Hazing Lawyer in Calhoun County, MI | Attorney 911

Justice for Hazing Victims in Calhoun County and Beyond

If your child has been the victim of fraternity hazing, sorority hazing, or any form of Greek life abuse in Calhoun County, you are not alone. Attorney 911 is currently fighting a landmark $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston – and we’re bringing that same aggressive representation to Calhoun County families.

Call our hazing emergency hotline now: 📞 1-888-ATTY-911

Why Calhoun County Families Trust Attorney 911 for Hazing Cases

We’re Fighting This Battle Right Now

While we’re based in Texas, we represent hazing victims nationwide – including right here in Calhoun County. We’re currently litigating a $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston for hazing that hospitalized our client with rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure. The same fraternities operate at universities near Calhoun County, and we’ll fight for your family with the same intensity.

Former Insurance Defense Attorneys – We Know Their Playbook

Both of our attorneys – Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña – are former insurance defense lawyers. We know exactly how fraternities, universities, and their insurance companies try to minimize or deny claims. We’ve seen their tactics from the inside, and now we use that knowledge to dismantle their defenses and maximize recovery for Calhoun County victims.

Federal Court Authority – We Can Pursue Your Case Anywhere

Admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, we have the authority to pursue hazing cases nationwide. Whether your child was hazed at a Calhoun County university, a college nearby, or anywhere in America, we can represent you.

Dual-State Bar Admission – Strategic Advantage Against National Fraternities

Licensed in both Texas and New York, we have the strategic advantage needed to take on national fraternity organizations headquartered across the country. We know how to pursue these multi-state defendants and their insurance carriers.

Bilingual Representation – Se Habla Español

We provide comprehensive legal services in Spanish, ensuring that language is never a barrier to justice for Calhoun County’s Hispanic families. From initial consultations to courtroom representation, we communicate clearly in your preferred language.

No Upfront Costs – We Work on Contingency

Calhoun County families pay $0 upfront. We work on a contingency fee basis – we only get paid if we win your case. This levels the playing field against powerful institutions with deep pockets.

The Hazing Crisis in Calhoun County and Beyond

Hazing Doesn’t Stop at State Lines

The same national fraternities that hazed our client in Houston operate chapters at universities near Calhoun County. Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Pi Kappa Alpha, Phi Delta Theta, Beta Theta Pi – these organizations have paid millions in settlements for hazing deaths and injuries nationwide. If your child is pledging a fraternity or sorority near Calhoun County, they face the same risks.

Universities Near Calhoun County Have the Same Liability

The University of Houston owned the fraternity house where our client was waterboarded and forced to do 500 squats until his kidneys failed. Universities near Calhoun County have the same power to regulate Greek life – and the same liability when they fail to protect students.

The Medical Reality of Hazing

Our client spent four days in the hospital with rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure. Hazing can cause:

• Rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown that damages kidneys)
• Acute kidney failure (life-threatening condition)
• Alcohol poisoning (from forced drinking)
• Traumatic brain injuries (from beatings or falls)
• Hypothermia or heat stroke (from exposure)
• Psychological trauma (PTSD, anxiety, depression)
• Death

These aren’t pranks. These are medical emergencies.

What Constitutes Hazing in Calhoun County?

Hazing is any intentional, knowing, or reckless act that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of initiation, affiliation, or maintaining membership in an organization. Under Michigan law, consent is not a defense – even if your child “agreed” to participate, the organization can still be held liable.

Common Hazing Practices in Calhoun County

If your child experienced any of these at a Calhoun County university or nearby institution, they were hazed. And they have legal rights.

Who Is Liable for Hazing in Calhoun County?

We Pursue Every Responsible Party

In our current case, we’re suing:

• Pi Kappa Phi National
• The local chapter
• The housing corporation
• The University of Houston
• Individual members
• A former member and his spouse (hazing occurred at their home)

What to Do If Your Child Was Hazed in Calhoun County

Immediate Action Steps

1. Seek Medical Attention

   • Even if injuries seem minor, get checked by a doctor
   • Some conditions like rhabdomyolysis may not show symptoms immediately
   • Medical records create crucial documentation

2. Preserve All Evidence

   • Photos: Injuries at all stages, hazing locations, items used in hazing
   • Screenshots: Text messages, GroupMe chats, social media posts
   • Witnesses: Names and contact information of other pledges, bystanders
   • Documents: Pledge manuals, schedules, any written materials given to your child
   • Clothing/Items: Any clothing or objects involved in the hazing

3. Do NOT Talk to the Organization

   • Fraternities, sororities, and universities will try to control the narrative
   • They may pressure your child to sign documents or give statements
   • Anything your child says can be used against them

4. Do NOT Post on Social Media

   • Avoid posting about the incident
   • Avoid posting photos that could be misinterpreted (e.g., at parties)
   • Even innocent posts can be twisted to undermine your case

5. Contact Attorney 911 Immediately

   • Call 1-888-ATTY-911
   • We offer free, confidential consultations
   • We’ll guide you through the next steps
   • We’ll handle all communications with the organization

Damages We Can Recover for Calhoun County Hazing Victims

Economic Damages

Non-Economic Damages

Punitive Damages

When conduct is particularly egregious, we can seek punitive damages to punish the defendants and deter future hazing. Waterboarding, forced consumption to the point of vomiting, and extreme physical punishment like 500 squats all support punitive damages.

Recent Hazing Cases – What Calhoun County Families Can Expect

Our Current Case: $10 Million Lawsuit Against Pi Kappa Phi

Victim: Leonel Bermudez
Fraternity: Pi Kappa Phi
University: University of Houston
Injuries: Rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney failure, 4-day hospitalization
Hazing Activities: Waterboarding, 500 squats, 100+ pushups, wooden paddles, forced eating until vomiting, sleep deprivation
Status: Lawsuit filed November 21, 2025
Media Coverage: ABC13, KHOU 11, Houston Chronicle, Houston Public Media

Why This Matters for Calhoun County:

• Pi Kappa Phi has 150+ chapters nationwide, including near Calhoun County
• The same “traditions” that hospitalized our client happen at Calhoun County-area fraternities
• Universities near Calhoun County face the same liability failures as UH
• If your child is being hazed, we will fight for you just like we’re fighting in Houston

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University / Pi Kappa Alpha

Outcome: $10.1 million total settlement

• University paid $2.9 million
• Fraternity and individuals paid $7.2 million
• Our $10 million demand is directly in line with this precedent

Maxwell Gruver – Louisiana State University / Phi Delta Theta

Outcome: $6.1 million jury verdict

• Led to the Max Gruver Act, making hazing a felony in Louisiana
• Shows juries award millions for hazing deaths and injuries

Timothy Piazza – Penn State University / Beta Theta Pi

Outcome: $110+ million estimated settlement

• Security cameras captured everything
• 18 members charged criminally
• Led to the Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law in Pennsylvania

The Legal Process for Calhoun County Hazing Cases

1. Free Consultation

   • Call 1-888-ATTY-911
   • We evaluate your case at no cost
   • We explain your legal options

2. Evidence Preservation

   • We send preservation letters to all defendants
   • We gather medical records, witness statements, and other evidence

3. Demand Package

   • We compile all damages
   • We send a demand to the defendants and their insurance companies

4. Negotiation

   • We negotiate aggressively for maximum compensation
   • We don’t accept lowball offers

5. Litigation (if necessary)

   • If defendants won’t settle fairly, we file a lawsuit
   • We conduct discovery to uncover all evidence
   • We prepare for trial

6. Resolution

   • Settlement or verdict
   • Compensation for your child’s injuries and damages

Why Choose Attorney 911 for Your Calhoun County Hazing Case?

✅ We’re actively litigating a $10 million hazing case right now – we know how to win these cases
✅ Former insurance defense attorneys – we know how defendants try to avoid responsibility
✅ Federal court authority – we can pursue your case nationwide
✅ Dual-state bar admission – strategic advantage against national fraternities
✅ Bilingual representation – Se habla español
✅ Contingency fee basis – $0 upfront, we only get paid if we win
✅ Proven track record – we’ve recovered millions for personal injury victims
✅ Compassionate representation – we understand the trauma hazing causes

Calhoun County Hazing Resources

Local Hospitals and Medical Centers

Local Mental Health Resources

Local Law Enforcement

Local Universities and Colleges

While Calhoun County doesn’t have large universities within its borders, several institutions in nearby areas have active Greek life organizations:

If your child attends any of these institutions or is pledging a fraternity/sorority near Calhoun County, they could be at risk of hazing.

Calhoun County-Specific Hazing Concerns

Local Greek Life Culture

Calhoun County families should be aware that Greek life at nearby universities operates under the same national organizations that have been involved in hazing deaths and lawsuits across the country. Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Pi Kappa Alpha, Phi Delta Theta, Beta Theta Pi, and others all have chapters at Michigan universities.

Michigan Hazing Laws

Michigan has specific laws against hazing:

• Michigan Penal Code § 750.411t makes hazing a crime
• Hazing that causes serious impairment of a bodily function is a felony punishable by up to 5 years in prison and $2,500 in fines
• Hazing that causes death is a felony punishable by up to 15 years in prison and $10,000 in fines
• Consent is not a defense – even if a student agreed to participate, the organization can still be held criminally liable

Despite these laws, hazing continues to occur at Michigan universities. Civil lawsuits like the one we’re pursuing in Texas are often necessary to hold organizations accountable.

Local Attitudes Toward Hazing

Calhoun County has a strong sense of community and family values. Hazing incidents can be particularly devastating in this cultural context. Many local families are shocked to learn that these “traditions” still exist and can cause serious harm to their children.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hazing in Calhoun County

Q: My child was hazed but doesn’t want to “make waves.” Should we still pursue legal action?

A: Yes. Hazing is not just about your child – it’s about preventing future victims. Many hazing victims are afraid of retribution or social consequences, but speaking up can save lives. Our client in the Pi Kappa Phi case was fearful of doing an interview due to retribution, but his bravery is helping expose a dangerous culture.

Q: The fraternity says my child “consented” to participate. Does that mean we can’t sue?

A: No. Under both Texas and Michigan law, consent is not a defense to hazing. The law specifically states that even if a student agreed to participate, the organization can still be held liable. This is because the power dynamics in hazing situations often make true consent impossible.

Q: We’re not sure if what happened qualifies as hazing. How do we know?

A: Hazing is any activity that creates a risk of physical or mental harm for the purpose of initiation or maintaining membership. This includes:

• Any form of physical brutality
• Forced consumption of alcohol or other substances
• Sleep deprivation
• Exposure to extreme weather conditions
• Any activity that could cause psychological trauma

If you’re unsure, call us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’ll evaluate your situation and explain your legal options.

Q: The university says they didn’t know about the hazing. Can they still be held liable?

A: Yes. Universities have a duty to protect their students. If they own or control the property where hazing occurs, or if they have the power to regulate Greek organizations, they can be held liable for failing to prevent hazing – especially if they had prior knowledge of hazing risks. In our current case, the University of Houston owned the fraternity house where the hazing occurred.

Q: My child was hazed at a university outside Calhoun County. Can you still help us?

A: Absolutely. While we’re based in Texas, we represent hazing victims nationwide. Our federal court authority and experience with national fraternity organizations allow us to pursue cases anywhere in the country. We’re currently litigating a hazing case in Texas, but we can handle cases from Calhoun County to California.

Q: How much does it cost to hire a hazing lawyer?

A: Nothing upfront. We work on a contingency fee basis – we only get paid if we win your case. This allows Calhoun County families to pursue justice without worrying about legal fees.

Q: How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?

A: In most states, including Michigan, you have 2 years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, it’s crucial to act quickly because:

• Evidence disappears
• Witnesses forget details
• Organizations may destroy records

Contact us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911 to protect your rights.

Q: What if my child was hazed but wasn’t physically injured?

A: Even if there are no physical injuries, hazing can cause serious psychological trauma including PTSD, anxiety, and depression. These injuries are just as real and compensable as physical injuries. We can pursue compensation for mental anguish, emotional distress, and other non-economic damages.

Q: Can we sue the national fraternity organization, or just the local chapter?

A: We can and do sue both. National organizations often have deeper pockets and insurance policies that cover hazing incidents. They also have a duty to supervise their local chapters. In our current case, we’re suing both the local chapter and Pi Kappa Phi National.

Q: What if the hazing happened off-campus?

A: Hazing is illegal and actionable regardless of where it occurs. Many hazing incidents happen at off-campus locations, private residences, or during off-campus events. In our current case, some hazing occurred at a former member’s private residence – we’re suing both the former member and his spouse.

Calhoun County Hazing Warning Signs

Parents should be aware of these potential signs that your child may be experiencing hazing:

Behavioral Changes

• Sudden withdrawal from family and friends
• Increased secrecy about activities
• Unwillingness to discuss Greek life or pledge activities
• Sudden changes in sleep patterns
• Increased anxiety or depression
• Unexplained mood swings
• Loss of interest in normal activities

Physical Signs

• Unexplained injuries (bruises, cuts, burns)
• Fatigue or exhaustion
• Sudden weight loss
• Signs of sleep deprivation
• Difficulty walking or moving
• Visible signs of stress (hair loss, skin issues)

Academic Changes

• Sudden drop in grades
• Missed classes or assignments
• Difficulty concentrating
• Withdrawal from academic activities

Financial Signs

• Unexplained expenses
• Requests for money without explanation
• Missing personal items that may have been taken as part of hazing rituals

Social Media Clues

• Sudden changes in social media activity
• Posts about “traditions” or “brotherhood/sisterhood”
• Photos that seem staged or out of character
• Deleted posts or accounts

If you notice any of these signs, talk to your child and consider contacting us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for guidance.

How to Talk to Your Child About Hazing

For Parents of Current or Prospective Greek Members

1. Start the conversation early

   • Discuss hazing before your child even considers joining a Greek organization
   • Make it clear that hazing is not acceptable under any circumstances

2. Define what hazing is

   • Explain that hazing includes any activity that creates risk of physical or mental harm
   • Give examples of hazing practices (see our list above)
   • Emphasize that hazing can be psychological as well as physical

3. Discuss the power dynamics

   • Explain that hazing often involves coercion and peer pressure
   • Make it clear that “consenting” to hazing doesn’t make it okay
   • Discuss how the desire to belong can make people do things they wouldn’t normally do

4. Encourage reporting

   • Make sure your child knows that hazing should be reported
   • Discuss who to report to (university officials, law enforcement, anonymous hotlines)
   • Emphasize that reporting hazing helps prevent future victims

5. Provide alternatives

   • Discuss that true brotherhood/sisterhood doesn’t require abuse
   • Encourage your child to look for organizations that don’t engage in hazing
   • Consider alternatives to traditional Greek life

6. Create an open dialogue

   • Let your child know they can always come to you
   • Avoid judgment – create a safe space for them to share
   • If they do disclose hazing, remain calm and supportive

7. Know the resources

   • Familiarize yourself with university policies on hazing
   • Know who to contact at the university if hazing occurs
   • Save our number: 1-888-ATTY-911

Calhoun County Hazing Prevention

What Universities Should Be Doing

Universities near Calhoun County should implement these proven hazing prevention strategies:

1. Comprehensive Education Programs

   • Mandatory hazing education for all Greek life members
   • Regular refresher courses
   • Education for faculty, staff, and administrators

2. Strict Oversight

   • Regular unannounced inspections of fraternity/sorority houses
   • Monitoring of pledge activities
   • Clear reporting mechanisms for hazing

3. Accountability Measures

   • Immediate suspension of organizations found hazing
   • Permanent expulsion for repeat offenders
   • Individual accountability for members who haze

4. Alternative Initiation Practices

   • Encourage positive, non-hazardous initiation traditions
   • Provide resources for creating safe bonding experiences

5. Transparent Reporting

   • Public reporting of all hazing incidents
   • Clear consequences for organizations that fail to report

6. Bystander Intervention Training

   • Teach members how to recognize and report hazing
   • Create a culture where hazing is not tolerated

7. Mental Health Support

   • Provide counseling services for hazing victims
   • Offer support for members who witness hazing

If universities near Calhoun County are not implementing these measures, they are failing in their duty to protect students.

How Attorney 911 Is Changing the Hazing Landscape

Our Current $10 Million Hazing Lawsuit

We’re currently litigating a landmark hazing case that is exposing the dark reality of Greek life culture:

Case: Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, Inc., et al.
Damages Sought: $10 million
Defendants: Pi Kappa Phi National, local chapter, housing corporation, University of Houston, individual members
Injuries: Rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney failure, 4-day hospitalization

Hazing Activities Exposed:

• Waterboarding with a garden hose (simulated drowning)
• Forced to perform 500 squats, 100+ pushups, bear crawls, 100-yard crawls
• Struck with wooden paddles
• Forced eating of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting
• Sleep deprivation from forced driving of members
• Psychological torture including carrying sexual objects and humiliation

Why This Case Matters for Calhoun County:

• Pi Kappa Phi has 150+ chapters nationwide, including near Calhoun County
• The same “traditions” that hospitalized our client happen at Calhoun County-area fraternities
• Universities near Calhoun County face the same liability failures as UH
• This case is sending a message to all fraternities: hazing will not be tolerated

Calhoun County Hazing Lawyer – Contact Attorney 911

If your child has been the victim of hazing in Calhoun County or at any university near Calhoun County, we can help.

📞 Call our hazing emergency hotline now: 1-888-ATTY-911

📧 Email: ralph@atty911.com

🌐 Website: attorney911.com

We offer:
✅ Free, confidential consultations
✅ $0 upfront costs – we work on contingency
✅ Bilingual representation (English and Spanish)
✅ Aggressive, experienced legal advocacy
✅ Nationwide representation

We will travel to Calhoun County for depositions, meetings, and trials. Distance is not a barrier to justice.

Calhoun County Hazing Victim Testimonials

While we maintain confidentiality for all clients, here’s what some of our personal injury clients have said about our representation:

“Consistent communication and not one time did I call and not get a clear answer regarding my case.” — Dame Haskett

“One company said they would not accept my case. Then I got a call from Manginello and they said that they would take it. And in the next few months I got a call to come pick up this handsome check.” — Donald Wilcox

“This place feels like having a family over your case. And communication with you every step of the way. That’s how you know you’re in good hands.” — Kiwi Potato

“My wife and I had such a great experience with this law firm. They all go above and beyond and really care about you as a person. I never felt like ‘just another case’ they were working on.” — Ambur Hamilton

“The Manginello Law Firm treated me with honesty and respect from the very beginning. I was able to trust the firm to advocate for me.” — Debra Cambric-Chisolm

Calhoun County Hazing Statistics

The Reality of Hazing in America

• 55% of college students involved in clubs, teams, and organizations experience hazing
• 40% of athletes report being hazed
• Since 2000, there has been at least one hazing death every year in the United States
• 95% of students who experience hazing do not report it
• Hazing occurs in fraternities, sororities, sports teams, marching bands, ROTC, clubs, and other student organizations
• The most dangerous hazing practices involve alcohol consumption, physical abuse, and sexual abuse
• Rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown) is a common and dangerous result of extreme physical hazing

These statistics show that hazing is not an isolated problem – it’s a widespread crisis that affects students across America, including right here in Calhoun County.

Calhoun County Hazing Prevention Resources

National Organizations

Reporting Hotlines

Local Calhoun County Resources

Calhoun County Hazing Lawyer – Final Message

Hazing is not tradition. It’s not bonding. It’s not building character.

It’s abuse. It’s assault. It’s sometimes torture. And it has no place in Calhoun County or anywhere in America.

If your child has been hazed, you have legal rights. You have the right to hold the people and institutions who hurt your child accountable. You have the right to compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, and the trauma your child has endured.

Attorney 911 is fighting this battle right now. We’re currently litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston. We know how to build these cases. We know how to win. And we’re bringing that same aggressive representation to Calhoun County families.

Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, confidential consultation. We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win.

Enough is enough. It’s time to stop hazing in Calhoun County.