Your Guide to Hazing in Virginia: Incidents, Laws, and Legal Options for Families

In the quiet suburbs of Fairfax, as autumn leaves begin to fall, a Virginia family prepares to send their child off to a Texas university—perhaps the bustling campus of the University of Houston, the storied grounds of Texas A&M, or the vibrant atmosphere of UT Austin. They’ve packed the car, shared tearful goodbyes, and envision a future filled with academic success and newfound friendships. What they don’t, or can’t, imagine is a late-night call: their child is in the emergency room, critically ill from an initiation ritual gone wrong. Or perhaps you’re already receiving vague, troubling texts about “mandatory events” far from campus, unusual requests for money, or worrying changes in your child’s demeanor.

This harrowing scenario is not a distant possibility but a stark reality for too many families across Virginia and beyond. Hazing, in its modern and often insidious forms, continues to plague college campuses, leaving a trail of physical injuries, profound psychological trauma, and, tragically, even death. It extends far beyond the cliché of harmless pranks, evolving into elaborate schemes of degradation, alcohol abuse, and even violence.

This comprehensive guide is designed specifically for families in Virginia who need to understand the complex landscape of hazing, the laws that govern it, and the legal options available to them. We will unpack what hazing truly looks like in 2025, how Texas and federal laws address this dangerous practice, and what lessons can be drawn from major national hazing cases that directly apply to students at schools like the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, Southern Methodist University, and Baylor. You’ll learn about the specific challenges and responses at these key Texas institutions and how the histories of national fraternities and sororities contribute to their liability. Most importantly, we will provide you with practical, actionable information on how to recognize hazing, preserve critical evidence, and navigate the complex legal journey if your family is ever impacted.

We want to empower you with knowledge and a clear path forward. This article provides general information and is not specific legal advice. While hazing is a severe issue, the information you’ll find here aims to be clear, direct, and empathetic. The Manginello Law Firm is here to support families throughout Texas, including Virginia, and our experienced attorneys are ready to assess your unique situation.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES:

• If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

  • Call 911 for medical emergencies
  • Then call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
  • We provide immediate help – that’s why we’re the Legal Emergency Lawyers™

• In the first 48 hours:

  • Get medical attention immediately, even if the student insists they are “fine”
  • Preserve evidence BEFORE it’s deleted:
    • Screenshot group chats, texts, DMs immediately
    • Photograph injuries from multiple angles
    • Save physical items (clothing, receipts, objects)
  • Write down everything while memory is fresh (who, what, when, where)
  • Do NOT:
    • Confront the fraternity/sorority
    • Sign anything from the university or insurance company
    • Post details on public social media
    • Let your child delete messages or “clean up” evidence

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

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

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like

For Virginia families unfamiliar with modern Greek life or collegiate campus culture, understanding what hazing truly entails is crucial. It’s no longer just about silly stunts or harmless pranks; today’s hazing is sophisticated, often insidious, and carries severe consequences. It preys on a student’s desire for belonging, using psychological manipulation, social pressure, and even digital tools to coerce participation in dangerous activities.

Hazing is broadly defined as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, committed by one person or a group, against a student, that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of that student for the purpose of pledging, initiation, affiliation, holding office, or maintaining membership in any organization. This definition is critical because it highlights several key points:

• Intent is not always required to prove wrongdoing: “Reckless” actions, where the risk of harm should have been obvious, are enough.
• Location doesn’t matter: Hazing can occur on campus, off campus, in private homes, or even virtually.
• “Consent” is irrelevant: A student cannot truly consent to hazing when there is a power imbalance, social pressure, and fear of exclusion or reprisal. The law often disregards claims that a victim “agreed” to participate.
• Harm can be mental or physical: Hazing isn’t just about bruises; it inflicts psychological trauma, anxiety, depression, and long-lasting mental anguish.

For Virginia parents and students, understanding these nuances is the first step toward recognition and prevention.

The Main Categories of Hazing: Beyond the Stereotypes

Modern hazing has diversified its tactics, making it harder to identify but no less dangerous. We classify hazing into several key categories:

• Alcohol and Substance Hazing: This is by far the leading cause of hazing-related deaths and serious injuries. It involves forced or coerced consumption of alcohol, often to extreme levels. This can manifest as:

  • “Lineups” or “drink-offs”: Pledges are forced to rapidly consume multiple alcoholic drinks.
  • “Bottle exchanges”: Pledges are given full bottles of hard liquor and expected to finish them.
  • Drinking games: Games meticulously designed to ensure excessive alcohol intake, often linked to chapter history or trivial facts.
  • Forced consumption of unknown or mixed substances: This can include illicit drugs or concoctions that cause severe illness.
  • Delayed calls for help: After a student passes out from over-intoxication, brothers or sisters often delay calling 911, worsening outcomes, as seen tragically in the Timothy Piazza case.

• Physical Hazing: This category covers any forced physical activity or abuse that endangers a student’s safety.

  • Paddling and beatings: These inflict direct physical harm and can lead to severe injury.
  • Extreme calisthenics or “workouts”: Pledges are forced to perform hundreds of push-ups, squats, or other exercises until exhaustion, often in inappropriate conditions or while sleep-deprived. This can lead to rhabdomyolysis, a severe muscle breakdown that causes kidney failure.
  • Sleep and food deprivation: Pledges are kept awake for extended periods or denied regular meals, leading to exhaustion, impaired judgment, and vulnerability.
  • Exposure to extreme environments: Leaving pledges in remote, cold, or hot areas without proper attire or resources.

• Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing: These acts are deeply degrading and can cause profound emotional scars.

  • Forced nudity or partial nudity: Pledges are stripped or made to wear degrading outfits.
  • Simulated sexual acts: Requiring pledges to simulate oral sex, engage in “elephant walks,” or other sexually explicit and humiliating performances.
  • Racial, homophobic, or sexist acts: Coercing pledges to perform acts that are culturally insensitive, discriminatory, or reinforce harmful stereotypes.

• Psychological Hazing: Often overlooked but equally damaging, this involves intense mental manipulation and abuse.

  • Verbal abuse and threats: Constant yelling, insults, and intimidation tactics that create a climate of fear.
  • Isolation: Forcing pledges to cut off communication with family or friends outside the organization.
  • Public shaming: Forcing pledges to engage in humiliating acts in public or online, destroying their self-esteem.

• Digital/Online Hazing: A newer but rapidly evolving frontier, this leverages technology for coercion and control.

  • Group chat control: Pledges are added to constant, demanding group chats, requiring immediate responses at all hours, imposing sleep deprivation.
  • Social media dares and humiliation: Forcing pledges to post embarrassing content on TikTok, Instagram, or Snapchat, or to engage in degrading online “challenges.”
  • Geo-tracking: Requiring pledges to share their live location, violating privacy and creating constant surveillance.
  • Forced creation of compromising content: Demanding images or videos of pledges engaging in illicit activities that can be used for blackmail.

Where Hazing Actually Happens in Texas and Beyond

Hazing is not confined to one type of organization or a single campus area. For Virginia families with children heading to Texas universities, it’s vital to recognize that the risk can manifest in many different collegiate groups, not just the stereotypical Greek fraternities:

• Fraternities and Sororities: This includes social Greek letter organizations across all councils (Interfraternity Council, Panhellenic Council, National Pan-Hellenic Council, Multicultural Greek Council) and their unique chapters at schools like UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor.
• Corps of Cadets and ROTC Programs: Military-style organizations, with their emphasis on discipline and hierarchy, sometimes grapple with hazing disguised as “training” or “tradition.” The Texas A&M Corps of Cadets, with its rich history, has faced such challenges.
• Athletic Teams: From football to basketball, baseball, cheerleading, and even club sports, athletes are often subjected to hazing rituals that reinforce loyalty through physical and mental abuse. The recent Northwestern University scandal is a stark reminder of this.
• Marching Bands and Performance Groups: Even seemingly innocuous groups can foster hazing cultures, using rituals to build “team cohesion” that cross into harmful territory, as tragically seen in the Robert Champion case at Florida A&M.
• Spirit Squads and Tradition Clubs: Organizations like the Texas Cowboys at UT Austin, deeply embedded in school spirit, have faced hazing allegations.
• Service, Cultural, and Academic Organizations: Any group that requires initiation or maintains a hierarchy can be susceptible to hazing, showcasing the pervasive nature of this problem.

The underlying culture of secrecy, perceived loyalty, and the pursuit of social status often allow hazing to persist, even in the face of strict anti-hazing policies and devastating consequences. This is why vigilance and informed action are paramount for families in Virginia.

Law & Liability Framework (Texas + Federal)

For families in Virginia impacted by hazing in Texas, understanding the legal landscape is paramount. Texas has specific laws designed to combat hazing, and federal regulations provide additional layers of accountability.

Texas Hazing Law Basics (Education Code)

Texas law explicitly prohibits hazing through provisions codified in the Texas Education Code – Chapter 37, Subchapter F (Hazing). These laws apply to all public and private high schools, colleges, and universities in the state.

Definition of Hazing (§ 37.151):
Hazing is defined as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, by one person alone or with others, directed against a student, that:

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

In plain English for Virginia families, this means that if someone makes your child do something dangerous, harmful, or degrading to join or stay in a group, and they either intended to do it or were reckless about the risks, that’s unequivocally hazing under Texas law. Notably, the law clearly states that whether the hazing occurs on or off campus is irrelevant, and the harm can be mental or physical. Furthermore, the victim’s “consent” to the activity is not a valid legal defense (§ 37.155).

Criminal Penalties (§ 37.152):
Texas law imposes serious criminal penalties, which escalate with the severity of the harm:

• Most hazing incidents are classified as a Class B Misdemeanor (punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a fine up to $2,000).
• If the hazing causes injury requiring medical treatment, it can be elevated to a Class A Misdemeanor.
• Crucially, if hazing causes serious bodily injury or death, it becomes a State Jail Felony (punishable by up to two years in a state jail facility and a fine up to $10,000).

Moreover, individuals who are aware of hazing and fail to report it (if they are a member or officer of an organization) can face misdemeanor charges. Retaliating against someone who reports hazing is also a misdemeanor, designed to protect whistleblowers.

Organizational Liability (§ 37.153):
The law extends criminal liability beyond individuals to the organizations themselves. A fraternity, sorority, club, or team can be criminally prosecuted for hazing if:

• The organization authorized or encouraged the hazing, OR
• An officer or member acting in an official capacity knew about the hazing and failed to report it.
  Organizations can face fines up to $10,000 per violation, and universities often revoke recognition or ban such organizations from campus.

Immunity for Good-Faith Reporting (§ 37.154):
To encourage reporting, Texas law provides immunity from civil or criminal liability for individuals who report a hazing incident in good faith to university authorities or law enforcement. Additionally, Texas has laws that offer amnesty for students who call 911 in a medical emergency, even if the incident involved underage drinking or drug use. These “Good Samaritan” provisions prioritize saving lives over punishing minor offenses.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Two Paths to Justice

When a hazing incident occurs, families in Virginia may find themselves facing two distinct legal avenues: criminal prosecution and civil litigation.

• Criminal Cases: These are initiated and led by the state (through a prosecutor’s office, such as a District Attorney in places like Harris County for UH, Travis County for UT, or Dallas County for SMU). The primary goal is to punish the individuals or organizations responsible, often through fines, jail time, or probation. Charges range from misdemeanor hazing to felony assault or even manslaughter if the hazing leads to serious injury or death.

• Civil Cases: These are brought forth by the victims or their surviving family members (the plaintiffs). The goal here is not punishment, but monetary compensation (damages) for the losses and suffering incurred, as well as holding responsible parties accountable. Civil hazing lawsuits can involve claims of:

  • Negligence and Gross Negligence: Arguing that individuals, organizations, or institutions failed in their duty of care.
  • Wrongful Death: If the hazing resulted in a fatality, allowing families to seek compensation for their profound loss.
  • Negligent Supervision/Retention: Alleging that universities or national organizations failed to properly supervise their chapters or address known risks.
  • Premises Liability: If the hazing occurred on property where the owner failed to provide a safe environment.
  • Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress and Assault/Battery.

Crucially, criminal and civil cases can proceed independently. A criminal conviction is not a prerequisite for a successful civil lawsuit, and victims can pursue compensation even if criminal charges are never filed or do not result in a conviction.

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

Beyond state law, federal regulations introduce additional layers of accountability for universities that receive federal funding, which includes most major institutions across Texas.

• Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This landmark federal legislation, signed into law, mandates greater transparency and prevention efforts from colleges and universities. Starting around 2026, institutions will be required to:

  • Publicly report hazing violations and statistics.
  • Implement comprehensive hazing prevention programs.
  • Provide educational materials to students and staff.
    This federal act aims to improve data collection and reporting, ensuring that families have more information about hazing incidents at potential schools, including those in Texas where Virginia families send their children.

• Title IX: This federal civil rights law prohibits sex-based discrimination in any education program or activity receiving federal financial assistance. When hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, or gender-based hostility, it directly triggers a university’s Title IX obligations. Institutions must investigate such complaints promptly and equitably, and failure to do so can lead to severe consequences, including loss of federal funding or civil lawsuits.

• Clery Act: The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act requires colleges and universities to disclose information about crime on and around their campuses. While hazing is not explicitly a Clery crime, many hazing incidents involve underlying offenses that are Clery-reportable, such as assault, underage alcohol offenses, drug violations, or sexual offenses. This means that hazing investigations can overlap with Clery reporting requirements, further emphasizing the need for transparent record-keeping and a prompt response from institutions.

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit

One of the most complex aspects of hazing litigation for impacted Virginia families is identifying all potentially liable parties. The web of responsibility often extends far beyond the immediate perpetrators:

• Individual Students: Those who actively planned, carried out, or directly participated in the hazing acts can be held personally liable. This includes those who supplied alcohol to minors or failed to intervene in a dangerous situation.
• Local Chapter/Organization: The specific fraternity, sorority, club, or team itself (if it’s recognized as a legal entity) can be held responsible, especially if its leaders authorized or encouraged the hazing.
• National Fraternity/Sorority: For chapters affiliated with national organizations, the national headquarters can often be held liable. This is particularly true if the national organization had knowledge of prior hazing incidents (either at that chapter or others), failed to adequately enforce its own anti-hazing policies, or negligently supervised its local chapters. This is where the long history of hazing incidents across the country becomes crucial evidence.
• University or Governing Board: The educational institution itself, along with its board of regents or trustees, can be held liable under various theories of negligence, especially if they:
  • Were aware of prior hazing incidents involving the perpetrator organization but failed to take meaningful action.
  • Demonstrated “deliberate indifference” to known risks.
  • Failed to adequately enforce their own anti-hazing policies.
  • Were negligent in supervising student activities or housing.
    For public universities in Texas (like UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin), sovereign immunity—which generally protects governmental entities from lawsuits—can complicate matters. However, important exceptions exist for gross negligence, certain operational failures, and cases involving federal civil rights violations like Title IX. Private universities (like SMU and Baylor) typically have fewer immunity protections.
• Third Parties: Depending on the circumstances, others might also bear responsibility:
  • Property Owners/Landlords: If the hazing occurred at a private residence or venue, the owner could be liable for failing to provide a safe environment or for allowing illicit activities.
  • Alcohol Providers: Bars, liquor stores, or individuals who illegally provided alcohol to minors resulting in harm could face charges under “dram shop” laws.

The complexity of identifying and proving liability against multiple parties underscores the need for an experienced hazing attorney. We can skillfully navigate these legal waters to ensure that all responsible parties are held accountable for the harm they caused.

National Hazing Case Patterns (Anchor Stories)

For Virginia families grappling with a hazing incident in Texas, understanding the national landscape of hazing cases offers critical context. These “anchor stories” reveal recurring patterns of harm, expose the legal vulnerabilities of institutions and organizations, and underscore the multi-million-dollar stakes involved. They demonstrate that the tragic incidents at Texas universities are not isolated, but part of a predictable, and preventable, national epidemic.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death: A Repeating Script

The most common and devastating form of hazing involves forced alcohol consumption. These cases often share chillingly similar elements: pledges encouraged or coerced to drink excessive amounts, often in rapid succession, followed by delayed medical attention as “brothers” or “sisters” prioritize chapter secrecy over human life.

• Timothy Piazza – Penn State University, Beta Theta Pi (2017): This case became a national flashpoint for anti-hazing advocacy. During a “bid acceptance” night, 19-year-old Timothy Piazza was forced to consume a dangerous amount of alcohol. Multiple severe falls, captured on the fraternity’s own security cameras, resulted in catastrophic brain injuries. Fraternity members observed his distress but delayed calling for help for nearly 12 hours. This delay was fatal. The aftermath led to dozens of criminal charges against fraternity members, intense civil litigation, and the passage of the Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law in Pennsylvania, a felony hazing statute. The case tragically exposed the cover-up culture and reckless indifference to human life within certain Greek chapters.
• Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (2017): In a separate incident just months after Piazza, 20-year-old Andrew Coffey died of acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” event. Pledges were given handles of hard liquor and pressured to drink them. His death spurred criminal hazing charges against fraternity members and led Florida State University to temporarily suspend all Greek life. The case highlights how “tradition” often normalizes dangerous drinking rituals, leading to predictable and fatal outcomes.
• Max Gruver – Louisiana State University, Phi Delta Theta (2017): Max Gruver, an 18-year-old pledge, died following a ritual called “Bible study,” where he was forced to consume excessive amounts of alcohol for answering questions incorrectly. His blood alcohol content was dangerously high (0.495%). His death directly led to Louisiana enacting the Max Gruver Act, a stringent felony hazing law. The Gruver family later received a $6.1 million verdict against individuals involved and the fraternity’s insurer, demonstrating significant civil liability.
• Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021): Another tragic example of forced alcohol consumption, Stone Foltz, an 18-year-old pledge, was required to drink an entire bottle of alcohol during a “Big/Little” event. He died from alcohol poisoning. The case resulted in multiple criminal convictions for hazing-related charges against fraternity members and a landmark $10.9 million settlement for the family, with roughly $7 million from Pi Kappa Alpha national and ~$3 million from Bowling Green State University. It underscores the financial and reputational devastation that hazing can wreak upon both national organizations and universities.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing: Beyond the Drinking

While alcohol is a prominent factor, other forms of physical and ritualized hazing also lead to severe injury and death.

• Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013): Michael Deng, a 19-year-old pledge, died during a fraternity retreat in the Pocono Mountains. He was blindfolded, forced to wear a heavy backpack, and repeatedly tackled in a ritual called “glass ceiling.” His traumatic brain injury, compounded by significant delays in calling for help and attempted cover-ups, proved fatal. Multiple members were criminally convicted, and, notably, the national Pi Delta Psi fraternity itself was convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter, a rare instance of an organization facing criminal liability. The fraternity was banned from operating in Pennsylvania for 10 years and fined over $110,000. This case highlights the dangers of off-campus “retreats” used to evade oversight, and the potential for severe criminal and civil penalties against national organizations.
• Danny Santulli – University of Missouri, Phi Gamma Delta (2021): This case underscores the catastrophic consequences of non-fatal hazing. During a “pledge dad reveal” night, 18-year-old Danny Santulli was forced to drink a liter of vodka and then passed out. Members actively avoided calling 911 for hours, moving his unresponsive body around. He suffered severe and permanent brain damage, leaving him unable to walk, talk, or see, and requiring 24/7 care. His family settled lawsuits with 22 defendants, including the fraternity, reportedly for multi-million-dollar amounts. This case serves as a poignant reminder that survival does not always mean recovery, and the costs of lifetime care for brain injuries are immense.

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse: A Widespread Problem

Hazing is not exclusive to Greek life; it is a pervasive issue in athletic programs, military organizations, and other student groups.

• Northwestern University Football Scandal (2023–2025): Former football players alleged a pattern of widespread sexualized and racist hazing within the program stretching back years. This included forced sexual acts, racial discrimination, and physical abuse. The scandal led to the firing of head coach Pat Fitzgerald, who subsequently filed a wrongful-termination lawsuit (later confidentially settled). Multiple players have filed lawsuits against the university, exposing how hazing can be deeply entrenched in major athletic programs and highlighting the liability of institutions for failing to protect student-athletes.

What These National Cases Mean for Families in Virginia

For families in Virginia with children at Texas universities, these national anchor stories offer several crucial takeaways:

• Foreseeability: The consistent recurrence of these incidents across time, organizations, and campuses demonstrates that hazing is a foreseeable risk. National fraternities and universities cannot credibly claim ignorance to the dangers of forced drinking, physical abuse, or delayed medical calls.
• Institutional Accountability: These cases prove that liability extends far beyond individual students. National organizations, local chapters, and the universities themselves can all be held financially and reputationally accountable for hazing.
• Significant Damages: The multi-million-dollar settlements and verdicts in these cases underscore the severe financial and emotional toll hazing exacts on victims and their families, as well as the legal system’s commitment to compensating such losses.
• Catalyst for Change: Many of these tragedies have spurred new, tougher anti-hazing laws and significant policy reforms at universities, demonstrating that legal action can lead to systemic improvements.

When hazing impacts a family in Virginia, the lessons from these national patterns provide a powerful framework for understanding the potential for legal recourse and the pursuit of justice.

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

For Virginia families, Texas’s diverse higher education landscape offers a wide array of choices, but each institution comes with its own culture, policies, and history related to hazing. Understanding these specifics is vital, especially given that many Virginia students attend these prominent Texas universities. We will delve into the details of five major institutions in Texas: the University of Houston, Texas A&M University, the University of Texas at Austin, Southern Methodist University, and Baylor University. This section will also highlight how Attorney911 operates across Texas, including our direct ability to help families from Virginia navigate the legal complexities of these specific campuses.

5.1 University of Houston (UH)

The University of Houston is a sprawling urban campus in the heart of the nation’s fourth-largest city, a hub many Virginia families consider for their children’s education. Known for its extensive research programs and diverse student body, UH is a blend of residential and commuter students, fostering a dynamic but sometimes challenging environment, including an active Greek life with dozens of fraternities and sororities and numerous other student organizations.

5.1.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot (with Virginia Connection)

For Virginia students attending UH, the campus offers a vibrant college experience within a major metropolitan area. Greek life, both historically black (NPHC) and interfraternity/panhellenic (IFC/PHC) organizations, plays a significant social role for many. Due to its size and accessibility, UH is a common destination for students from across the country, including those from Virginia seeking a diverse academic and social environment. The University’s policies are designed to maintain order across a highly diverse student body.

Hazing at UH takes a central role in our firm’s work. In late 2025, Attorney911 filed a significant lawsuit against the University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi fraternity on behalf of Leonel Bermudez, a pledge who suffered critical injuries from alleged severe hazing. This case, detailed further below, underscores the ongoing risks at large public institutions like UH.

5.1.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

The University of Houston maintains a strict anti-hazing policy, clearly stating that hazing is prohibited on or off campus. Its Student Handbook explicitly outlines disallowed activities, which align with the Texas Education Code. These include any act that:

• Causes physical injury or mental anguish.
• Requires consumption of food, alcohol, drugs, or other substances.
• Involves physical brutality such as paddling, beating, forced calisthenics.
• Results in forced exclusion from social contact, sleep deprivation, or confinement.

UH encourages reporting through various channels:

• The Dean of Students Office (for student conduct violations).
• The Office of Student Advocacy and Accountability.
• The University of Houston Police Department (UHPD) for immediate threats or criminal acts.
• An online reporting form for anonymous submissions.

Like many universities, UH also issues a “Statement on Hazing” yearly and outlines sanctions for violations, ranging from probation to expulsion for individuals and suspension to permanent termination for organizations.

5.1.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

The University of Houston has a history of hazing incidents that highlight the persistent nature of the problem, particularly within its Greek system.

• Pi Kappa Alpha (2016): In a widely publicized incident several years ago, pledges of the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity were allegedly subjected to physical and mental abuse, including sleep and food deprivation during a multi-day event. One pledge suffered a lacerated spleen after reportedly being slammed onto a table or similar hard surface. The chapter faced criminal misdemeanor hazing charges and was suspended by the university for several years. This case demonstrated the severe physical harm hazing can inflict and the legal actions that can follow.

• Multiple Organizations (Ongoing): Over the years, numerous UH fraternities and sororities have faced disciplinary action for hazing, often involving alcohol misuse, forced activities, and physical discomfort. While UH’s publicly available disciplinary records may lack the granular detail of some other institutions, Attorney911’s experience with cases like Bermudez v. UH shows that hazing persists in various forms even with stated policies in place. These incidents, though not always high-profile, reflect a pattern of organizations pushing boundaries and violating established rules.

5.1.4 How a UH Hazing Case Might Proceed (with Virginia Connection)

For Virginia families pursuing a hazing case originating at UH, the legal process will primarily unfold within the Texas judicial system, specifically in Harris County, where Houston is located.

• Jurisdiction: Civil lawsuits would typically be filed in a District Court in Harris County, Texas. This means local Texas attorneys, like those at Attorney911, with established presences in Houston, have immediate familiarity with the courts, judges, and local legal landscape.
• Law Enforcement: Depending on where the hazing occurred (on campus vs. off-campus venue in Houston), law enforcement might involve the UHPD or the larger Houston Police Department (HPD). If the hazing constitutes a crime (e.g., assault, providing alcohol to minors, serious bodily injury), either agency could initiate criminal charges.
• Potential Defendants: In a multi-party hazing lawsuit, potential defendants could include:
  • The individual students who directly participated.
  • The local UH chapter of the fraternity or sorority.
  • The national organization (if affiliated).
  • The University of Houston itself, along with the UH System Board of Regents, particularly if there’s evidence of negligent oversight or failure to act on prior warnings.
  • Third-party property owners (if the hazing occurred at an off-campus house).
• Sovereign Immunity: As a public university, the University of Houston benefits from a degree of sovereign immunity under Texas law. However, this immunity is not absolute. Legal claims against public universities often have to navigate specific exceptions, such as those involving gross negligence, certain operational failures, or federal civil rights violations like Title IX. An experienced firm like Attorney911 knows how to build cases that demonstrate these exceptions.

5.1.5 What UH Students & Parents Should Do

For Virginia students attending the University of Houston, and their concerned families, proactive measures and swift action are crucial if hazing is suspected:

• Understand UH’s Policies: Familiarize yourself with the University of Houston’s anti-hazing policies and reporting methods. Know the official channels for complaint.
• Prioritize Safety First: If a student is in immediate physical danger or has consumed excessive alcohol or drugs, call 911 immediately. Texas law and UH policy offer protections for good-faith reporters, prioritizing a student’s well-being.
• Document Everything: As soon as you suspect hazing, begin meticulously documenting every detail. This includes screenshots of group chats, texts, photos of injuries or events, and written notes of conversations, dates, and locations. Evidence can disappear quickly. Our firm’s video on documenting a legal case using your cellphone (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs) offers vital guidance.
• Seek Medical Attention: If physical or psychological harm has occurred, obtain medical care immediately. Ensure that the medical record reflects the alleged cause of the injuries (i.e., “hazing incident”).
• Contact Legal Counsel: Before engaging extensively with university investigations or insurance companies, consult with a Houston-based hazing attorney. An attorney can help preserve evidence, protect rights, and navigate the complex procedures and potential challenges from institutions protected by sovereign immunity. Attorney911 specializes in these types of complex institutional cases.

5.2 Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University, a beloved institution for many Virginia families, commands a deep sense of tradition and loyalty, particularly through its iconic Corps of Cadets. Located in College Station, a town whose identity is inextricably linked to the university, A&M boasts an enormous student body and vibrant Greek life, alongside its unique military-style programs.

5.2.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot (with Virginia Connection)

Texas A&M’s strong emphasis on tradition, honor, and loyalty draws students from across the country, including a significant number from Virginia. For Aggies, the Corps of Cadets and deeply rooted campus traditions often supersede typical college experiences, fostering a powerful sense of belonging that can, unfortunately, also make it susceptible to hazing disguised as “tradition.” Greek life here is large and influential, contributing to the social fabric of College Station.

Our firm has significant experience with A&M-related hazing, as it’s a prominent institution where Virginia families send their children.

5.2.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Texas A&M has a clear and comprehensive anti-hazing policy that is communicated to all students and organizations. The university’s Code of Conduct strictly prohibits any action that meets the Texas statutory definition of hazing. Their policy specifically addresses:

• Physical demands (calisthenics, sleep deprivation, lineups).
• Forced consumption of substances.
• Psychological abuse and humiliation.
• Activities that interfere with academic performance.

Reporting channels include:

• The Dean of Student Life Office (for general student conduct and hazing complaints).
• The Department of Student Activities (for Greek life and student organization violations).
• The Texas A&M University Police Department (TAMUPD) for criminal acts.
• A confidential online reporting system and phone hotline.

A&M also emphasizes education and prevention through its “Stop Hazing” campaign.

5.2.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Texas A&M’s rich traditions, particularly within the Corps of Cadets, have, at times, blurred the lines between challenging and hazing. Both Greek life and Corps activities have faced scrutiny.

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (2021 lawsuit): In a harrowing incident that became the subject of a lawsuit, two pledges of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity alleged severe chemical burns after members poured industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and other degrading substances on them during a hazing ritual. The pledges needed skin graft surgeries. The fraternity chapter was suspended by the university, and the civil lawsuit sought $1 million in damages. This case highlights the extreme physical dangers and callous disregard for safety that can occur.
• Corps of Cadets (2023 lawsuit): A cadet filed a lawsuit alleging systematic and degrading hazing within the Corps. The allegations included simulated sexual acts, being bound between beds in a “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth, and other forms of physical and psychological abuse. The cadet sought over $1 million in damages, with the University responding that it had handled the matter under its internal regulations. This suit brought to light the darker side of some Corps traditions and the challenge of distinguishing “tough training” from illegal hazing.
• Aggie Bonfire Collapse (1999): While not traditional hazing, the tragic collapse of the Aggie Bonfire, which killed 12 students and injured 27, raised profound questions about student-led, high-risk traditions and institutional oversight. Multiple lawsuits against university officials resulted in settlements exceeding $6 million total. This event, deeply ingrained in A&M’s history, serves as a powerful reminder of the potential for tragic outcomes when student activities operate without adequate safety protocols or oversight.

5.2.4 How a Texas A&M Hazing Case Might Proceed (with Virginia Connection)

For Virginia families dealing with hazing at Texas A&M, the case would be situated in Brazos County, where College Station is located.

• Jurisdiction: Legal proceedings would occur in Brazos County District Courts. Attorney911, though based in Houston, regularly handles complex civil litigation across the state, including in Brazos County.
• Law Enforcement: The Texas A&M University Police Department (TAMUPD) would typically lead criminal investigations for incidents on or immediately around campus. Broader investigations might involve the Brazos County Sheriff’s Office.
• Potential Defendants: In addition to individuals and the local chapter, the national organizations and Texas A&M University (a public institution with sovereign immunity protections) would be key targets. The presence of the Corps of Cadets adds another layer of organizational structure and potential liability to some cases.
• Sovereign Immunity Nuances: Claims against Texas A&M face the hurdle of sovereign immunity, but our firm excels at identifying and proving the exceptions that allow these powerful institutions to be held accountable.

5.2.5 What Texas A&M Students & Parents Should Do

For Virginia students at Texas A&M and their families, these steps are critical if hazing is suspected:

• Recognize the Signs: Be acutely aware of the subtle, harassment, and violent forms of hazing, especially when presented as “tradition” or “bonding.”
• Document Thoroughly: Immediately screenshot all relevant digital communications (GroupMe, texts, social media), photograph any injuries, and meticulously record dates, times, locations, and names. Our Attorney911 video on documenting evidence with your cell phone (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs) is a crucial resource.
• Seek Medical Care: Ensure any injuries, physical or psychological, are promptly evaluated and thoroughly documented by medical professionals. Clearly state that hazing activities caused the harm.
• Understand Reporting: While reporting to A&M’s Dean of Student Life or TAMUPD is an option, it is advisable to consult a hazing attorney first. An attorney can help strategize the report and protect your rights during the university’s internal investigation process.
• Legal Consultation is Key: Contact an experienced hazing attorney who understands the nuances of A&M’s culture, Greek life, and Corps traditions, as well as the challenges of litigating against a public university. Attorney911 has the expertise to navigate these specific issues.

5.3 University of Texas at Austin (UT)

The University of Texas at Austin is a flagship institution for many Virginia students, renowned for its academic excellence, vibrant campus life, and deep-seated traditions. Situated in the heart of the state capital, its extensive Greek system and highly competitive student organizations contribute to a dynamic, yet sometimes risky, environment.

5.3.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot (with Virginia Connection)

UT Austin’s status as a top-tier university makes it a popular choice for bright students from Virginia. The campus cultivates a strong sense of identity, embodied by its “Longhorn” spirit. Greek life is extremely prominent, with numerous fraternities and sororities holding significant social influence. Additionally, student-led spirit organizations like the Texas Cowboys play a central role in preserving campus traditions. This blend of academic rigor, social vibrancy, and deep-rooted traditions sets a unique stage for collegiate life.

5.3.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

The University of Texas at Austin maintains very clear and publicly accessible anti-hazing policies, strictly prohibiting any activity that aligns with the Texas Education Code definition of hazing. Their policy covers both on-campus and off-campus events and applies to all registered and unregistered student organizations, athletic teams, and spirit groups. UT’s policy specifically outlaws actions that:

• Threaten physical or mental health.
• Require consumption of any substance.
• Involve physical brutality.
• Include activities designed to humiliate or degrade.

UT Austin is notable for its relatively high transparency regarding hazing incidents. The university provides extensive reporting channels:

• The Dean of Students Office (for violations of the Student Conduct Code).
• UTPD (University of Texas Police Department) for criminal hazing acts.
• The Hazing.utexas.edu website, which explicitly lists organizations found responsible for hazing violations, along with the date of the incident, the conduct involved, and the sanctions imposed. This public database is an invaluable tool for parents and legal teams.
• Anonymous reporting options are also available online and through a specific hotline.

5.3.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

The transparency provided by UT Austin’s public hazing database (hazing.utexas.edu) offers a stark look into the recurring nature of hazing despite robust policies.

• Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): The Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity was sanctioned for hazing violations that included directing new members to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics on a private bus. The chapter was placed on probation, suspended from new member activities, and required to implement new hazing-prevention education. This incident illustrates the persistence of both forced consumption and physical hazing.
• Texas Cowboys (2018): Following a vehicle accident that resulted in the death of a “new man” for the Texas Cowboys spirit organization, an investigation revealed that hazing, including severe sleep deprivation and alcohol misuse, contributed to the circumstances. The organization was suspended, and some members faced criminal charges related to alcohol provision. The deceased’s family alleged that the extensive sleep deprivation, a clear form of psychological and physical hazing, was a significant factor in the fatal accident.
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (2006): In a case highlighting the dangers of alcohol-related hazing, pledge Tyler Cross died in a fall while under the influence of alcohol after a Sigma Alpha Epsilon event. Police investigated hazing as a possible factor, and the incident contributed to a national re-evaluation of SAE’s pledging process. This case underscores the perils of combining alcohol with reckless activities and the potential for tragic accidents.

The repeated appearance of various organizations on UT’s hazing report, including fraternities, sororities, and other student groups, points to an ongoing battle against these dangerous practices, indicating that written policies alone are insufficient to curb the problem entirely.

5.3.4 How a UT Austin Hazing Case Might Proceed (with Virginia Connection)

For a Virginia family engaged in a hazing case from the University of Texas at Austin, the legal proceedings would largely take place in Travis County, the seat of Austin.

• Jurisdiction: Civil lawsuits would typically be filed in a Travis County District Court. Attorney911 has a local presence in Austin, providing direct access and familiarity with the courts and legal community there, which is invaluable for families from Virginia.
• Law Enforcement: The University of Texas Police Department (UTPD) handles on-campus criminal investigations. For off-campus incidents in Austin, the Austin Police Department (APD) would be involved.
• Potential Defendants: Key defendants could include individual students, the local chapter, the national organization, and The University of Texas System Board of Regents, particularly in cases where records from hazing.utexas.edu demonstrate a pattern of ignored warnings or inadequate disciplinary responses.
• Sovereign Immunity: As a major public university, UT Austin is often shielded by sovereign immunity. However, our firm’s experience lies in proving the specific exceptions, such as gross negligence, or federal Title IX violations, that allow compelling accountability from the institution itself.

5.3.5 What UT Austin Students & Parents Should Do

Virginia students at UT Austin and their families should take these proactive steps:

• Review UT’s Public Hazing Database: Regularly check hazing.utexas.edu to see if specific organizations have a history of violations. This information is critical for informed decision-making.
• Know Your Rights and the Law: Understand that hazing is illegal in Texas and that consent is not a defense. This knowledge is your first line of defense.
• Document Everything Digitally: The detailed nature of UT’s reported incidents means that digital evidence (texts, GroupMe, social media) is extremely valuable for establishing what happened. Use your phone to document any suspicious activity, injuries, or communications. Our Attorney911 video on documenting evidence (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs) is an excellent resource.
• Seek Immediate Medical and Legal Help: If a student is harmed, prioritize medical attention. Immediately thereafter, contact a hazing attorney experienced in Texas law, especially with sovereign immunity issues. Attorney911’s local Austin office can provide immediate, confidential consultation.
• Do Not Engage with University Officials or National Organizations Unrepresented: While reporting is important, ensure you have legal counsel to guide these interactions to protect your child’s rights and ensure transparency.

5.4 Southern Methodist University (SMU)

Southern Methodist University, another prime destination for Virginia families, stands as a prominent private university in Dallas, known for its rigorous academics, beautiful campus, and strong Greek presence. Its affluent student body and active social scene often intertwine with a competitive Greek life, making it important for parents and students to understand the specific dynamics regarding hazing.

5.4.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot (with Virginia Connection)

SMU’s prestigious reputation and location in dynamic Dallas appeal to many Virginia students seeking a top-tier private education. Greek life is a central component of social activity at SMU, with a high percentage of students participating in fraternities and sororities. The university fosters a strong community, but like any institution with robust social organizations, it must actively manage the risks of hazing.

5.4.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

SMU maintains explicit anti-hazing policies consistent with Texas law. These policies cover all student organizations, including Greek chapters, athletic teams, and spirit groups, and apply to incidents occurring both on and off campus. The University’s Code of Conduct clearly defines prohibited acts, such as:

• Any physical abuse, including forced calisthenics or paddling.
• Forced consumption of alcohol, food, or other substances.
• Threats or implied threats.
• Activities that cause humiliation, embarrassment, or mental distress.
• Sleep deprivation or confinement.

SMU provides various reporting mechanisms:

• The Office of Student Conduct & Community Standards.
• The Department of Fraternity & Sorority Life.
• The SMU Police Department (SMU PD) for criminal hazing acts.
• An online reporting form for anonymous submissions.

SMU periodically updates its policies and educational programming to address hazing prevention.

5.4.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

SMU has not been immune to hazing incidents within its Greek system, leading to disciplinary actions and highlighting the ongoing challenges of enforcement.

• Kappa Alpha Order (2017): The Kappa Alpha Order fraternity was suspended by the university for hazing violations that included pledges allegedly being paddled, forced to consume alcohol to excess, and deprived of sleep. The chapter faced a multi-year suspension from new member activities and other restrictions. This incident underscored how traditional forms of physical and alcohol hazing continue despite university prohibitions.
• Multiple Chapters (Various Years): Over time, SMU has investigated and sanctioned numerous fraternities and sororities for hazing-related offenses. These incidents often involve alcohol misuse, forced servitude, and activities that cause mental or physical discomfort. While SMU, as a private institution, may not provide the same level of granular public detail as UT Austin’s database, these regular disciplinary actions confirm the ongoing presence of hazing concerns.

5.4.4 How an SMU Hazing Case Might Proceed (with Virginia Connection)

For a Virginia family involved in an SMU hazing case, the legal process would take place in Dallas County, Texas.

• Jurisdiction: Civil lawsuits would be filed in Dallas County District Courts. Attorney911, with offices across Texas, including Houston and Austin, is equipped to litigate cases diligently in major metropolitan areas like Dallas, ensuring Virginia families have expert representation.
• Law Enforcement: The SMU Police Department (SMU PD) would typically handle criminal investigations for on-campus incidents. Off-campus hazing in Dallas would fall under the jurisdiction of the Dallas Police Department (DPD) or Dallas County Sheriff’s Office.
• Potential Defendants: Key defendants could include individual students, the local SMU chapter, the national organization, and Southern Methodist University itself. As a private institution, SMU generally does not have the same sovereign immunity defenses as public universities, sometimes simplifying the path to direct institutional accountability.

5.4.5 What SMU Students & Parents Should Do

Virginia students attending SMU and their families should consider these actions:

• Engage with Campus Resources: Familiarize yourself with SMU’s anti-hazing policies and reporting methods. SMU’s “Real Response” system offers anonymous reporting options.
• Recognize Subtle Hazing: Be aware that hazing at private institutions might be more subtle or psychologically focused, making it harder to identify initially but no less harmful. Our “Hazing in 2025” section covers these details.
• Document and Preserve Evidence: Any communication (texts, DMs) or physical evidence related to hazing should be immediately documented and preserved. Photos of injuries, timestamps on messages, and detailed notes are critical. Our firm’s resources on evidence documentation with your cellphone (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs) are highly recommended.
• Seek Medical Care and Legal Counsel: If harm occurs, first obtain medical attention. Then, before engaging with SMU’s internal disciplinary processes or national organization representatives, consult a hazing attorney. An attorney can help determine the best course of action and protect your child’s interests against powerful defendants.

5.5 Baylor University

Baylor University, a private Baptist Christian university in Waco, Texas, is another deeply cherished institution for many Virginia families seeking a values-based education. While it prides itself on its strong community and faith-based mission, Baylor has faced significant challenges regarding student welfare and institutional oversight, particularly concerning its athletic programs and Title IX responsibilities. These past issues cast a long shadow over its approach to hazing.

5.5.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot (with Virginia Connection)

Baylor’s distinct Christian identity and emphasis on community attract many Virginia students. Located in Waco, a growing city in Central Texas, Baylor offers a comprehensive university experience with a devoted alumni base. Greek life is active, alongside numerous faith-based and other student organizations. The university’s past struggles with compliance and accountability, particularly related to the high-profile football scandal and Title IX violations, have brought intense public scrutiny to its internal processes and institutional responses to student misconduct.

5.5.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Baylor University strictly prohibits hazing, adhering to Texas state law and its own institutional values. Its anti-hazing policy, detailed in the Student Conduct Code, applies to all student groups, including Greek organizations, athletic teams, and spirit groups, and covers incidents on and off campus. Prohibited activities are broadly defined to include any action that:

• Involves physical abuse, including paddling or forced calisthenics.
• Causes mental or emotional stress or anguish.
• Includes forced consumption of substances.
• Requires servitude or any activity that interferes with academic pursuits.

Reporting channels at Baylor include:

• The Office of Student Conduct & Community Standards.
• The Department of Student Activities (for Greek life).
• The Baylor University Police Department (BUPD) for criminal matters.
• A confidential online reporting system and phone hotline.

Baylor emphasizes a “zero tolerance” stance on hazing via its website and orientation programs, reflecting its desire to rebuild trust after prior institutional crises.

5.5.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Baylor University’s history includes significant institutional challenges that have shaped its current approach to student misconduct, including hazing.

• Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020): An internal investigation into the Baylor baseball program revealed hazing violations. This led to the suspension of 14 players, with suspensions staggered throughout the baseball season. While the specific details of the hazing were not publicly disclosed in extreme detail, the incident demonstrated that illegal rituals persist even within high-profile athletic teams at Baylor and that the university is enacting consequences.
• Ongoing Scrutiny (Post-Football Scandal): Following the high-profile football scandal concerning sexual assault and Title IX violations, Baylor has been under immense pressure to demonstrate robust institutional oversight across all student groups. While directly unrelated to hazing, this context means any hazing allegations at Baylor are viewed through a lens of heightened scrutiny and a demand for swift, decisive action from the university, which can impact internal investigations and external legal strategy.

5.4.4 How a Baylor Hazing Case Might Proceed (with Virginia Connection)

For a Virginia family pursuing a hazing case from Baylor University, the legal process would be centered in McLennan County, Texas, where Waco is located.

• Jurisdiction: Civil lawsuits would be filed in McLennan County District Courts. Attorney911 is prepared to represent Virginia families in litigation across Central Texas, leveraging our statewide litigation experience.
• Law Enforcement: The Baylor University Police Department (BUPD) typically handles criminal investigations for incidents on campus. Off-campus hazing in Waco would involve the Waco Police Department (WPD) or the McLennan County Sheriff’s Office.
• Potential Defendants: In a civil hazing case, defendants could include individual students, the local chapter, the national organization (if affiliated), and Baylor University itself. As a private institution, Baylor does not benefit from sovereign immunity, making the path to institutional accountability potentially more direct than with public universities.

5.4.5 What Baylor Students & Parents Should Do

For Virginia students attending Baylor and their families, these steps are crucial:

• Understand Baylor’s Commitment (and Challenges): Be aware of Baylor’s stated “zero tolerance” policy for hazing while also recognizing the institution’s past struggles with accountability. This context shapes how allegations are often handled.
• Prioritize Well-being and Document: If your child experiences hazing, their safety and well-being come first. Seek medical care if necessary. Immediately begin to document all evidence, including digital communications, photos of injuries, and detailed notes. The more thoroughly you document, the stronger your potential case.
• Utilize Reporting Channels, with Caution: While Baylor offers various reporting options, contact an experienced hazing attorney before making formal statements to the university or its police department. An attorney can help guide the reporting process to best protect your child’s legal rights and ensure the investigation is handled appropriately.
• Expert Legal Consultation: Given Baylor’s history and its private institutional status, consulting with a hazing attorney who understands Texas civil litigation is highly recommended. Attorney911 can provide confidential advice, protect your family’s interests, and pursue accountability for any hazing-related harm.

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

For Virginia families examining hazing at Texas universities, it is critical to understand that virtually every fraternity and sorority chapter found at schools like UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, or Baylor is part of a larger national or international organization. These national bodies, while often promoting noble ideals, carry a history—a collective memory of incidents, lawsuits, and policy changes driven by hazing tragedies across the country. This national backdrop is profoundly important for any hazing case in Texas.

6.1 Why National Histories Matter for Texas Cases

National fraternities and sororities are not merely symbolic umbrellas. They are powerful, often multi-million-dollar corporations with extensive policies, risk management protocols, and legal teams. Their national offices:

• Develop and enforce (or fail to enforce) anti-hazing policies: Many have thick manuals of rules designed to prevent hazing, often created in response to past deaths or devastating lawsuits.
• Collect dues and fees: These funds support the national organization, including its legal defense when chapters face allegations.
• Provide oversight and training: National representatives are meant to visit chapters, provide educational resources, and monitor conduct.
• Possess extensive records: These records often detail previous hazing allegations, disciplinary actions, and internal communications regarding risk management.

When hazing occurs in a Texas chapter, our legal strategy often involves demonstrating that the national organization had foreseeable knowledge of the risks. This is precisely where national hazing histories become invaluable. If a specific type of hazing (e.g., forced alcohol consumption at a “Big/Little” event) has caused injury or death in a chapter of the same national organization in another state, the national headquarters cannot genuinely claim it was an “unforeseeable accident” when it happens again in Texas. It shows a pattern, a failure to adequately prevent known risks, and a potential for negligence or gross negligence.

6.2 High-Incident Organizations with Texas Presence

While nearly all fraternities and sororities have national anti-hazing policies, some national organizations have faced repeated, high-profile hazing incidents that unfortunately become part of their public record. Many of these national organizations have active chapters at Texas universities.

Here, we highlight some national organizations whose chapters are present at Texas schools discussed above (UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor) and whose national organizations have histories that demonstrate a pattern of hazing. It is crucial to state that we are NOT alleging that specific Texas chapters of these organizations have engaged in hazing, UNLESS documented. Rather, we are illustrating that the national organizations have faced scrutiny elsewhere, creating a foundation of knowledge regarding hazing risks.

• Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / Pike):

  • National History: Pi Kappa Alpha has been involved in multiple tragic hazing cases nationally. The death of Stone Foltz at Bowling Green State University (2021) from forced alcohol consumption during a “Big/Little” event led to multiple criminal convictions and a $10.9 million settlement with the national fraternity and university. Earlier, David Bogenberger died from alcohol poisoning at Northern Illinois University (2012) in a similar incident, resulting in a $14 million settlement.
  • Texas Relevance: Pi Kappa Alpha chapters have been present at the University of Houston, Texas A&M, and the University of Texas at Austin, and have faced disciplinary actions at some of these campuses for hazing, including at UT Austin in 2023 for forced alcohol consumption and calisthenics. The national organization has demonstrably been aware of the dangers stemming from its chapters’ hazing practices for decades.

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / SAE):

  • National History: Often dubbed “America’s deadliest fraternity” by some media outlets, SAE has a history marred by numerous hazing fatalities, many alcohol-related. Noteworthy incidents include the death of Carson Starkey at Cal Poly (2008) from alcohol poisoning. In response to this pattern, SAE famously banned pledging entirely in 2014, although hazing allegations have unfortunately persisted in some forms. More recently, a University of Alabama chapter was sued for a traumatic brain injury during alleged hazing (filed 2023).
  • Texas Relevance: Chapters have been active at Texas A&M, UT Austin, and other Texas schools (e.g., University of Houston). The Texas A&M chapter faced a $1 million lawsuit in 2021 for pledges who allegedly suffered severe chemical burns from substances poured on them during hazing. A UT Austin chapter was also sued in 2024 by an exchange student alleging assault by members while the chapter was already suspended for prior hazing violations.

• Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ):

  • National History: Phi Delta Theta has been at the center of significant hazing tragedies. The death of Maxwell “Max” Gruver at Louisiana State University (2017) from forced alcohol consumption led to criminal convictions and the passage of the Max Gruver Act, making felony hazing a reality in Louisiana. The Gruver family’s $6.1 million verdict further highlighted the extreme liability risk.
  • Texas Relevance: Chapters have been present at the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor. The national organization’s response to the Gruver death indicates an awareness of the severe risks associated with alcohol-fueled hazing rituals practiced by its chapters.

• Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ):

  • National History: Pi Kappa Phi has unfortunately also been linked to hazing fatalities, including the death of Andrew Coffey at Florida State University (2017) from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” event. This incident led to criminal charges against members and significant national scrutiny.
  • Texas Relevance: A Pi Kappa Phi chapter at the University of Houston is prominently featured in Attorney911’s ongoing $10 million lawsuit filed in late 2025 on behalf of Leonel Bermudez, who suffered acute kidney failure and rhabdomyolysis due to alleged severe hazing. The national Pi Kappa Phi suspended the Beta Nu chapter in November 2025, and the chapter later surrendered its charter.

• Kappa Alpha Order (KA):

  • National History: Kappa Alpha Order has faced numerous hazing-related incidents and disciplinary actions across the country, often involving alcohol and physical components.
  • Texas Relevance: Chapters have been active at SMU, UT Austin, and other Texas schools. The SMU chapter, for instance, was sanctioned and suspended in 2017 for hazing violations that included paddling, forced alcohol consumption, and sleep deprivation.

• Sigma Chi (ΣΧ):

  • National History: Sigma Chi is another national fraternity that has faced significant hazing litigation. Most recently, a case involving the College of Charleston saw a family awarded more than $10 million in damages for physical beatings, forced consumption of drugs and alcohol, and psychological torment during hazing.
  • Texas Relevance: Sigma Chi has chapters at Texas A&M, UT Austin, and other Texas universities. The UT Austin chapter, among others, has faced hazing allegations focusing on alcohol poisoning.

• Omega Psi Phi (ΩΨΦ):

  • National History: This historically Black fraternity (NPHC) has faced allegations of physical hazing and violent incidents. The case of Joseph Snell at Bowie State University (1997), who endured severe beatings and burns during hazing, resulted in a $375,000 verdict against the fraternity, establishing a precedent for national organization liability. More recently, a federal lawsuit was filed in April 2023 against the national Omega Psi Phi and the University of Southern Mississippi alleging repeated beatings with wooden paddles during “Hell Night” leading to emergency surgery and months of rehabilitation.
  • Texas Relevance: Omega Psi Phi chapters are present at Texas Southern University (Houston), Prairie View A&M, and others. Texas has its own history of Omega Psi Phi allegations, such as a 1986 incident at Lamar University where a pledge died following physical exertion.

6.3 Tying It Back to Legal Strategy in Virginia and Texas

For a Virginia family whose child has been impacted by hazing at a Texas university, understanding these national histories is not merely academic; it’s a core component of legal strategy:

• Proving Foreseeability: When a national organization has a documented pattern of hazing incidents across its chapters, it becomes much harder for them to claim that a similar event in Texas was “unforeseeable.” This pattern of prior warnings strengthens claims of negligence against the national body.
• Establishing Negligent Supervision: The repeated occurrence of hazing across chapters can indicate a systemic failure by the national organization to effectively supervise its local chapters, enforce its own policies, or adequately train its members and advisors.
• Overcoming “Rogue Chapter” Defenses: National organizations often attempt to distance themselves by claiming a local chapter acted “rogue” or in violation of national rules. Evidence of a national pattern challenges this defense, suggesting either tacit approval or a profound failure to control its own brand.
• Navigating Insurance Coverage: The sheer volume of national hazing litigation has significantly impacted how insurance companies treat these claims. An experienced hazing attorney understands these dynamics and can effectively pursue all available insurance resources from various involved parties, including national organizations.

In essence, these national narratives provide an evidentiary roadmap, helping attorneys like those at Attorney911 build compelling cases for accountability against the entire chain of responsibility, from the individual perpetrators to the largest national organizations, and even the universities themselves. This ensures that a hazing incident in Texas is viewed not in isolation, but within the broader context of a national problem that could have and should have been prevented.

7. Building a Case: Evidence, Damages, Strategy

For a Virginia family whose child has been harmed by hazing in Texas, pursuing legal action can feel overwhelming. However, building a successful hazing case is a systematic process that relies heavily on meticulous evidence collection, a clear understanding of damages, and a sophisticated legal strategy capable of challenging powerful institutions.

7.1 Evidence: The Foundation of a Strong Case

In hazing litigation, evidence is paramount. It tells the story of what happened, who was involved, and who neglected their duty to prevent the harm. Modern hazing often leaves a digital footprint, which becomes critical.

• Digital Communications: In today’s collegiate environment, group chats and direct messages (DMs) are the lifeblood of student organizations. Platforms like GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, and various fraternity/sorority-specific apps become invaluable sources of evidence.

  • What it reveals: These messages can show planning, instructions for hazing activities, warnings, explicit demands for secrecy, reactions during or after an incident, and attempts at cover-up.
  • Preservation is key: Students or parents should immediately screenshot any suspicious or incriminating messages. Crucially, these screenshots should capture the full context: sender names, timestamps, and the flow of conversation. Even if messages are later deleted, digital forensics experts can often recover them, but initial screenshots provide immediate, undeniable proof. Our Attorney911 video, “Use Your Cellphone to Document a Legal Case” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs), provides step-by-step guidance on this vital process.

• Photos & Videos: The prevalence of smartphones means that many hazing incidents are recorded, often by the perpetrators themselves.

  • Hazing in progress: Photos or videos showing forced drinking, physical activities, humiliating acts, or illegal conduct.
  • Injuries: Detailed photographs of any physical injuries (bruises, burns, cuts) taken immediately after the incident and then consistently over several days to show evolution. Include common objects for scale.
  • Locations: Images of the specific house, room, or off-campus venue where hazing occurred.
  • Social Media Content: Even seemingly innocuous posts on Instagram, Snapchat, or TikTok can contain clues, such as students wearing specific outfits, gathered at locations, or displaying subtle signs of distress.

• Internal Organization Documents: These records offer a glimpse into the chapter’s operations and national oversight.

  • Pledge manuals/initiation scripts: These documents sometimes contain subtle instructions for hazing or reveal a double-set of rules.
  • National anti-hazing policies: Used to show that the national organization had explicit rules against the conduct but failed to enforce them.
  • Emails/texts: Communications between local chapter leaders, advisors, or national representatives can reveal knowledge of hazing.

• University Records: Open records laws (like FOIA for public universities in Texas) and legal discovery can compel the release of crucial university documents.

  • Prior conduct records: The history of disciplinary actions against the specific chapter for past hazing violations, such as those publicly listed on the UT Austin hazing website, establishes a pattern of misconduct and shows the university’s knowledge of the risks.
  • Campus police reports: Incident reports related to alcohol infractions, parties, or prior hazing complaints involving the organization.
  • Clery Act reports & Title IX investigations: If the hazing involved sexual misconduct, Title IX records become relevant. Clery reports, while broader, can reveal overall safety issues.

• Medical and Psychological Records: Objective medical documentation is indispensable for proving harm.

  • Emergency room/hospital records: Document initial injuries, blood alcohol levels, toxicology reports, and diagnoses like rhabdomyolysis or traumatic brain injury.
  • Psychological evaluations: Records from therapists or psychiatrists diagnosing PTSD, anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions linked to the hazing. These substantiate claims for emotional distress.

• Witness Testimony: Eyewitness accounts are powerful.

  • Other pledges/members: Fellow new members or current members who witnessed or participated in the hazing.
  • Former members: Individuals who left the organization or were disassociated, often due to hazing concerns, can provide critical insights.
  • Bystanders: Campus staff (RAs), friends who noticed behavioral changes, or even community members who observed suspicious activities.

7.2 Damages: Compensating for Profound Harm

Successful hazing lawsuits aim to recover monetary damages that compensate victims and their families for the extensive harm they have endured. These damages fall into several categories:

• Economic Damages: These are quantifiable financial losses.

  • Medical Expenses: Covering past bills for emergency care, hospitalization, surgeries, medication, and ongoing physical therapy. For severe injuries like brain damage (as in the Danny Santulli case) or kidney failure (as alleged by Leonel Bermudez), this can include future medical care and costly life care plans.
  • Lost Income & Earning Capacity: Compensation for wages lost due to injuries or inability to attend school, and projected future income loss if permanent injuries affect career potential.
  • Educational Impact: Reimbursement for tuition, fees for semesters missed, and compensation for lost scholarships or delayed graduation.

• Non-Economic Damages: These compensate for subjective, non-financial losses that profoundly impact a victim’s quality of life.

  • Physical Pain & Suffering: For the agony of injuries and any chronic pain.
  • Emotional Distress & Psychological Harm: Addressing conditions like PTSD, severe anxiety, depression, humiliation, and the profound mental anguish caused by the hazing.
  • Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Compensating for the inability to participate in activities, hobbies, or social life that the victim once enjoyed.
  • Reputational Harm: If the hazing incident or its aftermath negatively affects the victim’s social standing or future prospects.

• Wrongful Death Damages (for Families): In the most tragic cases, such as those claiming the life of a student like Leonel Bermudez, families can claim:

  • Funeral and Burial Costs: Immediate financial burdens.
  • Loss of Companionship & Support: Compensation for the profound emotional void left by the deceased, including the loss of their love, comfort, and potential future financial contributions.
  • Grief and Emotional Suffering: For the immense personal sorrow experienced by surviving parents, spouses, and children. For more information, please visit our wrongful death page at https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/.

• Punitive Damages: In cases of egregious conduct, where defendants acted with extreme recklessness, malice, or conscious indifference to a known risk, Texas courts may award punitive (or exemplary) damages. These are designed not just to compensate victims but to punish the wrongdoers and deter similar behavior in the future. Settlements like the $10.9 million received in the Stone Foltz case and the $6.1 million verdict in the Max Gruver case often include significant components for punitive damages.

7.3 Role of Different Defendants and Insurance Coverage

The complexity of hazing cases lies in identifying all liable parties and navigating their respective defenses, often involving their insurance carriers.

• Multiple Defendants: As outlined in Section 3, liability can extend from individual students to the local chapter, the national organization, the university, and even third-party property owners or alcohol providers. Each defendant will have their own legal representation and potentially separate insurance policies.
• Insurance Coverage Disputes: A crucial aspect of hazing litigation involves compelling insurance companies to cover the losses. Insurers often attempt to deny coverage by claiming that hazing constitutes “intentional acts” or “criminal conduct,” which may be excluded under general liability policies.
  • Attorney911’s Advantage: This is where Attorney911’s unique expertise shines. Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, brings invaluable insight as a former insurance defense attorney for national defense firms (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/). She understands the intricate arguments insurance companies use to deny claims, interpret policy exclusions, and employ delay tactics. This insider knowledge allows us to anticipate their moves, challenge wrongful denials, and strategically pursue maximum compensation for our clients. We know their “playbook” because she used to write it.
• Sovereign Immunity: For public Texas universities like UH, Texas A&M, and UT Austin, sovereign immunity is a significant hurdle. However, our firm specializes in identifying and proving the specific exceptions to this immunity, allowing institutions to be held accountable for gross negligence or systemic failures.

Building a hazing case is a multi-faceted process that requires legal acuity, investigative resources, and a deep understanding of institutional dynamics. Attorney911 has the experience to dismantle the defenses raised by powerful institutions and ensure justice for Virginia families.

8. Practical Guides & FAQs

For Virginia families and students, navigating the aftermath or suspicion of hazing can be a frightening and confusing time. Immediate, clear guidance is essential. Here are practical steps and answers to common questions.

8.1 For Parents: Recognizing & Responding to Hazing

Virginia parents sending their children to Texas universities should be acutely aware of a wide spectrum of warning signs:

• Physical Signs: Look for unexplained bruises, burns, cuts, or other injuries, especially if their explanations seem vague or inconsistent. Extreme fatigue, sudden weight fluctuations, and persistent sickness can also be red flags.
• Behavioral & Emotional Changes:
  • Secrecy: Your child becomes withdrawn and secretive about their organization’s activities (“I can’t talk about it,” “it’s a secret”).
  • Mood Swings: Increased anxiety, depression, irritability, or anger.
  • Social Isolation: Withdrawing from old friends, family, or activities unrelated to the organization.
  • Fear of Consequences: Expressing fear about “getting in trouble” with their group or “letting people down.”
  • Shifts in Values: Starting to defend or rationalize behavior that they previously would have found unacceptable.
• Academic Red Flags: A sudden drop in grades, missed classes, or inability to concentrate due to exhaustion or mandatory events.
• Financial Demands: Unexpected requests for money for “fines,” excessive dues, or purchases for older members without clear explanation.
• Digital Behavior: Becoming glued to their phone, responding instantly to group chats at all hours, deleting messages, or showing anxiety when their phone receives notifications.

How to Talk to Your Child: Approach the conversation calmly and empathetically. Emphasize their safety and well-being over any perceived loyalty to an organization. Ask open-ended questions like, “How are things really going with your group?” or “Have you been asked to do anything that makes you uncomfortable?” Assure them you will support them no matter what.

If Your Child Is Hurt: Prioritize medical care immediately. Ensure medical professionals document the suspected cause of injury as “hazing” in their records. Then, gather every piece of evidence—photos of injuries, relevant texts, names, dates, and locations.

Dealing with the University: Document all communications with university officials. Be cautious about signing waivers or internal resolution forms before consulting legal counsel, as these could affect your legal rights.

When to Talk to a Lawyer: If your child has suffered significant physical or psychological harm or if you feel the university or organization is minimizing the incident, it is time to consult with Attorney911. We can guide you through the initial steps and protect your family’s interests.

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

For Virginia students currently pledging or involved in a “new member education” process at a Texas university, ask yourself:

• “Am I being pressured or forced to do something I don’t want to do—or that makes me uncomfortable?” True consent is freely given; if you fear social consequences, exclusion, or reprisal, it’s not consent.
• “Does this activity put my physical or mental health at risk?” This includes everything from extreme drinking to sleep deprivation, psychological manipulation, or sexualized acts.
• “Would I feel comfortable doing this if my parents or the university president were watching?” If not, that’s a key indicator of hazing.
• “Am I being told to keep secrets or lie about activities?” Secrecy is a hallmark of hazing.

Exiting & Reporting Safely:
You have the absolute right to leave any organization at any time. If you feel unsafe, trust your instincts. Inform a trusted adult (parent, RA, dean) outside the organization of your concerns. If you want to formally alert the school, you can use anonymous reporting systems available at most Texas universities, or the National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE.

Good-Faith Reporting and Amnesty: If you are with someone who is experiencing a medical emergency due to hazing or excessive substance use, call 911 immediately. Texas law and university policies often protect individuals who seek help in good faith from being penalized for related minor policy violations (like underage drinking). Your priority is to save a life.

8.3 For Former Members/Witnesses: Your Role in Accountability

If you were once part of an organization where hazing occurred, and you now have doubts or regrets, your perspective can be crucial.

• Your Testimony Matters: Your firsthand account, even if you were a participant, can be pivotal in preventing future harm and holding culpable parties accountable. You may possess digital evidence that can transform a case.
• Seeking Legal Advice: If you have concerns about your own potential legal exposure, consult an attorney. Ralph Manginello, with his background in criminal defense (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/), can advise on potential protections or consequences. Often, cooperating with authorities or victims’ families can lead to favorable outcomes.
• Breaking the Code of Silence: Overcoming the pressure to remain silent is difficult but vital. Your actions can save future students from suffering the same harm you witnessed or experienced.

8.4 Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

For Virginia families contemplating legal action against hazing, avoiding common missteps can be as important as gathering evidence. These mistakes, often made with good intentions, can severely undermine your ability to achieve justice:

1. Letting Your Child Delete Messages or “Clean Up” Evidence:

   • Mistake: Believing that deleting embarrassing photos or incriminating group chats will protect your child from trouble.
   • Why it’s wrong: This can be seen as destruction of evidence, which is illegal and can severely harm a legal case. Deleted data often makes it challenging to prove what truly happened.
   • Solution: Preserve EVERYTHING. Screenshots, photos, videos. Our video “Use Your Cellphone to Document a Legal Case” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs) explains how to do this correctly.

2. Confronting the Fraternity/Sorority, or Other Perpetrators, Directly:

   • Mistake: Parents, acting on instinct, confronting chapter leaders, individual students, or advisors directly.
   • Why it’s wrong: This immediately puts the perpetrators on notice, leading them to destroy evidence, coach witnesses, and prepare their defenses. It compromises the element of surprise in an investigation.
   • Solution: Document everything discreetly, then immediately contact Attorney911 before any direct confrontation.

3. Signing University “Release” or “Resolution” Forms Without Legal Review:

   • Mistake: Universities may pressure families into signing waivers, confidentiality agreements, or agreeing to internal “resolutions” that seem to offer a quick fix.
   • Why it’s wrong: These documents can permanently waive your right to sue or result in settlements far below the true value of your child’s injuries.
   • Solution: Never sign anything from the university, an organization, or an insurance company without having an attorney review it thoroughly.

4. Posting Details on Public Social Media Before Consulting a Lawyer:

   • Mistake: Wanting to publicly expose the injustice immediately.
   • Why it’s wrong: Social media posts can create discoverable evidence that may be used against you, introduce inconsistencies, or inadvertently waive attorney-client privilege.
   • Solution: Document privately, confide in your legal counsel. Your lawyer can advise on strategic public communication that protects your case.

5. Letting Your Child Go Back for “One Last Meeting” or “To Hear Them Out”:

   • Mistake: Believing the chapter truly wants to apologize or “clear the air” after an incident.
   • Why it’s wrong: These meetings are often designed to pressure the student, extract statements that later harm a case, or further intimidate them.
   • Solution: Once you are considering legal action, all communications should go through your attorney.

6. Waiting “To See How the University Handles It” Before Consulting a Lawyer:

   • Mistake: Trusting that the university’s internal process will result in full accountability and compensation.
   • Why it’s wrong: University investigations are primarily concerned with compliance and protecting the institution’s reputation. Evidence can disappear, witnesses graduate, and valuable time for legal action is lost. The university’s process often lacks the impartiality and legal authority needed for comprehensive justice.
   • Solution: Preserve evidence and consult legal counsel immediately. University processes and legal action are parallel paths that must be managed strategically.

7. Talking to Insurance Adjusters Without a Lawyer Present:

   • Mistake: Believing that an insurance adjuster is friendly and on your side, and providing a recorded statement without legal advice.
   • Why it’s wrong: Insurance adjusters represent the interests of the party they insure (the fraternity, the individual, the university) and will use your statements to minimize their payout. Early settlement offers are almost always lowball.
   • Solution: Politely decline to speak with any insurance adjuster directly. Inform them that your attorney will be in contact. Our video “Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Injury Case” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY) explains this in detail.

8.5 Short FAQ

• “Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
  Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities like UH, Texas A&M, and UT Austin have some sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, certain operational failures, and federal civil rights violations like Title IX. Private universities like SMU and Baylor generally have fewer immunity defenses. Every case depends on its specific facts—contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a case-specific analysis.

• “Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
  It can be. Texas law classifies hazing as a Class B misdemeanor by default, but it escalates to a state jail felony if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. Individuals who are officers of an organization and fail to report hazing can also face charges.

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

• “How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?”
  Generally, there is a 2-year statute of limitations from the date of injury or death in Texas. However, the “discovery rule” may extend this if the harm or its cause wasn’t immediately known. In cases involving cover-ups or fraud, the statute may be tolled (paused). Time is critical as evidence disappears and witnesses forget. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately to avoid missing crucial deadlines. Our video on the Statute of Limitations (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c) provides further insight.

• “What if the hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?”
  The location of the hazing does not eliminate liability. Universities and national fraternities or other organizations can still be held liable based on their sponsorship, knowledge, control, and foreseeability of the event, regardless of where it took place. Many major hazing cases resulting in multi-million-dollar judgments have occurred at off-campus houses or private retreats.

• “Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”
  We prioritize your family’s privacy. Most hazing cases settle confidentially before ever going to trial. We can request sealed court records and confidential settlement terms to protect your child’s identity while still pursuing full accountability and justice.

• “How do contingency fees work for hazing cases?”
  At Attorney911, we handle hazing cases on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we win your case through a settlement or verdict. This allows families, regardless of financial means, to pursue justice against powerful defendants. Our video explaining contingency fees (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc) provides more details.

9. About The Manginello Law Firm + Call to Action

When your Virginia family faces a hazing case in Texas, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how powerful institutions—national fraternities, universities, and their deep-pocketed insurance carriers—fight back, and how to win anyway. At The Manginello Law Firm, operating as Attorney911 (the Legal Emergency Lawyers™), we bring unparalleled experience and a relentless commitment to justice for victims of hazing in Texas.

Our firm’s unique qualifications provide a distinct advantage in these complex cases:

• Insurance Insider Advantage (Lupe Peña): Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, brings invaluable insight as a former insurance defense attorney for national law firms (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/). She intimately understands the strategies and tactics that fraternity and university insurance companies employ to deny, minimize, or delay hazing claims. She knows their playbooks from the inside, giving our clients a critical edge when negotiating settlements or challenging coverage denials. We know their arguments because she used to make them.

• Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions (Ralph Manginello): Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has a storied career taking on formidable opponents. He was one of the few Texas firms involved in the BP Texas City explosion litigation, a monumental case against a multi-billion-dollar corporation. His extensive experience in federal court (U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas) means we are not intimidated by national organizations, major universities, or their highly resourced defense teams. We’ve gone head-to-head with billion-dollar defendants and won, ensuring we’re always prepared to aggressively advocate for your family. View Ralph’s full credentials at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/.

• Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death & Catastrophic Injury Experience: We have a proven track record of securing multi-million dollar results for families in wrongful death and catastrophic injury cases (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/). We understand the immense emotional, physical, and financial costs of hazing. We work with leading experts—including economists and life care planners—to meticulously value not just immediate medical bills, but also lost earning potential, long-term care needs, and the profound non-economic damages of pain, suffering, and emotional trauma. We do not settle cheap; we build cases that compel real accountability and fair compensation.

• Dual Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise: Hazing can often cross the line into criminal conduct. Ralph Manginello’s active membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) ensures that we understand the intricate interplay between criminal charges and civil litigation. This dual perspective is invaluable, allowing us to advise clients on all legal fronts and navigate situations where alleged perpetrators or witnesses may also face criminal exposure.

• Unmatched Investigative Depth: Our firm leverages a network of top experts, including digital forensics specialists who can unearth deleted group chats and social media evidence, medical professionals who can document the full extent of physical and psychological harm, and seasoned investigators who uncover hidden university and national organization records. We investigate every facet of a hazing incident, leaving no stone unturned, because your child’s future depends on it.

From our Houston office, we serve families across the entire state of Texas, including those in Virginia whose children attend Texas universities. We understand that hazing at institutions like the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor affects families in Virginia and across the region—and we are prepared to fight for justice wherever the incident occurred. We know this is one of the hardest things a family can face, and our compassionate approach is balanced with aggressive, data-driven legal advocacy. Our job is to get you answers, hold the responsible parties accountable, and help prevent this from happening to another family.

Call to Action for Virginia Families

If your child has experienced hazing at any Texas campus, we want to hear from you. Families in Virginia and throughout the surrounding region have the right to answers, accountability, and justice. You don’t have to navigate this overwhelming and emotionally draining ordeal alone.

Contact The Manginello Law Firm for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. We will listen to your story empathetically, review what happened without judgment, explain your legal options clearly, and help you decide on the best path forward. We handle these cases on a contingency fee basis – you pay us nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we win your case.

What to expect in your free and confidential consultation with Attorney911:

• We will listen carefully to your account of what happened.
• We’ll review any evidence you’ve gathered (photos, texts, medical records) and advise you on further preservation.
• We will explain your legal options, including the possibility of a criminal report, a civil lawsuit, or both.
• We’ll discuss realistic timelines and what the legal process might entail.
• All your questions about costs, evidence, and next steps will be answered transparently.
• There is no pressure to hire us on the spot; we want you to make an informed decision that is best for your family.

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

Contact The Manginello Law Firm / Attorney911:

• Emergency Hotline: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
• Direct Line: (713) 528-9070
• Cell: (713) 443-4781
• Website: https://attorney911.com
• Email: ralph@atty911.com

Spanish Language Services:

• Hablamos Español – Contact Lupe Peña at lupe@atty911.com for a consultation in Spanish. Servicios legales en español disponibles.

Legal Disclaimer

This article is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC.

Hazing laws, university policies, and legal precedents can change. The information in this guide is current as of late 2025 but may not reflect the most recent developments. Every hazing case is unique, and outcomes depend on the specific facts, evidence, applicable law, and many other factors.

If you or your child has been affected by hazing, we strongly encourage you to consult with a qualified Texas attorney who can review your specific situation, explain your legal rights, and advise you on the best course of action for your family.

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC / Attorney911
Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas
Call: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct: (713) 528-9070 | Cell: (713) 443-4781
Website: https://attorney911.com
Email: ralph@atty911.com