If you’re reading this in Terrell County, Georgia, your family may be facing one of the most terrifying moments of your lives. Your child went off to college, expecting to make friends, build connections, and have a positive experience. Instead, they were tortured. They were abused. They were hazed. We’re here to help families in Terrell County fight back against the fraternities, sororities, and universities that allowed this to happen.

We understand what you’re going through. The phone call that changes everything. The desperate search for answers late at night. The fear, the anger, the overwhelming sense of betrayal. What happened to your child isn’t just “boys being boys” or “tradition.” It’s assault. It’s battery. It’s illegal. And families in Terrell County deserve justice.

We are Attorney911. We are Legal Emergency Lawyers™. Our team, led by Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, is nationally recognized for aggressively representing victims of hazing and holding powerful institutions accountable. We don’t just talk about hazing; we’re in the trenches fighting it right now. Our landmark $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston is proof that we relentlessly pursue every responsible entity. We bring that same fight, that same expertise, and that same unwavering commitment to justice to families in Terrell County.

The Hazing Crisis: Why Terrell County Families Need Attorney911

Hazing is a pervasive and dangerous problem on college campuses across America, and universities near Terrell County, Georgia are not immune. It’s not just in the movies; it’s a harsh reality that shatters lives and devastates families every year. From forced alcohol consumption leading to death, to extreme physical abuse resulting in organ failure, hazing activities are far removed from harmless pranks. They are criminal acts disguised as “traditions” or “brotherhood,” and those who perpetrate them, and the institutions that enable them, must be held accountable.

The silence surrounding hazing prevents victims from coming forward, often due to fear of retaliation, shame, or a misplaced sense of loyalty. This silence fosters an environment where the abuse continues unabated, claiming more victims. We are here to break that silence. We provide a safe, confidential space for victims and their families in Terrell County to share their stories and understand their legal options. We represent victims from fraternities, soror sports teams, marching bands, ROTC, and any other organization that uses abuse as “initiation.”

Our mission is to ensure that no family in Terrell County has to endure the pain of a hazing injury or death without powerful legal representation. We use data-driven litigation strategies and an aggressive, fearless approach to take on national fraternities, universities, housing corporations, and individual perpetrators. We believe that by holding those responsible accountable, we can not only secure justice and compensation for our clients but also play a critical role in stopping this dangerous practice for future generations.

The Landmark Case: A $10 Million Fight for Justice That Proves What We Stand For

For families in Terrell County, Georgia, our ongoing litigation demonstrates precisely the kind of firm we are and the relentless fight we bring on behalf of hazing victims. This isn’t theoretical; this is real. This happened in Houston, Texas, just weeks ago, and it could happen at colleges your children attend near Terrell County.

Our Attorneys Are Fighting This Battle RIGHT NOW: The Case of Leonel Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston

In November 2025, Attorney911 filed a $10 million lawsuit in Harris County Civil District Court against Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, the University of Houston, and numerous other parties, representing a young man named Leonel Bermudez. Leonel was a “ghost rush,” a prospective fraternity member who wasn’t even enrolled at the University of Houston yet. He was planning to transfer for the upcoming semester. What happened to him is a horrifying testament to the dangers of hazing and the institutional negligence that allows it to flourish.

The Defendants We Are Holding Accountable:

• Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity (national headquarters)
• The local University of Houston Beta Nu Chapter of Pi Kappa Phi
• The Pi Kappa Phi Housing Corporation
• The University of Houston
• The University of Houston Board of Regents
• The individual fraternity president
• The pledgemaster
• Multiple current and former fraternity members
• A former fraternity member and his spouse, at whose private residence some of the hazing occurred

This aggressive, comprehensive approach to naming every potentially liable party is precisely what we will do for families in Terrell County.

What Happened to Leonel Bermudez: A Timeline of Torture

Leonel Bermudez accepted a bid to join Pi Kappa Phi on September 16, 2025. For weeks, he endured systematic abuse and psychological torture.

• October 13, 2025: Another pledge was hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour.
• October 15, 2025: A pledge lost consciousness and collapsed during a forced workout, requiring other pledges to elevate his legs until he recovered. These were clear warnings, yet the hazing continued.
• November 3, 2025: The climax of the abuse. Leonel was forced to perform extreme physical exertions – over 100 pushups, 500 squats, high-volume “suicides,” bear crawls, and repeated 100-yard crawls – all while reciting the fraternity creed under threat of expulsion. He was exercised until he could no longer stand without help.
• November 4-5, 2025: Leonel was so sore he couldn’t move. His condition worsened.
• November 6, 2025: His mother rushed him to the hospital. He was passing brown urine, a clear sign of severe muscle breakdown. He was diagnosed with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure.
• November 6-10, 2025: Leonel spent three nights and four days in the hospital, undergoing intensive medical treatment.
• November 14, 2025: Pi Kappa Phi National officially closed its Beta Nu Chapter, aware of the scandal brewing.
• November 21, 2025: We filed the $10 million lawsuit.

The Hazing Activities Exposed in Our Lawsuit:

• Waterboarding / Simulated Drowning: Leonel was “simulated waterboarded with a garden hose,” sprayed in the face during calisthenics, and threatened with it if he didn’t run faster. This is torture—a war crime when done to enemy combatants, inflicted on a college student.
• Forced Eating Until Vomiting: He was made to consume large amounts of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until he vomited, then forced to continue physical exertions while lying in his own vomit-soaked grass.
• Extreme Physical Punishment: Beyond the pushups and squats, he endured wooden paddle strikes and brutal drills, leading to muscle breakdown and kidney failure.
• Psychological Torture & Humiliation: This included being hog-tied, stripped to his underwear in cold weather, forced to carry a fanny pack with sexually explicit items, and subjected to constant threats and sleep deprivation.

Medical Consequences: Rhabdomyolysis and Acute Kidney Failure

Rhabdomyolysis is a life-threatening condition where muscle tissue breaks down, releasing damaging proteins into the bloodstream that can cause acute kidney failure and death. Leonel’s symptoms—brown urine, high creatine kinase levels, and inability to move—were textbook indicators of this severe condition. He faces ongoing risks of permanent kidney damage. Our firm has specific expertise in litigating rhabdomyolysis hazing cases.

Institutional Responses: Lies and Cover-Ups:

• University of Houston: Their spokesperson called the events “deeply disturbing” and a “clear violation of our community standards,” acknowledging they were coordinating with law enforcement about “potential criminal charges.” This is an admission they failed to protect their students, despite owning the fraternity house where much of the hazing took place.
• Pi Kappa Phi National: On November 14, 2025, just days after Leonel was hospitalized and a week before our lawsuit was filed, they “closed their Beta Nu Chapter… following violations of the Fraternity’s risk management policy and membership conduct standards.” This pre-emptive closure, coordinated with UH, shows a clear “consciousness of guilt” and an attempt to limit liability before litigation. Their statement that they “look forward to returning to campus at the appropriate time” reveals a disturbing lack of remorse and an intention to resume operations once the controversy dies down.

What Terrell County Families Need to Understand About This Case:

1. “Tradition” is Torture: This wasn’t harmless. It was systematic, illegal abuse. The same “traditions” happening near Terrell County are just as dangerous.
2. Universities Are Complicit: UH owned the property where hazing occurred and had the power to stop it. Institutions near Terrell County, Georgia, have similar responsibilities and face the same liability when they fail.
3. National Organizations Know: Pi Kappa Phi’s national leadership immediately dissolved the chapter, proving they knew the severity of the violations. These same national organizations have chapters near Terrell County and are fully aware of the risks.
4. Victims Are Afraid: Leonel Bermudez fears retribution. This is a common and understandable fear that we address by representing our clients aggressively and protecting their identities when possible.
5. One Brave Victim Protects Others: As Attorney Lupe Peña 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.” Your Terrell County case can save lives.
6. $10 Million Sends a Message: This substantial lawsuit sends an undeniable message to fraternities, universities, and their national organizations that the price for torturing students is steep. Families in Terrell County can send the same message.

What Hazing Really Looks Like: Beyond the Stereotypes

The public often misunderstands hazing, picturing harmless pranks or mild inconveniences. The reality is far more sinister. Hazing today is often about power, control, and degradation, pushing individuals to their physical and psychological limits, often with life-altering or fatal consequences. It is assault, battery, psychological torture, false imprisonment, and sometimes even manslaughter or murder.

Types of Hazing We See:

• Physical Abuse: This goes far beyond mild discomfort. We’ve seen cases involving beatings, paddling with broken bones, branding, forced extreme calisthenics (like Leonel’s 500 squats and 100 pushups), sleep deprivation, and exposure to extreme weather.
• Forced Consumption: This is a deadly category. It involves forcing pledges to consume massive quantities of alcohol, leading to alcohol poisoning and death (like in the cases of Stone Foltz and Max Gruver). It can also include forced eating until vomiting, or consumption of non-food substances. Leonel’s forced eating of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until he vomited is a stark example.
• Psychological Torture: Often the most insidious, this includes public humiliation, verbal abuse, isolation, threats, and intimidation tactics. Leonel’s case included carrying a fanny pack with sexual objects and witnessing other pledges hog-tied. This kind of abuse can inflict deep, lasting emotional trauma, including PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
• Waterboarding/Simulated Drowning: As seen in Leonel’s case, this extreme form of torture can induce terror and the sensation of dying. It is internationally recognized as a war crime.
• Sexual Abuse: Forced nudity, sexual acts, or carrying sexually explicit items are unfortunately common, leading to profound trauma.
• Servitude and Degradation: Being forced to perform demeaning tasks, drive members around at all hours (leading to sleep deprivation), or act as personal servants strips pledges of their dignity.

The Medical Realities of Hazing:

The consequences of hazing are severe and often include:

• Rhabdomyolysis: As experienced by Leonel, this muscle breakdown can lead to acute kidney failure and permanent organ damage.
• Alcohol Poisoning: The most common cause of hazing deaths.
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): From falls, beatings, or unconsciousness.
• Hypothermia/Hyperthermia: Due to forced exposure to extreme temperatures.
• Cardiac Arrest: From extreme exertion or alcohol abuse.
• Psychological Disorders: PTSD, severe anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation are common long-term effects.
• Death: The ultimate, tragic outcome that far too many families have faced.

This is not some bygone era of college pranks that existed decades ago. This is what hazing looks like today, in educational institutions near Terrell County, Georgia, and across the nation.

Who Is Responsible: Holding Every Liable Party Accountable for Hazing in Terrell County

When your child is hazed, the instinct is to blame the individual perpetrators. While those individuals are certainly responsible, our data-driven litigation strategy ensures that every entity that contributed to or allowed the hazing is held accountable. This includes the universities you trusted, the national fraternities and sororities with their vast resources, and even the housing corporations that own the properties where these abuses occur. For families in Terrell County, we will meticulously investigate to uncover every thread of responsibility.

The Layers of Accountability in a Hazing Lawsuit:

1. The Local Chapter: This is the most immediate level of responsibility. The local chapter of a fraternity or sorority, including its officers (like the president and pledgemaster in Leonel’s case) and individual members, directly organizes and carries out the hazing. They are liable for assault, battery, false imprisonment, and hazing violations under state laws.

2. The National Fraternity or Sorority Organization: These are multi-million dollar corporations that oversee thousands of chapters nationwide, including many that have a presence near Terrell County. They collect dues, provide guidance, and are supposed to enforce anti-hazing policies. When a chapter hazes, the national organization is liable for:

   • Negligent Supervision: Failing to adequately supervise local chapters or respond to warning signs. Pi Kappa Phi, for example, had notice of deadly hazing from the 2017 death of Andrew Coffey. Our lawsuit alleges they knew about a “hazing crisis” but failed to act.
   • Failure to Enforce Policies: Having anti-hazing rules but not bothering to enforce them.
   • Deep Pockets: National organizations have substantial assets and insurance policies that can provide significant compensation to victims.

3. The University or College: Universities have a non-delegable duty to protect their students, especially when they exercise control over Greek life activities. Their liability can stem from:

   • Premises Liability: If hazing occurs on university-owned or controlled property (as it did in Leonel’s case, where UH owned the fraternity house).
   • Negligent Supervision: Failing to monitor Greek life organizations, ignoring reports of hazing, or not implementing effective prevention programs despite prior incidents (like UH’s 2017 hazing hospitalization).
   • Failure to Act: Possessing knowledge of hazing risks but failing to take reasonable steps to prevent them.
   • Deep Pockets: Universities have substantial endowments and liability insurance to cover such claims.

4. The Housing Corporation: Many fraternities and sororities have separate housing corporations that own or manage their chapter houses. These entities can be held liable for premises liability if hazing occurs on their property, especially if they knew or should have known about dangerous activities. In Leonel’s case, the Pi Kappa Phi Housing Corporation is a named defendant.

5. Individual Perpetrators: Beyond officers, any individual member who actively participated in, facilitated, or even stood by and allowed severe hazing to occur can be held personally liable for their actions. This includes former members who host hazing at their residences, as seen in our current lawsuit. The December 2024 $6.5 million judgment against a single fraternity president in the Stone Foltz case proves that individual accountability is real.

6. Insurance Carriers: The ultimate source of compensation often comes from the liability insurance policies held by the national organization, the university, the housing corporation, and sometimes even the homeowner’s policies of individual members. As former insurance defense attorneys, both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña have insider knowledge of how these companies operate, giving us an unparalleled advantage in maximizing recovery for our clients.

We don’t just sue the “fraternity”; we sue everyone responsible. This ensures that no liable party escapes accountability and that our clients in Terrell County receive the maximum possible compensation for their injuries.

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

For worried parents in Terrell County, Georgia, one of the most pressing questions is often, “Can we really win against such powerful institutions?” The answer is a resounding yes. Our demand for $10 million in the Bermudez case is not arbitrary; it’s backed by a clear pattern of multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements in hazing litigation across the country. These precedents are a testament to the fact that juries and courts are increasingly intolerant of hazing and are willing to award significant damages to victims and their families.

Landmark Verdicts and Settlements Demonstrating What’s Possible:

1. Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University / Pi Kappa Alpha (2021-2024): Total Recovery $10.1 Million+

   • What Happened: In March 2021, Stone Foltz, an 20-year-old pledge at Bowling Green State University, was forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol during a Pi Kappa Alpha initiation ritual. He died from acute alcohol poisoning.
   • The Outcome: Bowling Green State University settled for $2.9 million. Pi Kappa Alpha national and other individuals settled for an additional $7.2 million. Most recently, in December 2024, a jury issued a $6.5 million judgment against Daylen Dunson, the former chapter president, making it clear that individual perpetrators face severe personal liability. This case led to Ohio’s “Collin’s Law” against hazing.
   • Relevance for Terrell County: This case sets a benchmark. Our $10 million demand for Leonel Bermudez, who suffered life-threatening kidney failure, aligns directly with the multi-million dollar payouts for severe hazing incidents. It proves that both universities and national fraternities are on the hook for substantial amounts.

2. Maxwell Gruver – Louisiana State University / Phi Delta Theta (2017): $6.1 Million Jury Verdict

   • What Happened: In September 2017, Max Gruver, an 18-year-old freshman at LSU, was forced to play a drinking game called “Bible Study” where incorrect answers to fraternity questions led to chugging alcohol. He died from acute alcohol poisoning, with a BAC of 0.495.
   • The Outcome: A jury awarded the Gruver family $6.1 million. The case also led to the “Max Gruver Act,” which made hazing a felony in Louisiana.
   • Relevance for Terrell County: This jury verdict unequivocally demonstrates that when cases reach trial, juries are willing to award millions for hazing deaths. The story of Max Gruver, a young man just beginning his college journey, resonates deeply with juries, highlighting the devastating impact of hazing.

3. Timothy Piazza – Penn State University / Beta Theta Pi (2017): $110+ Million (Estimated Confidential Settlement)

   • What Happened: In February 2017, Timothy Piazza, a 19-year-old pledge at Penn State, was forced to consume 18 drinks in 82 minutes as part of a Beta Theta Pi ritual. He fell down a flight of stairs multiple times, suffering a traumatic brain injury and internal bleeding. Fraternity members waited 12 hours before calling 911. He died two days later. Security cameras captured the entire horrific event.
   • The Outcome: The Piazza family reached multiple confidential settlements estimated to exceed $110 million. Numerous fraternity members were charged, and many convicted, including for involuntary manslaughter. This case led to Pennsylvania’s “Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law.”
   • Relevance for Terrell County: This staggering settlement proves that egregious hazing, especially when clearly documented, can lead to monumental financial accountability. The critical delay in seeking medical help, similar to delays in Leonel’s case where his condition worsened for days before hospitalization, triggers outrage and higher damages.

4. Andrew Coffey – Florida State University / Pi Kappa Phi (2017): Confidential Settlement

   • What Happened: Coincidentally, on November 3, 2017, Andrew Coffey, a pledge at Pi Kappa Phi (the same national fraternity in our current lawsuit), was forced to drink an entire bottle of Wild Turkey bourbon. He died from acute alcohol poisoning.
   • The Outcome: While the civil settlement was confidential, 9 fraternity members faced criminal charges, and the chapter was permanently closed.
   • Relevance for Terrell County: THIS IS A SMOKING GUN for Pi Kappa Phi. They had eight years since Andrew Coffey’s death to eradicate hazing from their culture. Leonel Bermudez’s hospitalization eight years later, on November 3, 2025, on the exact same calendar day as Coffey’s death, shows a shocking lack of change and deliberate indifference. This pattern evidence is critical for securing punitive damages against the national organization.

5. Adam Oakes – Virginia Commonwealth University / Delta Chi (2021): $4 Million+ Settlement

   • What Happened: In February 2021, Adam Oakes, a freshman at VCU, died from acute alcohol poisoning after being forced to consume a large bottle of whiskey as part of a Delta Chi hazing ritual. The initial lawsuit sought $28 million.
   • The Outcome: In October 2024, the family settled for over $4 million, with a significant portion going to a foundation in Adam’s name.
   • Relevance for Terrell County: This recent settlement reinforces the substantial value of hazing cases and the willingness of organizations to settle for millions, especially when faced with the egregious facts of a death.

The Power of These Precedents for Terrell County Families:

These cases, taken together, send a clear message:

• Hazing is expensive: The financial costs of hazing injuries and deaths are in the millions.
• Juries hate hazing: When these cases go to trial, juries often award hefty sums.
• Punitive damages are possible: Egregious conduct leads to damages meant to punish and deter.
• Institutions are liable: Universities and national Greek organizations are consistently held accountable.

Our $10 million lawsuit for Leonel Bermudez is not an outlier; it’s a direct result of the pattern established by these prior cases. We bring this proven track record and the expertise gained from fighting these battles to every family in Terrell County, ensuring they have the strongest possible chance for justice and compensation.

Texas Law Protects You: Understanding Your Rights in Terrell County

For families in Terrell County, Georgia, grappling with the trauma of hazing, understanding the legal landscape is crucial. While our firm is based in Texas, where we have highly explicit anti-hazing laws, most states have similar statutes. Critically, our federal court authority and dual-state bar admissions (Texas and New York) allow us to pursue cases regardless of where the hazing occurred, ensuring that victims in Terrell County have access to our specialized expertise.

Texas Hazing Laws: A Strong Legal Foundation

Texas has some of the most robust anti-hazing laws in the nation, encapsulated in the Texas Education Code § 37.151-37.157. This is the framework we apply, and similar principles exist across state lines.

What Constitutes Hazing under Texas Law (§ 37.151)?

Texas law broadly defines hazing as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act that endangers a student’s mental or physical health for the purpose of joining or maintaining membership in an organization, occurring either on or off campus. The law explicitly lists several types of activities, many of which were inflicted upon Leonel Bermudez:

• Physical Brutality: This includes whipping, beating, striking (like the wooden paddles Leonel endured), branding, or similar activities.
• Endangerment to Health/Safety: Activities that subject a student to unreasonable risk of harm or adversely affect mental/physical well-being. This includes sleep deprivation, exposure to the elements (like being stripped to underwear in cold weather and hosed down), confinement, and excessive calisthenics (like Leonel’s 500 squats and 100 pushups that led to kidney failure).
• Forced Consumption: Forcing a student to consume food, liquid, drugs, or alcohol that creates unreasonable risk (like Leonel’s forced eating until vomiting).
• Criminal Acts: Any activity that requires a student to violate the Penal Code.
• Coerced Alcohol Consumption: Forcing a student to consume alcohol to the point of intoxication.

Leonel Bermudez’s experience unequivocally falls under multiple categories of Texas’s hazing definition, providing a clear legal basis for our lawsuit.

Criminal Penalties for Hazing (§ 37.152):

Hazing in Texas isn’t just a campus policy violation; it’s a crime. Depending on the severity, it can range from a Class B Misdemeanor (for engaging in or failing to report hazing) to a Class A Misdemeanor (for hazing causing serious bodily injury) and even a State Jail Felony (for hazing causing death). The rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure suffered by Leonel Bermudez clearly constitute “serious bodily injury,” meaning those responsible could face up to a year in jail. As the UH spokesperson indicated, “potential criminal charges” are under consideration.

Organizational Liability (§ 37.153):

Crucially, organizations themselves can be penalized. If an organization condones, encourages, or if its members, pledges, or alumni commit hazing, the entire organization can face fines up to $10,000, and even be denied the right to operate on campus. This provision allows us to hold the local chapter and the national fraternity directly accountable.

The Critical “Consent is NOT a Defense” Provision (§ 37.154):

This is perhaps the most vital aspect of Texas hazing law for victims and their families in Terrell County. The statute explicitly states: “It is not a defense to prosecution… that the person against whom the hazing was directed consented to or acquiesced in the hazing activity.”

This shatters the defense that fraternities and universities often attempt to use: “He knew what he signed up for,” or “He could have left.” The law recognizes that the power dynamics, coercion, and peer pressure inherent in hazing negate any true “consent.” You cannot legally consent to being a victim of a crime, and hazing is a crime.

Civil Liability: Beyond Criminal Charges for Terrell County Victims

Even if criminal charges are not pursued or result in acquittal, victims in Terrell County have strong civil legal grounds to pursue compensation through a personal injury lawsuit. We build these cases using a combination of legal theories:

• Negligence: This is the most common claim. We argue that the university, national organization, and individuals had a “duty of care” to protect the student, breached that duty through hazing or by failing to prevent it, which directly caused the student’s injuries, resulting in damages.
• Premises Liability: If hazing takes place on property owned or controlled by the university or a housing corporation (like the UH-owned fraternity house), they can be held liable for allowing dangerous conditions to exist.
• Negligent Supervision: This applies when national organizations fail to adequately supervise their chapters, or universities fail to properly oversee Greek life organizations on their campus.
• Assault and Battery: Individual perpetrators can be sued for intentional harmful or offensive contact, such as the waterboarding or wooden paddle strikes.
• Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress: This applies to the most egregious hazing conduct that causes severe emotional distress, such as psychological torture or simulated drowning.

For families in Terrell County, these civil claims mean that you can seek comprehensive compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages, even if criminal charges are not the focus. Our deep understanding of these laws and our experience in applying them aggressively ensures that every Terrell County family has the strongest possible case.

Why Attorney911: Your Unfair Advantage in Terrell County

When it comes to fighting back against hazing, families in Terrell County need more than just a lawyer; they need an unfair advantage. They need seasoned litigators who understand the complexities of hazing law, the tactics of powerful institutions, and how to win. At Attorney911, led by Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, we offer precisely that. We bring a unique blend of experience, insider knowledge, and unwavering dedication to every case, ensuring that Terrell County families receive the aggressive, effective representation they deserve.

Our Core Strengths – Your Unfair Advantage:

1. Over 25 Years of Courtroom Experience: Ralph Manginello is a battle-tested trial attorney with more than two and a half decades of experience litigating complex personal injury and criminal defense cases. This depth of courtroom skill is invaluable when taking on well-funded universities and national fraternities. This experience is directly applied to our active hazing cases, including the high-profile Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi lawsuit.

2. Former Insurance Defense Attorneys – We Know Their Playbook: Both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña began their careers working for insurance companies and corporate defendants. This isn’t theoretical; this is real-world insider knowledge.

   • Ralph Manginello: Worked on the defense side, giving him a firsthand understanding of how insurance companies evaluate claims, strategize defenses, and attempt to minimize payouts.
   • Lupe Peña: Worked for Litchfield Cavo LLP, a nationwide insurance defense firm, handling cases across multiple practice areas including products liability, personal injury defense, and construction law. He learned every tactic they use to lowball victims, delay claims, and wear down plaintiffs.
     Now, they use that hard-won knowledge against the very system they once defended. This insider perspective allows us to anticipate defense strategies, dismantle their arguments, and maximize compensation for our clients in Terrell County.

3. Federal Court Admissions: Both Ralph and Lupe are admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This federal authority is critical because many national fraternities and sororities, along with universities, operate across state lines. Our ability to litigate in federal court means we can pursue these national organizations wherever justice demands, providing a powerful advantage for Terrell County families whose cases may span multiple jurisdictions.

4. Dual-State Bar Admission (Texas AND New York): Ralph Manginello is licensed to practice law in both Texas and New York. This dual licensure is not just a detail; it’s a strategic advantage when dealing with national Greek organizations, many of which are headquartered or incorporated in various states, or whose members reside across the country. It broadens our reach and tactical flexibility.

5. Experience Taking on Goliath – The BP Texas City Explosion Litigation: Ralph Manginello was involved in the multi-billion dollar mass tort litigation against BP following the catastrophic 2005 Texas City refinery explosion that killed 15 workers and injured hundreds. This experience proves our firm’s capacity to take on massive corporate defendants with virtually unlimited resources, a skill directly transferable to confronting powerful national fraternities and universities. Terrell County families can trust that we are equipped to handle the biggest, most complex cases.

6. “Se Habla Español” – Bilingual Services for Terrell County’s Diverse Families: Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, and our staff is bilingual. This ensures that Spanish-speaking families in Terrell County and beyond can communicate effectively with us, understand their legal options, and navigate the complex legal process without language barriers. We are committed to ensuring clear, compassionate communication for all our clients.

7. Specialized Hazing Litigation Expertise – The Bermudez Case is Proof: We are not “general practitioners” dabbling in hazing. We are actively leading the charge against hazing. Our ongoing $10 million lawsuit for Leonel Bermudez is the embodiment of our expertise. We know rhabdomyolysis, we know institutional negligence, and we are immersed in the fight for hazing victims. This isn’t theoretical knowledge; it’s courtroom experience in progress.

8. Client-Centered Approach – “You are FAMILY to them”: Our Google reviews, boasting a 4.9-star rating from over 250 reviews, consistently highlight our compassionate, responsive approach. Clients often say, “You are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.” We understand the immense emotional toll hazing takes, and we walk alongside Terrell County families every step of the way, ensuring transparent communication and unwavering support.

9. Contingency Fee Basis – No Upfront Costs for Terrell County Families: We understand that families grappling with medical bills and trauma shouldn’t have to worry about legal fees. We take hazing cases on a contingency basis, meaning you pay $0 upfront. We only get paid if and when we win your case. This removes financial barriers and aligns our interests directly with yours. For Terrell County families, the cost of justice is never a deterrent.

10. Willingness to Travel: While our main offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we are committed to serving hazing victims nationwide, including Terrell County, Georgia. We conduct remote consultations and are prepared to travel for depositions, critical meetings, and trials as needed. Distance is never a barrier to pursuing justice for hazing victims.

When you choose Attorney911 for your hazing case in Terrell County, you’re not just hiring lawyers; you’re gaining a team of dedicated advocates with an unmatched competitive edge, ready to fight for your child with every resource at our disposal.

What to Do Right Now: Immediate Steps for Terrell County Hazing Victims

If your child has been subjected to hazing in Terrell County or anywhere else, the moments immediately following the incident are critical. While the emotional and physical toll can be overwhelming, quick and decisive action can prevent the loss of crucial evidence and protect your legal rights. We understand that you are scared, angry, and confused, but taking these steps now can lay the foundation for a successful legal claim.

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention, Even if Injuries Seem Minor:

   • Prioritize Health: Your child’s well-being is paramount. Even if they feel “fine” or try to downplay their injuries, some conditions like rhabdomyolysis or internal injuries may not be immediately apparent.
   • Document Everything: Every visit to the emergency room, urgent care, or a doctor creates vital medical records. These records document the injuries, their severity, and the date they were noticed. If your child is hospitalized, ensure all details, symptoms (like passing brown urine), and treatments are noted.
   • Start a Medical Log: Keep a detailed record of all medical appointments, medications, symptoms, and the progression of recovery.

2. Preserve All Evidence – “Document Everything!”:

   • Digital Communications are Key: Hazing is often orchestrated or discussed digitally. DO NOT DELETE ANY MESSAGES from phones or social media. This includes text messages, GroupMe chats, Snapchat stories, Instagram DMs, TikTok videos, emails, or any other digital communication. Screenshot everything, including dates and participants.
   • Photos and Videos: If safe to do so, document injuries as they occur and as they heal. Also, save any photos or videos of hazing activities or the locations where they occurred. Even if your child didn’t take them, others involved might have.
   • Witness Information: Collect names and contact information for anyone who witnessed the hazing, including other pledges, fraternity/sorority members, friends, or even bystanders. Their testimony can be invaluable.
   • Physical Evidence: If any physical items were used in the hazing (e.g., paddles, bags, degrading clothing), and your child still has them, preserve them.
   • Documents: Save any pledge manuals, schedules, rules, or other documents given to your child by the organization.
   • Financial & Academic Records: Keep track of all medical bills, lost wages from missed work, tuition fees for any interrupted semesters, and academic performance changes.

3. Avoid Certain Actions That Can Harm Your Case:

   • Do NOT Delete Anything: Destroying evidence (even accidentally) can severely damage a legal claim.
   • Do NOT Talk to the Organization or University Alone: Do not give any statements, formally or informally, to fraternity/sorority leadership, chapter advisors, university administrators, their lawyers, or campus police without first consulting your own attorney. They are often focused on protecting the institution, not your child.
   • Do NOT Post on Social Media: During this time, any posts about the incident, your feelings, or even seemingly innocent photos can be twisted and used against your child by the defense. Stay silent on social media.
   • Do NOT Sign Anything: Do not sign any documents, releases, or agreements provided by the organization or university without legal review. You could unknowingly waive critical rights.

4. Understand the Urgency – The Statute of Limitations:

   • In most states, including Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury and wrongful death cases is two years from the date of the injury or death. This means you have a limited window to file a lawsuit.
   • Time is Critical: Evidence disappears, witnesses’ memories fade, and organizations can destroy records. Delaying action can jeopardize your entire case. Our client in the Pi Kappa Phi case sought help immediately, and we filed his lawsuit within weeks of his hospitalization. This swift action is key to preserving your rights.

5. Get Legal Help Immediately – Call Attorney911:

   • The most important step is to contact an experienced hazing litigation attorney as soon as possible. We offer free, confidential consultations for families in Terrell County.
   • We can advise you on your specific legal rights, help you navigate these difficult choices, and begin the process of building a strong case.
   • Distance is Not a Barrier: Even though our offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we serve hazing victims nationwide, including Terrell County. We offer video consultations and are prepared to travel for depositions, meetings, and trials as needed.

Dealing with hazing is a traumatic experience, but you do not have to face it alone. Taking these immediate steps can significantly strengthen your child’s case and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.

Contact Us: Your Legal Emergency Hotline for Terrell County Hazing

If you’re reading this, it’s likely a legal emergency. Your child has been injured, traumatized, or worse, due to senseless hazing. This is precisely why we founded Attorney911 – to provide immediate, aggressive, and professional help when you need it most. For families in Terrell County, Georgia, seeking justice after a hazing incident, we are your dedicated advocates.

We are actively litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston right now. This isn’t theory; it’s our daily fight, and we bring that same intensity and expertise to every hazing victim we represent, no matter where they are in Terrell County or across the country.

Don’t let distance be a barrier. Your geographic location in Terrell County does not diminish your right to justice. We serve hazing victims nationwide through our federal court authority, dual-state bar admissions (Texas and New York), and a steadfast commitment to traveling wherever your case demands. For Terrell County families, this means you can access our unparalleled expertise and aggressive representation without having to leave your community.

Your Call for Justice Starts Here:

📞 1-888-ATTY-911

This legal emergency hotline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. When you call, you’ll reach a dedicated team ready to listen, advise, and help you understand your options.

Email Us Directly:
ralph@atty911.com

Visit Our Website for More Information:
attorney911.com

Our Promise to Terrell County Families:

• Free, Confidential Consultation: Your first conversation with us is always free. There’s no obligation, just a chance to discuss your situation confidentially with experienced hazing litigation attorneys.
• No Upfront Fees – We Work on Contingency: We fight for justice without adding financial burden to your family. You pay absolutely $0 upfront. Our fees are contingent upon us winning your case. If we don’t recover compensation for you, you owe us nothing.
• Video Consultations Available: For families in Terrell County, we offer convenient and secure video consultations, allowing you to meet with our attorneys from the comfort and privacy of your home.
• We Come to You: When necessary for depositions, critical meetings, or court proceedings, our attorneys are prepared to travel to Terrell County, Georgia, to protect your interests.

We protect victims of hazing in all types of organizations:

• Fraternities and sororities near Terrell County
• Sports teams at local colleges or universities
• Marching bands, ROTC programs, and academic clubs
• Any group where abuse is masked as “initiation”

If you are another victim of the Pi Kappa Phi hazing at the University of Houston, there is strength in numbers. Leonel Bermudez was not the only one. Others endured similar torture. If you witnessed or experienced these abuses, please call us. As Attorney Lupe Peña 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.”

Your call to 1-888-ATTY-911 is the first critical step toward securing justice, holding those responsible accountable, and helping to prevent future tragedies in Terrell County and beyond. Don’t wait. The statute of limitations for personal injury claims is ticking, and evidence can disappear. Contact us today.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR TERRELL COUNTY HAZING VICTIMS. AGGRESSIVE REPRESENTATION. RESULTS.

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