If you’re reading this, your family may be navigating one of the most frightening experiences imaginable. Perhaps your child left for college, full of hope, only to encounter a nightmare of abuse and betrayal. Maybe they were supposed to make friends, build connections, and experience growth. Instead, they were subjected to cruel, dangerous, and illegal acts disguised as “tradition.” We understand what you’re going through, and we want you to know that families in Paulding County, and across the nation, confronting the horror of hazing are not alone. Our firm, Attorney911, stands ready to help you fight back, just as we are doing for other families right now.

For Paulding County families, the reality of hazing is a stark warning. While our firm is based in Texas, the devastating patterns of fraternity and sorority hazing, institutional negligence, and a shocking lack of accountability by universities and national organizations extend to every corner of America, including Paulding County, Georgia. The same national fraternities that have caused injuries and deaths across the country operate at universities students from Paulding County attend. The same institutional failures we see in our cases are present in academic communities near you.

We are not just talking about hazing; we are actively litigating a multi-million dollar lawsuit against a national fraternity and a major university for the severe hazing injuries a student endured. This isn’t theoretical – this is an ongoing battle in the courtroom, leveraging aggressive, data-driven strategies to ensure justice is served. We bring this same level of dedication, expertise, and ferocious advocacy to every family we represent, no matter where the hazing occurred.

The Landmark Case: A $10 Million Fight in Texas – A Warning for Paulding County

To truly understand what we stand for, we believe it’s crucial to share details of the Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, Inc., et al. lawsuit. This is a real, ongoing case that exemplifies the aggressive, thorough, and principled approach we take in fighting for hazing victims. What happened to Leonel Bermudez in Houston could happen to any student from Paulding County attending college anywhere in the country. It serves as a stark warning and a testament to our unwavering commitment to holding every responsible party accountable.

Leonel Bermudez’s story is heartbreaking. He was not even a University of Houston student at the time of the hazing. He was a “ghost rush,” a prospective member planning to transfer to the university the following semester. Despite this, he accepted a bid to join the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity on September 16, 2025. What followed were weeks of systematic abuse, physical torture, and psychological torment that culminated in his hospitalization for severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure. He spent three nights and four days in the hospital, his young body breaking down under the strain of forced exertion.

This case, filed in Harris County Civil District Court in November 2025, seeks $10 million in damages from the Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters, the local chapter, their housing corporation, the University of Houston, the UH Board of Regents, and 13 individual fraternity members, including the president, pledgemaster, and even a former member and his spouse at whose residence some of the hazing occurred.

Our attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena, are leading this fight. Mr. Manginello told ABC13, “When he finally made it home, he crawled up the stairs and went to bed. The next day, he was really sore and couldn’t really move. The next day was worse, and the next day, his mom rushed him to the hospital, and he had some kidney failure.” Lupe Pena emphasized the profound impact of this work, stating, “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.”

The news media has been covering this case extensively, bringing public attention to the ruthless reality of hazing:

• ABC13 Houston reported on November 21, 2025, that “Abuse and hazing led to hospitalization of Pi Kappa Phi fraternity pledge, lawsuit alleges.” (Read the full ABC13 report here)
• KHOU 11 published their coverage on November 21, 2025, detailing “The $10 million lawsuit filed against UH, fraternity over hazing allegations.” (Access the KHOU 11 article here)
• Houston Chronicle followed up on November 22, 2025, with their report on the “UH fraternity hazing lawsuit.” (View the Houston Chronicle’s story)
• Houston Public Media further revealed on November 24, 2025, that “University of Houston, Pi Kappa Phi fraternity sued for $10 million over alleged hazing.” (Read Houston Public Media’s coverage)

Adding to this, Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters themselves issued a statement on November 21, 2025, titled, “Pi Kappa Phi Closes Beta Nu Chapter at the University of Houston” (found on their website here). This swift action, taken within days of the incident’s report and before our lawsuit was filed, implies a clear admission of violations.

What Happened: The Shocking Details of the Hazing Against Leonel Bermudez

The hazing Leonel endured was not harmless fun; it was calculated cruelty:

• Waterboarding / Simulated Drowning: Leonel was subjected to “simulated waterboarding with a garden hose,” sprayed in the face while performing calisthenics. He was forced to run repeatedly under the threat of being waterboarded. This is torture, a war crime when done to enemy combatants; they did it to a promising college student.
• Forced Eating Until Vomiting: He was made to consume large amounts of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until he vomited. Then, he was “forced to continue running sprints while clearly in physical distress” and lie in vomit-soaked grass.
• Extreme Physical Punishment: He faced grueling sessions of 100+ pushups, 500 squats, and other exercises like “high-volume suicides,” bear crawls, wheelbarrows, “save-you-brother” drills, two-mile warmups, and repeated 100-yard crawls. He was struck with wooden paddles and forced to recite the fraternity creed under duress, continuing until he was so exhausted he couldn’t stand without help. These relentless activities broke his body down, leading to his severe medical condition.
• Psychological Torture & Humiliation: Leonel was forced to strip to his underwear in cold weather and carry a fanny pack containing “objects of a sexual nature” at all times. Another pledge was “hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour.” Threats of physical punishment and expulsion were constant.
• Sleep Deprivation: He was forced to drive fraternity members during early morning hours, disrupting his sleep and affecting his daily life.

The Medical Consequences: Rhabdomyolysis and Acute Kidney Failure

The severe physical abuse led to a life-threatening medical emergency. Leonel was passing brown urine, a classic sign of rhabdomyolysis – the breakdown of muscle tissue that releases a damaging protein (myoglobin) into the blood. This condition can cause acute kidney failure and even death. He had “very high creatine kinase levels,” confirming extreme muscle damage. He spent four days in the hospital, grappling with acute kidney failure, a severe complication of rhabdomyolysis. This is a condition our firm has experience litigating, as Ralph Manginello has specialized expertise in rhabdomyolysis cases resulting from hazing.

What This Hazing Means for Paulding County Families

This case highlights several critical points for Paulding County parents:

1. “Tradition” is Abuse: The incidents Leonel endured were not innocent pranks; they were systematic abuse similar to what happens at universities and in organizations all over the country, including those near Paulding County.
2. Universities are Complicit: The University of Houston owned the fraternity house where some of this hazing occurred. This highlights institutional responsibility. Universities near Paulding County have the same power to prevent hazing on their campuses and the same liability when they fail to do so.
3. National Organizations Know: Pi Kappa Phi’s national headquarters immediately suspended and dissolved the chapter. This shows they knew the conduct was wrong. National organizations active near Paulding County cannot claim ignorance when hazing occurs within their chapters.
4. Victims Deserve Justice: Leonel’s story, and his fear of retribution, validates the struggles many victims face. For Paulding County students who have been hazed, we offer steadfast protection and support.
5. Your Case Can Make a Difference: As Lupe Pena stated, “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do.” A brave step forward from a Paulding County family can send a powerful message and prevent future tragedies.
6. Multi-Million Dollar Accountability: A $10 million lawsuit sends an unmistakable message about the severe consequences of tolerating hazing. Paulding County families have the right to demand the same level of accountability.

What Hazing Really Looks Like: Beyond the Stereotypes

Many parents in Paulding County might still hold an outdated view of hazing as harmless pranks or silly initiation rituals. We want to be clear: the reality of modern hazing is far more sinister. It is often assault, battery, torture, reckless endangerment, and tragically, sometimes even manslaughter or murder. This is why it’s a crisis that demands aggressive legal intervention.

The statistics paint a grim picture: over half of all students in Greek organizations report experiencing hazing, and 95% of those who are hazed never report it. Since 2000, there has been at least one hazing death every single year in the United States. And while fraternities and sororities are often the focus, hazing occurs across a variety of student organizations, including sports teams, band programs, and ROTC.

The institutional failure is rampant. Universities, national Greek organizations, and their leadership often know that hazing is happening, or they have the means to know. They often possess policies and procedures designed to prevent it. Yet, these policies frequently go unenforced until a student is hospitalized or dies. Only then do they take action, such as “suspending” or “dissolving” chapters, claiming to be “shocked” by the revelations.

Common Types of Hazing We See Today

Based on cases like Leonel Bermudez’s, and general research into hazing practices, here’s what truly happens:

• Physical Abuse: This includes beatings, paddling, branding, burning, and forced exercise to the point of exhaustion, often resulting in severe injuries like rhabdomyolysis, broken bones, or brain damage.
• Forced Consumption: This often involves binge drinking, chugging large quantities of alcohol, or consuming large amounts of food or non-food substances until vomiting occurs. Forced intoxication is a leading cause of hazing deaths.
• Sleep Deprivation: Pledges are commonly subjected to forced late nights, early mornings, and disrupted sleep schedules, leading to physical and mental exhaustion.
• Psychological Torture: This can involve humiliation, degradation, verbal abuse, isolation, and explicit threats of violence or social exclusion. The long-term psychological impact, including PTSD, anxiety, and depression, can be profound.
• Sexual Abuse: This can range from forced nudity and sexual acts to being made to carry sexually suggestive objects, as seen in the Bermudez case. Tragically, it can also include sexual assault.
• Waterboarding/Simulated Drowning: As Leonel’s case tragically showed, this is a form of torture involving spraying water into a student’s face while they are unable to breathe, mimicking the sensation of drowning.
• Exposure: Students may be forced into scenarios involving extreme cold or heat, or confined in small, uncomfortable spaces.
• Servitude: Pledges are often made to perform demeaning tasks, such as forced cleaning, driving members around, or running errands for extended periods.

The Devastating Medical and Psychological Consequences

The aim of hazing is to break a student down, yet the physical and mental costs are immense:

• Rhabdomyolysis & Acute Kidney Failure: As seen in Leonel’s case, extreme physical exertion can lead to muscle breakdown and life-threatening kidney damage.
• Alcohol Poisoning: Forced binge drinking is a primary cause of hazing deaths.
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): From beatings, falls, or other physical harms.
• Hypothermia/Hyperthermia: From exposure to extreme weather conditions.
• Cardiac Arrest: Resulting from severe physical exertion or dehydration.
• PTSD, Anxiety, Depression: The psychological scars can last a lifetime, requiring extensive therapy and treatment.
• Death: The ultimate, tragic outcome that far too many families have experienced.

These are not the harmless “pranks” Paulding County parents might remember from movies. These are acts of violence and psychological manipulation that leave lasting, often life-altering, damage.

Who Is Responsible: Holding Every Liable Party Accountable for Hazing

One of the most powerful aspects of our approach at Attorney911 is our commitment to identifying and suing every entity responsible for hazing injuries. We do not just target the individuals directly involved; we pursue the entire network of individuals and organizations that allowed the hazing to occur. The goal is not just compensation for the victim, but to force systemic change by hitting those with the deepest pockets.

In cases like Leonel Bermudez’s, and for all hazing victims from Paulding County, we typically target several categories of defendants:

• Local Chapter of the Fraternity/Sorority: This includes the specific campus chapter that organized and directly facilitated the hazing activities. Their direct involvement makes them a primary defendant.
• Chapter Officers: Individuals who held leadership positions, such as the chapter president, pledgemaster, and risk manager, bear significant responsibility. They are expected to uphold rules and ensure safety.
• Individual Members: Any fraternity or sorority member who actively participated in the hazing, failed to report it, or stood by while it occurred can be held personally liable.
• Former Members and Their Spouses/Property Owners: As we saw in the Bermudez case, hazing can occur at private residences. The homeowners who knowingly allow or facilitate hazing on their property can also be held responsible under premises liability laws. This demonstrates how culpability can extend beyond current students.
• National Fraternity/Sorority Organization: This is often the “deepest pocket.” National organizations typically have anti-hazing policies and risk management programs. Our lawsuits allege that these national bodies fail to enforce their own rules, fail to properly supervise their chapters, and are often aware of a widespread “hazing crisis” within their system. Their failure to act, despite prior incidents (like Andrew Coffey’s death in the same fraternity), makes them highly culpable.
• The University or College: Educational institutions have a fundamental duty to provide a safe learning environment for their students. When hazing occurs on their property (as with the University of Houston owning the fraternity house), or within organizations they recognize and regulate, they can be held liable for negligent supervision, Premises Liability, or failure to protect students. Universities have significant institutional resources, endowments, and insurance policies, making them crucial defendants.
• Insurance Carriers: Behind the national organizations, universities, and sometimes even individual homeowners, are insurance policies. These policies are designed to cover liability for such incidents. As former insurance defense attorneys, both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena bring invaluable insider knowledge on how to navigate these complex insurance claims and ensure maximum recovery.

The Deep Pockets vs. The Legal Loophole

The defendants often try to shift blame or hide behind legal technicalities. For instance, national fraternities may try to claim their local chapters are independent entities, absolving the national body of responsibility. Universities may assert that they cannot control off-campus behavior. However, our data-driven litigation strategy is designed to dismantle these defenses.

By collecting comprehensive data on Greek organizations, including their IRS filings, EINs, corporate structures, and national incident histories, we can prove the interconnectedness and legal responsibility of every entity. We show that behind the Greek letters are tax-exempt corporations with real estate, bank accounts, and substantial insurance policies. This is not about suing broke college kids; it’s about holding powerful institutions accountable and forcing them to prioritize student safety over “tradition.”

What These Cases Win: Multi-Million Dollar Proof for Paulding County Families

Paulding County families need to know that fighting back against hazing is not only possible but can lead to significant compensation and, crucially, systemic change. We have a track record of securing substantial recoveries in serious injury and wrongful death cases. The precedent cases in hazing litigation demonstrate that juries and courts are increasingly willing to award multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements to victims and their families. These landmark cases send a clear message: hazing will cost you dearly.

Here are a few examples that illustrate the scale of justice that can be achieved, and which inform our $10 million demand in the Bermudez case:

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University / Pi Kappa Alpha (2021)

Total Paid: $10.1 Million+

In 2021, Stone Foltz, a student at Bowling Green State University, tragically died from alcohol poisoning after a Pi Kappa Alpha initiation ritual where he was forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol. The civil actions resulted in:

• $2.9 Million from Bowling Green State University.
• $7.2 Million from the Pi Kappa Alpha national organization and individuals involved.

This case represents the largest public university hazing payout in Ohio history. It shows that both universities and fraternities are held financially responsible. Furthermore, in December 2024, a jury ordered Daylen Dunson, the former chapter president, to pay an additional $6.5 million in personal liability, demonstrating that individual perpetrators cannot escape accountability.

Maxwell Gruver – Louisiana State University / Phi Delta Theta (2017)

Total Paid: $6.1 Million Jury Verdict

In 2017, Max Gruver, an 18-year-old freshman at Louisiana State University, died from acute alcohol poisoning after a Phi Delta Theta hazing event where pledges were forced to drink heavily based on their answers to fraternity questions. The outcome for his family included:

• A $6.1 Million jury verdict against the fraternity and its members.
• Criminal convictions, including negligent homicide against one fraternity member who received prison time.
• The subsequent passage of the Max Gruver Act in Louisiana, making hazing a felony.

This verdict powerfully demonstrates that juries sympathize with hazing victims and will not hesitate to award significant sums for even non-economic damages.

Timothy Piazza – Penn State University / Beta Theta Pi (2017)

Total Paid: $110 Million+ (Estimated)

Timothy Piazza, a 19-year-old student at Penn State, died in 2017 after a Beta Theta Pi hazing ritual. He was forced to consume 18 drinks in 82 minutes, reaching a near-fatal blood alcohol content. He tragically fell multiple times, suffering a traumatic brain injury. Fraternity members waited 12 hours before seeking help. His case, captured by security cameras, resulted in:

• Confidential settlements estimated to be in excess of $110 Million, a monumental figure reflecting the egregious nature of the incident and the strong evidence.
• Criminal charges against 18 fraternity members, leading to multiple convictions for involuntary manslaughter, hazing, and other offenses.
• The Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law in Pennsylvania, establishing stiffer penalties and reforms.

This case exemplifies how overwhelming evidence and institutional negligence can lead to truly massive payouts and broad legislative change.

Andrew Coffey – Florida State University / Pi Kappa Phi (2017)

The Same National Fraternity as Leonel Bermudez’s Case

In 2017, Andrew Coffey, a student at Florida State University, died from alcohol poisoning after a Pi Kappa Phi “Big Brother Night” event where he was forced to drink an entire bottle of bourbon. This incident led to:

• Criminal charges against nine fraternity members.
• The permanent closure of the Pi Kappa Phi chapter at FSU.
• A confidential civil settlement with his family.

This case is critically important for Leonel Bermudez’s lawsuit. It reveals a disturbing pattern. Pi Kappa Phi National knew about deadly hazing within its chapters as far back as 2017. The fact that Leonel Bermudez suffered severe kidney failure due to hazing at another Pi Kappa Phi chapter in 2025, eight years later, strongly suggests a systemic failure by the national organization. This pattern supports claims for punitive damages, demonstrating conscious indifference to student safety.

Why These Precedents Matter for Paulding County Victims

These multi-million dollar outcomes prove several crucial points for Paulding County families:

1. Our $10 Million Demand is Justified: Settlements like Stone Foltz’s $10.1 million demonstrate that our demand in Leonel Bermudez’s case is well within the realm of established justice, even for a non-fatal but severely injurious incident.
2. Universities and Nationals Pay: These cases consistently show that both the universities and the national Greek organizations facing hazing allegations are ultimately held financially responsible, often paying millions.
3. Juries Hate Hazing: The $6.1 million verdict in the Gruver case, and the criminal convictions in multiple others, indicate that juries are outraged by hazing and are willing to punish those responsible. The egregious conduct in the Bermudez case, including waterboarding, is likely to evoke even stronger reactions.
4. Pattern Evidence Strengthens Claims: The documented history of hazing at the University of Houston, combined with Pi Kappa Phi’s own past death, significantly strengthens our case by establishing institutional knowledge and a pattern of negligence.
5. Your Fight Brings Change: Many of these cases directly resulted in new anti-hazing laws. By stepping forward, Paulding County victims contribute to a national movement against hazing, potentially saving future lives.

These cases are not just legal victories; they are human stories of families fighting for justice and inspiring change. Paulding County families deserve to know that such powerful results are possible, and we are the dedicated advocates who can help achieve them.

Texas Law Protects You: Understanding Your Rights Against Hazing

For Paulding County families whose children attend universities in Texas or Georgia, understanding the robust legal framework against hazing is crucial. While our primary focus is on Texas law (which applies directly to the Bermudez case), it’s important to remember that most states, including Georgia, have similar anti-hazing statutes. Regardless of the specific state, federal civil rights claims and other negligence claims apply universally across the nation, allowing us to pursue justice in federal courts wherever needed.

Texas Hazing Laws: Education Code Sections 37.151-37.157

Texas has some of the most comprehensive anti-hazing legislation in the country, explicitly defining hazing and outlining severe penalties:

• Definition of Hazing (§ 37.151): Texas law broadly defines hazing as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, directed against a student for the purpose of initiation or membership in an organization, if that act:

  • Involves physical brutality: Such as whipping, beating, striking, branding, or placing harmful substances on the body. (Leonel was struck with wooden paddles, subjected to extreme physical exertion.)
  • Involves sleep deprivation, exposure to the elements, calisthenics, or similar activity that poses an unreasonable risk of harm or affects mental/physical health. (Leonel suffered sleep deprivation, cold exposure, waterboarding, 500 squats leading to kidney failure.)
  • Involves forced consumption of food, liquid, alcohol, or other substances that pose an unreasonable risk of harm. (Leonel was forced to eat until vomiting.)
  • Involves coercing a student to consume drugs or alcohol to the point of intoxication.

  The hazing Leonel Bermudez endured unequivocally meets multiple criteria for illegal hazing under Texas law.

• Criminal Penalties (§ 37.152): Individuals who engage in hazing face misdemeanor charges (up to 180 days jail and $2,000 fine). If the hazing causes “serious bodily injury” (like Leonel’s rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure), it becomes a Class A Misdemeanor (up to 1 year jail and $4,000 fine). If it causes death, it’s a State Jail Felony (180 days to 2 years in state jail and a $10,000 fine). The University of Houston spokesperson even mentioned “potential criminal charges” in relation to Leonel’s incident.

• Organizational Liability (§ 37.153): Fraternities, sororities, and other organizations can face fines up to $10,000, denial of the right to operate on campus, and forfeiture of property if they condone or encourage hazing, or if their officers, members, pledges, or alumni participate in hazing.

• Consent is NOT a Defense (§ 37.154): This is a critical provision for Paulding County families to understand. Texas law explicitly states: “It is not a defense to prosecution for an offense under this subchapter that the person against whom the hazing was directed consented to or acquiesced in the hazing activity.” This directly combats the common defense used by fraternities and universities that victims “knew what they were getting into” or “agreed to participate.” The law recognizes that true consent is impossible under conditions of duress, fear of social ostracism, or psychological manipulation.

• University Reporting Requirements (§ 37.155): Universities are legally mandated to report hazing incidents to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board within 30 days of becoming aware of them. Failure to report is a Class B Misdemeanor. This provision is vital for tracking institutional knowledge and potential cover-ups.

Civil Liability: Beyond Criminal Prosecution

While criminal charges aim to punish perpetrators, civil lawsuits empower victims and their families to recover financial compensation for their suffering and losses. Regardless of whether criminal charges are filed or pursued, civil actions can proceed. For Paulding County families, these civil liability theories are universal and form the basis of our lawsuits:

1. Negligence Claims: This is the most common civil claim. We argue that universities, national organizations, and individuals had a “duty of care” to protect students, that they “breached” that duty through their actions or inactions (like allowing hazing), that this breach “caused” the student’s injuries, and that the student suffered “damages” (physical, emotional, financial) as a result.
2. Premises Liability: If hazing occurs on property owned or controlled by the university (as in Leonel’s case, where the University of Houston owned the fraternity house) or by a housing corporation, they can be held liable for failing to maintain a safe environment and for allowing dangerous conditions to exist.
3. Negligent Supervision: This applies when national organizations fail to adequately supervise their local chapters, allowing hazing to flourish. It also applies when universities fail to properly oversee Greek life organizations or address known hazing problems.
4. Assault and Battery: Individual fraternity members who physically harm a student through beatings, forced physical activity, or other forms of physical abuse can be sued directly for assault (threat of harm) and battery (actual physical harm).
5. Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress: This claim applies when individuals or organizations engage in “outrageous conduct” that causes “severe emotional distress” – a common outcome of psychological hazing, humiliation, and terror.
6. Wrongful Death: Tragically, if hazing results in a student’s death, families can file a wrongful death lawsuit to recover compensation for their profound loss, including grief, loss of companionship, lost future earnings, and funeral expenses. Punitive damages are often sought in these cases.

For Paulding County families, the key takeaway is that the legal system provides multiple avenues for justice. Our firm has the deep expertise to navigate these complex laws, leverage every available legal tool, and confront institutions head-on, regardless of where the hazing incident occurred. We ensure that your child’s injuries are not dismissed as mere “pranks” but are recognized for the serious, illegal acts they truly are.

Why Attorney911: Your Advocates in the Fight Against Hazing

When your child has been subjected to the horrors of hazing, you need more than just a lawyer; you need a relentless advocate who understands the brutal reality of these situations. Attorney911 is built for legal emergencies, and we approach hazing litigation with a unique blend of empathy, strategic insight, and aggressive determination. For Paulding County families, choosing the right legal partner can make all the difference, and we believe our firm offers unparalleled advantages.

Our Unmatched Advantages for Paulding County Hazing Victims:

1. Direct Experience with High-Stakes Hazing Litigation: We are not hypothetical. We are currently prosecuting the $10 million Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi lawsuit against a national fraternity and a major university. This isn’t theoretical – we’re in the trenches, fighting this battle right now. Paulding County families receive the same fierce, data-driven representation that underpins our flagship case.
2. Former Insurance Defense Attorneys – We Know Their Playbook: Both our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, and Associate Attorney Lupe Pena, began their careers working for insurance companies and corporate defendants. This insider knowledge is invaluable. They understand exactly how the other side thinks, strategizes, and attempts to deny or minimize claims. For Paulding County cases, this means we anticipate their defenses, dismantle their arguments, and maximize your leverage, turning their own tactics against them.
3. Federal Court Admissions – Nationwide Reach: Our admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, and experience in various federal courts means we are authorized to litigate cases across the United States. Hazing cases often involve national fraternities and multi-state universities. This federal authority ensures that distance is never a barrier to pursuing justice for Paulding County families.
4. Dual-State Bar Admission – Texas and New York: Ralph Manginello holds bar licenses in both Texas and New York. This dual-state credential provides a strategic advantage, particularly when dealing with national fraternities and sororities that may be headquartered or incorporated in different states, allowing us broader legal tactical options.
5. Se Habla Español – Bilingual Support: Lupe Pena is fluent in Spanish, and our staff is bilingual. We provide comprehensive legal services in Spanish, breaking down language barriers for Hispanic families in Paulding County and ensuring clear communication and understanding throughout the legal process.
6. 25+ Years of Courtroom Experience: Ralph P. Manginello brings over two decades of battle-tested trial experience, having handled complex litigation, including mass torts like the BP Texas City explosion. This level of experience means we are prepared to take your Paulding County hazing case to trial if a fair settlement cannot be reached.
7. Deep Data & Intelligence for Greek Organizations: We maintain one of the most comprehensive private directories of Greek organizations in Texas, tracking IRS B83 data, EINs, legal names, housing corporations, alumni chapters, and insurance structures. When hazing happens, we don’t guess who is responsible; we know exactly who to sue. This intelligence is applicable nationwide.
8. Will Travel to You (or Consult Remotely): While our offices are primarily in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we are committed to serving hazing victims everywhere. We offer convenient video consultations for Paulding County families and are prepared to travel for depositions, meetings, and trials whenever necessary. Justice knows no geographic bounds.

How We Serve Paulding County Hazing Victims

Our approach is hands-on, aggressive, and client-focused:

• Expert Witness Network: We collaborate with leading experts in Greek life culture, institutional negligence, and various medical fields (neurology, nephrology for rhabdomyolysis cases) to build an irrefutable case.
• Immediate Evidence Preservation: We guide Paulding County families on the critical steps to preserve evidence, from medical records and photos to text messages and social media, ensuring nothing valuable is lost.
• Negotiating from Strength: Our live $10 million hazing lawsuit demonstrates our capacity to demand and secure significant compensation. This powerful precedent strengthens our hand in all negotiations.
• Paulding County Families Are Our Priority: We understand the trauma involved. Our staff is friendly, empathetic, and dedicated to clear, consistent communication. You are not just a case number to us; you are a family we are fighting for.
• Contingency Fees – No Upfront Cost: We take hazing cases on contingency. This means Paulding County families pay absolutely nothing upfront. We only get paid if and when we win your case. This removes financial barriers and aligns our incentives perfectly with yours. See how contingency fees work here: How Contingency Fees Work Video.

Client Testimonials: Trust Built on Results

Our unwavering commitment is reflected in our 4.9-star rating on Google My Business, from over 250 reviews. Clients consistently praise our communication, aggressive advocacy, and the empathetic treatment they receive:

• “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client that’s caught in the middle of many other cases. You are FAMILY to them and they protect and fight for you as such.” — Chad Harris.
• “What seemed to be a crisis for my family and I with no way out on how to fight or solve our case, Atty. Manginello stepped in and absolutely fought for us. A true PITT BULL and fighter. He don’t play!” — Chad Harris.
• “Special thank you to my attorney, Mr. Pena, for your kindness and patience with my repeated questions and concerns throughout the entire process until the end.” — Chelsea Martinez.

For Paulding County families, these testimonials speak volumes about our dedication and the trust we build with those we represent during their most difficult times. We are not just lawyers; we are Legal Emergency Lawyers™ standing with you on the front lines against hazing.

What to Do Right Now: Critical Steps for Paulding County Hazing Victims

If your child in Paulding County has been subjected to hazing, the immediate aftermath can be confusing, frightening, and overwhelming. However, your actions in the critical hours and days following the incident can profoundly impact your ability to seek justice and compensation. Here’s what you need to do, presented in clear, actionable steps that a parent researching this at 2 AM can follow:

Step 1: Prioritize Immediate Safety and Medical Attention

Your child’s physical and mental health is paramount.

1. Remove Your Child from the Situation: If they are still in a dangerous environment, get them out immediately. Their safety is non-negotiable.
2. Seek Medical Attention Immediately: Even if your child insists they are “fine,” or appears to have minor injuries, get them to a doctor, urgent care, or emergency room. Adrenaline can mask pain, and some severe injuries (like rhabdomyolysis or internal injuries) may not be immediately apparent. Our firm often sees cases where delays in treatment are later used by the defense to argue injuries weren’t serious. This documentation is crucial.
   • For instance, in Leonel’s case, he showed severe symptoms days after the hazing. If your child is passing brown urine, experiencing severe muscle pain, or struggling to move, get to an emergency room without delay.
3. Follow All Medical Advice: This includes seeing specialists, attending physical therapy, or seeking mental health counseling. Adherence to treatment not only aids recovery but also strengthens your case by demonstrating the severity of the injuries.

Step 2: Preserve All Evidence – “Document, Document, Document”

This is one of the most critical steps. As Ralph Manginello stresses in our video “Can You Use Your Cellphone to Document a Legal Case?”, you can watch it here: Using Your Phone to Document Evidence.

1. Take Photos and Videos:
   • Injuries: Document all physical injuries (bruises, cuts, burns, swelling) as they appear and as they heal. Take photos daily or every few days to show the progression.
   • Locations: If safe to do so, photograph or video any locations associated with the hazing (fraternity house, off-campus residence, park, specific rooms).
   • Evidence: Document any physical items related to the hazing (e.g., specific objects, empty alcohol bottles, paddle, degrading attire).
2. Save All Communications: Hazing is often coordinated through digital channels.
   • Text Messages: Do not delete any text messages (individual or group chats) related to the hazing, the pledge process, or conversations with members. Take screenshots and back them up.
   • Social Media: Preserve messages from WhatsApp, GroupMe, Snapchat, Instagram DMs, Facebook Messenger, etc. Screenshots are critical.
   • Emails: Save any emails from the organization, university faculty, or individual members.
3. Identify Witnesses:
   • Other Pledges: Obtain names and contact information for other pledges who experienced or witnessed the hazing.
   • Bystanders: If hazing occurred in a public setting or was observed by non-members, get their contact details.
   • Friends/Family: Document anyone your child confided in about the hazing.
4. Keep All Documents:
   • Medical Records: Obtain copies of all hospital records, doctor’s notes, prescriptions, and therapist notes. These are your factual proof of injury and treatment.
   • Fraternity/Sorority Documents: Save pledge manuals, schedules, rules, or codes of conduct provided by the organization.
   • Academic Records: Preserve records that show any impact on grades, enrollment status, or scholarships.
   • Financial Records: Keep track of all medical bills, lost wages (if applicable), and any expenses incurred due to the hazing incident.

Step 3: Crucial “DO NOTs” for Paulding County Hazing Victims

To protect your child’s legal case, it’s vital to avoid certain actions. These are common mistakes that can ruin your injury case, as discussed in our video: Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Injury Case.

1. DO NOT Delete Anything: Never delete text messages, social media posts, or any digital evidence, even if you think it’s irrelevant or embarrassing. Deleting evidence can severely harm your case.
2. DO NOT Talk to the Fraternity/Sorority, University, or Their Lawyers: Do not give statements or discuss the incident with anyone representing the organization (national or local), the university administration, or their attorneys without legal counsel. They are not on your side; their goal is to protect their institution.
3. DO NOT Sign Anything: Never sign any documents presented by the fraternity, sorority, or university, as this could waive your child’s legal rights.
4. DO NOT Post on Social Media: Refrain from posting about the hazing incident, your injuries, or even general complaints on social media. Anything posted can be used against your case to claim you are not as injured as you claim or that you acted against advice.
5. DO NOT Give a “Statement”: The university or fraternity may ask for a formal or recorded statement. Politely decline and state that you will provide one after consulting with your legal counsel.

Step 4: Act Quickly – Time is of the Essence

Hazing victims often delay reporting due to shame, fear, loyalty, or not fully understanding their rights. However, delay can be detrimental.

1. Understand Statutes of Limitations: In most states, including Georgia, there is a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury cases (like hazing claims) and wrongful death cases. This means you typically have two years from the date of injury or death to file a lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to sue forever. Our video on statutes of limitations explains this here: Is There a Statute of Limitations on My Case?
2. Evidence Disappears: The longer you wait, the more likely it is that critical evidence (texts, photos, witness memories, security footage) will disappear or be destroyed.
3. Witnesses Forget: Memories fade, and people move on. Prompt action helps secure witness testimony while details are fresh.

Step 5: Contact Attorney911 Immediately for a Free Consultation

This is your most crucial step. Our Legal Emergency Lawyers™ are available 24/7.

• Call 1-888-ATTY-911: Our hotline is always open for Paulding County families facing a hazing crisis.
• Email ralph@atty911.com: We pride ourselves on rapid response.
• Video Consultations: For Paulding County families unable to travel to our Texas offices, we offer convenient and confidential video consultations.
• We Come to You: For critical depositions, meetings, or trial, our team is prepared to travel to Paulding County as needed.

When you contact us, we will provide a free, no-obligation case evaluation. We will listen empathetically to your story, explain your legal options, and outline precisely how we can help. Remember, your child didn’t deserve this, and you don’t have to fight this battle alone. We are ready to be your fierce advocates.

Contact Us: Your Paulding County Legal Emergency is Our Priority

If you’re a parent in Paulding County, Georgia, whose child has been affected by hazing, or if you are a student yourself, the time to act is now. The trauma of hazing can be overwhelming, but you have powerful legal rights, and we are here to help you exercise them. We understand the fear, anger, and confusion you may be feeling, and we are committed to turning that into aggressive, effective action.

Paulding County Families: Have You or Your Child Been Hazed?

You are not alone in this fight. Our attorneys are currently representing a hazing victim against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston in a $10 MILLION lawsuit – proving that we don’t just talk about hazing; we’re actively taking on the institutions behind it. We know how to build these complex cases, how to expose negligence, and how to fight fiercely for maximum compensation. Paulding County families can expect the same dedicated and aggressive representation.

Immediate and Confidential Help is Available 24/7

We mean it when we say we are Legal Emergency Lawyers™. When you’re facing a crisis, you need help now.

📞 Call Our Legal Emergency Hotline for Paulding County Hazing Victims: 1-888-ATTY-911 (24/7)

Email: ralph@atty911.com
Website: attorney911.com

Your initial consultation is absolutely FREE. There is no obligation, and it’s an opportunity for us to hear your story, answer your questions, and explain your legal options without any cost or commitment from you.

No Upfront Costs: Our Contingency Fee Promise to Paulding County Families

We understand that pursuing legal action, especially against powerful universities and national fraternities, can seem financially daunting. This is why we operate on a contingency fee basis for hazing cases:

• You pay $0 upfront. There are no retainers or hourly fees.
• We don’t get paid unless we WIN your case. If we don’t secure compensation for you, you owe us nothing in attorney fees.
• This arrangement removes financial barriers and ensures that our interests are perfectly aligned with yours: to achieve the best possible outcome for your family.

We Serve Paulding County Hazing Victims, and Those Nationwide

While our primary offices are located in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas, our reach and expertise extend far beyond state lines. Hazing is a national crisis, and its patterns of abuse and institutional negligence are sadly universal. Paulding County students attend colleges across Georgia and other states, and no matter where the hazing occurred, we can help.

• Federal Court Authority: Our admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, allows us to pursue cases in federal jurisdiction, which is often necessary when dealing with national organizations or interstate issues.
• Dual-State Bar Licenses: Ralph Manginello holds bar licenses in both Texas and New York, providing additional strategic advantages in national litigation.
• Video Consultations: For your convenience, Paulding County families can easily connect with us through secure video consultations from the comfort of your home.
• Commitment to Travel: We are prepared to travel to Paulding County for critical depositions, client meetings, and trials whenever the demands of your case require our physical presence. Distance will never be a barrier to securing justice for your child.

Hazing is not limited to Greek life. We represent victims of hazing in a wide range of organizations, including:

• Fraternities and sororities at universities near Paulding County.
• Paulding County sports teams, clubs, and athletic programs.
• Marching bands and performing arts groups.
• ROTC programs and military academies.
• Any organization where abuse is disguised as “initiation.”

To Other Victims of the UH Pi Kappa Phi Hazing: We Know You Are Out There

We know Leonel Bermudez was not the only one subjected to the brutal hazing at the Pi Kappa Phi chapter at the University of Houston. The lawsuit mentions another pledge who collapsed and lost consciousness. Others were subjected to waterboarding, forced eating, extreme exertion, humiliation, and physical abuse.

If you or your child were also a victim of the Pi Kappa Phi hazing at UH, please contact us immediately. You have rights too, and we can represent you. As Lupe Pena said, “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.” Let us help you join the fight for justice and ensure that what happened to you and Leonel never happens again.

Take the first step toward healing and accountability. Call Attorney911 today.