivation; physical mistreatment; and any act that causes mental distress as part of initiation or membership. Students and families can report hazing through the Dean of Students office, the Office of Student Conduct, or UHPD. The university also publishes a hazing statement and information about disciplinary actions on its website.

5.1.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

One notable incident involved the Pi Kappa Alpha (Pika) fraternity in 2016. Pledges allegedly suffered severe hazing, including deprivation of food, water, and sleep during a multi-day event. Disturbingly, one student reportedly suffered a lacerated spleen after being slammed onto a table or similar surface. The chapter faced misdemeanor hazing charges and a significant university suspension. Later references also include disciplinary actions against other fraternities for behavior “likely to produce mental or physical discomfort,” involving alcohol misuse and policy violations, resulting in suspensions or probation. These incidents underscore UH’s willingness to suspend chapters, but also the persistent challenge of hazing within its Greek system.

5.1.4 How a UH Hazing Case Might Proceed

For hazing incidents at UH, various law enforcement agencies may be involved, including UHPD for on-campus violations and the Houston Police Department for off-campus events. Civil lawsuits stemming from hazing at UH would typically be filed in courts with jurisdiction over Houston and Harris County. Potential defendants in such actions often include individual students, the local chapter, the national fraternity or sorority, and potentially the university and property owners.

5.1.5 What UH Students & Parents Should Do

If you suspect hazing at UH, here are concrete steps for Lee County families and students:

• Immediately report suspicions or incidents to the UH Dean of Students office, the Office of Student Conduct, or UHPD. You can also utilize anonymous reporting channels.
• Document any information about prior complaints or incidents involving the specific UH organization, as this information can be vital.
• Preserve all evidence (screenshots of messages, photos of injuries, etc.) and avoid deleting anything that could be relevant.
• Contact a lawyer experienced in Houston-based hazing cases right away. An attorney can help you navigate the UH system and uncover crucial internal files and prior disciplinary actions.
• Prioritize your student’s physical and mental health. Seek medical attention and counseling if needed.

5.2 Texas A&M University

For many Lee County families, Texas A&M represents a deeply ingrained tradition. While Lee County is a bit of a drive from College Station, many of our local students aspire to be Aggies or already attend. The hazing context at Texas A&M is distinct, influenced by its dominant Greek life and the highly traditional Corps of Cadets. Incidents in College Station fall under the purview of the College Station Police Department or Texas A&M University Police Department, with proceedings typically in Brazos County courts.

5.2.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Texas A&M University, located in College Station, is renowned for its strong traditions, particularly those associated with the Corps of Cadets, a military-style training program. Both Greek life and the Corps are vibrant communities that attract students seeking camaraderie and a structured environment. However, the emphasis on tradition and loyalty in these organizations can sometimes create conditions ripe for hazing.

5.2.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting

Texas A&M strictly prohibits hazing across all student organizations, explicitly covering both on-campus and off-campus activities. Their policy aligns with Texas state law, defining hazing as any act that endangers mental or physical health for initiation purposes. Reporting channels include the Division of Student Affairs, Student Conduct Office, the Texas A&M University Police Department (UPD), and specific mechanisms for reporting within the Corps of Cadets.

5.2.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Texas A&M has faced significant hazing controversies. In 2021, the Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) fraternity was involved in a widely publicized lawsuit. Two pledges alleged severe chemical burns after being subjected to strenuous activity and having substances, including industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit, poured on them. These burns required skin graft surgeries. The pledges sued the fraternity for $1 million, and the university suspended the chapter for two years.

More recently, a 2023 lawsuit involved a Corps of Cadets member who alleged degrading hazing, including simulated sexual acts and being bound between beds in a “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth. The cadet sought over $1 million in damages. These incidents highlight that hazing at Texas A&M, whether in Greek life or the Corps, can be both physically brutal and deeply humiliating.

5.2.4 How a Texas A&M Hazing Case Might Proceed

Law enforcement involvement in hazing cases at Texas A&M often includes UPD for on-campus incidents and the College Station Police Department for off-campus. Civil lawsuits would likely be filed in Brazos County courts. Cases involving the Corps of Cadets introduce additional complexities, as the Corps operates under its own hierarchy and traditions. Families in Lee County should expect a thorough investigation into both the institutional culture and individual actions.

5.2.5 What Texas A&M Students & Parents Should Do

Lee County families with Aggie students facing hazing should strongly consider these steps:

• Report incidents immediately to Texas A&M’s Student Conduct Office or UPD.
• Document all physical injuries with medical records and photographs, and preserve all digital communications related to the hazing.
• If the incident involves the Corps of Cadets, understand that cultural pressures can be intense, and seeking external legal counsel can be crucial.
• Be aware that Texas A&M, as a public university, benefits from some sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions and individual liability claims can still be pursued.
• Contact Attorney911 immediately to discuss how to navigate the specific A&M setting and protect your child’s rights.

5.3 University of Texas at Austin (UT)

The University of Texas at Austin is a primary destination for many students from Lee County and surrounding communities, making hazing incidents at this flagship university intensely relevant for our local families. UT stands out for its relatively transparent approach to reporting hazing violations, making it easier for parents to research an organization’s history. Hazing cases here involve UTPD or Austin Police Department, with civil actions typically filed in Travis County courts.

5.3.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

UT Austin is one of the largest and most prestigious universities in Texas, with a massive student body and a diverse range of student organizations. Its Greek life is extensive and deeply embedded in the campus social scene. Beyond fraternities and sororities, UT has numerous spirit organizations, athletic groups, and academic clubs, many of which are known for strong traditions that can, unfortunately, spill over into hazing.

5.3.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting

The University of Texas has a robust anti-hazing policy that is readily available to the public. It defines hazing broadly, consistent with Texas law, and prohibits any physical or mental endangerment related to initiation or membership. UT is notable for its public Hazing Violations webpage, which lists organizations, dates of incidents, a summary of the conduct, and the disciplinary sanctions imposed. This transparency is a valuable resource for Lee County parents.

5.3.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

UT’s public record reveals a continuous struggle with hazing across various organizations. For example, Pi Kappa Alpha (Pika) was involved in a 2023 incident where new members were directed to consume milk excessively and perform strenuous calisthenics, actions clearly identified as hazing. The chapter faced probation and was required to implement new hazing-prevention education. Other spirit organizations, such as Texas Wranglers, have also been sanctioned for forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing, and punishment-based practices. These documented incidents show that despite stringent policies and transparency, hazing remains a persistent issue involving both Greek and non-Greek organizations at UT.

5.3.4 How a UT Hazing Case Might Proceed

Hazing incidents at UT Austin may trigger investigations by UTPD for campus offenses or the Austin Police Department for off-campus events. Civil claims originating from hazing at UT would typically be litigated in Travis County courts. The university’s public record of prior violations can be a powerful tool in civil litigation, demonstrating patterns of misconduct or showing that the university or national organization had prior knowledge of problematic behavior.

5.3.5 What UT Students & Parents Should Do

For Lee County families with students at UT, navigating a hazing incident requires specific attention:

• Utilize UT’s public Hazing Violations webpage to research any organization’s history.
• Report hazing immediately to the UT Dean of Students, Student Conduct Office, or UTPD. Anonymous reporting options are available.
• Meticulously document any hazing, focusing on screenshots of digital communications, photos of injuries, and accounts of what happened.
• Be prepared for university investigations, but remember that these processes are distinct from legal claims.
• Contact Attorney911 to discuss how UT’s transparency can be leveraged in a legal case, and to ensure accurate documentation and pursuit of justice.

5.4 Southern Methodist University (SMU)

While SMU is a private institution in Dallas, a drive from Lee County, many families from our area consider it for their children. Its reputation as an affluent campus with a strong Greek presence creates a distinct environment that needs to be understood. Because SMU is a private university, it operates with different levels of public transparency compared to state schools, though legal discovery processes can still uncover crucial information. Civil cases would likely be filed in Dallas County.

5.4.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Southern Methodist University is known for its beautiful campus, rigorous academics, and a vibrant, often prominent, Greek life. Fraternities and sororities play a central role in the social fabric of SMU, attracting a significant percentage of the student body. The social pressures to join and excel within these organizations can be intense, making them vulnerable to hazing.

5.4.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting

SMU has clear policies prohibiting hazing, defining it in accordance with Texas law. These policies cover all student organizations and extend to both on-campus and off-campus activities. SMU provides reporting channels through its Office of Student Affairs, Campus Police, and online anonymous reporting systems like Speak Up SMU. Unlike public universities, SMU does not publicly post detailed lists of hazing violations, though it does engage in hazing prevention efforts and education.

5.4.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

SMU has had its share of hazing incidents, though specific details regarding outcomes are often less publicly available than at state universities. In 2017, the Kappa Alpha Order fraternity faced allegations of severe hazing, including reports of new members being paddled, forced to drink excessive amounts of alcohol, and deprived of sleep. The national organization and SMU suspended the chapter, implementing restrictions on recruiting and activities for several years. This incident, and others, underscore the persistent challenges private universities face in controlling hazing within active Greek systems.

5.4.4 How an SMU Hazing Case Might Proceed

For hazing incidents at SMU, investigations would often involve SMU Police Department for campus calls and the Dallas Police Department for off-campus situations. Civil lawsuits against SMU or its affiliated organizations would typically be heard in Dallas County courts. As a private institution, SMU does not benefit from sovereign immunity, making it potentially more straightforward to pursue claims directly against the university than with public institutions. However, the lack of public incident reports means that thorough legal discovery is even more critical to uncover prior warnings or a history of violations.

5.4.5 What SMU Students & Parents Should Do

Lee County families with students attending SMU and concerns about hazing should:

• Familiarize themselves with SMU’s hazing policy and reporting mechanisms, including anonymous options.
• Thoroughly document any hazing incidents, paying close attention to digital evidence like group chats and social media.
• Be aware that while SMU might not publicize all hazing violations, legal counsel can use discovery to uncover internal records of prior incidents, which can be crucial for building a strong case.
• Seek legal advice from an experienced hazing attorney who understands the complexities of private university liability and the discovery process needed to obtain internal records.
• Do not rely solely on university internal processes if seeking full accountability and compensation.

5.5 Baylor University

Baylor University in Waco, while also a private institution and further from Lee County than our coastal universities, attracts many Texas students. Its strong religious identity and past scrutiny over other allegations of misconduct, including football program abuses and Title IX issues, provide a unique backdrop for understanding hazing there. Civil cases related to hazing at Baylor would typically proceed in McLennan County courts.

5.5.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Baylor University is a private Christian university with a strong focus on faith-based education. It maintains active Greek life and numerous other student organizations. Baylor has faced intense scrutiny in recent years regarding its handling of student safety, particularly in the wake of a major sexual assault scandal involving its football program. This history shapes how the university and its associated groups are perceived and how allegations of misconduct, including hazing, are addressed.

5.5.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting

Baylor explicitly prohibits hazing, in line with Texas state law, encompassing all student groups and off-campus locations. Its policies are clear that any action endangering the mental or physical health of a student for initiation or membership purposes is forbidden. Baylor offers reporting through its Dean of Students office, Baylor University Police Department (BUPD), and an ethics point hotline. The university regularly reaffirms its “zero tolerance” policy for hazing.

5.5.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Despite its “zero tolerance” stance, Baylor has seen significant hazing issues. In 2020, the Baylor baseball program faced a hazing investigation that resulted in the suspension of 14 players. These suspensions were staggered over the early season, indicating a widespread problem within the athletic program. This incident, while not in Greek life, highlighted that issues of control and oversight related to student conduct persist at Baylor, raising questions about the effectiveness of its policies against misconduct in high-profile student groups.

5.5.4 How a Baylor Hazing Case Might Proceed

Hazing investigations at Baylor would involve BUPD and/or Waco Police Department for off-campus incidents. Civil claims would proceed in McLennan County courts. Baylor, as a private university, does not have sovereign immunity, which can simplify some aspects of legal action compared to public institutions. However, the university’s prior experiences with major scandals mean it has highly experienced legal teams dedicated to defending against claims of institutional negligence.

5.5.5 What Baylor Students & Parents Should Do

For Lee County families with students at Baylor, addressing hazing requires careful consideration:

• Report any hazing to Baylor’s Dean of Students or BUPD using the official channels.
• Document every detail, including communication, photos, and medical evidence. Baylor’s past disciplinary actions, while not always fully public, can become discoverable in civil litigation.
• Be aware of the potential for a clash between the university’s stated values and the realities of student culture within certain organizations.
• Consult with an attorney who is experienced in navigating private university litigation and who can investigate deeply to uncover patterns of misconduct that may have contributed to the hazing.
• Do not underestimate the institution’s robust legal defense apparatus; specialized counsel is essential.

Fraternities & Sororities: Campus-Specific + National Histories

Lee County families need to understand that the hazing incidents occurring at Texas universities are rarely isolated. Most fraternities and sororities, including those at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor, are part of national organizations. These national bodies often have extensive histories of hazing violations across their chapters nationwide, and this history is a critical component in building a legal case.

6.1 Why National Histories Matter

When a student is harmed by hazing in Texas, the liability often extends beyond the individual students involved or even the local chapter. The national fraternity or sorority headquartered hundreds or thousands of miles away can, and should, be held accountable. Here’s why:

• Prior Knowledge and Foreseeability: National organizations typically have thick anti-hazing manuals and risk management policies. They implement these because they have seen deaths and catastrophic injuries in the past. When a Texas chapter repeats the same hazing script—like a forced alcohol consumption “ritual” or physical abuse—that got another chapter shut down or led to a lawsuit in another state, this demonstrates foreseeability. The national organization knew, or should have known, the danger but failed to adequately prevent it.
• Pattern of Conduct: If multiple chapters of the same national organization have a documented history of severe hazing, it paints a picture of a systemic problem, not just “rogue members.” This pattern strengthens arguments for gross negligence against the national body.
• Policy vs. Practice: National HQs often claim they have “zero tolerance” for hazing. However, legal discovery frequently reveals that these policies are merely window dressing – not meaningfully enforced, or that prior transgressions were met with minimal punishment, effectively enabling a culture of hazing to persist.

Understanding these dynamics is key to building a comprehensive legal strategy that targets all responsible parties, from individual initiates to powerful national organizations.

6.2 Organization Mapping (Synthesized)

Many of the fraternities and sororities active at Texas’s major universities have national counterparts with documented histories of hazing. While rosters can change, here are some examples of major organizations at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor, and a glimpse into their national hazing histories:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / Pike): This fraternity has chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and Baylor. Nationally, Pi Kappa Alpha has a deeply troubling history with alcohol-related hazing. The tragic death of Stone Foltz at Bowling Green State University (2021), where pledges were forced to consume a bottle of alcohol, resulted in criminal convictions and a $10 million settlement. Another notable case involved David Bogenberger at Northern Illinois University (2012), who also died from alcohol poisoning, leading to a $14 million settlement. These cases demonstrate a pattern of highly dangerous “Big/Little” or “pledge night” alcohol hazing within the organization.
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / SAE): SAE is present at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and SMU. Historically, SAE has faced multiple hazing-related deaths and severe injuries nationwide. In Texas, the Texas A&M chapter was sued for $1 million in 2021 over chemical burns from industrial cleaner poured on pledges. The UT Austin chapter faced a lawsuit in January 2024 for an alleged assault. These incidents highlight how alleged hazing, both physical and chemical, continues to plague SAE chapters.
• Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ): Chapters are active at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and Baylor. This national fraternity is tragically linked to the death of Max Gruver at Louisiana State University (2017), who died from alcohol poisoning during a forced drinking “Bible study” game. The incident led to a $6.1 million verdict and felony hazing legislation in Louisiana.
• Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ): With chapters at UH, Texas A&M, and UT Austin, Pi Kappa Phi has also been implicated in fatal hazing. Andrew Coffey at Florida State University (2017) died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” event. This case resulted in multiple criminal prosecutions and a temporary suspension of all Greek life at FSU, and renewed efforts to fight hazing statewide.
• Beta Theta Pi (ΒΘΠ): Active at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and SMU. Beta Theta Pi is tied to the notorious death of Timothy Piazza at Penn State University (2017), who died from a traumatic brain injury after a brutal hazing event where members delayed calling for help. This led to massive criminal charges, civil litigation, and new state law.
• Kappa Alpha Order (ΚΑ): Chapters are found at Texas A&M and SMU. Nationally and locally, Kappa Alpha Order has faced numerous hazing allegations and disciplinary actions, including those detailed at SMU.
• Kappa Sigma (ΚΣ): Present at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and Baylor. Kappa Sigma has a national history that includes the tragic drowning death of Chad Meredith at the University of Miami (2001), where a jury awarded his parents $12.6 million. In Texas, the Texas A&M chapter faced ongoing litigation in 2023 for alleged hazing causing severe injuries (rhabdomyolysis).
• Sigma Chi (ΣΧ): Active at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and Baylor. This organization has also faced significant legal actions. In 2024, a College of Charleston pledge allegedly suffered physical beatings and forced consumption of drugs and alcohol, leading to a settlement of more than $10 million in damages. The UT Arlington chapter also had a pledge hospitalized with alcohol poisoning in 2020, resulting in a confidential settlement.

This mapping demonstrates that hazing is not unique to a few bad apples; it is a recurring issue within specific national organizations, whose patterns of conduct form a critical component of any legal challenge.

6.3 Tie Back to Legal Strategy

For Lee County families, connecting the dots between a local incident at a Texas university and a national fraternity’s history is pivotal to our legal strategy:

• Foreseeability: A history of hazing incidents across an organization’s chapters provides powerful evidence that the national entity knew, or should have known, the risks inherent in its chapters’ “traditions.”
• Negligent Supervision: Showing a pattern of previous violations and insufficient responses can argue that the national organization failed in its duty to adequately supervise, train, and discipline its local chapters.
• Insurance Coverage: A documented history of hazing can influence the outcomes of disputes over insurance coverage, potentially forcing insurers for the national organization to pay out, even if they initially attempt to deny coverage based on “intentional acts” exclusions.
• Punitive Damages: In cases of egregious conduct and a clear pattern of ignored warnings, juries may be more inclined to award punitive damages, designed not just to compensate the victim but to punish the defendant and deter future misconduct.

Our firm leverages this comprehensive understanding of national hazing patterns to strengthen the cases of Texas families, seeking maximum accountability and compensation.

7. Building a Case: Evidence, Damages, Strategy

Building a successful hazing case demands meticulous attention to detail, a deep understanding of the law, and the strategic pursuit of evidence. For Lee County families whose children have suffered hazing, this process can feel overwhelming, but an experienced legal team guides you every step of the way.

7.1 Evidence

In hazing cases, evidence is everything. It paints the picture of what truly happened, exposing the reality behind closed doors and the coordinated efforts to conceal it.

• Digital Communications: In 2025, group chats and direct messages (DMs) are often the most crucial evidence. This includes platforms like GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Slack, and even fraternity-specific apps. We meticulously preserve and analyze content, which can show planning, intent, knowledge, and who was involved. This evidence includes both messages that are live and those that have been recovered by digital forensics experts after being “deleted.”
• Photos & Videos: Visual evidence is powerful. This includes:
  • Content filmed by members during events (often shared in private group chats or on social media).
  • Security camera footage from houses, off-campus venues, or businesses.
  • Photos of injuries (taken immediately and over time), locations, or objects used in hazing.
• Internal Organization Documents: These can reveal the official and unofficial rules. We seek out pledge manuals, initiation scripts, “tradition” lists, emails, and texts from officers discussing “what we’ll do to pledges.” National organization policies and training materials are also vital for showing what organizations knew or should have known.
• University Records: Schools maintain records that can be critical. This includes prior conduct files, probation or suspension records for groups, letters of warning, and incident reports filed with campus police or student conduct offices. We also delve into Clery reports and similar public disclosures to establish patterns.
• Medical and Psychological Records: These documents provide objective evidence of the harm suffered. This includes emergency room and hospitalization records, surgery and rehabilitation notes, toxicology reports (for alcohol or drug use), and comprehensive psychological evaluations for trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, or suicidality.
• Witness Testimony: Eyewitness accounts are crucial. This includes statements from other pledges, current or former members, roommates, Resident Assistants (RAs), coaches, trainers, or any bystanders. Former members who quit or were expelled, having seen the dark side of an organization, often provide invaluable testimony.

7.2 Damages

When hazing causes harm, the law provides for compensation to address the full scope of that suffering. For Lee County families, understanding these categories of damages is essential to seeking justice, though we cannot predict specific dollar amounts for any individual case.

• Medical Bills & Future Care: This covers all costs related to physical injuries, from emergency room visits and ambulance transport to surgeries, ongoing treatments, physical therapy, prescription medications, and rehabilitation. For catastrophic injuries like brain damage or organ failure, it includes the extensive costs of long-term and lifelong care.
• Lost Earnings / Educational Impact: Hazing can disrupt a student’s education and future career. Damages may include missed semesters, tuition and fees, loss of scholarships, and the financial setback of delayed graduation. For permanent injuries, it can include a claim for diminished future earning capacity, calculated by economic experts.
• Non-Economic Damages: These address the intangible but profound suffering caused by hazing. They include physical pain and suffering, emotional distress, psychological trauma, humiliation, and the loss of enjoyment of life. This can encompass conditions like PTSD, severe anxiety, depression, and the deep feeling of betrayal and loss of trust.
• Wrongful Death Damages: In the most tragic cases, where hazing leads to death, surviving family members (parents, children, and sometimes spouses) can pursue wrongful death claims. These damages cover funeral and burial costs, as well as the profound loss of financial support, companionship, love, guidance, and society. They also account for the grief and emotional suffering experienced by the family.

7.3 Role of Different Defendants and Insurance Coverage

Part of a robust legal strategy involves identifying all potentially liable parties and understanding their insurance coverage.

• Insurance Policies: National fraternities, universities, and sometimes even individual officers or homeowners often carry insurance policies designed to cover legal liabilities. However, these insurers frequently attempt to deny coverage, arguing that hazing or “intentional acts” are excluded from their policies.
• Navigating Exclusions: Experienced hazing lawyers know how to challenge these exclusions. We argue that while the hazing act itself might be intentional, the national organization’s or university’s negligent supervision or failure to prevent such acts is what should trigger coverage. We meticulously identify all potential coverage sources across various policies and aggressively negotiate with major insurance carriers.
• Complex Disputes: These insurance coverage fights are often highly complex, but our firm, with attorneys like Lupe Peña who have an insider’s understanding of how insurance companies operate, is fully equipped to navigate these disputes and work to maximize your compensation.

8. Practical Guides & FAQs

For Lee County families, navigating a hazing crisis requires clear, actionable advice. Having the right information and knowing the immediate steps to take can make all the difference.

8.1 For Parents: Recognizing & Responding to Hazing

Your intuition as a parent is one of your strongest tools. Trust it.

• Warning Signs of Hazing: Look for a combination of these red flags:
  • Unexplained injuries (bruises, burns, cuts) or repeated “accidents” with inconsistent stories.
  • Sudden exhaustion, extreme sleep deprivation, or constant phone use for late-night group chats and mandatory events.
  • Drastic changes in mood, increased anxiety, depression, withdrawal from old friends or activities, or personality shifts.
  • Sudden secrecy about organization activities, defensiveness when asked, or fear of “getting in trouble” with the group.
  • Academic struggles like missed classes, declining grades, or prioritizing group activities over schoolwork.
  • Financial strain due to unexpected expenses, fines, or demands to buy items for older members.
• How to Talk to Your Child: Approach the conversation calmly, avoiding judgment. Emphasize that their safety and well-being are your top priorities, far above any group affiliation. Ask open-ended questions like, “How are things really going with [organization]?” or “Is there anything you’re being asked to do that makes you uncomfortable?” Reassure them that you will support them, no matter what.
• If Your Child is Hurt: Prioritize their physical and mental health. Seek immediate medical attention, even if they claim to be fine. Document everything: take clear, dated photos of injuries, write down everything your child tells you (names, dates, locations, specific acts), and save any relevant items or digital messages.
• Dealing with the University: Every communication with university administrators should be documented. When speaking with them, ask pointed questions about any prior incidents or disciplinary actions involving the organization in question. Be aware that the university’s primary concern might be reputation management, so independent legal counsel is vital.
• When to Talk to a Lawyer: If your child has suffered significant physical or psychological harm, or if you feel the university or organization is minimizing or hiding what happened, it’s time to consult an experienced hazing attorney. We can help you navigate these complex situations.

8.2 For Students / Pledges: Self-Assessment & Safety Planning

If you’re a student from Lee County currently involved in a university organization and are questioning the activities you’re experiencing, consider these points:

• Is This Hazing or Just Tradition? Ask yourself: Am I being forced or pressured to do something I don’t want to do? Would I do this if I had a real choice, without fear of social consequences? Does this activity make me feel unsafe, humiliated, or degraded? Is it hidden from administrators or the public? If you answer yes to any of these questions, it’s likely hazing.
• Why “Consent” Isn’t the End of the Story: The law understands that the desire to belong, intense peer pressure, and the power dynamics within organizations can lead students to “agree” to things they would never truly want to do. Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. The law protects you even if you “agreed” under duress.
• Exiting and Reporting Safely: You have the legal right to leave any organization at any time. If you feel unsafe, remove yourself from the situation immediately, and call 911 if there’s an emergency. Inform a trusted adult (parent, RA, professor) and consider sending a formal resignation via email or text. Many universities and Texas law offer good-faith reporter protections or amnesty for those who call for help in an emergency.
• Good-Faith Reporting and Amnesty: If you are with someone in an emergency situation due to hazing (e.g., alcohol poisoning) and you call for help, most schools and Texas law provide amnesty from disciplinary action for certain violations like underage drinking. Your priority should always be saving a life.

8.3 For Former Members / Witnesses: A Path to Accountability

If you were once part of a hazing incident, either as a participant or a witness, you may be grappling with guilt or fear. We want you to know:

• Your Testimony Matters: Your firsthand account and any evidence you possess can be vital in preventing future harm and saving lives. You may hold crucial pieces of information that can lead to accountability for those responsible.
• Seeking Counsel: While cooperating can be an important step toward accountability, you may also have legal exposure. Consulting with an attorney can help you understand your rights, navigate any potential legal implications, and guide you on how to provide information effectively while protecting yourself. Lawyers can help you explore your role as a witness or even a co-defendant, depending on your level of involvement. Your cooperation can fundamentally change the trajectory of a case.

8.4 Critical Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Hazing Case

For Lee County families, navigating the aftermath of hazing can be confusing, and missteps can severely harm a potential legal claim. Avoid these common critical mistakes:

1. Letting your child delete messages or “clean up” evidence: Parents sometimes instruct their child to delete embarrassing or incriminating messages out of fear, but this makes building a case nearly impossible and can even be seen as obstruction. Instead, preserve everything immediately. Attorney911’s video on using your phone to document evidence (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs) explains best practices for preserving screenshots and photos.
2. Confronting the fraternity/sorority directly: While your anger is understandable, confronting the organization head-on will likely lead them to immediately lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses, and prepare their defenses. Document everything first, then call a lawyer before any direct confrontation.
3. Signing university “release” or “resolution” forms without legal review: Universities may pressure families to sign waivers or “internal resolution” agreements. Doing so could unknowingly waive your right to sue or resolve the situation for far less than the full value of the case. Do NOT sign anything without an attorney reviewing it first.
4. Posting details on social media before talking to a lawyer: While you may want to share what happened, defense attorneys will screenshot everything you post. Inconsistencies can hurt your credibility, and it can inadvertently waive legal privileges. Document privately, and let your lawyer control public messaging.
5. Letting your child go back to “one last meeting” or to “talk it out”: Once you’re considering legal action, any further communication with the organization should go through your lawyer. Returning can lead to intimidation, pressure, or statements being extracted that harm your case.
6. Waiting “to see how the university handles it”: Universities’ internal processes are not designed to secure compensation for your child or to deliver maximum accountability. Evidence disappears rapidly, witnesses graduate, and the statute of limitations can expire. Preserve evidence NOW and consult a lawyer immediately.
7. Talking to insurance adjusters without a lawyer: Insurance adjusters, even those who sound sympathetic, represent the insurance company’s interests, not yours. They use recorded statements against you and aim for lowball settlements. Politely decline to speak with them and refer them to your attorney.

8.5 Short FAQ

“Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities like UH, Texas A&M, and UT enjoy some sovereign immunity, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, or when suing officials in their personal capacity. Private universities like SMU and Baylor have fewer immunity protections. Every case is unique; contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a case-specific analysis.

“Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
It can be. Texas law classifies hazing as a Class B misdemeanor, but it becomes a state jail felony if it causes serious bodily injury or death. Individuals who fail to report hazing, if they knew it was occurring, can also face misdemeanor charges.

“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. Courts recognize that “consent” under peer pressure, power imbalance, and fear of exclusion is not truly voluntary consent.

“How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?”
Generally, you have 2 years from the date of injury or death to file a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit in Texas. However, the “discovery rule” may extend this if the harm or its cause wasn’t immediately known. In cases of cover-ups, the statute may be tolled (paused). Time is critical; call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately to discuss your specific timeline and learn about Texas statute of limitations in our video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c.

“What if the hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?”
The location does not eliminate liability. Universities and national fraternities or sororities can still be liable based on their sponsorship, control, knowledge, and foreseeability of hazing activities, even if they occur off-campus. Many major hazing cases that resulted in significant judgments happened at off-campus houses or retreats.

“Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”
Many hazing cases are settled confidentially before reaching trial. We prioritize your family’s privacy and can request sealed court records and confidential settlement terms. Our goal is to achieve accountability and justice while protecting your child’s anonymity as much as possible.

About The Manginello Law Firm + Call to Action

When your family faces the profound trauma of a hazing incident, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how powerful institutions fight back—and how to win anyway. Lee County families deserve legal advocates who are not only empathetic but also equipped with the insider knowledge and complex litigation experience to take on national fraternities, major universities, and their insurance companies.

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, operating as Attorney911, the Legal Emergency Lawyers™, is a Houston-based Texas personal injury firm with deep roots in serious injury, wrongful death, and institutional accountability cases. We understand that hazing at Texas universities affects families in Lee County and across our entire region.

Our firm brings unique qualifications to hazing cases:

• Insurance Insider Advantage: Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, served as a former insurance defense attorney at a national firm. This experience means she knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies value (and often undervalue) hazing claims. She understands their delay tactics, coverage exclusion arguments, and settlement strategies, allowing us to anticipate their moves. We know their playbook because we used to run it.
• Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions: Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has extensive federal court experience (including involvement in the BP Texas City explosion litigation), demonstrating our proven ability to take on billion-dollar corporations and win. We are not intimidated by national fraternities, universities, or their formidable defense teams. We know how to fight powerful defendants.
• Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death and Catastrophic Injury Experience: We have a proven track record in complex wrongful death cases, working with economists to value profound losses. Our experience includes valuing lifetime care needs for brain injury and permanent disability cases. We don’t settle cheap; we build cases that force genuine accountability.
• Dual Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise: Ralph’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) provides a crucial understanding of how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation. This dual perspective allows us to advise witnesses and former members with potential criminal exposure while pursuing civil justice for victims.
• Investigative Depth: We operate with a network of experts—medical, digital forensics, economists, and psychologists. Our experience allows us to uncover hidden evidence, including deleted group chats, social media evidence, and prior incident reports from national fraternities and university files, often obtained through discovery and public records requests. We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does.

We understand the intricacies of how fraternities, sororities, Corps programs, and athletic departments actually work behind closed doors. We also understand what makes hazing cases uniquely challenging: powerful institutional defendants, complex insurance coverage fights, and the need to balance victim privacy with public accountability. We also understand how to prove coercion even when a victim may have “agreed” under pressure.

We know this is one of the hardest things a family can face. Our job is to get you answers, hold the right people accountable, and help prevent this from happening to another family. We are not about bravado or quick settlements; we are about thorough investigation and real accountability.

Call to Action

If you or your child experienced hazing at any Texas campus, particularly those where Lee County students attend, we want to hear from you. Families in Lee County and throughout the surrounding region have the right to answers and accountability when their children are harmed by hazing.

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.

What to expect in your free consultation:

• 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, which may include pursuing a criminal report, a civil lawsuit, or both.
• We will discuss realistic timelines and what you can expect during the legal process.
• We will answer your questions about costs. 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 is no pressure to hire us on the spot. You can take your time to decide what is best for your family.
• Everything you tell us is confidential.

Contact Us Today:

• 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: Contact Lupe Peña at lupe@atty911.com for consultation in Spanish. Servicios legales en español disponibles.

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

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