Hazing in Texas: A Comprehensive Guide for Martin County Families on University Abuse and Legal Accountability

It’s initiation night at a fraternity house near one of Texas’s major universities. A talented student from Martin County, full of dreams for their future, is caught in the middle of a “tradition.” They’re being pressured relentlessly to chug liquor, participate in humiliating rituals, or endure painful physical challenges—all while older members chant, film on their phones, and laugh. Someone starts to falter: they vomit, collapse, or show signs of severe distress. The immediate reaction isn’t to get help, but to hide it—to delay calling 911 for fear of “getting the chapter shut down” or “getting in trouble.” That student, caught between loyalty to an organization and their own safety, feels utterly trapped.

This scenario, tragically, is far from fictional. It’s a reality that plays out with terrifying frequency at campuses across our state. This isn’t just a story about “frat boys” gone wild; it’s a story about systemic failures, institutional indifference, and devastating consequences that can alter a young person’s life forever.

This comprehensive guide is written for families in Martin County and across Texas who need to understand: what modern hazing truly looks like in 2025, how Texas and federal law address it, what lessons we can draw from major national cases, and what specific patterns and risks exist at our state’s flagship universities—the University of Houston (UH), Texas A&M University, the University of Texas at Austin (UT), Southern Methodist University (SMU), and Baylor University. Most importantly, it outlines the legal options available to victims and their families in Martin County and throughout Texas who are seeking justice and accountability.

Important Note: This article offers general information and insights, not specific legal advice. Every case is unique, and we strongly encourage anyone affected by hazing to seek a confidential legal consultation. We at The Manginello Law Firm serve families throughout Texas, including those in Martin County and the surrounding communities, and stand ready to help.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES:

• If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

  • Call 911 for medical emergencies, without hesitation.
  • 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, every second counts:

  • Get medical attention for your child immediately, even if they insist they are “fine” or try to downplay their injuries. Prioritize their health above all else.
  • Preserve evidence BEFORE it’s deleted. Time is of the essence:
    • Screenshot group chats, texts, and direct messages immediately. This digital footprint is often the most critical evidence.
    • Photograph any visible injuries from multiple angles and over several days to show progression.
    • Save any physical items involved, such as damaged clothing, receipts for forced purchases, or objects used in hazing.
  • Write down everything while memory is fresh: who, what, when, where, and how it happened.
  • 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 before consulting a lawyer.
    • Let your child delete messages or “clean up” any evidence.

• Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours:

  • Evidence disappears incredibly fast. Group chats are deleted, physical items are discarded, and witnesses are coached.
  • Universities and organizations move quickly to control the narrative and protect themselves.
  • Our firm can help you preserve critical evidence, navigate complex university processes, and protect your child’s legal rights.
  • Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for an immediate, confidential consultation.

2. Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like

For Martin County families unfamiliar with the hidden world of modern Greek life or collegiate organizations, the image of hazing often conjures outdated movie clichés. But in 2025, hazing is far more insidious, dangerous, and technologically sophisticated than ever before. It’s not just “boys will be boys” horseplay; it’s a spectrum of abuse designed to ensure compliance, enforce hierarchy, and maintain deep secrecy, often with catastrophic outcomes.

Hazing is any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, forced, coerced, or strongly pressured, directed at a student for the purpose of initiation into, affiliation with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization whose members include students. Crucially, this act must endanger the physical or mental health or safety of a student. The key takeaway for any Martin County parent or student is this: if someone makes you do something dangerous, harmful, or degrading to join or stay in a group—and they meant to do it or were reckless about the risk—that’s hazing. Explicit consent, or saying “I agreed to it,” does not automatically make it safe or legal when there is peer pressure and a profound power imbalance.

2.1 Main Categories of Modern Hazing

The tactics have evolved, but the underlying mechanisms of control remain. Here are the main categories of hazing we see today:

• Alcohol and Substance Hazing: This remains the most common and deadliest form of hazing. It involves forced or coerced drinking of excessive amounts of alcohol, often in rapid succession. This can include chugging challenges, “lineups” where pledges drink in unison, drinking games designed for extreme intoxication, or pressuring new members to consume unknown or mixed substances. Many hazing rituals include “Big/Little” events or “Bible study” games where pledges are forced to drink punishing amounts of alcohol until they lose consciousness.

• Physical Hazing: Despite being illegal for decades, physical hazing persists. This encompasses paddling, beatings, extreme calisthenics or “workouts” known as “smokings” that far exceed normal athletic conditioning, and sleep, food, or water deprivation. It can also involve exposure to extreme cold or heat, or forcing students into dangerous environments. Injuries like rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown), broken bones, chemical burns, and frostbite are direct consequences.

• Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing: This particularly egregious form of hazing involves forced nudity or partial nudity, simulated sexual acts (such as “elephant walks” or “roasted pig” positions), wearing degrading costumes, or acts with racial or sexist overtones including slurs or role-playing. These acts inflict profound psychological trauma and can cross the line into sexual assault.

• Psychological Hazing: While often overlooked, psychological hazing inflicts deep and lasting damage. It includes verbal abuse, constant threats, social isolation, and extreme intimidation. This can extend to manipulation, forced confessions, and public shaming on social media or in meetings. The goal is to break down a new member’s sense of self and independence, fostering unquestioning loyalty. Modern psychological hazing often features group chats where pledges are required to respond instantly to messages at all hours, creating chronic sleep deprivation and immense anxiety.

• Digital/Online Hazing (The New Frontier): The rise of social media and encrypted messaging apps has given hazing a new, terrifying dimension. This includes group chat dares, “challenges,” and public humiliation via Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, Discord, or other platforms. New members may be pressured to create or share compromising images or videos, or to post embarrassing content online as a “task.” Geo-tracking apps like Find My Friends can be used to monitor pledges’ movements 24/7. This digital surveillance ensures constant compliance and makes escape incredibly difficult.

2.2 Where Hazing Actually Happens

The stereotype of hazing as solely a “fraternity problem” in Greek life is dangerously outdated. While fraternities and sororities (including Interfraternity Council (IFC), Panhellenic, National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), and multicultural organizations) are frequent culprits, hazing is endemic across many collegiate groups:

• Corps of Cadets/ROTC: Military-style environments, especially those with deeply entrenched traditions, have a documented history of hazing.
• Spirit Squads and Tradition Clubs: Groups like the Texas Cowboys or other university spirit groups can perpetuate hazing under the guise of “tradition.”
• Athletic Teams: Football, basketball, baseball, cheerleading, and even club sports teams are not immune. Coaches and staff sometimes turn a blind eye, or even actively participate, in hazing as a misguided form of “team building.”
• Marching Bands and Performance Groups: Even seemingly innocuous organizations can foster hazing cultures.
• Service, Cultural, and Academic Organizations: In any group where belonging is highly valued, the risk of hazing exists.

The common threads across all these groups are social status, ingrained traditions, and an intense culture of secrecy. These powerful forces keep hazing practices alive, even when everyone involved “knows” hazing is illegal and harmful. For Martin County students entering any collegiate organization, it’s vital to recognize that the threat of hazing can come from unexpected places.

3. Law & Liability Framework (Texas + Federal)

Understanding the legal landscape surrounding hazing in Texas is crucial for any family in Martin County dealing with this issue. Texas law, combined with federal regulations, provides avenues for criminal prosecution, university discipline, and civil lawsuits aimed at monetary compensation and accountability.

3.1 Texas Hazing Law Basics (Education Code)

Texas has specific, robust anti-hazing provisions outlined in the Texas Education Code, Chapter 37, Subchapter F. In plain terms, Section 37.151 defines hazing as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, whether on or off campus, by one person or with others, directed against a student, that:

• Endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student, AND
• Occurs for the purpose of pledging, initiation into, affiliation with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization whose members include students.

Key points for Martin County families:

• Location doesn’t matter: Hazing can happen on or off campus, in a dorm, an off-campus house, or even at an Airbnb retreat.
• Harm is broad: It covers both mental or physical harm. This includes not just physical injuries but also extreme humiliation, psychological manipulation, and emotional distress.
• Intent: The law doesn’t require malicious intent. “Reckless” is enough—meaning the person knew the risk and did it anyway, or utterly disregarded the potential harm.
• “Consent” is not a defense: Section 37.155 explicitly states that it is not a defense to prosecution for hazing that the person being hazed consented to the hazing activity. Courts recognize that “agreement” under duress, peer pressure, or fear of exclusion is not true voluntary consent.

Criminal Penalties (Section 37.152):

• Hazing that doesn’t cause serious injury is typically a Class B Misdemeanor (up to 180 days in jail, fine up to $2,000).
• If hazing causes an injury requiring medical treatment, it can be a Class A Misdemeanor.
• Crucially, if hazing causes serious bodily injury or death, it becomes a State Jail Felony in Texas, carrying much tougher penalties.
• Individuals who are officers or members of an organization and fail to report known hazing can also face misdemeanor charges. Retaliating against someone who reports hazing is also a misdemeanor.

Organizational Liability (Section 37.153):

• Organizations themselves (fraternities, sororities, clubs) can be criminally prosecuted and fined up to $10,000 per violation if the organization authorized or encouraged the hazing, or if an officer acting in their official capacity knew about it and failed to report. Universities can also revoke recognition for these organizations. This means both individuals and the organizations they belong to can face criminal accountability.

Immunity for Good-Faith Reporting (Section 37.154):

• A person who, in good faith, reports a hazing incident to university officials or law enforcement is immune from civil or criminal liability for making that report. Additionally, Texas law and many university policies provide amnesty or leniency for students who call 911 in a medical emergency, even if underage drinking or hazing was involved, to encourage people to seek help rather than hide potential fatalities.

3.2 Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Two Avenues for Justice

When hazing occurs, families in Martin County often wonder how the legal system responds. There are two distinct, though often overlapping, paths:

• Criminal Cases: These are brought by the state (prosecutors) against individuals or organizations. The primary goal is punishment (jail time, fines, probation) and deterrence. In hazing incidents, typical criminal charges can include hazing offenses, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, battery, and tragically, even manslaughter or negligent homicide in fatal cases.

• Civil Cases: These are lawsuits filed by victims or their surviving families against those responsible for the hazing. The goal of a civil case is monetary compensation for the damages suffered and to hold individuals and institutions accountable. Civil claims often focus on legal theories like negligence, gross negligence, premises liability, negligent hiring or supervision, and wrongful death. It’s important to understand that a criminal conviction is not required to pursue a civil case. Victims can seek justice through both avenues simultaneously.

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

Beyond Texas state law, federal regulations also impact how hazing is addressed on college campuses:

• Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This crucial new federal law, implemented in phases through 2026, requires colleges and universities receiving federal funding to be more transparent about hazing incidents. It mandates schools to publicly report hazing violations, including the date, nature of the violation, and sanctions imposed. The act also strengthens hazing prevention education and requires annual public reporting of hazing data. This means Martin County families will have more access to clear information about hazing histories at institutions like UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor.

• Title IX / Clery Act: If hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of gender-based hostility, Title IX obligations are triggered, requiring universities to investigate and address the misconduct. The federal Clery Act requires colleges to report campus crime statistics, which can include hazing incidents when they involve assault, alcohol, or drug-related offenses. These federal laws provide additional layers of accountability, especially for universities that might otherwise attempt to downplay or conceal incidents.

3.4 Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit

A hazing incident usually involves multiple parties who bear some responsibility. Identifying all potentially liable parties is a key part of building a strong civil case. These can include:

• Individual Students: Those who actively planned, enforced, organized, or participated in the hazing acts, supplied alcohol, or helped cover up the incident can be held personally liable.
• Local Chapters/Organizations: The fraternity, sorority, club, or athletic team itself can be sued, especially if it sanctioned the hazing or if officers acted in their official capacity.
• National Fraternities/Sororities: The national headquarters, which sets policies, collects dues, and is responsible for overseeing local chapters, can be held liable. This often depends on what the national organization knew (or should have known) about a chapter’s hazing history and its failure to intervene effectively.
• Universities or Governing Boards: The college or university can be sued for negligent supervision, failure to enforce policies, or for showing deliberate indifference to known patterns of hazing. While public universities in Texas (like UH, Texas A&M, UT) benefit from some sovereign immunity, exceptions exist, particularly in cases of gross negligence or Title IX violations. Private universities (SMU, Baylor) generally have fewer immunity protections.
• Third Parties: This can include landlords or property owners of off-campus houses or event spaces where hazing occurred, or even bars, liquor stores, or individuals who illegally furnished alcohol that contributed to the incident (under “dram shop” laws).

Every case is highly fact-specific. Not every party will be liable in every situation, but an experienced legal team will conduct a thorough investigation to identify all responsible entities.

4. National Hazing Case Patterns (Anchor Stories)

The tragic stories of hazing victims across the nation serve as stark warnings, and their legal outcomes have shaped the landscape for accountability in Texas. These anchor stories demonstrate the common patterns of hazing, the devastating human cost, and the legal precedents that Martin County families can draw upon when seeking justice. This firm has taken on nationally recognized institutions in complex litigation, and the lessons from these cases are vital.

4.1 Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

The most frequent and fatal form of hazing involves the forced or coerced consumption of alcohol. These cases often share common threads of peer pressure, a culture of silence, and a horrific delay in seeking medical help.

• Timothy Piazza – Penn State University, Beta Theta Pi (February 2017): Timothy Piazza, a 19-year-old pledge, died from traumatic brain injuries after a “bid acceptance” night involving extreme alcohol consumption. Fraternity security cameras captured him falling repeatedly, only for brothers to delay calling for help for nearly 12 hours. The aftermath led to over a thousand criminal counts against 18 fraternity members, including involuntary manslaughter. While civil settlements were confidential, a new, stringent anti-hazing law in Pennsylvania bears his name. Piazza’s case profoundly demonstrated how unchecked alcohol hazing, coupled with a cover-up culture, can lead to devastating legal consequences for individuals and organizations.

• Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (November 2017): Andrew Coffey died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” where pledges were given handles of hard liquor. Multiple fraternity members were prosecuted, mostly pleading guilty to misdemeanor hazing. The incident led to a temporary suspension of all Greek life at FSU and fueled a statewide anti-hazing movement in Florida. Coffey’s death highlighted the dangers of highly organized, formulaic drinking events disguised as “tradition.”

• Maxwell “Max” Gruver – Louisiana State University, Phi Delta Theta (September 2017): Max Gruver died with a blood alcohol content of 0.495% after participating in a “Bible study” drinking game where incorrect answers meant chugging copious amounts of alcohol. His death resulted in multiple members being charged, with one convicted of negligent homicide. The tragedy spurred Louisiana to enact the Max Gruver Act, a felony hazing statute, and the Gruver family later secured a $6.1 million verdict in a civil case against the fraternity and its insurer. This case powerfully illustrates how legislative change often follows public outrage and clear proof of lethal hazing.

• Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (March 2021): Stone Foltz, a 20-year-old pledge, was forced to consume an entire bottle of alcohol during a “Big/Little” night. He died from alcohol poisoning. The incident led to multiple fraternity members being convicted of hazing-related charges, and the Foltz family reached a $10 million settlement in 2023, with $7 million from Pi Kappa Alpha national and approximately $3 million from Bowling Green State University. Ohio subsequently strengthened its anti-hazing laws. Foltz’s case underscores that universities themselves can face significant financial and reputational consequences alongside fraternities, and that national organizations are held responsible for deeply ingrained, dangerous traditions across their chapters.

4.2 Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Beyond alcohol, hazing frequently involves brutal physical abuse and degrading rituals. These cases demonstrate that physical violence, often performed under the guise of “tradition,” carries severe consequences.

• Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (December 2013): During an off-campus retreat in the Pocono Mountains, Michael Deng, a pledge, was blindfolded, weighted down with a heavy backpack, and repeatedly tackled in a ritual called “the glass ceiling.” He died from a traumatic brain injury after help was delayed for hours by his “brothers.” Multiple members were convicted, and remarkably, the national fraternity was criminally convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter. Pi Delta Psi was banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years. This landmark case showed that off-campus “retreats” are often chosen precisely to conceal the most dangerous forms of hazing, and that national organizations can face criminal as well as civil liability.

4.3 Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Hazing is not confined to Greek life; it is a pervasive issue found in high-profile college athletic programs as well.

• Northwestern University Athletic Hazing Scandal (2023–2025): Former football players alleged widespread sexualized and racist hazing within the program over multiple years, including forced naked “dry-humping” drills and other derogatory acts. Multiple lawsuits were filed against Northwestern and its coaching staff, leading to the firing of head coach Pat Fitzgerald, who later filed a confidential wrongful-termination suit himself. This scandal demonstrates that hazing can extend into major athletic programs, raising serious questions about institutional oversight and the responsibility of university leadership and coaches.

4.4 What These National Cases Mean for Texas Families

The major hazing tragedies detailed above, many resulting in multi-million dollar settlements and significant legislative changes, establish critical precedents for families across Texas, including those in Martin County. The common threads through these cases are clear: forced drinking, extreme humiliation, severe physical violence, deliberate delays in seeking medical care, and organized cover-ups.

These national patterns create a strong legal foundation for arguing that hazing, and its potentially fatal consequences, are foreseeable. When a chapter at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, or Baylor repeats a dangerous act that has already led to injury or death in another state, it becomes increasingly difficult for the national organization or the university to claim ignorance or lack of foreseeability. Martin County families affected by hazing are therefore not fighting in the dark; they can leverage these lessons and legal precedents to pursue justice and ensure accountability, often only achieved through determined litigation.

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

Hazing is an issue that impacts students and families across the Lone Star State. While specific incidents make headlines, the underlying patterns of abuse, secrecy, and institutional struggle to address the problem are common across all major Texas universities. Our firm has deep experience across Texas, and we understand the unique cultures and challenges at each of these institutions.

This section provides a detailed look at the hazing landscape at five of Texas’s most prominent universities. For Martin County families, understanding these dynamics is crucial, especially if your child attends or plans to attend one of these institutions. While Midland, the county seat of Martin County, is home to Midland College and is connected to Texas public universities through community and alumni networks, the proximity to larger university hubs like Houston and Austin means that families from Martin County frequently send their children to these schools, making these campus contexts particularly relevant. Even though none of these institutions are directly within Martin County, the cultural and academic ties are strong, and the legal framework for hazing applies uniformly across the state.

5.1 University of Houston (UH)

The University of Houston, a vibrant and diverse urban campus, plays a significant role in the lives of many Martin County families whose children seek higher education closer to major metropolitan areas. UH students, often balancing academic and professional ambitions, engage in a wide array of campus activities, including a thriving Greek life.

5.1.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

The University of Houston is a Tier One research institution with a large and diverse student body, blending both commuter and residential students. Its Greek life is robust, with numerous fraternities and sororities under various councils (Panhellenic, Interfraternity Council, Multicultural Greek Council, National Pan-Hellenic Council). Beyond Greek organizations, UH boasts a wide range of student clubs, athletic teams, and cultural associations, all of which have the potential for hazing. The campus culture reflects Houston’s dynamic, melting-pot ethos, where students often blend their academic and social lives with the opportunities of a major city.

5.1.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

UH maintains a strict anti-hazing policy, clearly prohibiting any hazing activity, 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 acts that cause mental distress as part of initiation or affiliation. Students are strongly encouraged to report hazing through the Dean of Students Office, the Office of Student Conduct, or directly to the University of Houston Police Department (UHPD). The university also provides a general statement on hazing and some disciplinary information on its website, aligning with Texas Education Code requirements.

5.1.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Like many large universities, UH has grappled with hazing incidents. A notable case involved Pi Kappa Alpha in 2016, where pledges allegedly experienced food, water, and sleep deprivation during a multi-day event. Particularly concerning was the report of one student suffering a lacerated spleen after being violently slammed onto a surface. This incident led to misdemeanor hazing charges against individuals and university suspension for the chapter. While UH’s publicly available list of hazing violations may not be as extensive as some other Texas universities, disciplinary records often reference fraternities involved in behavior “likely to produce mental or physical discomfort,” including serious alcohol misuse and policy violations, resulting in suspensions or probation. These incidents underscore the ongoing challenges that UH, like its peers, faces in curbing dangerous Greek life behavior.

5.1.3 How a UH Hazing Case Might Proceed

For a Martin County family pursuing a hazing case originating at UH, several Houston-area entities might be involved. Law enforcement agencies could include UHPD and/or the Houston Police Department, depending on where the incident occurred. Civil lawsuits would likely be filed in state or federal courts with jurisdiction over Houston and Harris County. Potential defendants in such cases could range from the individual students who perpetrated the hazing, the local chapter, the national fraternity/sorority, and potentially the University of Houston itself, along with any relevant property owners or third parties. Our Houston office handles cases in this jurisdiction regularly.

5.1.5 What UH Students & Parents Should Do

For Martin County students attending UH and their parents, proactive measures are key:

• Know the Reporting Channels: Familiarize yourselves with UH’s Dean of Students, UHPD, and online reporting forms. Use the National Anti-Hazing Hotline (1-888-NOT-HAZE) for anonymous tips if local reporting feels unsafe.
• Document Everything (Early): If you suspect or experience hazing, immediately document dates, times, specific acts, and names. Capture screenshots of group chats or social media posts, and photograph any injuries.
• Review Organizational Histories: While UH’s public registry might be less comprehensive than some, research local chapter and national organization hazing histories to identify patterns.
• Seek Houston-Based Legal Counsel: If hazing results in injury or significant mental distress, speaking with a lawyer experienced in Houston-based hazing cases can be critical. Our firm has a deep understanding of the local legal landscape, how to uncover prior discipline, and retrieve internal files from UH and national organizations.
• Prioritize Safety: If in immediate danger, call 911. Your child’s well-being is paramount, and Texas law protects good-faith reporters.

5.2 Texas A&M University

Texas A&M, a pillar of tradition and academic excellence, particularly for engineering and agricultural sciences, draws a significant number of students from Martin County and across West Texas. The university’s strong emphasis on tradition, deeply ingrained within its identity and the Corps of Cadets, also presents unique challenges concerning hazing.

5.2.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Texas A&M University in College Station is renowned for its deeply rich traditions, robust Greek life, and the iconic Corps of Cadets, which fosters a distinct military-style environment. The student body is large and fiercely loyal, often extending this loyalty to campus organizations such as fraternities, sororities, and various student groups. This traditional and close-knit culture, while building strong bonds, can also create an environment where hazing is rationalized as a necessary rite of passage or a means to instill discipline and loyalty.

5.2.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Texas A&M has established clear anti-hazing policies, prohibiting any such activities within its fraternities, sororities, athletic teams, Corps of Cadets, and any other student organization. University policy explicitly states that hazing, whether on or off campus, is forbidden. Reporting is facilitated through the Student Conduct Office, the Texas A&M University Police Department (UPD), and specific channels within the Corps of Cadets. The university emphasizes disciplinary action for violations and is required to maintain records of hazing education and reported incidents.

5.2.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Unfortunately, Texas A&M has faced high-profile hazing allegations that underscore the risks within its traditional student organizations:

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) Lawsuit (around 2021): In a harrowing case, two pledges alleged they were subjected to egregious hazing, including being covered in substances such as an industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit, resulting in severe chemical burns that required emergency skin graft surgeries. The SAE chapter was suspended by the university, and the pledges filed a $1 million lawsuit against the fraternity, highlighting the extreme physical harm that can result from hazing.

• Corps of Cadets Lawsuit (2023): A former cadet filed a lawsuit alleging degrading hazing within the Corps. The allegations included 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 in damages, and while Texas A&M stated it addressed the matter through its internal processes, the case brought to light the potential for dangerous hazing within one of the university’s most revered institutions.

These incidents demonstrate the persistent challenge of hazing at A&M, highlighting that even organizations steeped in tradition must be held accountable when “tradition” turns into abuse.

5.2.4 How a Texas A&M Hazing Case Might Proceed

For a Martin County family whose child experiences hazing at Texas A&M, the legal complexities can be significant. Local law enforcement could involve UPD and/or Bryan/College Station Police. Civil suits would likely proceed in courts with jurisdiction over Brazos County. Due to the unique structure of the Corps of Cadets and the intertwining of some Greek organizations with university traditions, hazing cases against Texas A&M might involve:

• The State of Texas: For public institutions like A&M, the state’s sovereign immunity needs to be navigated carefully.
• Individual officers/members: Within both Greek life and the Corps.
• Local chapters and national organizations: For fraternities and sororities.
• University officials: Potentially for negligent supervision or failure to act on known hazing patterns.

5.2.5 What Texas A&M Students & Parents Should Do

For Martin County students and parents connected to Texas A&M:

• Understand the Culture: Be aware that A&M’s rich traditions, while positive, can sometimes be manipulated to obscure hazing. Question “traditions” that involve secrecy, degradation, or physical/mental endangerment.
• Review A&M’s Policies: Thoroughly understand the university’s hazing policy and the specific regulations for the Corps of Cadets or Greek life.
• Document and Report: If you suspect hazing, immediately gather evidence (screenshots, photos, journal entries) and report it to the Student Conduct Office, UPD, or, if within the Corps, to the appropriate command channels. If you fear retaliation, consider anonymous reporting options or contacting off-campus support groups.
• Seek Legal Advice: If a hazing incident results in injury or trauma, contact an experienced hazing lawyer. Our firm can help navigate the specific legal landscape of cases involving both Texas A&M Greek life and the Corps of Cadets, ensuring all responsible parties are identified.

5.3 University of Texas at Austin (UT)

The University of Texas at Austin, a flagship institution for many students from Martin County seeking top-tier higher education in the state capital, stands out both for its academic prowess and its unique approach to transparency regarding hazing.

5.3.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

The University of Texas at Austin is a high-profile, highly competitive public university with a sprawling campus and a vibrant, often intense, student culture. Its Greek life is extensive, encompassing numerous fraternities and sororities under various councils. Beyond Greek organizations, UT is home to a multitude of spirit groups, clubs, and athletic teams, some of which have historically been associated with hazing. The culture is one of strong pride and tradition, which, similar to other major universities, can sometimes offer a veneer for dangerous “rites of passage.”

5.3.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

UT Austin maintains a robust anti-hazing policy that is readily accessible and strictly enforced. The university’s official policy prohibits any intentional, knowing, or reckless act directed against a student for the purpose of initiation or affiliation, which ultimately endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student. UT provides clear reporting channels through the Office of the Dean of Students, Student Conduct and Academic Integrity, Title IX Office (if gender-based misconduct is involved), and the University of Texas Police Department (UTPD).

Crucially, UT Austin also distinguishes itself with a dedicated public Hazing Violations page on its website (hazing.utexas.edu), which lists organizations, dates of violations, specific conduct, and sanctions imposed. This transparency is vital for Martin County parents and students researching an organization’s history.

5.3.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

UT’s public Hazing Violations page often reveals significant incidents and the university’s responses:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): This chapter faced disciplinary action after new members were directed to consume milk and repeatedly perform strenuous calisthenics. The university found this constituted hazing, placing the chapter on probation and mandating hazing-prevention education. This incident, while not resulting in death, highlights recurring patterns of physical and substance-related harassment.
• “Absolute Texxas” Spirit Group (2022): This spirit organization was disciplined for multiple hazing violations, including alcohol and drug misconduct, blindfolding, simulated kidnapping, and degrading new members. This incident emphasizes that hazing is not solely a Greek life issue and can permeate various student groups.
• Other groups, including traditional spirit organizations, have been sanctioned for forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing, and punishment-based practices, demonstrating a consistent effort by UT to address such misconduct when identified.

UT’s commitment to public transparency, while not exhaustive, provides a critical resource. However, the repeated appearances of certain organizations on this list underscore the persistence of hazing despite efforts to curb it.

5.3.4 How a UT Hazing Case Might Proceed

For a Martin County family with a child involved in a hazing incident at UT Austin, several entities may be implicated. Law enforcement could involve UTPD and/or the Austin Police Department, depending on the incident’s location. Civil lawsuits would likely be filed in state or federal courts within Travis County. Potential defendants would include individual students, the local chapter, the national organization, and potentially the University of Texas System and its officials. The availability of prior violation records on UT’s public website can be a powerful tool in civil litigation, demonstrating patterns of behavior and the university’s prior knowledge of risks. Our firm regularly handles complex cases in the Austin area.

5.3.5 What UT Students & Parents Should Do

For Martin County students and parents connected to UT Austin:

• Utilize UT’s Public Resources: Before joining any organization, thoroughly review UT’s Hazing Violations page (hazing.utexas.edu) to understand an organization’s disciplinary history.
• Understand Reporting: Be familiar with how to report hazing to the Dean of Students or UTPD. The Title IX Office is also a critical resource if gender-based violence or discrimination is involved.
• Document and Observe: Encourage students to document any suspicious activities or direct experiences. Screenshots, photos, and detailed personal notes are invaluable.
• Seek Austin-Based Legal Counsel: If hazing leads to injury, trauma, or academic disruption, contact a lawyer experienced in Austin-based hazing cases. Such legal professionals can access university records, including prior discipline, to strengthen a civil claim and guide families through both campus processes and the legal system.

5.4 Southern Methodist University (SMU)

Southern Methodist University, a private institution known for its beautiful campus and strong academic programs, especially in business and law, attracts many affluent families, including those from Martin County. The university’s vibrant Greek life and social scene often intertwine, making hazing a persistent concern.

5.4.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

SMU is a private, well-resourced university with a reputation for a strong Greek presence that often shapes its social landscape. While offering a rigorous academic environment, the social aspects, particularly within fraternities and sororities, are a significant part of many students’ experiences. This environment, while fostering strong alumni networks and social connections, can also create pressures to conform to group norms, sometimes leading to hazing practices. Many families from Martin County are drawn to SMU’s prestige and smaller class sizes.

5.4.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

SMU maintains a clear anti-hazing policy, prohibiting any activity that endangers the mental or physical health of a student for initiation or continued membership. The policy covers on-campus and off-campus activities and emphasizes that consent is not a defense. SMU provides multiple reporting mechanisms, including the Office of the Dean of Students, the SMU Police Department (SMU PD), and various online platforms such as RealResponse, which allows for anonymous tips and reports. As a private institution, SMU is generally more guarded about publicizing disciplinary actions compared to public universities, often citing student privacy.

5.4.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Hazing incidents, while not always publicly detailed, have led to significant disciplinary actions at SMU:

• Kappa Alpha Order (2017): This fraternity was suspended by the university after allegations surfaced that new members were paddled, forced to consume excessive alcohol, and deprived of sleep during hazing rituals. The chapter faced severe restrictions on recruiting and activities, with its full reinstatement taking several years. This incident highlighted the enduring presence of traditional physical and alcohol hazing, even at a campus closely monitored by its administration.
• While SMU may not publish a public hazing violations log like UT, its internal investigations and disciplinary actions are taken seriously, often resulting in organizational suspensions or loss of recognition, underscoring the university’s acknowledgment of ongoing hazing issues.

5.4.4 How an SMU Hazing Case Might Proceed

For a Martin County family pursuing a hazing case from SMU, the legal avenues differ somewhat due to its private status. Sovereign immunity is generally not a defense for private universities, which can simplify some legal paths compared to public institutions. Law enforcement could involve SMU PD and/or the Dallas Police Department. Civil lawsuits would likely be filed in state or federal courts within Dallas County. Potential defendants would include individual students, the local chapter, the national organization, and potentially SMU as an institution, along with any property owners involved.

5.4.5 What SMU Students & Parents Should Do

For Martin County students and parents connected to SMU:

• Research Thoroughly: While public information may be limited, speak to current students, alumni, and review any available university climate reports to gauge an organization’s reputation regarding hazing.
• Understand SMU’s Reporting: Familiarize yourselves with SMU’s reporting mechanisms, including anonymous options like RealResponse.
• Prioritize Confidentiality and Documentation: If hazing is suspected, encourage students to document everything discreetly. Due to SMU’s private nature, internal investigations might be less transparent, making personal documentation even more critical.
• Seek Dallas-Based Legal Counsel: If hazing results in injury or severe distress, contacting an experienced hazing lawyer familiar with the legal landscape of private universities in Dallas County is crucial. Our firm can help navigate SMU’s internal processes while simultaneously pursuing external legal avenues, ensuring comprehensive accountability.

5.5 Baylor University

Baylor University, a private Baptist university in Waco, holds a unique place in the hearts of many Texas families, including those from Martin County, valuing its faith-based mission and strong academics. However, Baylor has faced significant scrutiny in the past regarding institutional oversight, particularly concerning sexual assault and athlete misconduct, which provides a relevant backdrop for understanding its approach to hazing.

5.5.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Baylor University is a prominent private Christian university known for its strong academic programs and deeply ingrained spiritual and traditional values. Its campus culture often emphasizes community, faith, and a strong sense of belonging. Baylor has a well-established Greek life, as well as numerous athletic programs and student organizations that contribute to its vibrant campus environment. While its faith-based mission is a core aspect of its identity, this has not made it immune to the challenges of hazing and other forms of misconduct.

5.5.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Baylor University maintains a strict anti-hazing policy that aligns with Texas state law, prohibiting any act that endangers the mental or physical health and safety of a student for the purpose of initiation or affiliation. The policy explicitly states that consent is not a defense and emphasizes that hazing is contrary to Baylor’s Christian mission and values. Reporting mechanisms are centralized through the Office of Student Conduct, and students can also report to the Baylor University Police Department (BUPD) or other trusted university officials. The university is committed to investigating all reports and imposing appropriate sanctions.

5.5.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Baylor’s history, marked by broader institutional challenges concerning athlete conduct and Title IX compliance, provides a context for its approach to hazing:

• Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020): In a widely reported incident, 14 players from the Baylor baseball team were suspended following an investigation into hazing allegations. The suspensions were staggered to minimize disruption to the team’s season, but the incident highlighted that hazing extends beyond Greek life into even high-profile athletic programs at Baylor. This was a significant moment for the university, underscoring its ongoing struggle to balance athletic success with student well-being and accountability.
• Baylor’s “zero tolerance” stance is often articulated. Still, the existence of such incidents demonstrates the persistent challenge of enforcing these policies within entrenched student cultures, especially given the historical context of broader oversight failures that have plagued the university.

5.5.4 How a Baylor Hazing Case Might Proceed

For a Martin County family pursuing a hazing case originating at Baylor, the legal process will be handled by private institutions. Baylor, as a private university, does not typically benefit from sovereign immunity, which can simplify some legal filings. Law enforcement actions could involve BUPD and/or the Waco Police Department. Civil lawsuits would likely be filed in state or federal courts within McLennan County. Potential defendants would include individual students, the local chapter, the national organization (if applicable), and potentially Baylor University itself. The context of Baylor’s prior institutional misconduct, particularly its Title IX issues, could be relevant in arguing patterns of collegiate abuse and institutional indifference in a hazing context.

5.2.5 What Baylor Students & Parents Should Do

For Martin County students and parents connected to Baylor University:

• Scrutinize Organizations: Given Baylor’s history, closely examine any organization your child wishes to join, looking for signs of secrecy or excessive control that can mask hazing.
• Understand Baylor’s Ethos: Be aware that the university’s strong emphasis on “tradition” and loyalty could, in some contexts, be used to justify or conceal hazing.
• Document Thoroughly and Report: If hazing is suspected, meticulous documentation (screenshots, detailed notes, photos) is crucial. Report promptly to the Office of Student Conduct or BUPD.
• Seek Legal Advice: If hazing results in injury, trauma, or other harm, contact a lawyer experienced in hazing cases in Central Texas. Our firm can provide critical guidance, helping families navigate both Baylor’s internal processes and the external legal system to achieve accountability.

6. Fraternities & Sororities: Campus-Specific + National Histories

When hazing tears a family apart in Martin County, the question inevitably arises: how could this happen again, especially when national organizations claim to have strict anti-hazing policies? The answer often lies in the pattern—the undeniable history that demonstrates many fraternities and sororities, across different campuses, repeat the same dangerous acts. This pattern strongly informs our legal strategy at The Manginello Law Firm, providing crucial evidence of foreseeability and a national organization’s failure to act on prior warnings.

6.1 Why National Histories Matter

The reality is that most fraternities and sororities at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor are not independent entities, but rather local chapters of national organizations. These national headquarters (often based out of state) typically have thick anti-hazing manuals, extensive risk management policies, and dedicated staff—not because they are inherently proactive, but because they have a documented history of deaths, catastrophic injuries, and multi-million-dollar lawsuits from hazing across their various chapters.

These national organizations are acutely aware of the patterns: the “Big/Little” drinking nights, the paddling “traditions,” the degrading rituals, the forced calisthenics, and the culture of silence. Therefore, when a Texas chapter repeats the exact same script that got another chapter shut down, fined, or sued in another state, it becomes incredibly difficult for the national organization to claim ignorance. This “prior bad acts” evidence strongly supports arguments of foreseeability and can demonstrate a national organization’s negligent supervision or deliberate indifference to known risks. Knowing this history is a cornerstone of our firm’s legal strategy.

6.2 Organization Mapping: From Campus to National Patterns

While listing every single chapter is beyond the scope here, certain national fraternities and sororities frequently appear in hazing incidents across campuses. Here’s how patterns across campuses like UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor connect to broader national histories:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike):

  • On Texas Campuses: Chapters active at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and Baylor. The UH chapter faced disciplinary action in 2016 for hazing resulting in a lacerated spleen, and the UT Austin chapter was cited in 2023 for forced calisthenics and milk consumption.
  • National Pattern: Pi Kappa Alpha has a devastating national history of alcohol-related hazing deaths. Stone Foltz at Bowling Green State (2021) died after forced alcohol consumption, leading to a $10 million settlement and criminal convictions. David Bogenberger at Northern Illinois (2012) also died from alcohol poisoning, resulting in a $14 million settlement. These incidents demonstrate a clear, repeating “Big/Little” and alcohol hazing script, highlighting a national organization’s chronic failure to prevent foreseeable harm.

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE):

  • On Texas Campuses: Chapters active at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and SMU. The Texas A&M chapter faced a $1 million lawsuit in 2021 for chemical burns from a hazing ritual. The UT Austin chapter was sued in 2024 for an alleged assault.
  • National Pattern: SAE has a deeply troubling national history, with numerous hazing-related deaths and severe injuries across the country. This pattern led them to announce the elimination of the pledge process in 2014, yet incidents persist. Lawsuits include a recent traumatic brain injury case filed against an SAE chapter at the University of Alabama (2023). This organization exemplifies a pattern of recurring severe hazing despite supposed national reforms.

• Phi Delta Theta:

  • On Texas Campuses: Chapters active at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor.
  • National Pattern: Phi Delta Theta is tragically associated with the death of Maxwell “Max” Gruver at Louisiana State University (2017), who died from alcohol poisoning during a forced drinking game. The Gruver family secured a $6.1 million verdict. This case became a legal watershed, leading to Louisiana’s felony hazing statute and showing the fatal consequences of alcohol-centric hazing “traditions.”

• Pi Kappa Phi:

  • On Texas Campuses: Chapters active at UH, Texas A&M, and UT Austin.
  • National Pattern: This fraternity is linked to the death of Andrew Coffey at Florida State University (2017), who died from alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night,” leading to numerous misdemeanor hazing prosecutions. The case highlighted the dangers of organized, high-volume drinking events, a foreseeable risk for the national organization.

• Kappa Alpha Order:

  • On Texas Campuses: Chapters active at Texas A&M and SMU. The SMU chapter was suspended in 2017 for paddling, forced drinking, and sleep deprivation.
  • National Pattern: Kappa Alpha Order has a national record of hazing suspensions and allegations often involving alcohol misuse and physical abuse, further demonstrating repeating patterns of prohibited behavior that, across different campuses, often result in similar and foreseeable harms.

• Sigma Chi:

  • On Texas Campuses: Chapters active at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and Baylor. The UT Arlington chapter settled a lawsuit in 2021 for a pledge hospitalized from alcohol poisoning during hazing.
  • National Pattern: Sigma Chi is associated with a $10 million+ settlement in a 2024 College of Charleston hazing case involving physical beatings, forced substance consumption, and psychological torment. This recent outcome underscores that juries are willing to award substantial damages for severe hazing, validating the firm’s commitment to client accountability.

6.3 Tie Back to Legal Strategy

These recurring patterns are not mere coincidence; they are critical in hazing litigation. For Martin County families, understanding this landscape allows us to build stronger cases by demonstrating:

• Foreseeability: That these national organizations and universities had prior knowledge or “constructive notice” that such hazing tactics and their dangerous consequences were highly likely to occur.
• Failure to Act: That despite ample warnings (prior incidents, multi-million dollar verdicts elsewhere), these institutions often failed to meaningfully enforce anti-hazing policies, adequately train members, or aggressively punish repeat offenders.
• Pattern of Behavior: That the incident your child experienced is not an isolated event, but part of an ingrained, multi-campus culture the national organization or university permitted to persist.

This evidence significantly impacts settlement leverage and can increase the potential for punitive damages, holding individuals and organizations fully accountable for their actions and inactions.

7. Building a Case: Evidence, Damages, Strategy

Successfully pursuing a hazing lawsuit requires far more than just reporting an incident. It demands a sophisticated, strategic approach to evidence collection, thorough understanding of damages, and a clear legal strategy to overcome the formidable defenses typically mounted by powerful institutions. At The Manginello Law Firm, we specialize in these complex investigations, turning scattered fragments of evidence into a compelling case for accountability.

7.1 Evidence: The Foundation of Every Hazing Case

Modern hazing cases are won or lost based on the quality and volume of evidence gathered, much of which is digital. We pursue every possible avenue to build a comprehensive picture:

• Digital Communications (The #1 Source): Group chats and direct messages are the new “smoking gun.” We meticulously collect and preserve communications from platforms like GroupMe, WhatsApp, Signal, Telegram, Discord, iMessage, and various fraternity/sorority-specific apps. These messages often reveal the planning, explicit instructions, threats, coercion, and cover-up attempts. We look for timestamps, participant names, and context to demonstrate the full scope of the hazing. If messages are deleted, our digital forensics experts can often recover them. 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.

• Photos & Videos: Content filmed by members during hazing events, photos of injuries or humiliating acts, and footage shared in group chats or posted on social media are critical. We also seek security camera footage or doorbell camera recordings from houses or venues where hazing occurred.

• Internal Organization Documents: Through discovery, we demand access to pledge manuals, initiation scripts, “tradition” lists, rules, and any internal emails or texts from officers discussing activities with new members. We also scrutinize individual pledges’ “performance” records.

• University Records: We subpoena prior conduct files, records of probation or suspension for the organization, warning letters, and incident reports filed with campus police or student conduct offices. We also analyze Clery Act reports and other institutional disclosures to identify patterns of past misconduct.

• Medical and Psychological Records: Comprehensive medical documentation is vital. This includes emergency room reports, hospitalization records, surgery and rehabilitation notes, and toxicology reports (for alcohol/drug hazing). Psychological evaluations documenting PTSD, depression, anxiety, or suicidal ideation are critical for establishing emotional damages.

• Witness Testimony: We seek out and interview pledges, current members, former members who quit or were expelled, roommates, Resident Assistants (RAs), coaches, trainers, and other bystanders who may have witnessed or knew about the hazing.

7.2 Damages: Recovering What Was Lost

Hazing inflicts a wide range of harms, and the law provides avenues for victims and their families to recover compensation for these losses. We meticulously calculate all potential damages to ensure our clients receive full and fair compensation:

• Medical Bills & Future Care: This covers immediate emergency care, hospitalization, surgeries, ongoing medical treatment, physical therapy, medications, and mental health counseling. In cases of catastrophic injury, it includes the costs of long-term care plans for brain injuries, organ damage, or permanent disabilities.

• Lost Earnings / Educational Impact: This includes compensation for missed semesters, tuition and fees, delayed graduation, setbacks in entering the workforce, and, significantly, the diminished earning capacity if injuries lead to permanent disabilities or severe psychological trauma that impacts a student’s ability to work.

• Non-Economic Damages: These intangible losses are often the most profound. They include physical pain and suffering, emotional distress, psychological trauma, humiliation, loss of dignity, and the profound loss of enjoyment of life. This can also encompass the damage to reputation if an incident was publicized.

• Wrongful Death Damages (for Families): In the most tragic cases, where hazing leads to death, surviving family members can pursue a wrongful death claim. This includes compensation for funeral and burial costs, loss of financial support the deceased would have provided, and the profound non-economic losses such as loss of companionship, love, guidance, and the grief and emotional suffering endured by parents, siblings, or spouses.

• Punitive Damages: In cases where defendants acted with extreme recklessness, malice, or purposeful indifference, punitive damages may be sought. These are designed to punish the wrongdoers and deter future hazing. While subject to caps in Texas, they can be a powerful tool for accountability.

These examples describe types of compensation, but each case’s value is unique and highly dependent on its specific facts.

7.3 Role of Different Defendants and Insurance Coverage

Hazing litigation is complex because it often involves multiple defendants, each with their own legal counsel and insurance carriers.

• Defendants’ Tactics: National fraternities, sororities, and universities typically employ large, well-funded legal teams that specialize in defending against these types of claims. They often argue that the incident was an “unforeseeable accident,” that the pledge “consented,” or that it occurred “off-campus” and therefore isn’t their responsibility.
• Insurance Battles: A major part of the legal fight often involves insurance companies. Insurers frequently try to deny coverage, arguing that hazing or intentional acts are excluded from their policies. They may also attempt to cast the victim as partially responsible.
• Our Strategic Approach: At The Manginello Law Firm, we anticipate these defenses. Our experience, including Lupe Peña’s background as a former insurance defense attorney, gives us an insider’s view into how these companies operate. We identify all potential sources of insurance coverage (chapter policies, national policies, university umbrella policies, even individual homeowner’s policies), navigate complex policy exclusions, and fight for full coverage. We dismantle the “consent” defense, prove foreseeability through national patterns of abuse, and show that “off-campus” locations do not absolve institutions of responsibility. We build cases that force institutions to accept accountability.

8. Practical Guides & FAQs

When hazing impacts a family in Martin County, immediate action and clear information are paramount. Here, we offer practical guides for parents, students, and witnesses, as well as answers to common questions.

8.1 For Parents: Navigating the Hazing Crisis

As a parent, your instinct is to protect your child. If you suspect or discover your child is involved in hazing, here’s what you need to know:

• Warning Signs of Hazing: Be vigilant for:

  • Unexplained injuries (bruises, burns, sprains) or repeated “accidents” with vague explanations.
  • Extreme fatigue or sleep deprivation, constant exhaustion beyond normal college stress.
  • Drastic mood changes: increased anxiety, depression, irritability, or extreme secrecy.
  • Sudden withdrawal from family or old friends, or reluctance to discuss organization activities.
  • Obsessive phone use for group chats, especially late at night, often with an underlying fear of missing “mandatory” events.
  • Financial red flags: unexpected fees, forced purchases, or requests for money without clear explanation.

• How to Talk to Your Child (Non-Confrontationally):

  • Start with open-ended questions: “How are things really going with your group?” or “Is there anything that makes you uncomfortable?”
  • Emphasize their safety and well-being over loyalty to an organization. Make it clear you will support them, no matter what.
  • Avoid judgmental language or accusations. Just listen.

• If Your Child is Hurt or Confides in You:

  • Get immediate medical attention. Prioritize their physical and mental health. Do not delay.
  • Document absolutely everything. Write down dates, times, what your child said, who was involved, and where it happened. Screenshot any texts, DMs, or social media posts they show you. Photograph all injuries from multiple angles. Save any relevant physical items.
  • Do not confront the organization directly. This can lead to evidence destruction or witness coaching.
  • Contact a lawyer immediately. If your child has suffered significant physical or psychological harm, or if you feel the university or organization is minimizing the situation, seeking legal counsel early is critical.

• Dealing with the University:

  • Document every interaction with university administrators (who you spoke to, when, what was said).
  • Ask direct questions about prior incidents involving the same organization and the school’s response.
  • Do not sign any waivers or “internal resolution” agreements without reviewing them with an attorney.

8.2 For Students/Pledges: Your Rights and Safety

If you’re a student from Martin County currently experiencing hazing, remember that you are not alone, and you have rights.

• Is This Hazing or Just “Tradition”? If an activity makes you feel unsafe, humiliated, coerced, or if you’re forced to drink or endure pain; if it’s hidden from the public or administrators—it is hazing. The Texas Education Code’s definition is very clear: if it endangers your mental or physical health for the purpose of affiliation, it’s hazing.

• Why “Consent” Isn’t the End of the Story: It’s common to feel like you “agreed” to participate, but you’re operating under immense peer pressure, the desire for belonging, and fear of exclusion. Texas law explicitly states that your consent is not a defense for those hazing you.

• Exiting and Reporting Safely:

  • Immediate Danger: If you are in immediate physical danger, call 911 immediately. Protecting your life is the priority.
  • De-pledging: You have the legal right to leave any organization at any time. If you fear retaliation, tell a trusted adult (parent, RA, professor) outside the organization first. Send an email or text (for a paper trail) to the chapter president stating you are resigning your membership. Do not attend “one last meeting” if you suspect it will be confrontational or coercive.
  • Reporting: You can report hazing confidentially or anonymously to campus officials (Dean of Students, Title IX Coordinator if applicable), to campus police, or through the National Anti-Hazing Hotline (1-888-NOT-HAZE).

• Good-Faith Reporting and Amnesty: Many schools and Texas law (Texas Education Code § 37.154 regarding good-faith reporting) offer amnesty or immunity for students who call for help in an emergency, even if underage drinking or other minor offenses were involved. Protecting a life is always paramount.

8.3 For Former Members/Witnesses: Finding Your Voice

If you are a former member or a witness to hazing, you may be grappling with guilt, fear of retaliation, or complicity. Your testimony, however, is often crucial to preventing future harm and achieving justice.

• Your Role in Accountability: We understand the complex emotions, but your unique perspective and evidence can save lives. By speaking out, you can help hold perpetrators accountable and bring about much-needed institutional change.
• Seeking Legal Advice: If you have concerns about your own legal exposure, you should seek independent legal counsel. Our firm has experience advising witnesses and former members who may have dual civil/criminal exposure, helping them navigate their role and protect their rights while cooperating. Your truth can make a difference.

8.4 Critical Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Hazing Case

For Martin County families grappling with hazing, the aftermath is a maze of emotional turmoil and strategic decisions. Avoid these common missteps:

1. Letting Your Child Delete Messages or “Clean Up” Evidence: Defense attorneys will claim this was a deliberate cover-up, making your case incredibly difficult to prove. Always preserve everything, immediately. Screenshots, photos of injuries, and group chat histories are vital.
2. Confronting the Fraternity/Sorority Directly: This alerts them to your intentions, allowing them to destroy evidence, coach witnesses, and prepare their defense. Document privately, then call a lawyer before any direct confrontation.
3. Signing University “Release” or “Resolution” Forms: These often include clauses that waive your right to pursue further legal action. University-offered “settlements” are typically far below the true value of your case. Never sign anything without an attorney’s review.
4. Posting Details on Social Media Before Talking to a Lawyer: What you post can be screenshot by defense attorneys and used against you to claim inconsistencies, hurting your credibility and potentially waiving legal privileges. Consult your lawyer before any public statements.
5. Letting Your Child Go Back for “One Last Meeting” With the Organization: Leaders often use these meetings to pressure, intimidate, or extract statements that can damage your case. Once you’re considering legal action, all communication should go through your attorney.
6. Waiting “to See How the University Handles It”: Universities prioritize their own reputation. Critical evidence (digital messages, witness memories) disappears rapidly. Preserve evidence NOW, and consult a lawyer immediately. University internal processes are rarely a substitute for real accountability.
7. Talking to Insurance Adjusters Without a Lawyer: Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. Recorded statements can be used against you, and early settlement offers are almost always low-ball. Politely decline and state that your attorney will contact them. Watch Attorney911’s video on client mistakes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY.

8.5 Short FAQ

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

• “Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
  It can be. While generally a Class B misdemeanor, Texas law elevates hazing to a state jail felony if it causes serious bodily injury or death. Individuals who are officers and fail to report hazing can also face misdemeanor charges.

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

• “How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?”
  Generally 2 years from the date of injury or death in Texas. However, the “discovery rule” can extend this if the harm or its cause wasn’t immediately known, and fraudulent concealment can toll (pause) the statute. Time is critical; evidence disappears quickly. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately. 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?”
  Location does not eliminate liability. Universities and national fraternities can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, knowledge, and foreseeability of off-campus activities. Many major hazing cases that resulted in multi-million-dollar judgments occurred off-campus.

• “Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”
  Most hazing cases settle confidentially before trial. While we prioritize justice and accountability, we also work to protect your family’s privacy through sealed court records and confidential settlement terms when possible. We’ll discuss these options with you.

9. About The Manginello Law Firm + Call to Action

When your family in Martin County faces a hazing case, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how powerful institutions fight back—and precisely how to apply maximum leverage to secure accountability. At The Manginello Law Firm, we are the Legal Emergency Lawyers™ because we provide immediate, aggressive, and highly effective representation when you’re facing a crisis.

We are a Houston-based Texas personal injury firm with deep experience in serious injury, wrongful death, and institutional accountability cases. From our Houston office, we serve families throughout Texas, including Martin County and surrounding areas, who have been impacted by hazing at campuses across the state. We understand that hazing at Texas universities impacts families in Martin County and across the region, and we are committed to being a legal resource for those facing these challenges.

Our firm brings unique qualifications to hazing cases:

• Insurance Insider Advantage (Lupe Peña): Our Associate Attorney Lupe Peña previously worked as an insurance defense attorney for a national law firm. This background is invaluable; she knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies value (and more often, undervalue) hazing claims. She understands their delay tactics, coverage exclusion arguments, and settlement strategies because she used to run their playbook. This insider knowledge helps us dismantle their defenses efficiently. Lupe Peña’s full background is available at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/.

• Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions (Ralph Manginello): Managing Partner Ralph P. Manginello has a distinguished background in complex litigation against some of the largest defendants imaginable. He was one of the few Texas attorneys involved in cases stemming from the BP Texas City explosion litigation, and his federal court experience (United States District Court, Southern District of Texas) means he is not intimidated by national fraternities, multi-million dollar universities, or their well-resourced defense teams. We’ve taken on billion-dollar corporations and won; we know how to fight powerful defendants effectively. Ralph Manginello’s complete credentials and case history are detailed at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/.

• Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death and Catastrophic Injury Experience: We don’t settle cheap. We have a proven track record in complex wrongful death and catastrophic injury cases, working with economists to value loss of life and collaborating with medical experts to project lifetime care needs for victims with brain injuries or permanent disabilities. Attorney911 has extensive wrongful death experience (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/), having recovered millions for families.

• 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 expertise means we can advise individuals, witnesses, and former members on both criminal exposure and civil liability risks. When hazing results in criminal charges, Attorney911’s criminal defense experience (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/) means we understand the full scope of your situation.

• Investigative Depth: We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does. We utilize a network of experts, including digital forensics specialists, medical professionals, economists, and psychologists. Our experience in obtaining hidden evidence extends to recovering deleted group chats, subpoenaing national fraternity records showing prior incidents, and uncovering university files through discovery and public records requests.

We understand how fraternities, sororities, Corps programs, and athletic departments actually work behind closed doors. We know how to investigate modern hazing effectively, specifically targeting the digital footprints and the institutional knowledge that powerful defendants try to conceal. We’ve seen firsthand how an experienced legal team can navigate insurance coverage fights, balance victim privacy with public accountability, and prove coercion within seemingly impenetrable collegiate cultures.

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 believe in thorough investigation and real accountability, not just quick settlements.

You don’t pay us unless we win. We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning our firm covers all litigation costs. You will not pay any attorney fees upfront, and we only get paid if we secure a financial recovery for you. This allows Martin County families to pursue justice without added financial burden. Watch our video explaining contingency fees: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc.

If you or your child experienced hazing at any Texas campus, we want to hear from you. Families in Martin County and throughout the surrounding 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 us to:

• Listen to your story without judgment, with empathy and respect.
• Review any evidence you have (photos, texts, medical records) to understand your situation.
• Explain your legal options: criminal reporting, civil lawsuit, both, or neither.
• Discuss realistic timelines and what to expect from the legal process.
• Answer your questions about costs and our contingency fee structure.
• There is no pressure to hire us on the spot; take the time you need to decide.
• Everything you tell us is strictly confidential.

Whether you’re in Martin 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: Contact Lupe Peña at lupe@atty911.com for a consultation in Spanish. 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