The Definitive Hazing Guide for Hawkins, Texas Families: Campus Abuse, Texas Law, and Your Path to Justice

A Nightmare That Hits Close to Home

Your child, a first-year student at a Texas university, sends a worrying text late at night: “I’m sorry, I have to do this. Don’t worry about me.” Hours later, you learn they’ve been taken to the emergency room with acute kidney failure, their urine is brown, and they’re facing permanent damage—all because they wanted to belong to a campus organization. This isn’t a hypothetical scenario for Hawkins families. It’s the reality that faced Leonel Bermudez, a University of Houston student, in November 2025, and it’s happening right now at campuses across Texas where Hawkins students study.

For families in Hawkins, Wood County, and throughout East Texas, the college experience for your children often includes institutions like the local Jarvis Christian University in our own community, or major universities like the University of Houston, Texas A&M University, University of Texas at Austin, Southern Methodist University, and Baylor University where many Hawkins-area students pursue their degrees. The distance between Hawkins and these major campuses doesn’t protect our children from the hidden dangers of hazing culture.

This comprehensive guide is written specifically for families in Hawkins and across East Texas who need to understand what hazing really looks like in 2025, how Texas law protects students, what’s happening on campuses our children attend, and what legal options exist when hazing causes harm. We’ll show you the realities, the legal frameworks, and the pathways to accountability—including the active, serious litigation happening right now in Texas that demonstrates what experienced legal representation can achieve.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES IN HAWKINS

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

Hazing in modern Texas universities has evolved far beyond the outdated stereotypes of harmless pranks. For Hawkins families with children at Texas campuses, understanding these realities is the first step toward protection and prevention.

The Modern Definition of Hazing

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, Texas law specifically states that “I agreed to it” does not make it legal when there is peer pressure and power imbalance. The Texas Education Code defines hazing as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for purposes of initiation or affiliation.

The Five Main Categories of Modern Hazing

Alcohol and Substance Hazing
This remains the most common and most deadly form. It includes forced or coerced drinking during “Big/Little” nights, “bid acceptance” parties, and drinking games like “Bible study” where incorrect answers mean excessive consumption. The Leonel Bermudez case at University of Houston involved forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting, followed immediately by sprints. At Texas A&M, Sigma Alpha Epsilon pledges suffered severe chemical burns when substances including industrial-strength cleaner were poured on them.

Physical Hazing
This includes paddling and beatings, extreme calisthenics (“smokings” with hundreds of push-ups), sleep deprivation, food/water restriction, and exposure to extreme environments. In the UH Pi Kappa Phi case, Bermudez was forced through 100+ push-ups and 500 squats in a single session, leading to rhabdomyolysis. At Texas A&M’s Corps of Cadets, cadets have alleged being bound in “roasted pig” positions with apples in their mouths.

Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing
This includes forced nudity, simulated sexual acts, degrading costumes, and acts with racial or sexist overtones. The “pledge fanny pack” in the UH case required carrying condoms and sex toys as humiliation. At Northwestern University’s football program, investigations revealed sexualized hazing that led to multiple lawsuits and coaching changes.

Psychological Hazing
Verbal abuse, threats, isolation, manipulation, forced confessions, and public shaming characterize this category. The constant “interview” requirements in the UH Pi Kappa Phi case, where pledges were grilled for hours, created psychological pressure and exhaustion.

Digital/Online Hazing
This 21st-century evolution includes group chat dares, “challenges” shared on Instagram or TikTok, and pressure to create compromising content. Pledges are often required to maintain 24/7 availability on GroupMe or WhatsApp, with immediate response demands at all hours. Location-sharing through apps like Find My Friends creates constant surveillance.

Where Hazing Actually Occurs in Texas

Hawkins families should understand that hazing extends far beyond just fraternities:

Fraternities and Sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural groups)
Corps of Cadets / ROTC at Texas A&M and other military-style programs
Athletic Teams from football to cheerleading
Spirit and Tradition Groups like Texas Cowboys at UT Austin
Marching Bands and Performance Groups
Academic and Service Organizations

The common threads are social status, tradition, and secrecy—elements that persist even when everyone “knows” hazing is illegal. For Hawkins students attending both local institutions and major Texas universities, these risks exist across the campus landscape.

Texas Hazing Law: What Hawkins Families Need to Know

Texas has specific legal frameworks governing hazing, and understanding these laws is crucial for Hawkins families seeking accountability.

Texas Education Code – Chapter 37, Subchapter F

Texas law broadly defines hazing as 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 AND
Occurs for the purpose of pledging, initiation into, affiliation with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization whose members include students.

Key points for Hawkins families:

Location doesn’t matter – hazing is illegal whether it happens on campus, at an off-campus house, or at a remote retreat
Can be mental or physical harm – psychological abuse qualifies
“Reckless” is enough – the person doesn’t have to intend harm, just be reckless about the risk
“Consent” is not a defense – even if the victim agreed, it’s still hazing

Criminal Penalties Under Texas Law

Class B Misdemeanor: Hazing that doesn’t cause serious injury (up to 180 days jail, fine up to $2,000)
Class A Misdemeanor: If hazing causes injury requiring medical treatment
State Jail Felony: If hazing causes serious bodily injury or death

Additional criminal provisions:

Failing to report hazing if you’re a member or officer who knew about it
Retaliating against someone who reports hazing

Organizational Liability

Texas law allows organizations themselves to be prosecuted if they authorized or encouraged hazing, or if officers knew about it and failed to report it. Penalties include fines up to $10,000 per violation and potential permanent ban from campus.

Good-Faith Reporting Protections

A person who in good faith reports a hazing incident to university or law enforcement is immune from civil or criminal liability that might otherwise result. This is crucial for Hawkins students who witness hazing but fear consequences.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding the Difference

Criminal Cases

Brought by the state (prosecutor)
Aim: Punishment (jail, fines, probation)
Charges can include hazing, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, battery, or manslaughter

Civil Cases

Brought by victims or surviving families
Aim: Monetary compensation and accountability
Focus on negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision, premises liability

Both can proceed simultaneously, and a criminal conviction is not required to pursue a civil case. Many Hawkins families pursue civil actions to recover medical costs, lost educational opportunities, and compensation for pain and suffering.

Federal Law Overlay: Additional Protections

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024)
Requires colleges receiving federal aid to report hazing incidents more transparently, strengthen prevention programs, and maintain public hazing data by 2026.

Title IX & Clery Act
When hazing involves sexual harassment, assault, or gender-based hostility, Title IX obligations are triggered. The Clery Act requires reporting of certain crimes that often overlap with hazing incidents.

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit?

Individual Students: Those who planned, supplied alcohol, carried out acts, or helped cover up
Local Chapter/Organization: The fraternity/sorority or club itself
National Fraternity/Sorority: Headquarters that set policies, receive dues, and supervise chapters
University or Governing Board: Schools may be liable under negligence or civil rights theories
Third Parties: Landlords, bar owners, alcohol providers, security companies

Every case is fact-specific, but experienced hazing attorneys know how to identify all potentially liable parties to ensure maximum accountability and recovery for Hawkins families.

National Hazing Case Patterns: Lessons for Texas Families

Major national cases provide critical precedents and patterns that directly affect how Texas courts view hazing cases involving Hawkins students.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

Timothy Piazza – Penn State, Beta Theta Pi (2017)
During a bid-acceptance event with heavy drinking, Piazza suffered severe falls captured on chapter security cameras. Members delayed calling for help for hours. The case resulted in dozens of criminal charges, civil litigation, and Pennsylvania’s Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law. Lesson for Hawkins families: Extreme intoxication combined with delayed medical response creates devastating legal consequences.

Andrew Coffey – Florida State, Pi Kappa Phi (2017)
During a “Big Brother Night,” pledges were given handles of liquor. Coffey died from acute alcohol poisoning. The case led to criminal charges and FSU temporarily suspending all Greek life. Lesson: Formulaic drinking “traditions” are predictable scripts for disaster.

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)
A “Bible study” drinking game required pledges to drink when answering questions incorrectly. Gruver died with a BAC of 0.495%. Louisiana enacted the Max Gruver Act making hazing a felony. Lesson: Legislative change often follows public outrage and clear proof of hazing.

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021)
Forced to drink nearly a bottle of whiskey during pledge night, Foltz died from alcohol poisoning. The case resulted in criminal convictions and a $10 million settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, $3M from BGSU). Lesson: Universities face significant financial consequences alongside fraternities.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013)
During a fraternity retreat, Deng was subjected to a violent blindfolded “glass ceiling” ritual, suffering fatal head injuries while help was delayed. Multiple members were convicted, and the national fraternity was banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years. Lesson for Hawkins families: Off-campus retreats can be as dangerous as parties, and national organizations face serious sanctions.

Athletic Program Hazing Pattern

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. Lesson: Hazing extends beyond Greek life into major athletic programs with systemic abuse issues.

What These Cases Mean for Hawkins Families

These national cases establish critical precedents that directly affect Texas litigation:

Forced drinking, humiliation, violence, delayed medical care, and cover-ups are common threads
Multi-million-dollar settlements are increasingly common
National organizations can be held accountable for patterns across chapters
Universities face liability for failing to protect students

The case we’re litigating right now—Leonel Bermudez v. University of Houston & Pi Kappa Phi—demonstrates how these national patterns manifest in Texas and how experienced legal representation can pursue justice for affected families.

Texas University Focus: Where Hawkins Students Study

Hawkins families send students to universities across Texas. Understanding the specific hazing landscape at each institution is crucial for prevention and response.

University of Houston: A Current Case Study in Hazing Litigation

For Hawkins Families: UH is a major destination for East Texas students, and the current Pi Kappa Phi case demonstrates serious hazing risks.

Campus Snapshot
UH’s large urban campus hosts active Greek life with multiple councils including IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, and multicultural groups. The mix of commuter and residential students creates unique dynamics where off-campus hazing can flourish.

Current Active Litigation: Leonel Bermudez v. UH & Pi Kappa Phi
In November 2025, we filed a $10 million hazing and abuse lawsuit on behalf of Leonel Bermudez, a UH student who suffered rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure after extreme hazing by the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter. Key details Hawkins families should know:

Specific Hazing Acts: “Pledge fanny pack” humiliation (condoms, sex toys, nicotine devices), enforced dress codes, hours-long “study/work” blocks, forced sprints, bear crawls, wheelbarrow races, cold-weather exposure, being sprayed with a hose “similar to waterboarding,” forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting, 100+ push-ups and 500 squats in a single session
Medical Catastrophe: Bermudez developed rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown) and acute kidney failure, passed brown urine, was hospitalized for four days with critically high creatine kinase levels, and faces ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage
Defendants: University of Houston, UH System Board of Regents, Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters, Beta Nu housing corporation, and 13 individual fraternity leaders
Institutional Response: Pi Kappa Phi HQ suspended the chapter on November 6, 2025; members voted to surrender their charter on November 14, 2025; UH labeled the conduct “deeply disturbing” and promised disciplinary measures up to expulsion

UH’s Hazing Policy & Reporting
UH prohibits hazing on or off campus, with specific bans on forced consumption, sleep deprivation, physical mistreatment, and mental distress. Reporting channels exist through the Dean of Students, conduct offices, and campus police. However, as the Bermudez case shows, policies alone don’t prevent hazing without rigorous enforcement.

What Hawkins Families with UH Students Should Do

Review UH’s hazing violation reports (though currently less transparent than UT’s public logs)
Understand that hazing often occurs at off-campus locations like the Culmore Drive residence and Yellowstone Boulevard Park involved in the Bermudez case
Know that civil cases may involve UHPD, Houston Police Department, and courts in Harris County
Document any concerns immediately and consult experienced counsel familiar with Houston hazing litigation

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

For Hawkins Families: Texas A&M’s Corps of Cadets and strong Greek life present unique hazing challenges for East Texas students.

Campus Snapshot
Texas A&M’s tradition-heavy environment includes both a robust Greek system and the Corps of Cadets, a military-style program with its own disciplinary culture. Both have faced serious hazing allegations.

Documented Incidents
Sigma Alpha Epsilon Lawsuit (2021): Two pledges alleged being covered in substances including industrial-strength cleaner, causing severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries. The fraternity was suspended for two years, and pledges sued for $1 million.

Corps of Cadets Lawsuit (2023): A cadet alleged degrading hazing including simulated sexual acts and being bound between beds in a “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth. The lawsuit sought over $1 million in damages.

Texas A&M’s Approach
The university handles hazing through Student Conduct procedures and Corps-specific regulations. However, the repeat incidents suggest systemic challenges in changing deeply embedded traditions.

What Hawkins Families with Texas A&M Students Should Do

Understand that hazing risks exist in both Greek life and Corps programs
For Corps members, be aware of the unique military-style traditions that can escalate into abuse
Document any injuries immediately, as chemical burns and physical trauma require specialized medical documentation
Know that College Station/Brazos County courts handle local cases, but national fraternity defendants may require venue in other jurisdictions

University of Texas at Austin: Transparency and Ongoing Issues

For Hawkins Families: UT Austin’s public hazing violation logs provide transparency but also reveal ongoing problems.

Campus Snapshot
UT’s large Greek system and numerous student organizations operate in an environment with relatively high transparency about hazing violations compared to other Texas schools.

Public Hazing Violations Log
UT maintains a public website listing organizations, dates, conduct, and sanctions. Recent examples include:

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics; chapter placed on probation with required hazing-prevention education
Various spirit organizations: Sanctions for forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing, punishment-based practices

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Incident (2024): An Australian exchange student alleged assault by fraternity members at a party, suffering injuries including dislocated leg, broken ligaments, fractured tibia, and broken nose. The student sued for over $1 million, and the chapter was already under suspension for prior violations.

UT’s System
Cases may involve UTPD and Austin Police Department, with civil suits typically filed in Travis County courts. The public violation logs can provide powerful evidence in civil cases by showing patterns and institutional knowledge.

What Hawkins Families with UT Students Should Do

Review UT’s public hazing violation logs regularly
Understand that even with transparency, hazing persists
Document any incidents thoroughly, as prior violations can strengthen negligence arguments
Be aware that Austin/Travis County venue may apply for local cases

Southern Methodist University: Private Campus Challenges

For Hawkins Families: SMU’s private, affluent campus has faced significant hazing incidents despite prevention efforts.

Campus Snapshot
SMU’s strong Greek presence and private university status create unique dynamics, with potentially less public transparency than state schools.

Documented Incidents
Kappa Alpha Order Incident (2017): New members reported paddling, forced drinking, and sleep deprivation. The chapter was suspended with recruiting restrictions until approximately 2021.

SMU’s Approach
The university employs hazing prevention efforts including reporting forms and anonymous systems like Real Response. However, private status can limit public information availability.

What Hawkins Families with SMU Students Should Do

Utilize SMU’s anonymous reporting systems if concerned about retaliation
Understand that private university status affects transparency but not liability
Document everything meticulously, as internal reports may not be publicly accessible
Be prepared for Dallas County venue in potential litigation

Baylor University: Religious Identity and Historical Challenges

For Hawkins Families: Baylor’s religious identity and past scandals create a complex environment for addressing hazing.

Campus Snapshot
Baylor’s Christian identity coexists with Greek life and athletic programs that have faced hazing allegations, against a backdrop of previous Title IX scrutiny.

Documented Incidents
Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020): 14 players suspended following a hazing investigation, with staggered suspensions affecting the early season.

Baylor’s Context
The university’s “zero tolerance” policies operate within a culture still addressing broader institutional abuse issues. This creates both challenges and opportunities for accountability.

What Hawkins Families with Baylor Students Should Do

Understand how Baylor’s religious branding may affect reporting and response
Document incidents thoroughly despite potential institutional resistance
Be aware that Waco/McLennan County courts typically handle local cases
Consider how prior institutional scandals might affect current hazing responses

Jarvis Christian University: Local Hawkins Perspective

For Hawkins Families: Our local institution in Hawkins itself, Jarvis Christian University, while smaller than the major state schools, is not immune to hazing risks in its student organizations.

Local Context
As a Hawkins-based institution, Jarvis Christian University serves many local students and maintains its own student organization policies. While smaller in scale, any campus with student groups faces potential hazing risks that require vigilance from both the administration and families.

What Hawkins Families with Local Students Should Do

Review Jarvis Christian’s student conduct policies regarding hazing
Engage with campus administration about prevention and reporting mechanisms
Understand that even small, local campuses can experience hazing incidents
Document any concerns through appropriate campus channels while preserving external legal options

Fraternities & Sororities: Campus-Specific and National Histories

Understanding the connection between local chapters at Texas universities and their national organizations’ hazing histories is crucial for Hawkins families pursuing accountability.

Why National Histories Matter in Texas Cases

When a Texas chapter repeats hazing patterns that have caused deaths or injuries at other chapters nationwide, that history shows foreseeability—the national organization knew or should have known the risks. This strengthens negligence arguments and can support claims for punitive damages.

Organization Patterns Relevant to Texas Campuses

Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike)

National History: Stone Foltz death (BGSU, $10M settlement), David Bogenberger death (NIU, $14M settlement)
Texas Presence: Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, Baylor
Pattern: “Big/Little” alcohol hazing events
Legal Significance: National had prior warnings about dangerous traditions

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE)

National History: Multiple hazing deaths nationwide, traumatic brain injury case (Alabama), chemical burns case (Texas A&M)
Texas Presence: Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU
Pattern: Physical abuse, chemical hazing, alcohol coercion
Legal Significance: Known as “the deadliest fraternity” with repeated similar incidents

Pi Kappa Phi

National History: Andrew Coffey death (FSU), ongoing Bermudez case (UH)
Texas Presence: Chapter at UH (now closed), other Texas campuses
Pattern: Extreme physical hazing, forced consumption rituals
Legal Significance: Active litigation demonstrates ongoing risks

Phi Delta Theta

National History: Max Gruver death (LSU leading to felony hazing law)
Texas Presence: Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, Baylor
Pattern: “Bible study” drinking games
Legal Significance: Legislative reform followed documented patterns

Kappa Alpha Order

National History: Multiple hazing suspensions including SMU chapter
Texas Presence: Chapters at Texas A&M, SMU
Pattern: Paddling, forced drinking, tradition-based abuse
Legal Significance: Repeated institutional tolerance of violations

How National Patterns Affect Texas Litigation

In civil cases, we use national histories to demonstrate:

Foreseeability: The national organization knew these specific activities were dangerous
Negligent Supervision: Nationals failed to adequately monitor or control chapters
Punitive Damage Arguments: Willful disregard for known risks
Insurance Coverage: Pattern evidence can overcome “intentional act” exclusions

For Hawkins families, this means that even if a hazing incident seems localized, the national organization’s history across the country can significantly strengthen your case.

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Damages, and Strategy for Hawkins Families

When hazing causes harm, building a strong case requires systematic evidence collection, understanding of damages, and strategic legal planning.

Critical Evidence Categories

Digital Communications (Most Important)

Group Messages: GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, fraternity apps
Social Media: Instagram DMs, Snapchat, TikTok, Facebook Messenger
Recovery: Digital forensics can often recover deleted messages
Hawkins Context: Students often communicate with hometown friends about hazing—preserve these conversations too

Photos & Videos

Content filmed during events by participants
Social media posts/stories showing activities
Security/doorbell camera footage from houses
Medical documentation of injuries over time

Internal Organization Documents

Pledge manuals, initiation scripts, “tradition” documents
Emails/texts from officers about activities
National policies and training materials

University Records

Prior conduct files, probation/suspension notices
Campus police incident reports
Clery Act reports and disclosures

Medical & Psychological Records

Emergency room/hospitalization records
Surgical notes, rehabilitation documentation
Toxicology reports
Psychological evaluations (PTSD, depression, anxiety diagnoses)

Witness Testimony

Other pledges, members (current and former)
Roommates, RAs, bystanders
Coaches, trainers, academic advisors

Damages Available in Hazing Cases

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Losses)

Medical Bills: Emergency care, hospitalization, surgeries, ongoing treatment, medications
Future Medical Care: Long-term therapy, specialized care for permanent injuries
Lost Educational Opportunities: Tuition for disrupted semesters, lost scholarships
Diminished Earning Capacity: Reduced lifetime earnings from permanent disabilities
Other Costs: Property damage, relocation expenses

Non-Economic Damages (Subjective Harm)

Physical Pain & Suffering: From injuries and treatment
Emotional Distress: PTSD, depression, anxiety, humiliation
Loss of Enjoyment: Inability to participate in college life, activities
Reputational Harm: Social stigma, digital footprint consequences

Wrongful Death Damages (For Families)

Funeral and burial costs
Loss of financial support
Loss of companionship, love, and guidance
Family members’ emotional suffering and therapy costs

Punitive Damages (When Applicable)
Designed to punish especially reckless or malicious conduct and deter future hazing. Available when defendants show willful disregard for known risks.

The Role of Different Defendants and Insurance

Multiple Potential Defendants

Individual students who participated
Chapter officers and leadership
Local chapter/organization
National fraternity/sorority headquarters
University/board of regents
Property owners, landlords
Alcohol providers (under dram shop laws)

Insurance Coverage Complexities

National fraternities and universities typically have liability insurance
Insurers often argue hazing is an “intentional act” excluded from coverage
Experienced attorneys know how to navigate these disputes and identify all available coverage
Multiple policies may apply (chapter, national, university, individual homeowners)

Strategic Considerations for Hawkins Families

Venue Selection

Where the hazing occurred
Where defendants are located
Where most witnesses reside
Strategic advantages of specific jurisdictions

Timing and Statutes of Limitations

Texas generally allows 2 years from injury date
Discovery rule may extend if harm wasn’t immediately known
Fraudulent concealment can toll (pause) the statute
Act quickly—evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, memories fade

Privacy Concerns

Most cases settle confidentially
Sealed court records can protect privacy
Strategic balance between accountability and protecting the victim

Practical Guides & FAQs for Hawkins Parents and Students

For Parents: Recognizing and Responding to Hazing

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Being Hazed

Unexplained injuries, bruises, burns, or cuts
Extreme exhaustion beyond normal college stress
Sudden weight loss or gain
Sleep deprivation (constant late nights, 3 AM calls)
Personality changes: anxiety, depression, withdrawal
Sudden secrecy about organization activities
Constant phone use for group chat monitoring
Financial strain from unexpected “dues” or purchases
Academic decline from missed classes/assignments

How to Talk to Your Child About Hazing

Ask open questions: “How are things with [organization]?”
Express concern without judgment: “I’m worried about your safety”
Emphasize support: “Nothing is worth risking your health”
Listen first, then guide: Let them share before offering solutions

If Your Child Is Hurt

Medical Care First: Get immediate attention, even if they resist
Document Everything: Photos, screenshots, written notes with dates
Preserve Evidence: Don’t let them delete messages or “clean up”
Identify Witnesses: Names and contact information for others involved
Avoid Confrontation: Don’t approach the organization directly
Legal Consultation: Contact experienced hazing attorneys within 48 hours

Dealing with the University

Document all communications (emails, calls, meetings)
Ask specific questions about prior incidents involving the organization
Request copies of policies and prior disciplinary records
Don’t sign anything without legal review
Understand that university interests may conflict with your child’s best interests

When to Contact a Lawyer

Significant physical or psychological harm
University is minimizing or covering up the incident
You suspect evidence is being destroyed
Insurance companies are contacting you directly
You want to understand all legal options

For Students: Self-Protection and Response

Is This Hazing? Ask Yourself:

Am I being forced or pressured to do something unsafe?
Would I do this if there were no social consequences?
Is this activity dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
Are older members making new members do things they don’t do themselves?
Am I being told to keep secrets or lie about activities?

If You’re in Immediate Danger
10. Call 911 or campus police
11. Get to a safe location (dorm, friend’s place, public area)
12. You won’t get in trouble for calling for help in a medical emergency (Texas has good-faith protections)

How to Exit Safely

Tell someone outside the organization first (parent, RA, trusted friend)
Send written resignation to chapter leadership (email/text for documentation)
Don’t go to “one last meeting” where pressure or retaliation might occur
Report any retaliation to campus authorities immediately

Evidence Collection for Students

Screenshots of all group chats with timestamps visible
Photos of injuries from multiple angles (use coin for scale)
Voice memos of conversations (Texas is one-party consent)
Save everything—don’t delete even embarrassing content
Medical documentation—tell providers you were hazed
Witness information—names and contacts for others involved

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
You can pursue civil damages even without criminal charges
Good-faith reporters have legal protections

For Witnesses and Former Members

If you witnessed hazing or participated and now regret it:

Your testimony can prevent future harm
Cooperating can be an important step toward accountability
You may want independent legal advice about your own potential exposure
Protecting others is more important than protecting an organization’s reputation

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Hazing Case

1. Letting Your Child Delete Messages or “Clean Up” Evidence
What families think: “I don’t want them to get in more trouble”
Why it’s wrong: Appears as obstruction of justice, makes case nearly impossible
Instead: Preserve everything immediately, even embarrassing content

2. Confronting the Fraternity/Sorority Directly
What families think: “I’ll give them a piece of my mind”
Why it’s wrong: They immediately lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses
Instead: Document everything, call a lawyer before any confrontation

3. Signing University “Resolution” Forms Without Review
What universities do: Pressure families to sign waivers or internal agreements
Why it’s wrong: You may waive right to sue or accept inadequate settlements
Instead: Do NOT sign anything without attorney review

4. Posting Details on Social Media
What families think: “I want people to know what happened”
Why it’s wrong: Defense attorneys screenshot everything; inconsistencies hurt credibility
Instead: Document privately; let your lawyer control public messaging

5. Letting Your Child Go to “One Last Meeting”
What fraternities say: “Come talk to us before you do anything”
Why it’s wrong: They pressure, intimidate, or extract damaging statements
Instead: Once considering legal action, all communication goes through your lawyer

6. Waiting “To See How the University Handles It”
What universities promise: “We’re investigating internally”
Why it’s wrong: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs
Instead: Preserve evidence NOW; consult lawyer immediately

7. Talking to Insurance Adjusters Without a Lawyer
What adjusters say: “We just need your statement”
Why it’s wrong: Recorded statements are used against you; early settlements are lowball
Instead: “My attorney will contact you”

Frequently Asked Questions for Hawkins Families

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

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

“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, power imbalance, and fear of exclusion is not true voluntary consent.

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

“What if the hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?”
Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and national fraternities can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, knowledge, and foreseeability. Many major hazing cases occurred off-campus and still resulted in multi-million-dollar judgments.

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

“How much does it cost to hire a hazing attorney?”
We work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. This makes quality legal representation accessible to all families regardless of financial situation.

Why Attorney911 for Hawkins Hazing Cases

When your family faces a hazing crisis, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how powerful institutions fight back—and how to win anyway. At Attorney911, we bring unique qualifications specifically valuable for hazing cases affecting Hawkins families.

Our Current Texas Hazing Litigation: Proof of Capability

Right now, we’re actively litigating one of the most serious hazing cases in Texas: Leonel Bermudez v. University of Houston & Pi Kappa Phi. This $10 million lawsuit involves:

Extreme physical hazing causing rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure
A national fraternity with prior hazing history
A major public university
Multiple defendants including 13 individual members
Complex insurance coverage issues

We’re not just talking about hazing experience—we’re actively fighting a major hazing case right now in Texas courts. This gives us current, practical knowledge of how these cases unfold in real time.

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 for “intentional acts”
Negotiate settlements from the defense perspective
Translation: We know their playbook because we used to run it.

Complex Institutional Litigation Experience (Ralph Manginello)

BP Texas City Explosion Litigation: One of few Texas firms involved against billion-dollar defendants
Federal Court Admitted: U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
HCCLA Membership: Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association signals elite criminal defense capability
25+ Years Practice: Deep experience with high-stakes litigation
Translation: We’re not intimidated by national fraternities, universities, or their defense teams.

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death & Catastrophic Injury Results
We have recovered millions for clients in complex wrongful death and catastrophic injury cases, including:

Brain injury cases with life care planning
Permanent disability cases with economist collaboration
Institutional negligence cases against powerful defendants
Translation: We don’t settle cheap. We build cases that force accountability.

Dual Civil/Criminal Hazing Expertise

Ralph’s HCCLA membership means we understand criminal hazing charges
We can advise on both criminal exposure and civil liability
We understand how the two tracks interact and affect each other
Translation: We see the whole legal picture, not just one piece.

Investigative Depth and Expert Network
For hazing cases, we deploy:

Digital Forensics Experts: Recover deleted messages, social media evidence
Medical Experts: Document rhabdomyolysis, TBI, PTSD, other injuries
Greek Life Culture Experts: Explain coercion dynamics, tradition patterns
Economists: Calculate lifetime damages for permanent injuries
Psychologists: Document emotional trauma and treatment needs
Translation: We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does.

Spanish-Language Services
Mr. Peña speaks fluent Spanish and can serve Hispanic families throughout Texas without language barriers.

Our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine

Unlike other firms, we maintain a proprietary data system tracking:
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