If you are reading this, your family in Cobb County may be enduring one of the most frightening experiences imaginable. Your child left home for college, full of hopes and dreams, only to be subjected to brutal hazing rituals. Instead of finding camaraderie, they found themselves tortured, humiliated, and potentially suffering life-altering injuries. We understand the fear, anger, and confusion you are feeling. We are here to help families in Cobb County and across the nation fight back against the insidious practice of hazing.

We are Attorney911, and we represent hazing victims and their families with aggressive, data-driven legal strategies. We are not a firm that simply talks about hazing; we are actively engaged in the fight right now. Our benchmark case, Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, Inc., et al., is a $10 million lawsuit filed in November 2025 against Pi Kappa Phi, the University of Houston, and 13 individual fraternity members. This is not a hypothetical battle; this is a live, ongoing case that demonstrates our absolute commitment to holding every responsible party accountable.

The story of Leonel Bermudez is a stark warning to parents in Cobb County about the realities of hazing in today’s Greek life. Leonel was a “ghost rush,” a prospective member who wasn’t even enrolled at the University of Houston yet, planning to transfer for the upcoming semester. Yet, he was subjected to weeks of horrific abuse that included being waterboarded with a garden hose, hog-tied, forced to eat until he vomited, and subjected to psychological torture, sleep deprivation, and extreme physical exertion. This relentless abuse led to his muscles breaking down, his kidneys failing, and a four-day hospital stay for severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure.

Within weeks of his ordeal being reported, the Pi Kappa Phi chapter at the University of Houston was suspended, its members voted to surrender their charter, and the chapter was permanently closed. Criminal referrals were initiated. Our firm, Attorney911, wasted no time, filing a $10 million lawsuit that targets not only the individuals directly involved but also the university, the national fraternity, and the housing corporation that enabled this brutality.

This case is irrefutable proof that Attorney911 is relentless in pursuing justice for hazing victims. We are not theoretical; we are fighting right now in Harris County Civil District Court. We want parents in Cobb County to understand that this same kind of hazing can happen anywhere, in any university, to any student, including yours. And when it does, Attorney911 is the firm that will fight back for your family.

The Haunting Echoes of ‘Tradition’: What Hazing Really Looks Like in Cobb County and Beyond

When we talk about hazing, many people in Cobb County might imagine harmless pranks or silly initiation rituals. But the truth is far darker. Hazing today, as evidenced by our ongoing case and countless others across the nation, is systematic abuse, psychological torment, and often life-threatening physical brutality. It’s a dangerous perversion of “tradition” that leaves victims with lasting physical and emotional scars, and sometimes, it tragically ends in death.

Hazing is not about building character or fostering brotherhood; it’s about control, power, and often, an appalling disregard for human dignity. For families in Cobb County, it’s crucial to understand that the smiling faces and Greek letters adorning university brochures can hide a culture of cruelty. The incidents we describe in our lawsuits are not isolated anomalies; they are indicators of a deeply entrenched problem that colleges and national organizations too often fail to address.

Beyond the Stereotypes: The Many Faces of Hazing

Our experience with cases like Leonel Bermudez’s reveals the insidious nature of modern hazing. It encompasses far more than just “pranks,” as institutions often prefer to label it.

These are some of the brutal realities we uncover:

• Physical Abuse: This is the most visible and often most damaging form of hazing. For Leonel, this involved forced calisthenics—hundreds of pushups and squats, bear crawls, “suicides,” and 100-yard crawls—until his muscles disintegrated and his kidneys failed. We’ve also seen reports of beatings, paddling, branding, and exposure to extreme conditions. In our Bermudez case, Leonel was explicitly “struck with wooden paddles.”
• Forced Consumption: This often involves alcohol, leading to dangerous levels of intoxication, but it can extend to other substances. Leonel was compelled to eat large amounts of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until he vomited. Then, he was forced to continue exercising in his own vomit. This is not a game; it is a direct assault on the body and can lead to severe gastrointestinal distress, aspiration, and even death. Many precedent cases, like Stone Foltz and Max Gruver, involved forced alcohol consumption that proved fatal.
• Simulated Drowning/Waterboarding: This is an act of pure torture. Leonel was “waterboarded with a garden hose,” mimicking drowning and inducing unimaginable terror. This is a severe form of psychological and physical abuse, causing extreme distress and fear for one’s life.
• Psychological Torture and Humiliation: This aspect of hazing can leave invisible wounds that are just as devastating as physical injuries. Leonel was forced to carry a fanny pack with objects of a sexual nature, stripped to his underwear in cold weather, and subjected to threats of physical punishment and expulsion. We also learned of another pledge who was hog-tied, face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour. These acts are designed to break a person’s spirit, instill fear, and strip them of their dignity. Our client even expressed fear of retribution for speaking out, a direct consequence of this psychological manipulation.
• Sleep Deprivation and Exhaustion: Pledges are often forced to drive fraternity members during early morning hours, undergo grueling late-night rituals, and maintain demanding schedules that lead to chronic exhaustion. This impairs judgment, weakens physical resilience, and makes victims more susceptible to further abuse.
• Servitude and Control: Hazing often involves forced subservience, requiring pledges to run errands, complete tasks unrelated to academics, or adhere to arbitrary rules under constant threat. Leonel was subjected to an enforced dress code, mandatory study hours, and weekly interviews, all designed to assert control over his life and identity.

The Devastating Medical Consequences

The consequences of hazing are not merely discomfort or embarrassment. They are serious, often life-altering, medical emergencies.

For Leonel Bermudez, the outcome was severe:

• Rhabdomyolysis: This is the breakdown of damaged muscle tissue, releasing harmful proteins like myoglobin into the bloodstream. In severe cases, like Leonel’s, this leads to brown urine, indicative of significant muscle damage, and dangerous electrolyte imbalances. Ralph Manginello, our managing partner, has specific expertise in litigating rhabdomyolysis hazing cases.
• Acute Kidney Failure: The myoglobin released during rhabdomyolysis can clog the kidney tubules, leading to acute kidney failure. This is a life-threatening condition requiring immediate medical intervention and, as in Leonel’s case, prolonged hospitalization. The long-term risk of permanent kidney damage is a grave concern for victims.
• Psychological Trauma: Beyond physical injuries, victims often suffer from PTSD, anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. The fear, humiliation, and violation of trust can have profound and lasting impacts on their well-being, academic performance, and future relationships.

These are not “accidents.” These are foreseeable consequences of intentionally harmful acts. When fraternity members engage in such rituals, they are creating a clear and present danger that can shatter lives. Parents in Cobb County send their children to college expecting them to be safe, to learn, and to grow. They do not expect them to be waterboarded or rushed to the emergency room with kidney failure.

The Pervasiveness of Hazing in Cobb County’s Wider University Network

Cobb County, Georgia, is home to Kennesaw State University, a significant institution with a thriving student body and active Greek life. KSU fosters numerous fraternities and sororities, many of which are chapters of the same national organizations that have been embroiled in hazing scandals across the country. Additionally, students from Cobb County frequently attend other prominent Georgia universities such as the University of Georgia (UGA), Georgia Tech, Georgia Southern University, and Mercer University, all of which host active Greek systems. The national fraternities like Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Pi Kappa Alpha, and Beta Theta Pi, which have been implicated in hazing deaths and serious injuries nationwide, also maintain chapters at these institutions, including those in and around Cobb County.

These “traditions” and pressures that led to Leonel Bermudez’s hospitalization in Houston are not unique to Texas. They exist wherever Greek life and other student organizations operate without sufficient oversight. Whether your child attends Kennesaw State in Cobb County, UGA in Athens, or Georgia Tech in Atlanta, the underlying risks remain disturbingly similar. The same challenges related to institutional negligence, national fraternity oversight, and individual accountability can be found at any university in Georgia or across the nation.

Our deep-dive intelligence database tracks Greek organizations across the state of Texas and beyond. While our primary focus has been on Texas, we understand that Cobb County families send their children to universities with the same national organizations, the same lack of oversight, and the same dangers. We are ready to extend our data-driven litigation strategies to protect students in Cobb County and hold Georgia universities and national fraternities accountable for the safety of their students.

Who Is Responsible? Holding Accountable Every Entity That Enabled Hazing

When hazing leaves a student in Cobb County with severe injuries or tragically leads to their death, the question naturally arises: who is truly to blame? The immediate culprits are often the individual fraternity members who participated in or orchestrated the abuse. However, our extensive experience in hazing litigation, powerfully demonstrated by the Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi case, shows that accountability extends far beyond just a few rogue students.

We firmly believe that hazing is an institutional problem, cultivated and enabled by a systemic failure of oversight. In these cases, we pursue every entity that had a duty to protect students and failed to uphold it. For families in Cobb County, understanding these layers of responsibility is crucial when seeking justice. This is not about suing a few misguided college kids; it’s about forcing powerful organizations with substantial resources to change their dangerous cultures.

The Layers of Accountability: Our Target Defendants

In the Bermudez lawsuit, we have named a comprehensive list of defendants, each with a distinct role in enabling the hazing. This multi-faceted approach is critical to ensuring maximum accountability and compensation.

1. The Local Chapter (Beta Nu Chapter of Pi Kappa Phi):

   • Why they’re liable: This is the most direct level of responsibility. The local chapter directly organized, planned, and executed the hazing activities. Their members were the active participants and perpetrators of the abuse. The chapter is an independent legal entity, and its officers and members bear direct responsibility for their actions.
   • Cobb County Application: Any local fraternity or sorority chapter at Kennesaw State University or another Georgia institution that engages in hazing is directly liable for the harm it causes.

2. Chapter Officers and Individual Members:

   • Why they’re liable: The President, Pledgemaster, Risk Manager, and other chapter leaders have a heightened duty to ensure the safety of pledges and prevent hazing. Their direct participation, passive approval, or failure to intervene makes them personally liable. Even rank-and-file members who participate or witness hazing and fail to report or stop it can be held responsible. In our Bermudez case, 13 individual fraternity members, including the president and pledgemaster, have been named.
   • Cobb County Application: Whether it’s the president of a fraternity at KSU or individual members who physically assaulted a pledge, they can and will be held personally accountable under Georgia law, which includes criminal anti-hazing statutes similar to Texas’s.
   • The Stone Foltz Precedent: In December 2024, a former chapter president, Daylen Dunson, was held personally liable for a $6.5 million judgment in the Stone Foltz case. This demonstrates that individual officers cannot hide behind the organization.

3. Former Members and Their Spouses:

   • Why they’re liable: In the Bermudez case, hazing sessions occurred at the residence of a former member and his spouse. This expands liability to individuals who provide the venue, actively participate, or knowingly allow illegal activities to take place on their property. This constitutes premises liability and potentially aiding and abetting.
   • Cobb County Application: If hazing events occur off-campus, such as at an alumni’s home in Marietta or Kennesaw, those property owners can also be held responsible.

4. The National Fraternity Organization (Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, Inc.):

   • Why they’re liable: National fraternities are powerful entities with significant resources, often overseeing hundreds of chapters across the country. They have a duty to establish and enforce anti-hazing policies, train members, and regulate their chapters. When a pattern of hazing emerges, or when a chapter acts with such blatant disregard for safety, the national organization is liable for negligent supervision, failure to train, and often, deliberate indifference. Pi Kappa Phi National’s immediate suspension and dissolution of the UH chapter after the Bermudez incident is an admission of their knowledge and understanding of egregious policy violations. The case of Andrew Coffey, who died in a Pi Kappa Phi hazing incident in 2017, provides clear pattern evidence of the national organization’s ongoing failures.
   • Cobb County Application: National fraternities with chapters at universities attended by Cobb County residents, including Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, and others, operate under the same structures. If hazing occurs at a chapter in Athens or Atlanta, the national organization headquartered in North Carolina or Indiana will be targeted.

5. The Housing Corporation (Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation Inc.):

   • Why they’re liable: These entities often own or manage the physical fraternity houses. They have a duty to ensure the safety of the premises and to prevent illegal activities like hazing from occurring within their properties. Their failure to maintain a safe environment and enforce rules can lead to premises liability. Our internal Texas Hazing Intelligence Database tracks these entities by their EINs, demonstrating the corporate structure behind the Greek letters.
   • Cobb County Application: Many fraternity houses near KSU or other Georgia universities are owned by similar housing corporations. These corporations are separate legal entities that can be sued.

6. The University (University of Houston and UH Board of Regents):

   • Why they’re liable: Universities have a non-delegable duty to protect their students. This becomes especially clear when they own the fraternity houses where hazing occurs, as was the case with the University of Houston in the Bermudez matter. The university has the power to oversee Greek life, enforce anti-hazing policies, and intervene when dangerous behavior is reported or known. When a university fails to act, despite prior incidents (like the 2017 Pi Kappa Alpha hazing at UH that hospitalized another student), they demonstrate institutional negligence and deliberate indifference. The UH Board of Regents, as the governing body, shares responsibility for these institutional failures.
   • Cobb County Application: Universities like Kennesaw State University in Cobb County, the University of Georgia, and Georgia Tech all have Greek life oversight, internal policies, and a duty to protect students. If they own or control fraternity property or fail to adequately supervise recognized student organizations, they can be held liable.

The “Deep Pockets” Strategy

Our approach is rooted in identifying and targeting every financially viable defendant, a strategy critical for securing adequate compensation for hazing victims in Cobb County.

• National Fraternities: These organizations often hold millions in assets and a multitude of insurance policies designed to cover institutional liability.
• Universities: Major universities, even state-funded ones, possess substantial endowments, operational budgets, and comprehensive insurance coverage.
• Housing Corporations: These entities often own valuable real estate and carry property-specific insurance.
• Individual Members: While sometimes limited, individual members may have personal assets or be covered by their parents’ homeowner’s insurance.

As former insurance defense attorneys, both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña possess invaluable insider knowledge of how these entities and their insurance companies operate. They understand the strategies employed to minimize payouts and know precisely how to dismantle those defenses. This expertise is a critical advantage when fighting for Cobb County families against powerful, well-resourced opponents. We don’t just guess who might be responsible; we know, and we pursue every avenue to hold them accountable.

Multi-Million-Dollar Proof: Hazing Cases Win, and Cobb County Families Can Win Too

When a child in Cobb County is brutalized by hazing, families often feel powerless against the vast resources of universities and national fraternities. Yet, our current $10 million lawsuit and a history of landmark verdicts and settlements demonstrate unequivocally that justice can be served. These precedent cases send a clear, powerful message: hazing costs millions. We have the receipts, and the same aggressive, data-driven legal strategies we employ can secure justice for Cobb County victims.

These cases are not just about monetary compensation; they are about forcing systemic change, sending a deterrent message, and ensuring that future students in Cobb County and nationwide are protected from similar atrocities.

Historic Victories That Paved the Way:

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

   • What Happened: Stone Foltz was forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol during a “Big/Little” initiation and died from alcohol poisoning.
   • The Outcome: The university settled for $2.9 million, and the national Pi Kappa Alpha organization, along with other individuals, settled for $7.2 million. Most recently, in December 2024, the former chapter president, Daylen Dunson, was ordered to pay $6.5 million in personal liability for his role.
   • Relevance for Cobb County: This case sets a benchmark for the significant financial consequences for both universities and fraternities. Our $10 million demand in the Bermudez case is directly aligned with this precedent, demonstrating that even non-fatal (but severe) hazing can command similar high-value claims. It also shows the potential for individual accountability, even beyond the organization.

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

   • What Happened: Max Gruver, an 18-year-old freshman, was forced to participate in a “Bible Study” hazing event where he had to drink excessive alcohol for incorrect answers. He died from acute alcohol poisoning (BAC of 0.495).
   • The Outcome: A jury awarded the Gruver family $6.1 million. The case also led to criminal convictions, including negligent homicide, and prompted the passage of the Max Gruver Act, making hazing a felony in Louisiana.
   • Relevance for Cobb County: This jury verdict unequivocally proves that juries are willing to award millions for hazing deaths. It underscores the potential for criminal charges and legislative reform that can arise from such tragedies, laying the groundwork for similar outcomes in Georgia.

3. Timothy Piazza – Penn State University / Beta Theta Pi (2017): Total: $110+ Million (Multiple Settlements)

   • What Happened: Timothy Piazza was forced to consume 18 drinks in 82 minutes during a hazing ritual. He fell down a flight of stairs multiple times, suffering a catastrophic brain injury. Fraternity members delayed calling 911 for 12 hours, resulting in his death. Security cameras captured the entire horrific event.
   • The Outcome: While confidential, settlements are estimated to exceed $110 million. Multiple fraternity members were charged with serious crimes, including involuntary manslaughter, and many were convicted. Pennsylvania passed the Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law, increasing penalties.
   • Relevance for Cobb County: This monumental settlement illustrates the devastating financial liability that institutions face when hazing is enabled and covered up. The presence of clear evidence, similar to the detailed allegations in our Bermudez case, can drive staggering settlements and inspire legislative change nationwide.

4. Andrew Coffey – Florida State University / Pi Kappa Phi (2017): Same Fraternity as Our Client

   • What Happened: Andrew Coffey died from acute alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink an entire bottle of bourbon at a Pi Kappa Phi “Big Brother Night.” Just like the Bermudez case, this involved the same national organization.
   • The Outcome: Nine fraternity members faced criminal charges, and the FSU chapter was permanently closed. The family reached a confidential civil settlement.
   • Relevance for Cobb County: This case is devastating for Pi Kappa Phi National, as it proves they had direct knowledge of a deadly hazing incident involving their chapters eight years before Leonel Bermudez’s hospitalization. Despite this tragic warning, they failed to prevent similar abuses, establishing a clear pattern of negligence and deliberate indifference that bolsters our $10 million claim for Leonel Bermudez and could be used to hold accountable any Pi Kappa Phi chapter operating near Cobb County, Georgia.

Why Precedent Matters for Cobb County Families

These multi-million dollar outcomes demonstrate several critical points for families in Cobb County:

• Accountability for All: These cases prove that not only individuals, but also national fraternities, universities, and their governing boards, can be held financially responsible.
• Juries Take Hazing Seriously: The substantial verdicts and settlements reflect a growing societal intolerance for hazing, with juries often awarding significant damages when confronted with egregious conduct.
• The Cost of Inaction: Universities and national organizations have been put on notice. Their failure to implement effective anti-hazing measures after such high-profile incidents makes them highly vulnerable to substantial liability.
• Deterrence and Change: These cases often lead to stricter anti-hazing laws, forcing institutions to re-evaluate their policies and practices. Your family’s case in Cobb County could contribute to similar vital reforms in Georgia.

Our firm, Attorney911, understands this complex landscape. We meticulously build our cases, leveraging every piece of pattern evidence, institutional negligence, and individual culpability to ensure that our clients receive the maximum possible compensation. We are prepared to bring the full weight of these precedents, and our aggressive litigation strategies, to bear for any Cobb County family affected by hazing.

Georgia Law and Beyond: Legal Protections for Hazing Victims in Cobb County

While Attorney911 operates from our offices in Texas, our expertise in hazing litigation and our federal court authority allow us to represent victims nationwide, including those in Cobb County, Georgia. It is crucial for families in Cobb County to understand the legal framework designed to protect their children and hold perpetrators accountable. Georgia law, much like Texas law, provides significant avenues for both criminal prosecution and civil redress in hazing incidents.

Georgia’s Anti-Hazing Statutes

Georgia, like most states, has specific laws prohibiting hazing, defining it broadly to cover actions that endanger mental or physical health. The Georgia legislature has shown an increasing resolve to combat hazing, particularly in the wake of national tragedies.

While specific section numbers vary by state, the core principles of Georgia’s anti-hazing laws typically align with those in Texas, which include:

• Broad Definition of Hazing: Covering any act, on or off campus, that endangers a student’s mental or physical health or safety for the purpose of initiation or membership. This includes physical brutality, forced consumption, sleep deprivation, psychological abuse, and acts that violate criminal statutes.
• Criminal Penalties: Individuals who engage in or facilitate hazing can face criminal charges, ranging from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on the severity of the harm caused. Hazing that results in serious bodily injury or death typically carries felony penalties, resulting in potential jail time and significant fines.
• Organizational Liability: Fraternities, sororities, and other student organizations can face sanctions, including suspension, expulsion from campus, and monetary fines, if their members engage in hazing.
• Consent is NOT a Defense: This is a critical legal tenet. Just as in Texas, Georgia law generally states that a student cannot legally consent to be hazed. This means that any argument by a fraternity that a victim “agreed” to the ritual is legally invalid. This directly counteracts the common defense tactic used to shift blame onto the victim.

Civil Avenues for Justice in Cobb County

Beyond criminal prosecutions, civil lawsuits offer the primary means for victims and their families in Cobb County to recover compensation for their suffering and losses. Our firm leverages a range of civil liability theories to ensure every responsible party contributes to justice.

1. Negligence Claims:

   • Applicability: This is a cornerstone of personal injury law nationwide. Universities and national fraternities owe a duty of care to their students to protect them from foreseeable harm, including hazing. When that duty is breached through inaction, inadequate policies, or lax enforcement, and it causes injury, they are negligent.
   • Cobb County Context: Kennesaw State University, the University of Georgia, Georgia Tech, and other institutions attended by Cobb County students all have a duty to ensure student safety, monitor Greek life, and respond appropriately to hazing. The failure to do so constitutes negligence.

2. Premises Liability:

   • Applicability: If hazing occurs on property owned or controlled by the university (like a fraternity house) or by a housing corporation, these entities can be held liable for failing to maintain a safe environment and allowing dangerous conditions (i.e., hazing) to exist. The fact that the University of Houston owned the Pi Kappa Phi house where Leonel was tortured is a powerful aspect of our case, and similar situations can arise in Cobb County.
   • Cobb County Context: Many fraternity or sorority houses near institutions in Cobb County are either owned by the university, the national organization, or a local housing corporation, creating multiple points of premises liability.

3. Negligent Supervision:

   • Applicability: National fraternities are responsible for supervising their local chapters, and universities are responsible for overseeing recognized student organizations. When they fail to adequately monitor, train, or intervene when hazing occurs, they are liable for negligent supervision.
   • Cobb County Context: This applies directly to the national Greek letter organizations that operate chapters at KSU and other Georgia universities, as well as the universities’ Greek Life offices.

4. Assault and Battery:

   • Applicability: Hazing often involves direct physical contact that constitutes assault (threat of harm) and battery (unwanted physical contact). Perpetrators of such acts, including individual fraternity members, can be sued personally. Waterboarding, paddling, and forced exercise for prolonged durations all fall under this umbrella.
   • Cobb County Context: Any individual involved in physically harming a student during hazing in Cobb County can immediately be targeted with assault and battery claims.

5. Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress (IIED):

   • Applicability: When hazing involves extreme and outrageous conduct that causes severe emotional distress, victims can pursue claims for IIED. The psychological scars of hazing, including PTSD, severe anxiety, and depression, are compensable under this theory. The psychological torture inflicted on Leonel Bermudez, including simulated waterboarding and forced humiliation, clearly meets these criteria.
   • Cobb County Context: This claim addresses the profound mental anguish and psychological damage that often accompanies hazing, providing a path to compensation even when physical injuries are less severe but emotional trauma is profound.

Federal Civil Rights Claims

Beyond state laws, hazing can also trigger federal civil rights claims, particularly under Title IX, if the hazing involves sexual discrimination, harassment, or a hostile environment that impedes educational access. Our firm has experience with federal litigation, further broadening the legal avenues available to Cobb County victims.

The Statute of Limitations in Georgia

Similar to Texas, Georgia imposes strict time limits, known as statutes of limitations, within which a lawsuit must be filed. For personal injury cases arising from hazing in Georgia, this period is typically two years from the date of injury. For wrongful death claims, it is generally two years from the date of death. It is imperative for Cobb County families to act quickly, as waiting too long can permanently forfeit the right to seek justice. Evidence can disappear, witnesses’ memories can fade, and the ability to build a strong case diminishes with time.

Our firm understands that distance is not a barrier to justice. Although our main offices are in Texas, our federal court admissions and dual-state bar licenses (Texas and New York, strategically chosen for national fraternity litigation) allow us to pursue cases throughout the country. We also leverage remote consultation technology and are prepared to travel to Cobb County for depositions, client meetings, and trials whenever necessary. Cobb County families deserve the same unwavering legal advocacy we provide our clients here in Texas.

Why Attorney911 Is the Obvious Choice for Cobb County Hazing Victims

When your child in Cobb County has been harmed by hazing, you need more than just a lawyer; you need a relentless advocate who understands the intricate legal landscape of hazing litigation and knows how to dismantle the defenses of powerful institutions. At Attorney911, we stand as that advocate, bringing a unique blend of experience, insight, and unwavering commitment to every case, including those we serve remotely in Cobb County, Georgia.

Our firm is meticulously designed to fight for hazing victims, and our current $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston is irrefutable proof of our aggressive and data-driven approach.

Our Unmatched Advantages for Cobb County Families:

1. Active, Aggressive Hazing Litigation Experience:

   • We are fighting this battle RIGHT NOW. Our Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi case isn’t a theoretical exercise; it’s a live legal war in Harris County Civil District Court. This means we are constantly honing our strategies, gathering intelligence, and adapting to the latest tactics deployed by national fraternities and universities.
   • What this means for Cobb County: You benefit directly from our real-time experience. The strategies, depositions, and legal arguments we are developing today in Houston will be deployed to fight for your child’s rights in Cobb County tomorrow.

2. Insider Knowledge from Former Insurance Defense Attorneys:

   • Both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña began their careers defending insurance companies and large corporations. Lupe Peña, in particular, worked for Litchfield Cavo LLP, a national insurance defense firm.
   • What this means for Cobb County: We know their playbook. We understand how national fraternities, universities, and their insurance carriers value claims, strategize defenses, and attempt to minimize or deny payouts. We use this invaluable insider intelligence to anticipate their moves, counter their arguments, and maximize your family’s recovery. We’ve seen their tactics from the inside, and now we use that knowledge against them.

3. Federal Court Admissions for Nationwide Reach:

   • Our attorneys are admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, and have experience in federal civil rights litigation.
   • What this means for Cobb County: Many significant hazing cases involve federal civil rights claims (e.g., Title IX) and national organizations, which often fall under federal jurisdiction. Our ability to litigate in federal court means we can pursue justice for Cobb County victims regardless of where the hazing occurred or where the national fraternity is headquartered. Distance is not a barrier to our advocacy.

4. Dual-State Bar Licenses (Texas AND New York):

   • Ralph Manginello holds licenses in both Texas and New York. This strategic advantage is no accident.
   • What this means for Cobb County: Many national fraternity and sorority organizations have significant presences or headquarters in states like New York or utilize legal and financial strategies that span state lines. Our dual licensure provides a strategic edge, enhancing our ability to navigate complex interstate litigation against these powerful entities on behalf of Cobb County families.

5. Proven Track Record in High-Stakes Litigation:

   • Ralph Manginello’s involvement in the multi-billion dollar BP Texas City Explosion litigation is a testament to our firm’s capability to take on massive corporate defendants and secure justice in complex, high-stakes environments.
   • What this means for Cobb County: Universities and national fraternities are formidable opponents. Our experience with cases of this magnitude means we are not intimidated and possess the resources, expertise, and determination to fight for justice for your family, no matter how powerful the defendant.

6. Data-Driven Litigation Strategy – Our Texas Hazing Intelligence Database:

   • We maintain an extensive database of over 1,423 Greek-related organizations across 25 Texas metropolitan areas, including Houston, Austin, and Beaumont. This includes IRS-registered entities, EINs, legal names of house corporations, alumni chapters, and honor societies. We also track national hazing incident data, settlements, and legislative changes nationwide.
   • What this means for Cobb County: We don’t guess who is responsible; we know the intricate corporate structures behind Greek letters. This data allows us to identify every liable entity, from the local chapter at Kennesaw State to the national organization headquartered across the country, ensuring no one escapes accountability. Our ability to track these organizations’ history of violations helps establish pattern evidence for your Cobb County case.

7. Empathetic, Parent-Facing Approach:

   • We understand that behind every hazing lawsuit is a family in crisis. Our tone is warm, empathetic, and dedicated to guiding you through this traumatic experience. We speak directly to parents, addressing their fears and concerns, rather than using confusing legal jargon.
   • What this means for Cobb County: We treat Cobb County families like our own. We know you are scared and angry, and we are committed to providing clear communication, consistent updates, and compassionate support every step of the way.

8. Contingency Fee Basis – No Upfront Cost:

   • We work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay absolutely $0 upfront to hire our firm, and we only get paid if and when we win your case.
   • What this means for Cobb County: Financial barriers should never prevent a family from seeking justice. We absorb the costs and risks of litigation, aligning our success directly with yours.

9. Bilingual Services (Se Habla Español):

   • Our staff, including Lupe Peña, is fluent in Spanish.
   • What this means for Cobb County: For Spanish-speaking families in Cobb County, this ensures clear communication, eliminates language barriers, and provides culturally sensitive legal representation during a difficult time.

10. Dedication to Justice and Systemic Change:

    • As Lupe Peña stated regarding the Bermudez case, “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.”
    • What this means for Cobb County: We are deeply invested in not just winning your case, but in changing the culture of hazing. Your family’s pursuit of justice in Cobb County can contribute to a larger movement that protects future students nationwide.

We are ready to bring our full force to bear for students and families in Cobb County. Whether the hazing incident occurred at Kennesaw State, the University of Georgia, Georgia Tech, or at an off-campus location in the Marietta or Kennesaw area, our team is equipped to handle your case. We understand the unique aspects of Cobb County’s community, its educational institutions, and the impact hazing can have on its families. We invite you to call us for a free consultation. Let us be your legal emergency first responders.

What to Do Right Now: Actionable Steps for Cobb County Families After Hazing

If your child in Cobb County has been subjected to hazing, the moments immediately following the incident are critical. While the emotional turmoil can be overwhelming, quick and decisive action is essential to protect your child’s health, preserve crucial evidence, and secure their legal rights. Remember, the institutions and individuals responsible for the hazing will immediately begin protecting themselves. You need to do the same for your child.

Here are the immediate steps Cobb County families should take:

1. Prioritize Medical Attention:

   • Seek immediate medical care. Even if your child insists they are “fine” or appears to brush off their injuries, insist on a thorough medical evaluation. Adrenaline can mask pain, and some severe injuries, like rhabdomyolysis or internal damage, may not be immediately apparent. Our client, Leonel Bermudez, didn’t realize the severity of his condition until days later.
   • Document everything. Ensure all injuries, symptoms, and medical visits are extensively recorded by healthcare professionals. This includes emergency room visits at any Cobb County hospital, follow-up appointments with primary care physicians, and referrals to specialists like nephrologists or therapists. Medical records are foundational evidence in any hazing lawsuit.
   • Keep all medical bills and receipts. These will be essential for calculating economic damages.

2. Preserve ALL Evidence – Document, Document, Document:

   • Digital Communications: This is perhaps the most vital form of evidence in hazing cases.
     • DO NOT DELETE ANYTHING. Save every text message, GroupMe chat, Snapchat conversation, Instagram DM, email, or social media post related to the hazing. Hazers often communicate through these channels to coordinate activities, issue threats, or discuss events. Screen-record or take screenshots to capture ephemeral content before it disappears.
     • Identify other participants. Your child’s phone may contain contact information for other pledges, fraternity members, or witnesses. Preserve it.
   • Photographs and Videos:
     • Document injuries. Take clear, date-stamped photos of any physical injuries (bruises, cuts, burns, rashes, swelling) immediately after the hazing, and continue to document their healing process over time.
     • Capture the environment. If safe to do so, take photos or videos of the locations where hazing occurred (fraternity house, off-campus property, remote location near Cobb County). This can provide context and support premises liability claims.
     • Any visual evidence of hazing activities, no matter how seemingly innocuous, should be preserved.
   • Physical Evidence:
     • Clothing: Preserve any clothing worn during hazing, especially if it’s torn, stained, or damaged.
     • Any objects mentioned: If specific objects were used in the hazing (e.g., paddles, fanny packs with specific items, hose) and your child has access, document them.
   • Documents: Save any “pledge packets,” schedules, rules, or communications received from the fraternity, sorority, or university related to the “new member process.”

3. Refuse to Communicate with Responsible Parties Without Legal Counsel:

   • DO NOT speak with fraternity/sorority members or leadership. They will likely attempt to minimize the incident, coordinate their stories, or pressure your child into silence.
   • DO NOT give statements to university administrators or their Title IX office alone. While reporting to the university is important (and often legally required), your child should have legal representation BEFORE giving any formal statements. Universities will protect their own liability first and foremost. Any statement made can unintentionally harm a future civil case.
   • DO NOT sign any documents. Never sign anything given by the fraternity, university, or any related entity without having an attorney review it first. These documents often include waivers that could forfeit your child’s legal rights.
   • DO NOT post about the incident on social media. Anything posted can and will be used against your child by the defense to undermine their credibility or claim of suffering.

4. Contact an Experienced Hazing Litigation Attorney IMMEDIATELY:

   • Time is of the essence. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build a strong case. Memories fade, evidence disappears, and statutes of limitations approach.
   • Call us 24/7 at 1-888-ATTY-911. Our initial consultation is completely free, and there is no obligation. We can quickly assess your child’s situation, advise you on necessary next steps, and secure critical evidence before it’s lost.
   • Distance is not a barrier. While our primary offices are in Texas, we represent hazing victims nationwide, including in Cobb County, Georgia. We offer remote consultations via video and are prepared to travel to Cobb County for depositions, client meetings, and trials whenever needed.
   • We work on contingency. This means you pay nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we successfully secure compensation for your family.

5. Report the Hazing to Appropriate Authorities (with Legal Guidance):

   • Campus Authorities: Report the hazing incident to the university administration, including the Greek Life office, Dean of Students, or Title IX office (if applicable). Again, do so with the advice of an attorney.
   • Police: Consider filing a police report. Hazing is a crime in Georgia, and criminal charges can run parallel to a civil lawsuit. This can also provide an official record of the incident.
   • National Organization (via your attorney): Your attorney can formally notify the national fraternity/sorority organization, putting them on notice and helping to preserve potential claims against them.

For Cobb County families, the shock and pain of a hazing incident can feel isolating. But you are not alone. Our team, led by Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, is ready to stand with you. We understand that your priority is your child’s well-being. Let us handle the complexities of the legal fight. Call us, and let’s discuss how we can bring justice and accountability for your family.

Contact Attorney911: Your Legal Emergency Responders for Hazing Victims in Cobb County

If your child in Cobb County has suffered from hazing, you are facing a legal emergency, and immediate, aggressive action is required. We are Attorney911, and we are ready to be your first responders. The institutions and individuals responsible for your child’s pain will not hesitate to protect themselves. We will not hesitate to fight back for you.

Our firm is founded on the principle of providing immediate, expert legal assistance in times of crisis. We bring to every hazing case the same dedication, strategic prowess, and relentless advocacy that is driving our ongoing $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston. This is not just a job for us; it is a fight we are deeply committed to winning on behalf of our clients and the broader community.

Your Call for Justice Starts Here

Do not endure this nightmare alone. Do not let fear, shame, or loyalty to an organization prevent you from seeking the justice your child deserves. Every moment that passes can diminish critical evidence and jeopardize your legal rights.

Cobb County families, your free, confidential consultation is available 24/7:

📞 Call Now: 1-888-ATTY-911

Email: ralph@atty911.com

Website: attorney911.com

Our Commitment to You:

• Free Consultation, Always: Your initial conversation with us is entirely free, without any obligation. We will listen to your story with empathy, explain your legal options clearly, and answer all your questions.
• No Upfront Fees: We operate on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay absolutely nothing out-of-pocket to hire us. We only get paid if and when we successfully recover compensation for your family. This ensures that expert legal representation is accessible to everyone in Cobb County, regardless of their financial situation.
• Nationwide Reach, Local Service: While headquartered in Houston, our legal authority—including federal court admissions and dual-state bar licenses in Texas and New York—allows us to represent hazing victims across the United States, including in Cobb County, Georgia. We routinely conduct remote consultations via phone and video, and our attorneys are prepared to travel to Cobb County for depositions, client meetings, and trials when necessary. Distance will never be a barrier to justice.
• Bilingual Support (Se Habla Español): We are proud to offer comprehensive legal services in Spanish, ensuring that language is never a barrier to justice for Hispanic families in Cobb County.
• Proven Aggression: We don’t back down. Our reputation is built on aggressively pursuing every liable party, from individual perpetrators to powerful national organizations and universities. We know how to take on well-resourced opponents and win.

For Other Victims of Hazing

If your child experienced hazing at Kennesaw State University (KSU), the University of Georgia (UGA), Georgia Tech, or any other institution in or near Cobb County, your situation demands immediate legal review. The same national fraternities and sororities that have faced lawsuits and criminal charges across the country, including Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Pi Kappa Alpha, and Beta Theta Pi, maintain chapters at institutions throughout Georgia. Their patterns of behavior, documented incidents, and multi-million dollar liabilities are now well-established.

Your Cobb County community, your local schools, and your children deserve better.

If you know of others who have been victimized by hazing, encourage them to reach out to us. As Lupe Peña eloquently stated, “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.” Your decision to come forward can not only secure justice for your family but also prevent future tragedies in Cobb County and across Georgia.

We are here for you. Call Attorney911 today. Let us help you turn your child’s trauma into a powerful force for change and accountability.