Texas Hazing Law Guide for Grandfalls Families: University Accountability & Student Safety

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

Picture this: Your son, a bright student from Grandfalls who worked hard to get into a Texas university, arrives at an off-campus fraternity house for what he’s told is a “bonding event.” What begins as excitement quickly turns to fear. Older members surround him, pressuring him to drink far beyond his limits from a bottle being passed around. They chant, they film with their phones, they laugh as he struggles. He wants to leave, but he’s afraid—afraid of being ostracized, afraid of losing this chance to belong, afraid to disappoint the brothers he hoped would become his friends. Hours later, he’s vomiting, disoriented, and in pain. No one calls for help because they’re worried about “getting the chapter in trouble.” This scenario isn’t just a parent’s worst nightmare; it’s a reality happening right now at campuses across Texas.

For families in Grandfalls and throughout Ward County, this guide provides what you need most right now: clarity, understanding, and a path forward. We’ll explain exactly what hazing looks like in 2025, how Texas law protects your child, what’s happening at universities across our state, and what legal options exist when institutions fail to keep students safe.

Right now, our firm is actively litigating one of the most serious hazing cases in Texas—the Leonel Bermudez lawsuit against the University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi fraternity. This $10 million case involves allegations of extreme physical abuse, forced consumption rituals, and medical consequences so severe that the pledge developed rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure. We’re not just writing about hazing; we’re fighting it in courtrooms right now, and we want Grandfalls families to know their rights and options.

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. Universities move quickly to control the narrative. We can help preserve evidence and protect your child’s rights. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate consultation.

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like in Texas Universities

Beyond the Stereotypes: Modern Hazing Defined

For Grandfalls families watching their children head off to college, understanding modern hazing means looking beyond outdated stereotypes of “harmless pranks” or “boys will be boys.” Hazing in 2025 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 automatically make it safe or legal when there’s peer pressure and power imbalance. The psychological dynamics at play—fear of exclusion, desire for belonging, power differentials between older and younger members—mean what looks like “consent” is often coercion in disguise.

The Five Main Categories of Hazing Today

Alcohol and Substance Hazing remains the deadliest form. This includes forced or coerced drinking during “lineups,” chugging challenges, “Big/Little” nights where pledges are given handles of liquor, and drinking games framed as “Bible study” or trivia where wrong answers mean more drinking. What Grandfalls parents need to understand is that these aren’t casual parties—they’re calculated, tradition-bound rituals that have killed students at campuses nationwide.

Physical Hazing has evolved but remains brutal. Beyond traditional paddling, we now see extreme calisthenics called “smokings” (hundreds of push-ups, wall sits until collapse), sleep deprivation through all-night “study sessions,” food and water restriction, and exposure to extreme elements. In our active University of Houston case, the pledge was forced to lie in vomit-soaked grass, endure cold-weather exposure in underwear, and participate in brutal workouts that led to rhabdomyolysis—a life-threatening muscle breakdown.

Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing creates trauma that lasts long after physical injuries heal. This includes forced nudity, simulated sexual acts like the “roasted pig” position seen in Texas A&M Corps cases, degrading costumes, and acts with racial or sexist overtones. For Grandfalls families, it’s crucial to understand that humiliation is often the point—breaking down individuality to enforce group conformity.

Psychological Hazing operates through verbal abuse, threats, isolation, manipulation, and forced confessions. Members might be told they’re “worthless” without the organization, that they’ll be “dead to us” if they leave, or that reporting anything will “ruin everyone’s lives.”

Digital/Online Hazing represents the newest frontier. Group chat dares on GroupMe or Discord, “challenges” shared on Instagram or TikTok, pressure to create compromising content, and public shaming through social media are now standard tools. For Grandfalls parents, this means the evidence you need might be on your child’s phone right now—if you can preserve it before deletion.

Where Hazing Happens: It’s Not Just “Fraternity Row”

While fraternities and sororities dominate hazing discussions, Grandfalls families should know that hazing occurs in:

Corps of Cadets and ROTC programs
Athletic teams (football, basketball, baseball, cheer)
Spirit squads and tradition clubs
Marching bands and performance groups
Some academic, cultural, and service organizations

The common thread across all these groups is the toxic combination of social status, unquestioned tradition, and enforced secrecy that keeps dangerous practices alive even when everyone “knows” hazing is illegal.

Texas Hazing Law: What Grandfalls Families Need to Know

Texas Education Code Chapter 37: Your Child’s Legal Protections

Texas has specific anti-hazing provisions in the Education Code that apply whether your child attends school in Houston, College Station, Austin, or elsewhere. The law defines hazing as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act—on or off campus—directed against a student for purposes of initiation, affiliation, holding office, or maintaining membership that either endangers physical health and safety or substantially affects mental health and safety.

For Grandfalls parents, several key provisions matter most:

Criminal Penalties Escalate with Harm

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
Additional crimes: Failing to report hazing or retaliating against reporters

Organizational Liability Matters
Fraternities, sororities, clubs, and teams can be criminally prosecuted if they authorized or encouraged hazing, or if officers knew and failed to report it. Organizations face fines up to $10,000 per violation, and universities can revoke recognition—meaning both individuals AND organizations face accountability.

Consent Is Not a Defense
Texas Education Code § 37.155 states explicitly that the victim’s “consent” to hazing is not a defense. Courts recognize that “consent” under peer pressure and power imbalance isn’t true voluntary consent—a crucial protection for your child.

Good-Faith Reporting Protections
Someone who reports hazing in good faith to university or law enforcement receives immunity from civil or criminal liability that might otherwise result. Many universities also provide amnesty for those who call 911 in medical emergencies, even if they were drinking underage.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding the Difference

Criminal cases are brought by the state (prosecutor) aiming for punishment—jail, fines, probation. Hazing-related charges can include hazing offenses, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, battery, or even manslaughter in fatal cases.

Civil cases are brought by victims or surviving families seeking monetary compensation and accountability. These focus on negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision, premises liability, and emotional distress.

For Grandfalls families, it’s crucial to understand that a criminal conviction isn’t required to pursue a civil case, and both types can proceed simultaneously. Our approach often involves coordinating with criminal authorities while building the civil case for maximum accountability.

Federal Overlay: Additional Protections and Requirements

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024) requires colleges receiving federal aid to report hazing incidents more transparently, strengthen prevention programs, and maintain public hazing data (phased in by 2026). This means more visibility into what’s happening at Texas campuses.

Title IX obligations trigger when hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, or gender-based hostility. For Grandfalls families, this means additional reporting requirements and potential federal claims alongside state claims.

Clery Act requires reporting certain crimes and maintaining safety statistics. Hazing incidents often overlap with these categories when assaults or alcohol/drug crimes occur.

Who Can Be Liable in a Texas Hazing Lawsuit?

Individual Students: Those who planned, supplied alcohol, carried out acts, or helped cover them up.

Local Chapter/Organization: The fraternity/sorority or club itself (if a legal entity), plus officers acting in official capacity.

National Fraternity/Sorority: Headquarters that set policies, receive dues, and supervise chapters. Their liability often hinges on what they knew or should have known from prior incidents at other chapters.

University or Governing Board: The school or regents may be sued under negligence or civil-rights theories. Key questions involve prior warnings, policy enforcement, and deliberate indifference.

Third Parties: Landlords/owners of houses or event spaces, bars or alcohol providers (under dram shop theories), security companies, or event organizers.

For Grandfalls families, understanding this multi-defendant approach is crucial. We don’t just sue the individual who handed your child the bottle—we pursue every entity that enabled, encouraged, or failed to prevent the harm.

National Hazing Case Patterns: Lessons for Texas Families

Alcohol Poisoning & Death: The Deadliest Pattern

Timothy Piazza – Penn State, Beta Theta Pi (2017)
A bid-acceptance night with heavy drinking led to severe falls captured on chapter security cameras. Brothers delayed calling 911 for hours. The case resulted in dozens of criminal charges, significant civil litigation, and Pennsylvania’s Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law. For Grandfalls families, the lesson is clear: extreme intoxication combined with delayed medical help creates devastating legal consequences.

Andrew Coffey – Florida State, Pi Kappa Phi (2017)
A Big/Little event where pledges were given handles of liquor led to a fatal alcohol poisoning. The case resulted in criminal hazing charges and FSU temporarily suspending all Greek life. The pattern of formulaic “tradition” drinking nights repeats across campuses.

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)
A “Bible study” drinking game where wrong answers meant forced drinking resulted in death and Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act felony hazing statute. Legislative change often follows public outrage and clear proof of hazing.

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021)
A pledge night involving forced consumption of nearly a full bottle of whiskey led to death from alcohol poisoning. Multiple criminal convictions followed, plus a nearly $3 million settlement with BGSU and additional settlements with the fraternity and individuals. Universities face significant financial and reputational consequences alongside fraternities.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing: Violence Disguised as Tradition

Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013)
A fraternity retreat subjected a pledge to a violent blindfolded “glass ceiling” ritual, resulting in fatal head injuries with delayed medical help. Multiple members were convicted, and the national fraternity was banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years. For Grandfalls families, this demonstrates that off-campus “retreats” can be as dangerous as on-campus parties, and national organizations face serious sanctions.

Athletic Program Hazing: Beyond Greek Life

Northwestern University Football (2023–2025)
Former players alleged sexualized, racist hazing within the football program over multiple years. Multiple lawsuits led to the head coach’s firing and confidential settlements. The takeaway for Grandfalls families: hazing isn’t limited to Greek life—big-money athletic programs can harbor systemic abuse with institutional complicity.

What These Cases Mean for Grandfalls Families

These national cases establish crucial precedents: forced drinking creates foreseeable danger, delayed medical help worsens outcomes, cover-ups increase liability, and institutional knowledge of prior incidents establishes patterns. When Grandfalls families face hazing at Texas universities, they’re operating in a legal landscape shaped by these hard-won lessons. The settlements and verdicts—ranging from $3 million to $14 million—show that courts take these cases seriously and that accountability is possible even against powerful institutions.

Texas University Focus: Where Grandfalls Students Attend

Understanding Grandfalls’ Educational Connections

Situated in Ward County, Grandfalls families send their children to universities across Texas. While our community doesn’t host a major university campus, our students attend institutions throughout the state, with particularly strong connections to West Texas schools and major universities across Texas. Many Grandfalls students choose Texas Tech University in Lubbock (approximately 150 miles north), Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls (about 120 miles east), or venture farther to major institutions like the University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University, or the University of Houston. Each of these universities has experienced hazing incidents, and Grandfalls families deserve to know what’s happening where their children study.

University of Houston (UH): A Case Study in Current Litigation

5.1.1 Campus & Hazing Environment

As a large urban institution with active Greek life, UH has experienced multiple hazing incidents. Our firm currently represents Leonel Bermudez in a $10 million lawsuit against UH and Pi Kappa Phi that illustrates the severe consequences of hazing. The case alleges that during fall 2025, Bermudez was subjected to extreme physical abuse, forced consumption rituals, and psychological torment that resulted in rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure requiring four days of hospitalization.

5.1.2 Key Incident Details

The lawsuit details specific hazing methods including the “pledge fanny pack” rule requiring humiliating items carried at all times, forced strenuous workouts at Yellowstone Boulevard Park, simulated waterboarding with a hose, and consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting. These weren’t isolated incidents but part of a systematic hazing program that the university and national fraternity allegedly failed to prevent despite known risks.

5.1.3 UH’s Response and Accountability

After media exposure, Pi Kappa Phi’s Beta Nu chapter was suspended (November 6, 2025) and members voted to surrender their charter (November 14, 2025). UH called the conduct “deeply disturbing” and promised disciplinary measures. For Grandfalls families with students at UH, this case demonstrates both the severe risks and the potential for accountability through experienced legal representation.

5.1.4 Legal Pathways for UH Cases

Hazing incidents at UH may involve UHPD, Houston Police Department, or Harris County authorities depending on location. Civil cases typically proceed through Harris County courts. Our firm’s Houston office provides strategic advantage in these cases through local court familiarity and established relationships with medical experts in the Texas Medical Center.

Texas A&M University: Corps Culture and Greek Life Risks

5.2.1 Distinct Hazing Environments

Texas A&M presents dual hazing risks through both traditional Greek life and the Corps of Cadets military-style program. For Grandfalls families, understanding both environments is crucial if your child participates in either.

5.2.2 Significant Cases and Patterns

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Lawsuit (2021): Pledges alleged being covered in substances including industrial-strength cleaner, causing severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries. The fraternity was suspended, and plaintiffs sought $1 million in damages.
Corps of Cadets Lawsuit (2023): A cadet alleged degrading hazing including simulated sexual acts and being bound between beds in a “roasted pig” position with an apple in his mouth. The lawsuit sought over $1 million, with A&M stating it handled the matter under internal rules.
Recent Rhabdomyolysis Cases: Ongoing litigation involves allegations of extreme physical hazing resulting in the same life-threatening muscle breakdown seen in our UH case.

5.2.3 University Response Framework

Texas A&M addresses hazing through both Student Conduct procedures and Corps-specific regulations. The university’s size and tradition-heavy culture create unique challenges for enforcement and transparency.

5.2.4 Practical Considerations for Families

For Grandfalls families with students at Texas A&M, evidence collection should include both digital communications and any Corps-specific materials. The dual structure means complaints may need to go through multiple channels, and experienced counsel can navigate this complexity.

University of Texas at Austin: Transparency and Repeated Violations

5.3.1 Public Hazing Violations Database

UT Austin maintains a public Hazing Violations page that provides more transparency than many institutions. For Grandfalls families, this resource offers insight into which organizations have prior violations—information that can be crucial in litigation.

5.3.2 Documented Incident Patterns

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics, resulting in probation and required hazing-prevention education.
Texas Wranglers and Spirit Groups: Multiple sanctions for forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing, and punishment-based practices.
Sigma Alpha Epsilon: Ongoing investigations and lawsuits involving physical assault allegations.

5.3.3 Institutional Knowledge and Liability

UT’s public violation records create a paper trail establishing institutional knowledge of hazing patterns. In litigation, this documented history can establish foreseeability and support claims of negligent supervision.

5.3.4 Austin-Specific Legal Considerations

Cases involving UT typically proceed through Travis County courts. The concentration of medical and expert resources in Austin provides advantages for building medical evidence and expert testimony.

Southern Methodist University (SMU): Private Institution Challenges

5.4.1 Greek Life Culture and Risks

As a private university with affluent demographics and strong Greek presence, SMU faces unique hazing challenges. The university’s private status affects transparency and internal disciplinary processes.

5.4.2 Documented Incidents

Kappa Alpha Order (2017): New members reportedly paddled, forced to drink alcohol, and deprived of sleep, resulting in chapter suspension until approximately 2021.
Multiple Greek Organizations: Ongoing disciplinary actions for alcohol-related hazing, psychological abuse, and violation of risk management policies.

5.4.3 SMU’s Response Systems

SMU utilizes anonymous reporting through systems like Real Response and emphasizes policy education. However, private university status means less public accountability without legal action.

5.4.4 Dallas-Area Legal Resources

SMU cases proceed through Dallas County courts. Our firm’s experience in Dallas-Fort Worth litigation provides strategic advantages in venue selection and expert sourcing.

Baylor University: Religious Identity and Accountability Challenges

5.5.1 Campus Culture Context

Baylor’s religious identity and history of athletic scandals create a complex environment for hazing accountability. The university’s response to past crises informs how it handles hazing allegations.

5.5.2 Documented Hazing Incidents

Baseball Team Hazing (2020): 14 players suspended following hazing investigation, with staggered suspensions affecting team performance.
Greek Life Violations: Multiple fraternities and sororities facing disciplinary action for alcohol hazing, physical abuse, and policy violations.

5.5.3 Institutional Response Patterns

Baylor emphasizes “zero tolerance” policies but faces criticism for internal handling of misconduct cases. The university’s religious branding can complicate external accountability efforts.

5.5.4 Waco-Avenue Legal Considerations

Baylor cases typically proceed through McLennan County courts. The smaller legal community requires strategic navigation, and our statewide practice provides necessary resources.

West Texas Universities: Closer to Home for Grandfalls Families

5.6.1 Texas Tech University (Lubbock)

As the closest major university to Grandfalls (approximately 150 miles north), Texas Tech sees significant enrollment from Ward County. The university has experienced multiple hazing incidents, including:

Greek life hazing resulting in hospitalization
Athletic team misconduct investigations
Organizational suspensions for policy violations

5.6.2 Midwestern State University (Wichita Falls)

Located about 120 miles east of Grandfalls, Midwestern State has faced hazing allegations in:

Greek organization initiation rituals
Band and performance group misconduct
Athletic team disciplinary actions

5.6.3 West Texas A&M University (Canyon)

Serving the Panhandle region, West Texas A&M has documented hazing incidents involving:

Fraternity physical initiation rituals
Sorority psychological hazing
Student organization policy violations

For Grandfalls families, these regional universities present more immediate concerns, and our firm’s Texas-wide practice ensures we can provide effective representation regardless of campus location.

Fraternity & Sorority National Histories: Pattern Evidence Matters

Why National Histories Impact Texas Cases

When Grandfalls families face hazing at Texas universities, the national history of the involved organization becomes crucial evidence. National fraternities and sororities maintain detailed anti-hazing policies precisely because they’ve seen deaths and catastrophic injuries at chapters nationwide. When a Texas chapter repeats the same dangerous behaviors that caused tragedies elsewhere, that pattern establishes foreseeability—the legal concept that the harm was predictable and preventable.

National Organizations with Documented Hazing Patterns

Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike)

Stone Foltz: Bowling Green State University (2021) – $10 million total settlements
David Bogenberger: Northern Illinois University (2012) – $14 million settlement
Multiple Texas Chapters: Documented violations at UT Austin, Texas A&M, and other campuses

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE)

Traumatic Brain Injury Case: University of Alabama (2023)
Chemical Burns Case: Texas A&M University (2021) – $1 million lawsuit
Assault Case: University of Texas at Austin (2024) – over $1 million lawsuit
National Pattern: Multiple alcohol-related deaths leading to elimination of traditional pledge process

Pi Kappa Phi

Andrew Coffey: Florida State University (2017) – fatal alcohol poisoning
Leonel Bermudez: University of Houston (2025) – our firm’s active $10 million lawsuit
National Response: Chapter suspensions and educational initiatives following repeated incidents

Phi Delta Theta

Max Gruver: Louisiana State University (2017) – fatal alcohol poisoning leading to Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act
Multiple Chapter Suspensions: Nationwide for alcohol hazing violations

Phi Gamma Delta (FIJI)

Danny Santulli: University of Missouri (2021) – permanent brain damage, multi-defendant settlements
Multiple Chapter Closures: Following severe injury cases nationwide

How Pattern Evidence Strengthens Your Case

In litigation, we use national histories to establish that:

The organization knew the risks – Prior incidents put them on notice
Their policies were inadequate – Repeated violations show systemic failure
The harm was foreseeable – Same behaviors caused tragedies elsewhere
Punitive damages may be warranted – Willful disregard for known dangers

For Grandfalls families, this means your case isn’t just about one bad night—it’s about holding organizations accountable for ignoring patterns that have hurt students for decades.

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Strategy, and Damages

Evidence Collection: The Foundation of Your Case

Digital Communications

GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord group chats
Instagram DMs, Snapchat messages, TikTok communications
Fraternity/sorority-specific apps and communication platforms
Critical: Screenshot everything immediately before deletion

Photos & Videos

Content filmed by members during events
Social media posts showing hazing activities
Security camera or doorbell footage from houses and venues
Medical documentation of injuries over time

Internal Organization Documents

Pledge manuals, initiation scripts, tradition documents
Emails and texts about hazing activities
National policies and training materials
Risk management documents and incident reports

University Records

Prior conduct files and disciplinary history
Campus police incident reports
Clery Act reports and safety statistics
Internal communications about the organization

Medical & Psychological Records

Emergency room and hospitalization records
Toxicology reports and lab results
Psychological evaluations (PTSD, depression, anxiety)
Long-term treatment plans and prognosis

Witness Testimony

Other pledges and members
Roommates, RAs, and bystanders
Former members who quit or were expelled
Medical providers and first responders

Damages: What Can Be Recovered in Texas Hazing Cases

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Losses)

Medical bills (past and future)
Lost wages and earning capacity
Educational costs (withdrawn semesters, transfer expenses)
Therapy and counseling expenses
Life care plans for catastrophic injuries

Non-Economic Damages (Subjective Harm)

Physical pain and suffering
Emotional distress and psychological trauma
Humiliation and loss of dignity
Loss of enjoyment of life
Damage to relationships and social functioning

Wrongful Death Damages (For Families)

Funeral and burial expenses
Loss of financial support
Loss of companionship, love, and society
Grief and emotional suffering of family members
Parents’ and siblings’ mental health treatment

Punitive Damages (When Available)

Purpose: Punish especially reckless or malicious conduct
Available when defendants show willful disregard for safety
Established through pattern evidence and prior incidents
Subject to Texas statutory caps with exceptions

Settlement vs. Trial: Realistic Expectations

Most hazing cases settle confidentially before trial, but settlement value depends on:

Strength of evidence and liability clarity
Severity of injuries and long-term impact
Defendant resources and insurance coverage
Venue and jurisdictional factors
Quality of legal representation and trial readiness

Our approach balances aggressive litigation with strategic settlement when it serves our clients’ best interests. We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial because that readiness maximizes settlement leverage.

Practical Guides & FAQs for Grandfalls Families

For Parents: Recognizing and Responding to Hazing

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Being Hazed

Unexplained injuries, bruises, or burns
Extreme exhaustion beyond normal college stress
Sudden secrecy about organizational activities
Personality changes: anxiety, depression, withdrawal
Constant phone use for group chat monitoring
Financial stress from unexpected “fees” or purchases
Academic decline from missed classes or assignments

How to Talk to Your Child About Hazing

Ask open questions: “How are things going with [organization]?”
Listen without judgment: Create a safe space for honesty
Express concern, not anger: Focus on safety over punishment
Emphasize support: “We’re here for you no matter what”
Avoid confrontation with the organization: Let professionals handle it

Immediate Steps if You Suspect Hazing

Ensure safety: Remove from dangerous situations
Document everything: Dates, times, details, witness names
Preserve evidence: Screenshots, photos, physical items
Seek medical attention: Even if injuries seem minor
Contact experienced counsel: Before talking to university or insurance

For Students: Your Rights and Safety

Is This Hazing or Just Tradition?
Ask yourself:

Do I feel unsafe, humiliated, or coerced?
Would I do this if I had a real choice?
Is the activity hidden from outsiders?
Are older members making us do things they don’t do?
Would my parents/university approve if they knew?

If you answered yes to any, it’s likely hazing.

How to Exit Safely

Tell someone outside the organization first
Send written resignation (email/text to leadership)
Do NOT attend “one last meeting” – this is often pressure
Document any retaliation – threats, harassment, property damage
Report retaliation immediately to university and police

Your Legal Rights in Texas

You cannot be punished for calling 911 in an emergency
Hazing is a crime – you are the victim, not perpetrator
Consent is not a defense under Texas law
You can request no-contact orders through university or courts
You have rights regardless of immigration status

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

1. Deleting Evidence
What happens: Messages, photos, and records disappear
Why it’s wrong: Looks like cover-up, makes case nearly impossible
Better approach: Preserve everything, even embarrassing content

2. Confronting the Organization
What happens: They lawyer up, destroy evidence, prepare defenses
Why it’s wrong: Loses element of surprise, compromises investigation
Better approach: Document quietly, let attorneys handle communication

3. Signing University Agreements
What happens: You may waive legal rights for minimal compensation
Why it’s wrong: Early settlements are typically far below case value
Better approach: Have attorney review EVERYTHING before signing

4. Posting on Social Media
What happens: Defense attorneys screenshot everything for inconsistencies
Why it’s wrong: Hurts credibility, may waive privacy protections
Better approach: Document privately, let attorney control messaging

5. Waiting “to See What Happens”
What happens: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statutes run
Why it’s wrong: University process ≠ real accountability
Better approach: Preserve evidence now, consult attorney immediately

6. Talking to Insurance Adjusters
What happens: Recorded statements used against you, lowball settlements
Why it’s wrong: Adjusters work for insurance companies, not you
Better approach: “My attorney will contact you”

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can we sue a university for hazing in Texas?
A: Yes, under specific circumstances. Public universities have sovereign immunity protections with exceptions for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and individual capacity suits. Private universities have fewer protections. Every case depends on facts—contact us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for case-specific analysis.

Q: Is hazing a felony in Texas?
A: It can be. Texas law classifies hazing as Class B misdemeanor by default, but becomes a state jail felony if causing serious bodily injury or death. Individual officers also face charges for failing to report.

Q: What if my child “agreed” to the initiation?
A: Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states consent is not a defense to hazing. Courts recognize that “consent” under peer pressure and power imbalance isn’t true voluntary consent.

Q: How long do we have to file a lawsuit?
A: Generally 2 years from date of injury or death in Texas, but discovery rule extensions may apply if harm wasn’t immediately known. In cover-up cases, statutes may be tolled. Time is critical—call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately.

Q: What if hazing happened off-campus?
A: Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and nationals can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, knowledge, and foreseeability. Many major cases occurred off-campus with successful judgments.

Q: Will this be confidential?
A: 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 Grandfalls Hazing Cases

Our Active Texas Hazing Litigation

Right now, we’re leading the Leonel Bermudez $10 million lawsuit against University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi—one of the most serious active hazing cases in Texas. We’re not just writing about hazing; we’re fighting it in courtrooms daily. For Grandfalls families, this means we bring current, relevant experience to your case.

Unique Qualifications for Hazing Cases

Insurance Insider Advantage (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
Argue coverage exclusions
Deploy defense strategies
“We know their playbook because we used to run it.”

Complex Institutional Litigation (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
25+ years handling high-stakes litigation

Multi-Million Dollar Results Experience

Proven track record in wrongful death and catastrophic injury cases
Economist collaboration for lifetime damage calculations
Experience with life care planning for permanent injuries
“We don’t settle cheap. We build cases that force accountability.”

Dual Civil/Criminal Expertise

Ralph’s HCCLA membership signals elite criminal defense capability
Understands how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation
Can advise witnesses and former members with dual exposure
Navigates parallel 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 psychology
“We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does.”

How We Approach Grandfalls Cases

Immediate Response Protocol
When you call 1-888-ATTY-911, we:

Listen to your story without judgment
Guide emergency evidence preservation
Explain immediate legal options
Develop preliminary investigation strategy
Provide clear next steps

Comprehensive Investigation Process
We don’t just take statements—we build cases through:

Digital forensics for deleted communications
Public records requests for prior incidents
Witness interviews and sworn statements
Medical record analysis and expert consultation
Institutional document review through discovery

Strategic Litigation Approach
Every case receives:

Individualized strategy based on specific facts
Regular client communication and updates
Expert collaboration from appropriate specialists
Settlement evaluation at every stage
Trial preparation as if every case will go to verdict

Serving Grandfalls and All of Texas

From our Houston, Austin, and Beaumont offices, we serve families throughout Texas, including Grandfalls and Ward County. We understand that hazing at Texas universities affects families across our state, and we’re committed to providing the same level of representation whether your child attends school in Lubbock, College Station, Austin, or Houston.

Your Next Steps: Confidential Consultation

What to Expect in Your Free Consultation

When you contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911:

We Listen Without Judgment

Tell your story in complete confidence
No pressure, no commitments
We understand this is emotionally difficult

We Review What You Have

Photos, messages, medical records
University communications
Witness information
Anything else you’ve preserved

We Explain Your Options

Criminal reporting considerations
Civil lawsuit possibilities
University disciplinary processes
Realistic timelines and expectations

We Answer Your Questions

About costs (contingency fee – we don’t get paid unless we win)
About privacy and confidentiality
About what to expect from the process
About how we can help your specific situation

You Decide What’s Next

Take time to think about it
Consult with family
No obligation to hire us
We’re here when you’re ready

Contact Information

Immediate Assistance:

24/7 Emergency Line: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct Office: (713) 528-9070
Cell/Text: (713) 443-4781

Email Contacts:

Ralph Manginello: ralph@atty911.com
Lupe Peña: lupe@atty911.com

Spanish Language Services:

Hablamos Español – Mr. Peña speaks fluent Spanish
Consultas confidenciales en español disponibles

Website Resources:

Main Site: https://attorney911.com
Wrongful Death Practice: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/
Criminal Defense Experience: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/

Final Message to Grandfalls Families

If hazing has impacted your family—whether your child attends Texas Tech, Midwestern State, or any university across Texas—you don’t have to face this alone. The institutions involved have experienced legal teams protecting their interests. You deserve the same level of representation protecting your child’s rights and future.

We’ve helped families across Texas find answers, accountability, and closure. We’ve taken on billion-dollar corporations and powerful institutions. We know how to navigate the complex intersection of university policies, Greek life culture, and Texas law.

Your child’s safety and future matter. The organizations responsible for their harm must be held accountable. Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. Let us help you understand your rights and options during this difficult time.

Plain Text Resources for Grandfalls Families

National Resources (Not Affiliated with Attorney911)

National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
StopHazing.org research and prevention: https://stophazing.org

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
Spanish Services: lupe@atty911.com