The Complete Guide to Hazing, Texas Law, and Holding Universities Accountable: A Resource for Fayetteville Families

If Your Child Was Hazed at a Texas University, You Are Not Alone

For parents in Fayetteville, the call can come at any hour. Your child, who left for college with excitement, now sounds scared, injured, or secretive. They mention “pledge events,” “mandatory workouts,” or “chapter traditions” that don’t sound right. They come home to Fayette County for break with unexplained bruises, severe fatigue, or a personality that’s changed. You hear whispers about forced drinking, all-night sessions, or humiliating tasks. This is the reality of modern hazing at Texas universities, and families right here in Central Texas are facing it.

Right now, our firm is fighting one of the most serious hazing cases in Texas history. We represent Leonel Bermudez, a University of Houston student who suffered rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure after alleged hazing by the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter. According to media reports including Click2Houston’s investigation, Bermudez was subjected to a “pledge fanny pack” humiliation ritual, extreme physical workouts, forced consumption of food until vomiting, and being sprayed with a hose “similar to waterboarding.” He was hospitalized for four days with brown urine and critically high creatine kinase levels. The chapter was suspended and then shut down, but the physical and psychological harm remains.

This guide was written specifically for families in Fayetteville, Round Top, La Grange, and across Fayette County who need to understand what hazing really looks like in 2025, what Texas law says about it, and how to hold responsible parties accountable when tradition crosses into abuse.

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

What Hazing Really Looks Like in 2025: Beyond the Stereotypes

For Fayetteville families who may be unfamiliar with modern Greek life, hazing has evolved far beyond the “animal house” stereotypes. Today’s hazing combines digital control, psychological manipulation, and physical danger in ways that can be difficult to recognize until it’s too late.

The Modern Definition: Coercion Disguised as Tradition

Hazing is any forced, coerced, or strongly pressured action tied to joining, keeping membership, or gaining status in a group, where the behavior endangers physical or mental health, humiliates, or exploits. Crucially, “I agreed to it” does not make it safe or legal when there is peer pressure and power imbalance. Texas law explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing.

Digital Hazing: The 24/7 Control System

For today’s college students, much of the hazing happens on their phones:

Group chat monitoring: Pledges required to respond instantly to messages at all hours
Location tracking: Forced use of Find My Friends or Life360 apps
Social media humiliation: Required TikTok challenges, Instagram story dares
Evidence destruction coaching: Instructions on what to delete if questioned

Physical Hazing: From “Workouts” to Medical Emergencies

What organizations call “conditioning” or “team building” often crosses into dangerous territory:

Extreme calisthenics: The Leonel Bermudez case involved 100+ push-ups and 500 squats in one session
Forced consumption: Milk, hot dogs, peppercorns until vomiting, then immediate sprints
Exposure rituals: Cold weather in underwear, lying in vomit-soaked grass
Medical consequences: Rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown), kidney failure, traumatic brain injuries

Psychological Hazing: The Invisible Wounds

The mental toll can be as devastating as the physical:

Sleep deprivation: Mandatory 3 AM meetings, all-night “study sessions”
Social isolation: Cutting off contact with non-members
Verbal abuse: Constant criticism, humiliation, threats of expulsion
Coerced secrecy: Making students lie to parents and university officials

Where Hazing Happens: It’s Not Just Fraternities

While Greek organizations receive most attention, hazing occurs across campus:

Fraternities and sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural)
Corps of Cadets / ROTC programs with military-style traditions
Athletic teams from football to cheerleading
Spirit organizations and tradition clubs
Marching bands and performance groups
Some academic and service organizations

Texas Hazing Law: What Fayetteville Families Need to Know

Texas has specific anti-hazing laws in the Education Code that apply whether your child attends school in Houston, College Station, Austin, or out of state. Understanding these laws is crucial for Fayetteville families seeking accountability.

Texas Education Code Chapter 37: The Hazing Statute

§ 37.151 Definition: Hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, directed against a student that:

Endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student
Occurs for the purpose of pledging, initiation, affiliation, holding office, or maintaining membership

Key points for Fayetteville families:

Can happen on or off campus – location doesn’t matter
Can be mental or physical harm
“Reckless” is enough – they don’t need to have malicious intent
“Consent is not a defense” (Texas Education Code § 37.155)

§ 37.152 Criminal Penalties:

Class B Misdemeanor: Hazing without serious injury (up to 180 days jail, $2,000 fine)
Class A Misdemeanor: Hazing causing injury requiring medical treatment
State Jail Felony: Hazing causing serious bodily injury or death

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Two Paths to Accountability

Criminal Cases:

Brought by the state (district attorney)
Aim: Punishment (jail, fines, probation)
Typical charges: Hazing, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, manslaughter in fatal cases
Example: In the UH Pi Kappa Phi case, criminal investigations are ongoing

Civil Cases:

Brought by victims or surviving families
Aim: Monetary compensation and accountability
Focus: Negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision, emotional distress
No criminal conviction required to pursue civil case

Federal Law Overlay: Additional Protections

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024):

Requires colleges receiving federal aid to report hazing incidents transparently
Strengthens hazing education and prevention
Phased implementation through 2026

Title IX & Clery Act:

Triggered when hazing involves sexual harassment or assault
Requires reporting of certain crimes and safety statistics
Can provide additional legal avenues for accountability

Who Can Be Liable in a Texas Hazing Case?

Our experience shows that multiple parties often share responsibility:

Individual Students: Those who planned, executed, or covered up hazing
Local Chapter: The fraternity/sorority as an organization
National Headquarters: For failure to supervise or enforce policies
University/Board of Regents: For negligent supervision or deliberate indifference
Property Owners: Landlords of off-campus houses where hazing occurs
Alcohol Providers: Under Texas dram shop laws

In the Bermudez case, we filed against 13 individual members, the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter, the national Pi Kappa Phi organization, the University of Houston, and the UH System Board of Regents.

National Hazing Patterns: Lessons for Texas Families

The tragic cases that make national news aren’t isolated incidents – they reveal patterns that repeat at campuses across the country, including here in Texas. Understanding these patterns helps Fayetteville families recognize the warning signs.

Alcohol Poisoning: The Deadliest Pattern

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

Forced to drink entire bottle of alcohol during “Big/Little” night
Died from alcohol poisoning
$10 million settlement ($7M from national Pi Kappa Alpha, ~$3M from university)
Takeaway: Formulaic drinking traditions are predictable and preventable

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017):

“Bible study” drinking game – wrong answers meant forced drinking
Died with 0.495% BAC
$6.1 million verdict against individuals
Louisiana enacted Max Gruver Act making hazing a felony

Timothy Piazza – Penn State, Beta Theta Pi (2017):

Bid acceptance night with extreme drinking
Suffered fatal falls caught on chapter cameras
18 members charged with over 1,000 criminal counts
Pennsylvania passed Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law

Physical and Ritualized Hazing

Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013):

Blindfolded, weighted with backpack, repeatedly tackled in “glass ceiling” ritual
Died from traumatic brain injuries
National fraternity convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter
Pi Delta Psi banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years

Athletic Program Hazing

Northwestern University Football (2023-2025):

Allegations of sexualized, racist hazing within the program
Multiple lawsuits against university and staff
Head coach fired, then settled wrongful-termination suit confidentially
Takeaway: Hazing extends beyond Greek life to big-money athletic programs

What These Cases Mean for Fayetteville Families

These national patterns matter because:

They show foreseeability: National organizations know these rituals are dangerous
They establish precedent: Courts recognize these patterns in liability determinations
They reveal cover-up tactics: The same strategies to hide evidence appear repeatedly
They demonstrate accountability is possible: Multi-million dollar settlements and criminal convictions show systems can be held responsible

Texas University Focus: Where Fayetteville Students Attend

Families in Fayetteville and Fayette County send their children to universities across Texas. Whether your student attends a school 30 minutes away or 3 hours away, understanding each campus’s hazing landscape is crucial.

University of Houston: The Current Crisis

For Fayetteville families: While UH is approximately 100 miles from Fayetteville, many Central Texas students choose Houston for its urban opportunities and strong programs. When hazing happens there, Fayette County families need to understand their rights.

Current Case – Leonel Bermudez v. UH & Pi Kappa Phi:

$10 million lawsuit filed November 2025
Allegations: “Pledge fanny pack” humiliation, forced overeating, extreme workouts, simulated waterboarding
Medical harm: Rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney failure, 4-day hospitalization
Institutional response: Chapter suspended November 6, 2025; charter surrendered November 14, 2025
Our role: Attorney911 represents Bermudez in this ongoing litigation

UH’s Greek Landscape:

50+ fraternities and sororities across multiple councils
Active NPHC (Divine Nine) presence
Multiple off-campus chapter houses in surrounding neighborhoods
Reporting channels: Dean of Students Office, UHPD, online reporting forms

What UH Families Should Know:

Hazing can occur at chapter houses, off-campus residences (like the Culmore Drive location in the Bermudez case), or parks (Yellowstone Boulevard Park)
-prior incidents have involved physical injury and alcohol poisoning
The university has suspended multiple chapters for hazing violations
Civil cases may be filed in Harris County courts

Texas A&M University: Tradition and Risk

For Fayetteville families: At approximately 85 miles away, Texas A&M is a common choice for Fayette County students, particularly those interested in agriculture, engineering, or the Corps of Cadets.

Corps of Cadets Culture:

Military-style environment with strong traditions
2023 lawsuit alleged “roasted pig” hazing – cadet bound between beds with apple in mouth
Multiple hazing investigations in recent years
Unique challenge: Blending military discipline with university oversight

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (2021):

Pledges allegedly covered in industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, spit
Severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries
$1 million lawsuit filed against chapter
Chapter suspended for two years

Texas A&M’s Response System:

Student Conduct Office handles investigations
Corps has separate chain of command and discipline system
Anonymous reporting through various channels
Transparency gap: Less public reporting than UT Austin

Practical Guidance for Aggie Families:

Understand both university and Corps reporting channels
Document everything – Corps traditions can complicate evidence collection
Be aware of off-campus venues (houses, ranches) where hazing may occur
Seek legal counsel familiar with both Greek life and military-style programs

University of Texas at Austin: Transparency and Patterns

For Fayetteville families: At about 65 miles away, UT Austin is the closest major university to Fayetteville and a top destination for local students. Its public hazing reports provide unique insight.

UT’s Public Hazing Violations Page:

Lists organizations, dates, conduct, and sanctions
Shows patterns of repeat violations
Example: Pi Kappa Alpha (2023) – new members forced to consume milk and perform extreme calisthenics

Documented Cases at UT:

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (2024): Australian exchange student alleged assault at party resulting in dislocated leg, broken ligaments, fractured tibia
Texas Wranglers spirit group: Multiple hazing violations involving forced drinking and humiliation
Various fraternities: Probation for alcohol hazing, physical abuse, sleep deprivation

Why UT’s Transparency Matters:

Pattern evidence: Multiple violations by same organization strengthen civil cases
Notice to university: Public records show administration knew about problems
Deterrence value: Public shaming can pressure organizations to reform
Family awareness: Parents can research organizations before their children join

Austin-Specific Considerations:

Jurisdiction: Cases may involve UTPD, Austin PD, or Travis County Sheriff
Venue: Civil suits typically filed in Travis County courts
Legal community: Experienced hazing attorneys understand local courts and procedures

Southern Methodist University: Private University Challenges

For Fayetteville families: While farther away (about 190 miles), SMU attracts Fayette County students with its strong business programs and private university experience.

SMU’s Greek Landscape:

Prominent Greek life with significant social influence
Private university status affects transparency
Kappa Alpha Order incident (2017): Paddling, forced drinking, sleep deprivation; chapter suspended

Private vs. Public University Differences:

Less public reporting: SMU doesn’t publish hazing violations like UT
Different liability standards: Sovereign immunity doesn’t apply
Internal processes: Often more controlled, less transparent
Discovery challenges: Must compel internal documents through litigation

SMU’s Response Systems:

Anonymous reporting through Real Response and other channels
Office of Student Conduct investigations
Challenge: Balancing privacy concerns with accountability

Baylor University: Religious Identity and Accountability

For Fayetteville families: At approximately 90 miles away, Baylor’s religious affiliation appeals to many Fayette County families, but its history with institutional accountability is complex.

Baylor’s Recent History:

Football sexual assault scandal revealed institutional failure
Baseball hazing (2020): 14 players suspended following investigation
Ongoing tension between religious mission and accountability

Baylor’s Greek System:

Active but smaller than UT or A&M
Religious-affiliated organizations prominent
Reporting: Through Student Conduct, with pastoral counseling available

Unique Considerations for Baylor Families:

Institutional culture: Religious identity can affect reporting and response
Title IX implications: Baylor’s history shapes current compliance
Community pressure: Close-knit community can discourage coming forward
Legal strategy: Requires understanding of both hazing law and religious institution dynamics

Fraternities and Sororities: National Histories Meet Texas Chapters

The organizations on Texas campuses aren’t isolated – they’re chapters of national organizations with decades of history, including hazing incidents across the country. This national history matters tremendously when hazing occurs here in Texas.

Why National Histories Matter in Texas Courts

When a Texas chapter repeats the same dangerous behaviors that caused deaths or injuries at other chapters, it shows:

Foreseeability: The national organization knew this could happen
Pattern of neglect: Failure to effectively prevent known risks
Inadequate supervision: Nationals failed to control their chapters
Punitive damage potential: Repeated disregard for safety

Major National Organizations with Texas Chapters

Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike):

National history: Stone Foltz death (BGSU, $10M settlement), David Bogenberger death (NIU, $14M settlement)
Texas chapters: Present at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, Baylor
Pattern: “Big/Little” drinking nights, forced alcohol consumption

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE):

National history: Multiple deaths nationwide, traumatic brain injury case (Alabama), chemical burns case (Texas A&M)
Texas chapters: Every major Texas university
Pattern: Physical hazing, alcohol abuse, repeat violations

Pi Kappa Phi:

National history: Andrew Coffey death (FSU), current UH lawsuit with our firm
Texas chapters: UH (now closed), other campuses
Pattern: Physical endurance hazing, alcohol rituals

Phi Delta Theta:

National history: Max Gruver death (LSU, $6.1M verdict)
Texas chapters: Multiple Texas campuses
Pattern: Drinking games, “bid acceptance” alcohol abuse

Kappa Alpha Order:

National history: Multiple hazing suspensions including SMU chapter
Texas chapters: Texas A&M, SMU, others
Pattern: Paddling, physical abuse, tradition-based hazing

The Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine: How We Track Organizations

Our firm maintains what we call the Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine – a comprehensive database of Greek organizations across the state. This isn’t theoretical; it’s built from public records that show the real landscape Texas families are navigating.

Public Records: Fraternities, Sororities & Greek Organizations Serving Texas Families

From IRS filings and state records, we track hundreds of Texas-registered Greek organizations. For Fayetteville families, understanding this landscape matters because:

Example Texas Greek Entities from Public Records:

KAPPA SIGMA – MU CAMMA CHAPTER INC (EIN: 133048786) – 3007 Earl Rudder Fwy S, College Station, TX 77845 – IRS B83 filing
BETA NU PI KAPPA PHI FRATERNITY HOUSING CORPORATION INC (EIN: 462267515) – 10601 Big Horn Trl, Frisco, TX 75035 – IRS B83 filing
ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC (EIN: 475370943) – 5019 Calhoun Rd, Houston, TX 77204 – THETA DELTA chapter – IRS B83 filing
SIGMA PHI EPSILON FRATERNITY TEXAS GAMMA CHAPTER (EIN: 911981478) – 2609 S University Dr, Fort Worth, TX 76109 – IRS B83 filing
PI KAPPA ALPHA FRATERNITY (EIN: 746064445) – 1855 Highway 69 N, Nederland, TX 77627 – EPSILON KAPPA CHAPTER – IRS B83 filing
TEXAS KAPPA SIGMA EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION INC (EIN: 741380362) – PO Box 470061, Fort Worth, TX 76147 – IRS B83 filing
DELTA PHI UPSILON FRATERNITY INC (EIN: 800209640) – PO Box 7334, Houston, TX 77248 – GRAND CHAPTER – IRS B83 filing

Metro Area Concentrations:

Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land: 188 Greek-related organizations
Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington: 510 Greek-related organizations
Austin-Round Rock: 154 Greek-related organizations
San Antonio: 86 Greek-related organizations

Why This Data Matters for Your Case:

Identifies all potential defendants: House corporations, alumni associations, national entities
Shows organizational complexity: Multiple entities behind simple “chapter” names
Reveals insurance coverage: Different entities may have different insurance policies
Demonstrates pattern evidence: Same organizations appear across multiple campuses

How National Patterns Play Out in Texas

The same national organizations involved in deaths in Ohio, Louisiana, and Florida have chapters here in Texas engaging in similar behaviors:

Same rituals: “Big/Little” nights, “family tree” drinking games, physical endurance tests
Same excuses: “It’s tradition,” “Everyone goes through it,” “They agreed to it”
Same cover-ups: Deleted messages, coached witnesses, delayed medical care
Same institutional failures: Nationals with policies but poor enforcement; universities with procedures but inadequate oversight

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Strategy, and Accountability

When hazing causes serious injury or death, building a strong case requires specific expertise. At Attorney911, we approach hazing cases with the same sophistication we use in billion-dollar corporate litigation.

Critical Evidence in Modern Hazing Cases

Digital Evidence (The Most Important Category):

Group chats: GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, fraternity apps
Social media: Instagram stories, TikTok videos, Snapchat messages

Screen recording: Capture disappearing content
Cloud backups: iCloud, Google Drive may have deleted messages
Phone forensics: Experts can recover deleted data

Example: In the UH case, group chats reportedly showed planning and coordination of hazing activities

Physical Evidence:

Medical records: ER reports, hospitalization records, lab results (like the critical CK levels showing rhabdomyolysis in the Bermudez case)
Injury documentation: Photos of bruises, burns, swelling over time
Objects used: Paddles, alcohol bottles, props
Clothing: Stained or damaged items from hazing events

Institutional Records:

University files: Prior conduct violations, warning letters, probation records
National organization records: Risk management files, incident reports from other chapters
Insurance policies: Coverage for chapters, nationals, housing corporations
Property records: Who owns the houses where hazing occurred

Witness Evidence:

Other pledges: Often afraid but crucial for corroboration
Former members: Those who quit or were expelled
Roommates and friends: Noticed changes or witnessed aftermath
Medical providers: Documented injuries and patient statements

The Attorney911 Investigation Process

Phase 1: Immediate Evidence Preservation (First 48 Hours)

Secure digital evidence before deletion
Document injuries with photographs
Interview witnesses while memories are fresh
Map organizational structure and potential defendants

Phase 2: Comprehensive Investigation (Weeks 1-4)

Subpoena university records of prior incidents
Obtain national fraternity risk management files
Identify all insurance coverage sources
Consult medical experts on injuries and prognosis
Work with digital forensics to recover deleted content

Phase 3: Legal Strategy Development (Month 1-3)

Analyze potential claims under Texas law
Identify all liable parties (individuals, chapters, nationals, universities)
Develop settlement vs. trial strategy
Calculate comprehensive damages

Damages in Hazing Cases: What Families Can Recover

Economic Damages (Calculable Losses):

Medical expenses: Past and future care, including:
- Emergency treatment (like Bermudez’s 4-day hospitalization)
- Ongoing therapy for physical injuries
- Psychological care for PTSD, depression, anxiety
Lost earnings: Missed semesters, delayed graduation, reduced earning capacity
Educational costs: Lost scholarships, transfer expenses

Non-Economic Damages (Subjective but Real):

Physical pain and suffering: From injuries like rhabdomyolysis, broken bones, burns
Emotional distress: Humiliation, trauma, loss of dignity
Loss of enjoyment: Can’t participate in college life, sports, activities
Punitive damages: When conduct is especially reckless or malicious

Wrongful Death Damages:

Funeral and burial costs
Loss of financial support to family
Loss of companionship, love, and guidance
Grief and emotional suffering of family members

Insurance Coverage Fights: Why Experience Matters

Fraternity and university insurance companies use the same tactics as other corporate insurers:

Denial of coverage: Claiming hazing is “intentional” and therefore excluded
Lowball settlements: Offering quick, inadequate payments
Delay tactics: Dragging out proceedings to pressure families
Reservation of rights: Insuring but reserving right to deny coverage later

Our Advantage: Mr. Lupe Peña spent years as an insurance defense attorney. He knows their playbook because he used to run it. This insider knowledge is invaluable when negotiating with fraternity and university insurers.

Practical Guides for Fayetteville Families, Students, and Witnesses

For Parents: Recognizing and Responding to Hazing

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Being Hazed:

Physical Signs:

Unexplained bruises, burns, or injuries
Extreme fatigue beyond normal college stress
Weight changes from food/water manipulation
Sleep deprivation (constant late nights, 3 AM calls)
Signs of alcohol poisoning even if they don’t normally drink

Behavioral Changes:

Sudden secrecy about organization activities
Withdrawal from family and old friends
Personality changes: anxiety, depression, irritability
Defensive when asked about the organization
Obsession with pleasing older members

Academic Red Flags:

Grades dropping suddenly
Missing classes or falling asleep in class
Skipping assignments for “mandatory” events

Questions to Ask (Non-Confrontationally):

“How are things going with [organization]? Are you enjoying it?”
“Have they been respectful of your time for classes and sleep?”
“What do they ask you to do as a new member?”
“Is there anything that makes you uncomfortable?”
“Do you feel like you can leave if you want to?”

For Students: Self-Assessment and Safety Planning

Is This Hazing? Ask Yourself:

Am I being forced or pressured to do something I don’t want to do?
Would I do this if I had a real choice (no social consequences)?
Is this activity dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
Would my parents or the university approve if they knew?
Am I being told to keep secrets, lie, or hide this?

If You Answer YES to Any:

Immediate danger: Call 911
Medical concern: Go to ER or student health
Document everything: Screenshots, photos, notes
Talk to someone: Parent, RA, counselor, trusted professor
Consider reporting: University conduct office, anonymous hotline

How to Exit Safely:
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Tell someone outside first: Parent, friend, advisor
Send written notice: Email/text to chapter president: “I resign effective immediately”
Do NOT go to “one last meeting”: Where pressure or retaliation might occur
Document any retaliation: Threats, harassment, property damage

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

1. Letting Your Child Delete Evidence

What happens: Messages are deleted, looks like cover-up, case becomes impossible
Better approach: Preserve everything immediately – screenshots, photos, videos

2. Confronting the Fraternity/Sorority Directly

What happens: They lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses
Better approach: Document everything, then call a lawyer first

3. Signing University “Resolution” Forms

What happens: You may waive your right to sue; settlements are often inadequate
Better approach: Do NOT sign anything without attorney review

4. Posting on Social Media

What happens: Defense attorneys screenshot everything; inconsistencies hurt credibility
Better approach: Document privately; let your lawyer control messaging

5. Waiting “to See How the University Handles It”

What happens: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs
Better approach: Preserve evidence NOW; consult lawyer immediately

6. Talking to Insurance Adjusters

What happens: Recorded statements are used against you; early settlements are lowball
Better approach: “My attorney will contact you”

Frequently Asked Questions for Fayetteville Families

“Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT) have some sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and when suing individuals. Private universities (SMU, Baylor) have fewer immunity protections. Every case is fact-specific – contact us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for analysis of your situation.

“Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
It can be. Texas Education Code §37.152 makes hazing a state jail felony if it causes serious bodily injury or death. The UH Pi Kappa Phi case could potentially involve felony charges given the severity of injuries.

“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 recognize that “consent” under peer pressure and power imbalance isn’t true voluntary consent.

“How long do we have to file a lawsuit?”
Generally 2 years from the date of injury or death in Texas, but the “discovery rule” may extend this if the harm wasn’t immediately known. In cases with cover-ups, the statute may be tolled (paused). Time is critical – call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately.

“What if the hazing happened off-campus?”
Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and nationals can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, and knowledge. The UH case involved off-campus locations (Culmore Drive residence, Yellowstone Park).

“Will my child’s name be in the news?”
Most cases settle confidentially before trial. You can request sealed court records and confidential settlement terms. We prioritize your family’s privacy while pursuing accountability.

Why Attorney911 for Texas Hazing Cases

When your family faces a hazing case, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how powerful institutions fight back – and how to win anyway. From our experience with the current UH Pi Kappa Phi litigation to our broader complex litigation background, we bring unique capabilities to hazing cases.

Our Unique Qualifications for Hazing Litigation

Insurance Insider Advantage (Mr. Lupe Peña):
Mr. Peña spent years as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm. He knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies:

Value (and undervalue) hazing claims
Use delay tactics to pressure families
Fight coverage under “intentional act” exclusions
Negotiate settlements from a position of strength
As he says, “We know their playbook because we used to run it.”

Complex Institutional Litigation Experience (Ralph Manginello):

One of few Texas firms involved in BP Texas City explosion litigation against billion-dollar defendants
Federal court experience (U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas)
Not intimidated by national fraternities, universities, or their defense teams
“We’ve taken on corporations with unlimited legal budgets. We know how to fight powerful institutions.”

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death Experience:

Proven track record in complex wrongful death cases
Experience working with economists to value lifetime care needs
Understands how to calculate and present comprehensive damages
“We don’t settle cheap. We build cases that force real accountability.”

Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise:

Ralph’s membership in Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA)
Understands how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation
Can advise witnesses and former members with dual exposure
Navigates parallel criminal and civil proceedings effectively

Investigative Depth and Resources:

Network of experts: medical, digital forensics, economists, psychologists
Experience obtaining hidden evidence through discovery
Understanding of Greek culture and tradition dynamics
“We investigate like your child’s life depends on it – because it does.”

Spanish-Language Services:

Mr. Peña speaks fluent Spanish
Can serve Hispanic families throughout Texas
Cultural understanding of Texas demographics
“Hablamos Español – su familia es nuestra prioridad.”

Our Approach: Thorough, Strategic, Compassionate

We Start by Listening:
Your first consultation is about understanding what happened, not selling our services. We’ll:

Listen to your story without judgment
Review any evidence you’ve preserved
Explain your legal options clearly
Answer your questions about process and timing
No pressure to hire us immediately

We Build Cases Methodically:

Immediate evidence preservation before it disappears
Comprehensive investigation of all responsible parties
Strategic legal analysis of claims and defenses
Damages calculation with expert input
Settlement negotiation from position of strength
Trial preparation if necessary for accountability

We Communicate Regularly:

You’ll know what’s happening in your case
We explain legal developments in plain English
We’re available when you have questions
You’re part of the team, not just a case number

Serving Fayetteville and All of Texas

While our offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we serve families throughout Texas, including Fayetteville, La Grange, Round Top, and across Fayette County. Whether your child attends school nearby or hours away, Texas hazing law applies, and our experience fighting Texas institutions is directly relevant.

We understand that hazing at Texas universities affects families in Fayetteville just as it does in Houston or Austin. The same organizations, the same insurance companies, the same institutional tactics exist across the state. Our experience in the current UH litigation and other complex cases prepares us to help your family, regardless of where in Texas the hazing occurred.

Take Action Today: Your Family Deserves Answers and Accountability

If you suspect your child has been hazed at any Texas university, time is not your friend. Evidence disappears, witnesses get coached, and institutions circle their wagons. But you have rights, and there are people who can help.

What to Do Right Now

Step 1: Preserve Evidence

Screenshot all group chats, texts, DMs
Photograph any injuries from multiple angles
Save physical items (clothing, objects, receipts)
Write down everything you remember (dates, times, names, locations)

Step 2: Get Medical Attention

Even if injuries seem minor
Tell providers you were hazed so it’s documented
Get copies of all medical records

Step 3: Contact Us for a Confidential Consultation

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Email ralph@atty911.com or lupe@atty911.com (Spanish available)
Visit https://attorney911.com

What Your Consultation Includes:

Free case evaluation
Explanation of your legal options
Discussion of evidence preservation
Answers to your questions about process and timing
No obligation to hire us

Why Choose Attorney911?

Proven Experience:

Currently litigating the UH Pi Kappa Phi hazing case
BP Texas City explosion litigation experience
Multi-million dollar wrongful death results
Insurance insider knowledge

Comprehensive Approach:

We investigate all responsible parties
We pursue all available insurance coverage
We calculate full damages, not just quick settlements
We’re prepared to go to trial if necessary

Compassionate Representation:

We understand this is traumatic for families
We prioritize your privacy and dignity
We communicate regularly and clearly
We fight for accountability, not just money

Contact Information

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC / Attorney911
Legal Emergency Lawyers™

Phone: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct: (713) 528-9070
Cell: (713) 443-4781
Email: ralph@atty911.com (Ralph Manginello)
Email: lupe@atty911.com (Mr. Lupe Peña – Spanish available)
Website: https://attorney911.com

Office Locations:

Houston, Texas (Primary)
Austin, Texas
Beaumont, Texas

Serving: Fayetteville, La Grange, Round Top, Fayette County, and all of Texas

Your Family Doesn’t Have to Face This Alone

Hazing cases are complex, emotional, and often fought against powerful institutions with unlimited resources. But with the right legal team, accountability is possible. The same organizations that operate at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor have been held responsible in courts across the country. With proper evidence, strategic litigation, and experienced counsel, they can be held responsible in Texas too.

We’re fighting this battle right now in the UH Pi Kappa Phi case. We see the patterns, we understand the tactics, and we know how to build winning cases. If hazing has affected your family, call us today. Let us help you get answers, hold the right people accountable, and prevent this from happening to another family.

Call Attorney911 now: 1-888-ATTY-911

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

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

News Coverage of Leonel Bermudez / UH Pi Kappa Phi Case:

Attorney911 Educational Videos:

Using phone to document evidence: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs
Statute of limitations in Texas: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c
Client mistakes that ruin cases: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY
How contingency fees work: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

Attorney911 Main Website:

https://attorney911.com