If you’re reading this, your family may be facing one of the most terrifying moments of your life. Your child was supposed to make friends at college, to explore new horizons, and to learn in an environment that promised safety and growth. Instead, they were tortured. They were abused. In some cases, they were killed. We’re here to help families like yours in City of Winchester fight back against the abhorrent practice of hazing that continues to plague our college campuses and youth organizations.

We are Attorney911, and we are Legal Emergency Lawyers™. We understand what you’re going through. The fear, the anger, the overwhelming sense of betrayal – these emotions are completely valid. When your child has been a victim of hazing in City of Winchester, in Virginia, or at any university across America, you need immediate, aggressive, and professional help. We bring exactly that. Our firm, headquartered in Houston, Texas, with additional offices in Austin and Beaumont, proudly serves hazing victims and their families in City of Winchester and nationwide. We come to you, offering remote consultations and traveling for depositions, meetings, and trials as needed. Distance is not a barrier to justice when your child has been harmed.

The Nightmare in Houston: A Warning to City of Winchester Families

Just weeks ago, a horrific incident unfolded in Houston that sends a chilling warning to every parent in City of Winchester whose child is attending college or plans to join a fraternity or sorority. On November 21, 2025, our firm, Attorney911, filed a $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, the University of Houston, and 13 individual fraternity members. This isn’t a theoretical case study; this is a live, ongoing battle we are fighting in Harris County Civil District Court right now.

Our client, Leonel Bermudez, was a “ghost rush,” a prospective member who wasn’t even enrolled at the University of Houston yet, planning to transfer for the upcoming semester. They did this to someone who was not even their student.

Starting September 16, 2025, Leonel endured weeks of systematic abuse, physical torture, and psychological torment under the guise of “brotherhood.” On November 3, 2025, during an extreme hazing session, Leonel was punished to the point where his muscles broke down and his kidneys failed. He spent three nights and four days hospitalized with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure. He was passing brown urine, a terrifying sign of muscle tissue rapidly dying and destroying his internal organs. He now faces the lifelong risk of permanent kidney damage.

This case is everything Attorney911 stands for: aggressive representation of hazing victims, data-driven litigation strategy, and unrelenting pursuit of accountability for every entity responsible for hazing injuries. The same pattern of abuse, the same institutional failures, and the same national fraternities operate at universities that children from City of Winchester attend. We will bring the same level of aggressive representation, the same data-driven approach, and the same commitment to accountability to your family in City of Winchester.

This is what happened in our backyard. It could happen in yours.

Media outlets like ABC13 Houston, KHOU 11, and Houston Public Media covered this story extensively. On November 21, 2025, ABC13 reported on the lawsuit, detailing the abuse and including direct quotes from Attorney Ralph Manginello and Attorney Lupe Pena:

“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.”
— Ralph Manginello to ABC13

“If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.”
— Lupe Pena to ABC13

KHOU 11 was the first to name Leonel Bermudez, revealing the chilling details of the simulated waterboarding with a garden hose and the fact that the hazing occurred at a university-owned fraternity house. This immediately flags the University of Houston for direct premises liability.

Houston Public Media confirmed the $10 million lawsuit, explaining Leonel’s status as a “ghost rush” and how he spent “three nights and four days in the hospital.” They also quoted a University of Houston spokesperson who called the events “deeply disturbing” and representative of “a clear violation of our community standards,” and mentioned “potential criminal charges.”

Even Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters issued a statement on their website, dated November 21, 2025, claiming they “closed its Beta Nu Chapter effective November 14, 2025, following violations of the Fraternity’s risk management policy and membership conduct standards.” This admission of “violations” came just one week before our lawsuit was filed, a clear indicator they knew what was coming. Disturbingly, their statement ended with: “We look forward to returning to campus at the appropriate time and continuing our partnership with the University of Houston in the years ahead.” This demonstrates a shocking lack of remorse and a business-as-usual attitude that demands punitive action.

The University of Houston, the UH Board of Regents, Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters, the local Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu Chapter, its Housing Corporation, and 13 individual fraternity members – including the chapter president, pledgemaster, and even a former member along with his spouse where some hazing occurred – are all being held accountable. We leave no stone unturned when your child’s safety is at stake.

What Hazing Really Looks Like Today in City of Winchester and Across America

You might think of hazing as harmless pranks or silly traditions. The movies and popular culture often portray it as a rite of passage, a little roughhousing to build camaraderie. But the reality, as Leonel Bermudez’s case tragically illustrates, is far darker. Hazing today is often insidious, brutal, and lethal. It is not about bonding; it is about breaking down. It is torture, plain and simple, and it happens more often than you think, affecting students from City of Winchester attending schools across the country.

It’s not “boys being boys.” It’s not “tradition.” It’s not “building brotherhood.”

IT IS:

Assault
Battery
Torture
Reckless endangerment
Sometimes manslaughter
Sometimes murder

Let’s be clear about the types of hazing activities Leonel endured, and which are common across organizations nationwide, including those with chapters near City of Winchester:

Physical Abuse

This category goes far beyond simple calisthenics. It involves deliberate acts to cause pain, injury, and extreme physical exertion.

Waterboarding / Simulated Drowning: Leonel was subjected to “simulated waterboarding with a garden hose.” This is a technique condemned as torture under international law when applied to enemy combatants. Yet, fraternities like Pi Kappa Phi use it on college students trying to join their ranks. Pledges are forced to run repeatedly under the threat of being waterboarded, sprayed in the face with a hose while doing calisthenics.
Extreme Physical Punishment: This includes seemingly endless rounds of exercises such as 100+ pushups, 500 squats, high-volume “suicides” (a running drill), bear crawls, wheelbarrows, “save-you-brother” drills, two-mile warmups, and repeated 100-yard crawls. These activities are forced upon pledges until they collapse from exhaustion. Leonel’s muscles broke down and his kidneys failed. Another pledge reportedly lost consciousness during a similar forced workout just weeks before Leonel’s hospitalization.
Paddling: Leonel was “struck with wooden paddles.” This is a direct physical assault, causing pain and bruising.
Exposure: Being forced to strip to underwear in cold weather and then sprayed with water, as Leonel was, inflicts physical suffering and humiliation, potentially leading to hypothermia.

Forced Consumption

This is not about an innocent drink; it’s about forcing individuals to ingest substances to the point of severe illness or even death.

Eating Until Vomiting: Leonel was forced to consume “large amounts of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting.” This barbaric practice is designed to sicken and humiliate.
Running Through Vomit: After vomiting, pledges like Leonel were “forced to continue running sprints while clearly in physical distress” and made to “lie in vomit-soaked grass.” This compounds the physical and psychological trauma.
Alcohol Poisoning: While not Leonel’s specific injury, forced consumption of alcohol is a dangerously common hazing practice, often resulting in severe injury or death, as seen in the tragic cases of Andrew Coffey, Max Gruver, and Stone Foltz.

Psychological Torture & Humiliation: Hazing aims to break spirits as much as bodies.

Public Humiliation: Leonel was “forced to carry a fanny pack that held objects of a sexual nature at all times.” This extreme form of public sexual humiliation strips individuals of their dignity.
Hog-Tying: In one instance, another pledge was “hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour.” This demonstrates a level of dehumanization and helplessness.
Threats & Coercion: Pledges were “threatened with physical punishment and/or expulsion from the fraternity” for non-compliance. These threats create an environment of fear that prevents victims from speaking out.
Sleep Deprivation: Being forced to drive fraternity members during early morning hours results in exhaustion, impairing judgment and increasing vulnerability.

These are not isolated incidents. They are common tactics used by fraternities, athletic teams, clubs, and other student organizations on campuses across Virginia and the nation. Parents in City of Winchester need to understand that the same patterns of abuse, designed to control and demean, can affect their children.

The statistics are alarming:

55% of students in Greek organizations experience hazing.
40% of student athletes report hazing.
Since 2000, there has been at least ONE hazing death every year in the United States.
95% of students who are hazed do NOT report it.

The tragedy is compounded by institutional failure. Universities and national Greek organizations have knowledge of this crisis. They have the power to stop it. Yet, they often choose not to—until someone gets hospitalized or dies. Only then do they “suspend” or “dissolve” chapters, claiming they’re “shocked,” while simultaneously attempting to manage public relations and limit their legal liability. This cycle of negligence must end.

Who Is Responsible: Holding Everyone Accountable

When hazing occurs, it’s never just the actions of a few “bad apples.” It’s a systemic failure involving multiple layers of responsibility, from the individual perpetrators to the highest levels of the university and national organizations. For families in City of Winchester grappling with the aftermath of hazing, knowing who can be held accountable is crucial. We sue every entity that contributed to the harm, ensuring that justice is comprehensive.

In Leonel Bermudez’s landmark case, our $10 million lawsuit targets a wide array of defendants, demonstrating our commitment to holding everyone responsible accountable:

Local Chapter

The Beta Nu Chapter of Pi Kappa Phi at the University of Houston is directly responsible. This includes the chapter itself as an entity, its officers, and individual members.

Chapter Officers: The leadership, such as the President and the Pledgemaster, are directly liable for organizing, directing, and condoning the hazing activities. They are the ones who implement the “traditions” and ensure compliance.
Individual Members: Every member who participated in the hazing, or who stood by and allowed it to happen without intervention, can be held responsible. This isn’t just about active participation; it’s about perpetuating a dangerous culture.
Former Members: In Leonel’s case, hazing even occurred at the residence of former members, who now face liability for premises negligence and facilitating the abuse. Their spouse, who owns the property, is also named as a defendant, highlighting our comprehensive approach.

National Fraternity/Sorority Organizations

Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters is a primary defendant in our lawsuit, and this is a critical aspect of nearly every hazing case we pursue.

Failure to Supervise: National organizations have a fundamental duty to supervise their local chapters, establish clear anti-hazing policies, and enforce them diligently. Our lawsuit alleges that Pi Kappa Phi National “failed to enforce anti-hazing rules and policies despite knowledge of ‘a hazing crisis’.” This is a pattern we’ve seen many times.
Knowledge of Prior Incidents: The tragic death of Andrew Coffey in 2017 in a Pi Kappa Phi hazing incident at Florida State University means the national organization had actual notice of the deadly risks of their chapters’ hazing culture. Their failure to prevent an identical scenario eight years later with Leonel Bermudez demonstrates gross negligence and conscious indifference.
Deep Pockets: National organizations possess substantial assets, endowments, and comprehensive liability insurance policies. They are often the primary source of significant financial recovery for victims.

Universities & Colleges

The University of Houston and its Board of Regents are also defendants in our lawsuit, underscoring the vital role universities play in preventing hazing. Universities and colleges near City of Winchester that host Greek life face the same scrutiny.

Duty to Protect Students: Institutions of higher education have a legal and moral obligation to provide a safe environment for their students. This duty extends to campus organizations they recognize and facilities they control.
Control of Property: In Leonel’s case, the hazing occurred in a university-owned fraternity house. This direct ownership creates undeniable premises liability. The university had the power to inspect, regulate, and intervene, but failed to do so.
Knowledge of Prior Incidents (Institutional): The University of Houston had a prior hazing hospitalization in 2017 involving its Pi Kappa Alpha chapter. This means they had actual notice of hazing dangers on their campus and failed to implement adequate safeguards, leading directly to Leonel’s injuries.
Oversight Failure: Universities must actively oversee Greek life, enforce anti-hazing policies, and respond promptly to reports. Failure in any of these areas can lead to institutional liability.

Housing Corporations

These entities often own and manage the physical fraternity or sorority houses.

Premises Liability: If hazing occurs on property owned or managed by a housing corporation, they can be held liable for failing to maintain a safe environment and for allowing dangerous activities to occur on their premises. Leonel’s case specifically names the Beta Nu Housing Corporation.

Insurance Carriers

The real financial recovery often comes from the insurance policies held by these various parties. As former insurance defense attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena bring unique insight into how these policies work and how to leverage them for maximum compensation.

National Organization’s Liability Insurance: These policies are typically substantial.
University’s Institutional Insurance: Covers the university’s negligence and premises liability.
Homeowner’s/Renter’s Insurance: May cover individual perpetrators or alumni who hosted hazing activities off-campus.
Umbrella/Excess Policies: Additional layers of coverage that can be crucial in catastrophic cases.

When your child is harmed by hazing, it’s not simply a matter between them and a few college students. It’s a complex legal emergency that demands targeting every responsible entity, from the local chapter to the national fraternity, from individual members to the university administration, including any housing corporations and their insurers. This comprehensive approach is how we secure justice and meaningful compensation for families in City of Winchester.

What These Cases Win: Multi-Million Dollar Proof of Accountability

For families in City of Winchester facing the unthinkable, the question isn’t just “who is responsible?” but “can justice truly be served?” The answer is a resounding yes. Nationally, landmark hazing verdicts and settlements have reached multi-million dollar figures, holding powerful institutions accountable and driving legislative change. These precedents demonstrate that our $10 million demand in the Bermudez case is not only justified but is consistent with the serious consequences hazing carries in courtrooms across America. The same legal strategies, the same pursuit of justice, applies to hazing victims in City of Winchester.

Here are some of the landmark cases that pave the way for victims like Leonel:

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

Total Recovery: $10.1 Million+

What Happened: In March 2021, Stone Foltz, a pledge at Ohio’s Bowling Green State University, was forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol during a Pi Kappa Alpha “Big/Little” event. He died from acute alcohol poisoning.
The Outcome: The university settled with his family for $2.9 million. The Pi Kappa Alpha national fraternity and several members settled for an additional $7.2 million. This represents the largest public university hazing payout in Ohio history. In a separate action, in December 2024, the former chapter president, Daylen Dunson, was held personally liable for a $6.5 million judgment.
Significance for City of Winchester: This case directly supports our $10 million demand. It shows that both universities and national fraternities are held accountable for multi-million dollar settlements. The personal judgment against a chapter officer should be a stark warning to fraternity leaders near City of Winchester.

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

Jury Verdict: $6.1 Million

What Happened: In September 2017, Max Gruver, an 18-year-old freshman at LSU, died from acute alcohol poisoning (BAC 0.495) during a Phi Delta Theta hazing ritual called “Bible Study,” where pledges were forced to drink heavily for incorrect answers.
The Outcome: A jury awarded his family $6.1 million. Max’s death also led to the passage of the Max Gruver Act in Louisiana, making felony hazing a crime.
Significance for City of Winchester: This jury verdict proves that communities, through their juries, are willing to impose multi-million dollar penalties for hazing. It underscores that egregious conduct will face severe consequences.

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

Total Recovery: Estimated $110 Million+

What Happened: In February 2017, Timothy Piazza, a pledge at Penn State’s Beta Theta Pi, was forced to consume 18 alcoholic drinks in 82 minutes during a “gauntlet” 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 for help. He died two days later. Security cameras inside the house captured the full horror.
The Outcome: The family reached confidential settlements totaling an estimated $110 million or more from numerous defendants. Multiple fraternity members faced criminal charges, with several receiving prison sentences for involuntary manslaughter and hazing. Pennsylvania passed the Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law.
Significance for City of Winchester: This monumental recovery demonstrates the potential for damages when evidence is undeniable and the conduct is grossly negligent. If such a sum could be achieved when the incident was caught on camera, the egregious, documented acts in Leonel’s case present a similarly compelling argument.

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

Same Fraternity as Bermudez Case

What Happened: On November 3, 2017, Andrew Coffey, a pledge at Florida State University, died from acute alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink an entire bottle of Wild Turkey bourbon during a Pi Kappa Phi “Big Brother Night.”
The Outcome: Nine fraternity members were charged with hazing, and the Pi Kappa Phi chapter was permanently closed at FSU. His family reached a settlement, the amount of which remains confidential.
Significance for City of Winchester: This case is critical: it involves Pi Kappa Phi, the very same national fraternity that hospitalized Leonel Bermudez. The fact that Pi Kappa Phi National had already overseen a hazing death in 2017, yet failed to prevent Leonel’s hospitalization eight years later, demonstrates an appalling pattern of negligence and conscious indifference. This significantly strengthens the argument for punitive damages in our current lawsuit.

Adam Oakes – Virginia Commonwealth University / Delta Chi (2021)

Settlement: $4 Million+

What Happened: In February 2021, Adam Oakes, a freshman at VCU, died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink a liter of Jameson Irish Whiskey during a Delta Chi bid initiation event.
The Outcome: The lawsuit, initially filed for $28 million, resulted in a settlement of over $4 million in October 2024.
Significance for City of Winchester: This recent settlement, also against a national fraternity, reaffirms the substantial value of hazing injury and wrongful death cases. It occurred at a Virginia university, making it particularly relevant to families in City of Winchester.

These cases send an unambiguous message: universities, national Greek organizations, and individual perpetrators can no longer hide behind “tradition” or claim ignorance. Juries and courts are increasingly siding with victims and their families, imposing colossal financial penalties and, in many instances, inspiring legislative changes like the Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law in Pennsylvania, the Max Gruver Act in Louisiana, and Collin’s Law in Ohio. Our objective for City of Winchester families is not just compensation but to contribute to this critical shift, forcing institutions to prioritize student safety over archaic, dangerous rituals.

Virginia Law Protects Your Child: Consent is NOT a Defense

For families in City of Winchester, understanding your legal rights is paramount. While our firm is based in Texas, the principles of civil liability for hazing are universal, and Virginia has its own specific anti-hazing laws designed to protect students. Let’s be clear: in Virginia, as in Texas, the idea that a student “consented” to being hazed is NOT a defense in a court of law.

Virginia’s Anti-Hazing Laws

Virginia, like many progressive states, has moved to strengthen its anti-hazing legislation. The relevant statute is Virginia Code § 18.2-56, which defines what constitutes hazing and outlines the potential penalties.

Definition of Hazing: Virginia law broadly defines hazing as any action taken or situation created, intentionally, whether on or off school property, to produce mental or physical discomfort, harassment, or ridicule for the purpose of initiation, admission, affiliation, or as a condition for continued membership in any organization. This definition covers a wide array of activities, from physical abuse and forced consumption to psychological manipulation and humiliation.
Criminal Penalties: Hazing in Virginia can be prosecuted as a Class 1 misdemeanor if it results in bodily injury, carrying a potential penalty of up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. If hazing results in the death or permanent injury of a student, the law may allow for more severe felony charges, which is a critical development in protecting students in places like City of Winchester.
Organizational Accountability: Virginia law allows for penalties against organizations found responsible for hazing, including suspension or permanent revocation of their right to operate on campus.
Consent is NOT a Defense: This is a crucial point for families in City of Winchester. Just like in Texas (Education Code § 37.154), Virginia law makes it clear that a victim’s “consent” to or “acquiescence” in hazing activities does not negate the illegality or criminal nature of the act. This is because true consent cannot be given under duress, coercion, or intoxication, which are hallmarks of hazing.

Civil Liability in City of Winchester

Beyond criminal charges, civil lawsuits offer a way for victims and their families in City of Winchester to recover financial compensation for the extensive damages caused by hazing. Our firm is adept at building these strong civil cases, leveraging various legal theories to hold all responsible parties accountable.

Negligence Claims: This is the most common legal basis. We would argue that the university, national organization, and individual members had a duty of care to ensure your child’s safety, breached that duty through their actions or inactions, and this breach directly caused their injuries and damages.
Premises Liability: If hazing occurred on property owned or controlled by the university or fraternity housing corporation in or near City of Winchester, these entities can be held liable for failing to maintain a safe environment. The University of Houston’s ownership of the fraternity house in the Bermudez case is a clear example of this direct liability.
Negligent Supervision: This theory holds national organizations and universities accountable for failing to adequately supervise local chapters or Greek life, respectively. The documented history of hazing at Pi Kappa Phi nationally, and at the University of Houston previously, clearly points to negligent supervision.
Assault and Battery: Direct participants in physical hazing activities can be sued for intentional torts like assault (threatening harm) and battery (inflicting physical harm).
Conspiracy / Aiding and Abetting: Those who planned, encouraged, or facilitated hazing, even if not directly involved in every act, can be held liable. This includes alumni and even the spouses of former members, as seen in Leonel’s case where hazing occurred at a former member’s residence.
Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress: Hazing often involves conduct so extreme and outrageous that it causes severe emotional and psychological trauma, leading to claims for intentional infliction of emotional distress. This includes the fear, humiliation, degradation, PTSD, and anxiety that many hazing survivors experience.

For families in City of Winchester, understanding that these civil claims exist, and that they can be pursued irrespective of criminal charges, provides a powerful path to justice. Our firm has deep experience navigating these complex legal frameworks, ensuring that even if local criminal prosecutors do not act, victims still have recourse. We possess federal court authority and are willing to travel to City of Winchester to build your case, ensuring full compliance with Virginia’s specific legal requirements.

Why Attorney911 is the Right Choice for City of Winchester Hazing Victims

When your child has been subjected to unthinkable abuse, you need more than just a lawyer; you need a relentless advocate who understands the nuances of hazing litigation and is prepared to fight powerful institutions. Attorney911 brings a unique blend of experience, insight, and dedication that makes us the obvious choice for families in City of Winchester seeking justice for hazing.

Unparalleled Experience, Unrivaled Insight

Actively Litigating a $10 Million Hazing Lawsuit: We aren’t just talking about hazing; we’re fighting it right now. The Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi case is concrete proof of our aggressive, data-driven approach. We know the current tactics, the latest institutional defenses, and how to dismantle them. This live experience is directly applicable to securing results for City of Winchester victims.
25+ Years of Courtroom Battle-Tested Experience: Ralph Manginello, our managing partner, brings over two decades of intense litigation experience. He leads from the front, in the courtroom, ensuring aggressive representation.
Former Insurance Defense Attorneys – Our Unfair Advantage: Both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena previously worked for insurance defense firms. This means they’ve seen every tactic the opposition uses – how they value claims, strategize defenses, and attempt to minimize payouts. Now, they use that insider knowledge to deconstruct the defense’s arguments and maximize recovery for our clients. For City of Winchester families, this means we know how the university’s legal team, the national fraternity’s lawyers, and their insurance companies will attempt to deny or diminish your claim, and we know exactly how to counter them.
Federal Court Admissions: Our attorneys are admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, granting us federal jurisdiction authority. This is crucial for hazing cases, as national fraternities and universities often operate across state lines, allowing us to pursue your case in federal courts regardless of where the incident occurred in City of Winchester.
Dual-State Bar Licenses (Texas AND New York): Ralph Manginello holds licenses in both Texas and New York. This dual-state capability offers a strategic advantage when pursuing national fraternities and sororities, many of which are headquartered or have significant operations outside of Texas. We can leverage this for City of Winchester cases against national organizations, effectively fighting them on multiple fronts.
Mass Tort Experience (BP Texas City Explosion): Ralph Manginello’s involvement in the multi-billion dollar mass tort litigation against BP following the Texas City refinery explosion demonstrates our capacity to handle complex, high-stakes cases against massive corporate defendants. The same strategic prowess used against BP is now deployed against multi-million dollar university systems and national Greek organizations.
Hazing-Specific Expertise: We have direct experience with litigation involving rhabdomyolysis injuries, like Leonel Bermudez’s case. We understand the specific medical and legal complexities involved in these severe hazing injuries, as well as cases involving other physical and psychological trauma related to hazing.

Empathy, Support, and Accessible Justice for City of Winchester Families

Parent-Facing and Empathetic Approach: We understand that you are scared, angry, and navigating an incredibly difficult time. Our tone is warm and authoritative, prioritizing your family’s well-being. We treat every City of Winchester family like our own.
No Upfront Fees – Contingency Basis: We understand that the financial burden of managing a hazing injury, combined with potential legal costs, can be overwhelming. That’s why we take hazing cases on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay $0 upfront. We only get paid if we win your case. This removes financial barriers and aligns our interests directly with yours.
- Watch our video on “How Contingency Fees Work” for more information: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F9Nc
Se Habla Español: We have bilingual staff fluent in Spanish, ensuring that Hispanic families in City of Winchester can communicate effectively and receive comprehensive legal services without language barriers.
Nationwide Reach with Local Service: While based in Texas, our expertise and capabilities extend across the country. We offer video consultations for City of Winchester families, and we are prepared to travel to City of Winchester for depositions, client meetings, and trial proceedings as needed. We believe distance should never prevent access to justice.
24/7 Availability for Legal Emergencies: Hazing incidents can lead to urgent legal situations. Our hotline, 1-888-ATTY-911, is available 24/7 for free consultations. When a legal emergency hits, we move first, fast, and decisively.

A Reputation Built on Results and Trust

Our firm maintains a 4.9-star rating on Google My Business with over 250+ reviews, a testament to our commitment to client satisfaction and aggressive representation. Clients consistently praise our communication, responsiveness, and genuine care.

“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, Satisfied Client

“Ralph didn’t have me driving out to court just to reschedule it like my last lawyer did. He saved me a lot of time, money, and very prompt on answering any and all questions I had. Case dismissed.” — Kristyn Hinchliffe, Satisfied Client

For City of Winchester families, choosing Attorney911 means choosing a legal team that is actively engaged in the fight against hazing, equipped with insider knowledge of the opposition, and deeply committed to securing the justice and compensation your child deserves. We don’t just talk about hazing; we fight it, aggressively and effectively.

What to Do Right Now if Your Child Has Been Hazed in City of Winchester

If your child has been a victim of hazing, whether in City of Winchester, in Virginia, or at any college across the nation, the moments immediately following the incident are critical. What you do—and what you avoid doing—can significantly impact your child’s recovery and the strength of any potential legal case. We provide clear, actionable steps for parents in City of Winchester to protect their child’s rights and future.

First, Prioritize Safety and Medical Care

Ensure Immediate Safety: Your child’s physical and psychological safety is paramount. Remove them immediately from any situations where hazing might continue, or where they feel threatened or unsafe.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately: Even if your child insists they are “fine,” or if injuries seem minor, get them to a doctor or emergency room. Adrenaline often masks pain and more serious internal injuries may not be immediately apparent. Leonel Bermudez didn’t realize the severity of his rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure until days after the incident.
- Document Everything: Ensure all injuries, symptoms (physical and psychological), and medical treatments are thoroughly documented by medical professionals. Keep copies of all hospital records, doctor’s notes, test results (like Leonel’s creatine kinase levels and brown urine), and bills. Medical documentation is the bedrock of any injury claim.
- Watch our video on “Why Seeing a Doctor Right After an Accident Is Critical” for more information: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=(Channel Video)

Second, Preserve All Evidence

Hazing organizations, universities, and their insurers will work quickly to control the narrative and minimize evidence. You must act faster.

Document Everything with Your Phone: Your smartphone is a powerful tool for evidence collection.
- Injuries: Take clear, high-resolution photos and videos of all injuries – bruises, cuts, burns, swelling, any visible signs of medical treatment. Document them as they appear and as they heal.
- Locations: Photograph the scene(s) where hazing occurred. This could be a fraternity house, a field, a basement, a local park near City of Winchester – anywhere the abuse took place.
- Physical Evidence: If possible, discreetly photograph any objects used in the hazing (like paddles, unusual food items, alcohol containers, any restraints) or specific arrangements.
- Watch our video on “Using Your Phone to Document Evidence” for crucial tips: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs
Preserve Digital Communications: Hazing is often planned and discussed digitally.
- DO NOT DELETE ANYTHING: This is critical. Do not delete text messages, GroupMe chats, Snapchat conversations, Instagram DMs, emails, or any other digital communications related to the hazing. Screenshot everything. Back up your phone.
- Identify Witnesses: Collect names and contact information for any other pledges, witnesses, or individuals who may have seen or have knowledge of the hazing. Their testimony can be invaluable.
Keep All Documents: Save any “pledge manuals,” schedules, rules, or agreements provided by the organization. Retain receipts for any expenses incurred due to the hazing.

Third, Protect Your Rights – Avoid Critical Mistakes

The legal landscape surrounding hazing is complex, and institutions will try to exploit your vulnerability.

DO NOT Talk to the Fraternity/Sorority or University Administration Without Legal Counsel: Anything your child or you say can be used against you. Organizations and universities will approach you to “investigate,” but their primary goal is often to protect themselves and extract information. They are not on your side.
DO NOT Give Recorded Statements: Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize claims. If you speak to them without an attorney, they will try to twist your words or get you to admit fault. You are not obligated to give a recorded statement.
DO NOT Sign Anything: Never sign any documents presented by the fraternity, sorority, or university without having an attorney review them first. You could inadvertently waive your legal rights.
DO NOT Post About the Incident on Social Media: Anything posted publicly can and will be used by defense attorneys to discredit your child or claim their injuries are not as severe as alleged. Stay off social media until your case is resolved.
- Watch our video on “Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Injury Case” for more essential warnings: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY
Act Quickly – Time is of the Essence: In Virginia, as in Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is typically two years (Virginia Code § 8.01-243). This means you generally have two years from the date of injury or death to file a lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, you lose your right to pursue legal action. Evidence disappears, witnesses’ memories fade, and organizations may destroy records. The sooner you act, the stronger your case will be.
- Watch our video on “Texas Statutes of Limitations” for a general overview on legal deadlines: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c]

Fourth, Contact Attorney911 Immediately

Free, Confidential Consultation: Call us right away at 1-888-ATTY-911. Your initial consultation is free and confidential. We will evaluate your case, explain your options, and help you understand the path forward.
Distance is Not a Barrier: Even though our primary offices are in Texas, we represent hazing victims nationwide, including those in City of Winchester. We utilize remote consultations and are prepared to travel to City of Winchester for key aspects of your case, ensuring you receive top-tier representation regardless of location.

Your child has endured enough. Now is the time to fight back. By following these steps and contacting our experienced hazing litigation team, you can begin the journey toward justice and accountability for your family in City of Winchester.

Contact Us: Your Legal Emergency Hotline for City of Winchester Hazing Victims

If your family in City of Winchester is reeling from the trauma of a hazing incident, you are in a legal emergency. We are Attorney911, and we are your first responders. The clock is ticking, and the institutions responsible for harming your child are already strategizing their defense. Do not face this battle alone.

Immediate Help for City of Winchester Hazing Victims

Don’t hesitate. Don’t second-guess yourself. If your child has been injured, hospitalized, or worse, due to hazing in City of Winchester, Virginia, or anywhere in the United States, we are here to provide immediate, aggressive, and professional help.

📞 CALL US NOW: 1-888-ATTY-911

24/7 Availability: Our legal emergency hotline is open around the clock for families in City of Winchester and across the country.
Free, Confidential Consultation: Your first conversation with us is always free and completely confidential. There is no obligation, only clarity and guidance.
No Upfront Cost: We take hazing cases on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay absolutely $0 upfront. We commit our resources, our time, and our expertise. We only get paid when we win your case.
Email Us: If calling is not possible or you prefer to reach out digitally, you can email Ralph Manginello directly at: ralph@atty911.com.
Video Consultations Available: For your convenience and privacy, we offer secure video consultations, allowing City of Winchester families to connect with our legal team from anywhere.
We Come to You: While headquartered in Houston, our commitment to justice knows no geographical bounds. Our attorneys are prepared to travel to City of Winchester for depositions, client meetings, and trial, ensuring a seamless and effective legal process.

We Are Fighting This Fight Right Now

Remember Leonel Bermudez. Remember our ongoing $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston. This is not just a theoretical practice area for us; it is a live fight for accountability and justice that we are waging today. We bring that same fierce dedication and proven strategy to every hazing case we take, including yours in City of Winchester.

Our Reach Extends to City of Winchester and Beyond

Hazing is a nationwide crisis, affecting fraternities, sororities, sports teams, clubs, bands, and military organizations at universities and colleges across America, including those that students from City of Winchester attend.

Federal Court Authority: Our admission to the U.S. District Court allows us to pursue hazing cases in federal jurisdiction, an essential tool when dealing with national organizations.
Dual-State Bar Licenses: With attorneys licensed in both Texas and New York, our legal reach is strategically enhanced for national litigation against organizations operating throughout the country.
Experienced Against Powerful Defendants: Our history of successfully litigating against formidable entities, from large corporations in mass tort cases to major universities and national fraternities, ensures that your family in City of Winchester has a powerful advocate.

To Other Victims of the UH Pi Kappa Phi Hazing

If you or someone you know was part of the Pi Kappa Phi hazing at the University of Houston that hospitalized Leonel Bermudez, we urge you to come forward. We believe there are other victims. Our client was not the only one subjected to waterboarding, forced exercise, and psychological abuse. Another pledge reportedly lost consciousness earlier in the semester. You have rights, and your voice can contribute to a larger movement for justice. Call us. Let’s bring them all to justice.

Your child deserved better. We will fight to ensure that no other family in City of Winchester endures this same nightmare.

Visit our website for more information: attorney911.com

City of Winchester Fraternity Hazing Attorneys | $24M Pike Settlements | 125+ Greek Orgs Tracked | Attorney911 — Chapters Closed, Millions Recovered | Federal Court | Former Insurance Defense | 1-888-ATTY-911