In Alabama, Attorney911™ offers experienced legal representation for victims of fraternity and sorority hazing. Our University Hazing Injury & Wrongful Death Attorneys, with over 25 years of experience, understand the tactics of national fraternities and universities, leveraging former insurance defense and federal court experience. We bring a proven track record of multi-million dollar results and expertise from cases like the BP Explosion litigation and HCCLA criminal defense. We handle cases from UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor, specializing in evidence preservation.

Alabama Hazing Lawyer: Protecting Students and Families from Campus Abuse

The phone rings at 3 AM. It’s your child, and they sound scared. They’re rambling, disoriented, or worse—they’re too weak to speak. They whisper phrases like “pledge event” or “initiation.” You rush to campus, located near the heart of Alabama, only to find them in the emergency room, suffering from severe dehydration, alcohol poisoning, or injuries they can’t explain. This isn’t the college experience you envisioned when you sent them to one of Alabama’s proud institutions. This is the nightmare of hazing, and it affects families right here in Alabama and across the country.

We are Attorney911, and our firm is dedicated to fighting for families whose children have been victimized by hazing. We understand that what happened to your child is far more than a “college prank.” It’s abuse, it’s illegal, and it leaves lasting physical and emotional scars. This comprehensive guide is designed for parents and students in Alabama to understand what modern hazing looks like, the legal frameworks in place, and how to fight for accountability when the worst happens.

While our firm is based in Texas, we bring our specialized expertise in serious hazing litigation to families nationwide. Right now, in Texas, we’re fighting one of the most serious hazing cases in the country, representing Leonel Bermudez against the University of Houston and the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity, seeking $10 million for the brutal hazing that left him with acute kidney failure. That case proves our capability, and we bring that same rigor to cases across the country, including those originating in Alabama. We can serve as co-counsel with local attorneys in your state, or provide consultation for families anywhere in the U.S.

We know that hazing takes many forms—from physical abuse and forced extreme alcohol consumption to psychological torment and digital harassment. It can occur in nearly any collegiate organization, including fraternities, sororities, athletic teams, spirit groups, and even academic clubs. Families in Alabama should know their rights and understand that help is available.

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

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like

The image of hazing as simple, harmless pranks is outdated and dangerous. Modern hazing involves complex systems of coercion, physical abuse, and psychological manipulation, often hidden from public view through tight-knit secrecy and the use of digital tools. For parents in Alabama, understanding these modern tactics is the first step toward protecting your children.

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. This means that even if a student “agrees” to participate, true consent is often absent due to intense peer pressure, a desire for acceptance, and fear of exclusion.

Main Categories of Hazing: Beyond the Stereotypes

Modern hazing methods have evolved, becoming more insidious and harder to detect from the outside. They often fall into escalating categories:

• Alcohol and Substance Hazing: This is the most common and often deadliest form of hazing. It involves forced or coerced drinking of excessive amounts of alcohol, often during challenges, “lineups,” or games designed for rapid consumption. Pledges may be pressured to consume unknown or mixed substances, leading to alcohol poisoning, blackouts, and even death. Many universities in Alabama, with vibrant Greek life, have faced incidents related to alcohol misuse.

• Physical Hazing: This includes direct physical abuse such as paddling and beatings, but also extreme calisthenics, forced “workouts,” or “smokings” far beyond normal conditioning. Sleep deprivation, food or water deprivation, and exposure to extreme cold or heat, or dangerous environments, are also common. These activities can result in severe injuries, rhabdomyolysis, and hospitalization.

• Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing: These acts are profoundly degrading and psychologically damaging. They can involve forced nudity or partial nudity, simulated sexual acts, or being placed in humiliating positions. These acts often have racial, sexist, or homophobic undertones, using slurs or forcing members into demeaning role-plays.

• Psychological Hazing: This category focuses on mental and emotional torment. It includes verbal abuse, threats, and deliberate social isolation designed to break down a new member’s will. Manipulation, forced confessions, and public shaming—often amplified through social media—can lead to severe anxiety, depression, and long-term psychological trauma.

• Digital/Online Hazing: This is a rapidly growing area that exploits modern communication tools. It involves using group chats (on platforms like GroupMe, WhatsApp, or Discord) for dares, “challenges,” and public humiliation. Pledges might be pressured to create or share compromising images or videos, or be subject to constant, mandatory interactions that deprive them of sleep and privacy.

Where Hazing Actually Happens: Beyond Fraternities

While fraternities and sororities are often associated with hazing incidents, the problem is far more widespread. In Alabama, hazing can occur in:

• Fraternities and Sororities: This includes social groups governed by Interfraternity Council (IFC), Panhellenic Council (Panhel), National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), and various multicultural Greek Councils.
• Athletic Teams: From football and basketball to cheerleading and swim teams, hazing for athletic programs is sadly common, often framed as “team bonding” or “toughening up.”
• Spirit Squads and Tradition Clubs: Organizations like university spirit groups, marching bands, and other student associations can also engage in hazing practices.
• Corps Programs: Military-style organizations on campus, such as ROTC or certain university corps, can have forms of hazing that blur the lines between “training” and abuse.
• Academic and Professional Organizations: Even seemingly innocuous groups can foster environments where hazing takes root, often disguised as “initiation rituals” or “challenges.”

The common threads are social status, exclusivity, and adherence to “tradition”—all of which can be manipulated to justify harmful practices. This culture of secrecy enables hazing to persist even when everyone “knows” it’s illegal.

Law & Liability Framework in Alabama

Hazing is a serious offense across the United States, particularly so in Alabama. Understanding the legal landscape, both at the state and federal levels, is crucial for families seeking justice and accountability.

Alabama’s Hazing Law: A Legal Overview

Hazing laws vary significantly by state. Alabama has its own hazing statutes that provide criminal penalties and civil liability. In Alabama, hazing is generally defined as any act that:

• Endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student, and
• Occurs for the purpose of initiation or affiliation with an organization.

This definition covers a broad range of behaviors, from physical abuse and forced consumption of alcohol to psychological torment and public humiliation.

Key aspects of Alabama’s hazing law:

• Criminal Penalties: Individuals who engage in hazing that causes physical injury can face misdemeanor charges, potentially leading to fines and jail time. If hazing results in serious bodily injury or death, the penalties escalate significantly, potentially including felony charges.
• Organizational Liability: Universities and organizations, including fraternities and sororities, can face penalties if they permit, condone, or encourage hazing. This can include fines, suspension, or even permanent removal of the organization from campus.
• “Consent is Not a Defense”: A critical provision in many state hazing laws, including strong ones like Texas Education Code Chapter 37, is that “consent is not a defense.” This means that even if a student claims they “agreed” to the hazing activities, the perpetrators can still be held liable. Courts recognize that the power dynamics and peer pressure inherent in hazing environments often negate true voluntary consent.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding Your Options

When hazing occurs, there are typically two separate legal avenues for accountability:

• Criminal Cases: These are initiated by the state (prosecutors) to punish individuals for breaking the law. For hazing, criminal charges in Alabama might include misdemeanor or felony hazing charges, assault, battery, furnishing alcohol to minors, or even manslaughter in fatal cases. The goal is to enforce the law and deter future criminal acts.
• Civil Cases: These are brought by victims or their families directly against the responsible parties. The primary aim in a civil case is to secure monetary compensation for the harm suffered and to hold individuals, organizations, and institutions accountable. Grounds for a civil lawsuit can include:
  • Negligence or Gross Negligence: For failing to prevent foreseeable harm.
  • Wrongful Death: If the hazing resulted in a fatality.
  • Negligent Hiring/Supervision: Against universities or national organizations.
  • Premises Liability: If the hazing occurred on property owned by the university or fraternity.
  • Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress: For severe psychological harm.
  • Assault and Battery: Against individuals directly causing physical harm.

An experienced hazing lawyer can help families in Alabama navigate both tracks, or focus solely on a civil claim, as a criminal conviction is not required to pursue compensation.

Federal Overlay: Universal Protections Against Hazing

Regardless of the specific strength of Alabama’s state laws, several federal frameworks apply to all colleges and universities that receive federal funding, providing additional layers of protection and accountability:

• Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This landmark federal law requires colleges to implement comprehensive hazing prevention programs and publicly report all hazing violations and disciplinary actions. Fully implemented through 2026, this act aims to increase transparency and standardize reporting nationwide, making it easier for parents in Alabama to research the hazing history of organizations at their child’s prospective school.
• Title IX: This federal law prohibits sex-based discrimination in education. When hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, gender-based violence, or creates a sexually hostile environment, Title IX obligations are triggered. Universities must investigate promptly and equitably, and take steps to prevent recurrence.
• Clery Act: The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act requires colleges to report campus crime statistics, including certain hazing incidents that involve assault, sexual offenses, or alcohol/drug violations. Universities must also issue timely warnings about threats to campus safety.

These federal laws create accountability frameworks that apply to every college in America receiving federal funding, irrespective of state-specific statutes.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Hazing Lawsuit?

Establishing liability in hazing cases often involves identifying multiple responsible parties:

• Individual Students: Those who planned, orchestrated, participated in, or covered up the hazing acts can be held personally liable.
• Local Fraternity/Sorority Chapter: The specific undergraduate chapter itself may be sued as a legal entity. Officers and leaders within the chapter who had knowledge or control over the hazing are often primary targets.
• National Fraternity/Sorority Organization: National headquarters can be held liable if they failed to adequately supervise their local chapters, enforce anti-hazing policies, or address known patterns of hazing within their organization. Their liability often hinges on whether they had prior knowledge or constructive notice of similar incidents.
• University: The college or university itself can be sued if it negligently supervised student organizations, failed to enforce its own policies, or demonstrated deliberate indifference to known hazing activity. These claims are often strengthened when there’s a history of complaints or prior hazing incidents that the university failed to address effectively.
• Third Parties: This can include property owners (such as a housing corporation or a private landlord of an off-campus house where hazing occurred), event venues, or alcohol providers (under dram shop laws if alcohol was illegally served).

Every hazing case is fact-specific, and the liable parties will vary depending on the unique circumstances. An experienced attorney can meticulously investigate to identify all potential defendants and avenues for compensation.

National Hazing Case Patterns Setting Precedents in Alabama

The brutal realities of hazing are often hidden behind closed doors, but national tragedies have brought the issue into public consciousness, leading to significant legal precedents. These cases, occurring across the country, shape the legal landscape for families in Alabama and set the stage for accountability.

At Attorney911, we are at the forefront of this fight. Right now, in Texas, we are representing Leonel Bermudez against the University of Houston and the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity in a $10 million hazing and abuse lawsuit filed in late 2025. Leonel, a new pledge, was subjected to unspeakable horrors: forced to wear a humiliating “pledge fanny pack” containing degrading items, extreme physical hazing including sprints, bear crawls, and “save-your-brother” drills, lying in vomit-soaked grass, being sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding,” and forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting. This culminated in a brutal Nov 3 workout of over 100 push-ups and 500 squats. He suffered rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure, passed brown urine, and was hospitalized for four days, facing an ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage. His case highlights the severe consequences of institutional negligence. The Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter was suspended and ultimately shut down, its members voting to surrender their charter, and the University of Houston called the conduct “deeply disturbing.” This active litigation demonstrates our firm’s commitment to fighting for victims, no matter how powerful the institutions or how complex the case.

The patterns of abuse we see in the Bermudez case are unfortunately echoed in hazing incidents nationwide:

Alcohol Poisoning & Death: A Recurring Tragedy

Forced, excessive alcohol consumption is the most common cause of hazing fatalities and severe injuries. These cases often involve new pledges, who, under intense pressure, consume dangerous amounts of liquor supplied by older members.

• Timothy Piazza – Penn State, Beta Theta Pi (2017): Timothy Piazza died from severe brain injuries after an extreme “bid acceptance” event. Security cameras captured him falling repeatedly, only for his “brothers” to delay calling for help for hours. Dozens of fraternity members faced criminal charges, and civil litigation led to significant confidential settlements. This tragedy inspired Pennsylvania’s Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law, one of the strongest hazing statutes in the U.S. This case shows how extreme intoxication, delayed medical care, and a culture of silence can lead to devastating legal consequences for individuals and institutions.
• Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (2017): Andrew Coffey died of acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” where pledges were given handles of hard liquor. This incident shares strong similarities with the very Pi Kappa Phi organization our firm is actively litigating against in the Bermudez case. Criminal hazing charges were brought against members, and FSU temporarily suspended all Greek life and implemented policy overhauls. This case tragically demonstrates that formulaic “tradition” driven drinking nights are a recurring script for disaster, regardless of location.
• Max Gruver – Louisiana State University, Phi Delta Theta (2017): Max Gruver died from alcohol toxicity with a blood alcohol level of 0.495% after participating in a “Bible study” drinking game where wrong answers meant more alcohol. This case directly led to Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act, a felony hazing law. The litigation resulted in a $6.1 million verdict against the fraternity, underscoring that legislative change often follows public outrage and clear proof of hazing.
• Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021): Stone Foltz died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to consume an entire bottle of whiskey during a “Big/Little” night. Multiple fraternity members were criminally convicted, and Bowling Green State University (a public institution) agreed to a nearly $3 million settlement with the family, with other settlements totaling $10 million from the fraternity and individuals. This case highlights how universities can face significant financial and reputational consequences alongside fraternities.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing: The Brutal Truth

Beyond alcohol, hazing frequently involves physical violence, endurance tests, and degrading rituals.

• Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College / Pi Delta Psi (2013): Michael Deng suffered a fatal head injury during a violent blindfolded “glass ceiling” ritual at an off-campus fraternity retreat. His “brothers” delayed calling 911. Multiple members were convicted, and the national fraternity itself was criminally convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter. This landmark case led to Pi Delta Psi being banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years and a fine of over $110,000, illustrating how off-campus “retreats” can be as dangerous or worse than on-campus events, and how national organizations can face severe sanctions, including criminal liability.

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse: A Broader Issue

Hazing isn’t exclusive to Greek life; it infiltrates numerous university organizations, including high-profile athletic programs.

• Northwestern University Football Scandal (2023–2025): Former players alleged widespread sexualized and racist hazing within the Northwestern football program over multiple years. This scandal resulted in multiple lawsuits against the university and coaching staff, the firing of head coach Pat Fitzgerald (who later settled a wrongful-termination lawsuit confidentially), and a major institutional crisis. The Northwestern case tragically demonstrates that hazing extends beyond Greek life into major athletic programs, raising profound questions about institutional oversight and the responsibility of university leadership.

What These Cases Mean for Families in Alabama

These national incidents, including our active litigation in the Bermudez case, reveal common threads: forced alcohol consumption (often to deadly extremes), physical violence, brutal humiliation, delayed or denied medical care, and systematic cover-ups. Justice, in many of these situations, only came after powerful and determined litigation. Alabama families facing hazing are not alone. These national lessons, lessons we apply in our own cases every day, are directly relevant to any hazing incident occurring at an Alabama university. The same national organizations, the same insurance companies, and the same cover-up tactics exist everywhere.

Alabama’s Universities: Culture, Policies, & Incident Patterns

Alabama is home to numerous esteemed universities, many with active Greek life and diverse student organizations. For families in Alabama, understanding the unique culture, official policies, and documented incidents at these institutions is vital. While we are a Texas-based firm, our insight into institutional liability and hazing patterns nationwide, proven in cases like Leonel Bermudez’s, enables us to provide critical guidance.

University of Alabama (UA)

The University of Alabama, located in Tuscaloosa, is arguably the pinnacle of SEC Greek culture. With a vibrant and highly engaged Greek system, UA consistently ranks among the top schools for Greek life participation nationwide. Parents and students from across Alabama and the country are drawn to its robust traditions, competitive spirit, and strong sense of community.

• Campus & Culture Snapshot: UA boasts one of the largest Greek systems in the U.S., with a deeply ingrained tradition of social fraternities and sororities dominating campus life, particularly the social scene. Game-day traditions, strong alumni networks, and philanthropies are central to the Greek experience. However, this intense culture can, unfortunately, also foster environments where hazing is perceived as a necessary rite of passage.
• Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels: UA maintains a strict anti-hazing policy, prohibiting any activity that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of initiation, admission into, affiliation with, or as a condition for continued membership. Reporting channels include the Office of Student Conduct, the University Police Department, and an anonymous tip line. UA also publishes its Student Code of Conduct and hazing policies online.
• Selected Documented Incidents & Responses: UA has faced multiple hazing allegations and incidents over the years, mirroring the national patterns of alcohol abuse and physical hazing. For example, in 2023, a lawsuit was filed alleging a traumatic brain injury suffered by a pledge during a hazing ritual involving Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE). This incident underscores that even with extensive policies, hazing persists. Disciplinary actions often include suspensions, probation, and mandatory educational programs for specific chapters.
• How a UA Hazing Case Might Proceed: Cases originating from UA would typically involve the University of Alabama Police Department and/or the Tuscaloosa Police Department. Civil lawsuits would likely be filed in Tuscaloosa County courts. Potential defendants could include individual students, the local chapter, the national organization (such as SAE), and the University of Alabama itself. Given the university’s size and resources, hazing litigation can be complex due to sophisticated defense teams and extensive institutional insurance policies.
• What Students and Parents Should Do: Families of students at UA should be particularly vigilant. Document any changes in behavior: sudden secrecy, exhaustion, unexplained injuries, or academic decline. If you suspect hazing, prioritize your child’s safety and medical care. Collect all evidence, including screenshots of group chats or social media, and photos of injuries. Then, contact an attorney experienced in hazing litigation.

Auburn University

Auburn University, located in Auburn, Alabama, is another major SEC institution with a proud history and a significant Greek presence. Parents often send their children to Auburn for its strong academic reputation, vibrant campus life, and deep-seated traditions, particularly its spirited athletic programs.

• Campus & Culture Snapshot: Auburn has a long-standing and active Greek life, contributing significantly to the social fabric of the university. The campus prides itself on its values of community, integrity, and tradition. However, similar to other SEC schools, the pressure to maintain tradition and achieve exclusivity within Greek organizations can sometimes lead to hazing behaviors.
• Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels: Auburn University严格禁止所有形式的hazing, as outlined in its Student Code of Conduct and hazing policies. The university defines hazing broadly to include any physical or mental abuse, forced consumption of substances, or activities that humiliate or degrade individuals for the purpose of initiation or membership. Reporting can be made through the Office of Student Conduct, the Auburn Police Department, or anonymously via an online reporting form.
• Selected Documented Incidents & Responses: Auburn has faced its share of hazing allegations, often involving alcohol-related incidents and physical challenges. While specific high-profile fatalities akin to other national cases are less publicized, the university frequently takes disciplinary action against fraternities and sororities found in violation of its anti-hazing policies, often resulting in suspensions and restrictions on recruitment.
• How an Auburn Hazing Case Might Proceed: A hazing incident at Auburn University would typically involve the Auburn University Police Department or the Auburn Police Department. Civil claims would be brought in Lee County, Alabama. The multi-layered defendant structure, including individuals, local and national chapters, and potentially the university, requires meticulous investigation and legal strategy.
• What Students and Parents Should Do: Parents of Auburn students should familiarize themselves with the warning signs of hazing and maintain open communication with their children. Emphasize that their safety and well-being are paramount over any group loyalty. If you suspect hazing, gather evidence discreetly and seek legal counsel before engaging in any direct confrontation with the university or the organization.

University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB)

The University of Alabama at Birmingham is a vibrant urban university known for its world-class medical center and strong research focus. While having a Greek presence, its culture is distinct from the more socially dominant Greek scenes at UA or Auburn, often integrating Greek life with academic and professional development.

• Campus & Culture Snapshot: UAB’s Greek system tends to be smaller compared to its larger state counterparts, focusing more on community service, leadership, and academic achievement alongside social events. This doesn’t eliminate the risk of hazing, but the dynamics might differ, sometimes involving more subtle or psychologically oriented tactics.
• Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels: UAB explicitly prohibits hazing, defining it in its Student Conduct Code. The university provides multiple avenues for reporting, including the Office of Student Conduct, the UAB Police Department, and an anonymous online reporting system. UAB emphasizes a culture of safety and encourages students to report any suspected hazing directly.
• Selected Documented Incidents & Responses: Publicly available records of hazing incidents at UAB might be less frequent than at larger SEC schools, but incidents, when they occur, are taken seriously by the university. Disciplinary actions have included temporary suspensions and membership reviews for chapters found responsible. The focus on professional development within UAB’s Greek community can sometimes lead to hazing disguised as “professional development” or “team-building challenges.”
• How a UAB Hazing Case Might Proceed: Hazing cases at UAB would often involve the UAB Police Department or the Birmingham Police Department, with civil claims filed in Jefferson County, Alabama. Given the emphasis on medical research and ethics at UAB, allegations of hazing that impact health could draw significant institutional scrutiny.
• What Students and Parents Should Do: Parents and students at UAB are encouraged to be aware of the university’s policies and reporting mechanisms. Because the Greek culture might be less overtly social, students should pay close attention to any activities that feel coercive or degrading, even if subtle. Early documentation and legal consultation are key.

University of South Alabama (USA)

The University of South Alabama, located in Mobile, maintains a regional focus and a growing, active Greek life that contributes to its campus community.

• Campus & Culture Snapshot: USA’s Greek life offers opportunities for leadership, community involvement, and social engagement. The culture is often described as welcoming, but like all university Greek systems, it can become susceptible to hazing driven by tradition or pressure to conform.
• Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels: The University of South Alabama strictly prohibits hazing, outlining its definition and disciplinary actions in its Student Handbook. The policy covers acts on and off campus and encourages reporting through the Dean of Students office or the University Police Department.
• Selected Documented Incidents & Responses: USA has responded to hazing allegations by placing chapters on probation, suspending activities, and requiring anti-hazing education. These instances highlight the constant need for vigilance and enforcement of anti-hazing policies, even within regional university settings.
• How a USA Hazing Case Might Proceed: Incidents at USA would involve the University of South Alabama Police Department or the Mobile Police Department. Civil litigation would proceed in Mobile County courts. The liability landscape would consider individuals, local chapters, national organizations, and potentially the university itself.
• What Students and Parents Should Do: Families in the Mobile area whose students attend USA should proactively discuss hazing with their children, ensuring they understand their rights and how to safely report concerns. Due to the tight-knit nature of college communities within cities in Alabama like Mobile, prompt and discreet legal guidance can be especially important to avoid inadvertent disclosure that could compromise a claim.

Troy University

Troy University, with its main campus in Troy, Alabama, serves a significant student population and has a Greek system that supports student involvement and community.

• Campus & Culture Snapshot: Troy University fosters a traditional campus experience, where Greek life plays a role in social activities, leadership development, and community service. The relatively smaller size of the city of Troy means that campus culture is central to the community, and any hazing allegations are handled with serious attention.
• Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels: Troy University’s Student Handbook contains clear policies prohibiting hazing. It defines hazing and outlines the disciplinary process for individuals and organizations found in violation. Reporting channels include the Dean of Students, the Troy University Police Department, and confidential reporting options.
• Selected Documented Incidents & Responses: Troy University has, in the past, disciplined Greek organizations for hazing violations, leading to suspensions of chapters and members. These include incidents related to physical abuse and forced activities designed to humiliate, reinforcing the fact that hazing can occur at any institution, regardless of size or geographic location.
• How a Troy University Hazing Case Might Proceed: Law enforcement would typically be the Troy University Police Department or the Troy Police Department. Civil lawsuits would be filed in Pike County, Alabama. The relative size of the university can sometimes mean local Greek organizations have even deeper ties, which can complicate internal university investigations, making external legal counsel crucial.
• What Students and Parents Should Do: Parents of Troy University students should remain vigilant and ensure their children feel empowered to report any hazing. Early documentation of incidents, no matter how minor they seem initially, can become critical evidence in a later legal claim.

Fraternities & Sororities: National Histories & Legal Strategy

The same national fraternities and sororities that operate at major universities throughout Texas, including institutions like the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor, also maintain chapters at schools across Alabama. This means that the hazing patterns, insurance policies, and legal playbooks honed from decades of litigation against these national organizations are directly applicable to cases in Alabama.

When hazing leaves a student hospitalized or dead, the question always turns to liability. Local chapters are often small, unincorporated entities with limited assets. The crucial target for accountability and compensation consistently becomes the national fraternity or sorority organization and the university itself. Their deep pockets and extensive resources allow for substantial financial compensation.

Why National Histories Matter: The Foreseeability Argument

National organizations often have comprehensive anti-hazing manuals and risk management policies. But these policies exist precisely because they have a history of deaths and catastrophic injuries within their chapters across the country. They know the patterns: forced drinking, paddling traditions, humiliating rituals.

When a chapter in Alabama repeats the same hazing script that got another chapter of the same national organization shut down or sued in another state, that demonstrates foreseeability. It strengthens arguments that the national organization had prior knowledge or constructive notice of potentially dangerous activities, yet failed to adequately prevent them. This can support claims of negligence or gross negligence and open the door to punitive damages.

Here are some of the national organizations that operate at universities in Alabama, and their relevant national hazing histories:

• Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ): This is the very national organization our firm is currently suing in the Leonel Bermudez case at the University of Houston. Pi Kappa Phi has over 180 chapters nationwide, including at universities in Alabama. Its history includes the Andrew Coffey death at Florida State University (2017), where a pledge died from alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night.” What we are fighting against in Texas, involving brutal physical and alcohol hazing leading to rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure, is transferable to any campus where Pi Kappa Phi operates.
• Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / Pike): With over 200 chapters nationwide, Pike has a tragic history of hazing, often involving alcohol. Key incidents include the Stone Foltz death at Bowling Green State University (2021), where a pledge died after being forced to consume an entire bottle of alcohol, leading to a $10 million settlement and multiple criminal convictions. Another fatality, the David Bogenberger death at Northern Illinois University (2012) from alcohol poisoning, resulted in a $14 million settlement. Pike chapters also operate at universities in Alabama, meaning the same deadly “Big/Little” night alcohol hazing rituals can occur there.
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / SAE): One of the oldest and largest fraternities with over 200 chapters, SAE has a particularly troubling hazing record. Despite announcing a “True Gentleman Experience” that eliminated pledging in 2014, incidents persist. These include the Carson Starkey death at Cal Poly (2008) from alcohol poisoning, and lawsuits alleging severe injuries, such as a traumatic brain injury case at the University of Alabama (2023) and chemical burns at Texas A&M (2021). SAE has chapters at major Alabama universities, demonstrating that policy changes don’t inherently eliminate hazing without strict enforcement.
• Beta Theta Pi (ΒΘΠ): This fraternity, known for the tragic Timothy Piazza death at Penn State University (2017), where a pledge died after extreme alcohol consumption and a delayed medical response, also operates chapters in Alabama. The detailed evidence from the Piazza case, which led to significant criminal and civil penalties, highlights how dangerous “bid acceptance” events can be.
• Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ): With over 180 chapters, Phi Delta Theta was involved in the Max Gruver death at Louisiana State University (2017), where a pledge died from alcohol poisoning during a “Bible study” drinking game. This incident directly led to Louisiana’s felony hazing law. Phi Delta Theta has chapters in Alabama, raising concerns about similar alcohol-related hazing practices.
• Sigma Chi (ΣΧ): With over 230 chapters, Sigma Chi was recently at the center of a hazing case in College of Charleston (2024) that resulted in more than $10 million in damages for a pledge who alleged physical beatings, forced drug/alcohol consumption, and psychological torment. Sigma Chi operates at several universities in Alabama.
• Kappa Sigma (ΚΣ): One of the largest fraternities with over 300 chapters, Kappa Sigma has a record including the Chad Meredith drowning death at the University of Miami (2001), where a pledge drowned after being coerced to swim while intoxicated, resulting in a $12.6 million jury verdict. Kappa Sigma also faces ongoing litigation for rhabdomyolysis allegations at Texas A&M (2023). Chapters are present at campuses in Alabama.
• Phi Kappa Psi (ΦΚΨ): This fraternity made headlines in 2024 when a pledge at San Diego State University was set on fire during a party skit, suffering third-degree burns and leading to felony charges against members. This extreme incident highlights the escalating dangers of hazing that can occur anywhere Phi Kappa Psi has a presence, including at chapters in Alabama.

Legal Strategy: Accountability Across State Lines

Our firm’s experience, particularly with complex national organizations operating across multiple states, is crucial for hazing cases in Alabama. We understand how to:

• Uncover Pattern Evidence: We show that these national organizations, including those with chapters in Alabama, have had repeated warnings about similar hazing activities, demonstrating foreseeability and negligence.
• Navigate Insurance Coverage: National fraternities and universities often carry substantial liability insurance. However, these policies may include exclusions for hazing or intentional acts. Mr. Lupe Peña, our associate attorney, brings invaluable insurance insider knowledge to the table. Having worked for years as an insurance defense attorney at a national defense firm, Mr. Peña knows exactly how these powerful insurance companies try to deny or minimize claims—because he used to work for them. This expertise is vital for ensuring victims receive fair compensation.
• Pursue All Responsible Parties: We identify and pursue not only the individual perpetrators and local chapters but also the national organization and the university, leveraging their resources for maximum accountability.

By connecting specific hazing incidents to the broader patterns of misconduct, we expose how national organizations and universities often prioritize their reputation and perceived “traditions” over student safety. Our Texas-based expertise, refined through cases like the Leonel Bermudez lawsuit, allows us to strategically fight for justice for families in Alabama against some of the most powerful institutions in the country.

Building a Case: Evidence, Damages, Strategy

Effectively prosecuting a hazing case requires meticulous investigation, a deep understanding of complex legal strategies, and the ability to stand against powerful institutional defendants. For families in Alabama, building a strong case means moving quickly to preserve evidence and work with experienced legal counsel.

The Power of Evidence in Modern Hazing Cases

In hazing litigation, success hinges on compelling evidence that clearly demonstrates what happened, who was involved, and the full extent of the harm. The nature of hazing often means that direct, easily accessible evidence can be scarce, requiring specialized investigative techniques.

• Digital Communications: In today’s collegiate environment, group chats and direct messages are often the most critical sources of evidence. Platforms like GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, and fraternity-specific apps are where hazing is planned, orchestrated, and documented. These messages can reveal planning, intent, knowledge of hazing activities, and who was involved. Our firm has expertise in preserving and, if necessary, recovering deleted messages and other digital content. This is a primary focus when we advise parents and students in Alabama to screenshot everything immediately.
• Photos & Videos: Members often film hazing events for their own entertainment or to prove loyalty. This includes content shared in group chats, on social media (Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok), or even security camera footage from houses or venues. These visuals can capture injuries, humiliating acts, forced drinking, and clearly identify perpetrators.
• Internal Organization Documents: Subpoenas can uncover pledge manuals, initiation scripts, “traditions” lists, and emails or texts from officers discussing activities. National organizations also have risk management policies and prior incident reports that can expose a pattern of negligence.
• University Records: Through discovery and public records requests, we can obtain records of prior conduct violations, probation or suspensions against a fraternity or sorority, incident reports to campus police or student conduct offices, and Clery reports that document safety incidents. This helps establish whether a university knew or should have known about a pattern of hazing.
• Medical and Psychological Records: These documents objectively detail the physical and mental harm suffered. This includes emergency room reports, hospitalization records, surgery and rehab notes, toxicology reports, and most critically, psychological evaluations that diagnose PTSD, depression, anxiety, or suicidal ideation resulting from the hazing.
• Witness Testimony: The accounts of other pledges, active members, roommates, Resident Assistants (RAs), coaches, and even former members who quit or were expelled can be invaluable. While often reluctant due to fear of retaliation, their testimony can corroborate the victim’s story and expose the true culture of the organization.

Damages: Quantifying the Cost of Hazing

Civil hazing lawsuits aim to secure monetary compensation for the victim’s losses. These damages can be substantial, especially in cases of severe injury or wrongful death.

• Medical Bills & Future Care: This covers all costs related to the injury, including emergency services, hospitalization (ER, ICU), surgeries, ongoing treatment, physical therapy, medications, and mental health counseling. For catastrophic injuries like permanent brain damage or organ failure (like Leonel Bermudez’s acute kidney failure), this can include a comprehensive life care plan.
• Lost Earnings / Educational Impact: Hazing can disrupt a student’s education, leading to missed semesters, lost scholarships, delayed graduation, and a setback in entering the workforce. If injuries result in a permanent disability, victims may face significantly reduced earning capacity over their lifetime.
• Non-Economic Damages: These compensate for pain, suffering, and emotional distress. This includes physical pain, emotional trauma, humiliation, loss of dignity, anxiety, depression, and the loss of enjoyment of life. For families in Alabama, this can encompass the profound emotional toll of seeing their child suffer.
• Wrongful Death Damages: In the tragic event of a fatality, surviving family members can recover funeral and burial costs, the loss of financial support the deceased would have provided, and compensation for their own grief, loss of companionship, and emotional suffering.

It is crucial to understand that we meticulously calculate all types of damages to ensure that any settlement or verdict fully covers the victim’s current and future needs.

The Role of Different Defendants and Insurance Coverage

Hazing cases are complex because they often involve multiple defendants—individuals, local chapters, national organizations, and universities. Each of these entities may have their own legal teams and their own liability insurance policies.

• Insurance Policies: National fraternities and universities typically carry liability insurance designed to cover such incidents. However, these policies are not always straightforward. Insurers frequently argue that hazing, being an “intentional act,” is excluded from coverage.
• Navigating Exclusions: This is where our firm’s unique expertise becomes invaluable. Mr. Lupe Peña, our associate attorney, is a former insurance defense lawyer. He knows exactly how these insurance companies operate—how they try to deny claims, minimize payouts, and delay resolution. This insider knowledge allows us to strategically challenge their exclusions, leveraging arguments that focus on negligent supervision or failure to enforce policies, which are often covered. We work to identify all potential sources of insurance coverage, from individual homeowners’ policies to university umbrella policies, ensuring that no stone is left unturned in our pursuit of justice for families in Alabama.

Practical Guides & FAQs for Alabama Families

When hazing strikes, families in Alabama often feel isolated, confused, and unsure of what to do. This section provides immediate, actionable advice for parents, students, and witnesses navigating this difficult journey.

For Parents in Alabama: Recognizing & Responding to Hazing

Your child may not tell you directly that they are being hazed due to fear, shame, or loyalty to the group. Vigilance, informed questions, and a clear understanding of the warning signs are crucial.

• Warning Signs of Hazing:

  • Unexplained injuries or “accidents”: Bruises, burns, cuts that don’t add up, or injuries your child is reluctant to discuss.
  • Extreme fatigue: Constant exhaustion beyond typical college stress, often due to late-night “mandatory” events or sleep deprivation.
  • Sudden changes in mood or behavior: Increased anxiety, depression, irritability, withdrawal from family or old friends, or defensiveness when asked about their organization.
  • Secrecy: Refusing to discuss activities, stating “I can’t talk about it,” or behaving furtively with their phone.
  • Obsession with group tasks: Prioritizing group demands over academics, sleep, or personal well-being.
  • Physical appearance changes: Sudden weight loss or gain, unkempt appearance, or wearing only specific clothing assigned by the group.
  • Financial strain: Unexplained requests for money, purchases of unusual items, or large “fines” imposed by the group.

• How to Talk to Your Child:

  • Choose a calm, private moment. Ask open-ended questions like, “How are things really going with [organization name]?” or “Is there anything making you uncomfortable?”
  • Emphasize their safety and well-being over any group loyalty. Reassure them that you will support them regardless of what they say.
  • Listen without judgment. Don’t push if they are not ready to talk, but let them know you are always there.

• If Your Child is Hurt:

  • Seek immediate medical attention. Prioritize their health, even if it means disclosing embarrassing or illicit activities. You cannot get in trouble for calling for help in a medical emergency.
  • Document everything. Take photos of injuries (dates and times are critical). Screenshot any text messages, group chats, or social media posts related to the incident. Write down exactly what your child tells you while the memory is fresh.
  • Save names, dates, and locations. Who was there? When did it happen? Where did it take place?

• Dealing with the University:

  • If you decide to report to the university, document every communication. Ask about the university’s prior history with the organization in question.
  • Do NOT sign anything from the university or insurance company without legal counsel. You could inadvertently waive your rights.

• When to Talk to a Lawyer:

  • If your child has suffered significant physical or psychological harm.
  • If you feel the university or organization is minimizing or hiding what happened.
  • Call Attorney911 for a confidential consultation.

For Students & Pledges in Alabama: Self-Assessment & Safety Planning

If you are a student at a university in Alabama and find yourself in a situation that feels wrong, know your rights and understand that you are not alone.

• Is This Hazing? Decision Guide:

  • Are you being forced or pressured to do things you don’t want to do?
  • Would you do this if a university official or your family were watching?
  • Does this activity endanger your mental or physical health, or humiliate you?
  • Are you told to keep secrets or hide this from outsiders?
  • If you answered yes to any of these, it is likely hazing, regardless of what older members call it.

• Why “Consent” Isn’t the End of the Story: In Alabama, as in many states, courts recognize that “consent” given under duress or extreme peer pressure is not true consent. The law is designed to protect you from abuse, even if you felt compelled to participate.

• Exiting and Reporting Safely: If you are in immediate danger, call 911. You have the legal right to leave any organization at any time. You can report hazing anonymously to campus officials or the National Anti-Hazing Hotline at 1-888-NOT-HAZE.

• Good-Faith Reporting and Amnesty: Many university policies and state laws offer some form of amnesty or immunity for students who report hazing or call for medical help in an emergency, especially if alcohol/drugs are involved. Your safety is always the priority.

For Former Members / Witnesses: A Path to Accountability

If you were once involved in hazing but now want to come forward, know that your testimony can be critical in preventing future tragedies. We understand that speaking out can be difficult, but protecting current and future students is paramount. Your testimony and evidence can help bring justice and drive institutional change. We can advise you on your rights and help navigate your role, potentially as a witness or even seeking specific legal protection.

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Hazing Case

For families in Alabama dealing with hazing, acting quickly and strategically is paramount. Even well-intentioned actions can inadvertently harm a potential legal claim. Here are critical mistakes to avoid:

1. Letting Your Child Delete Messages or “Clean Up” Evidence:

   • Why it’s wrong: Deleting digital evidence, such as group chats on GroupMe, Snapchat, or Instagram, can be seen as obstruction and severely weaken, or even destroy, a hazing case. It makes it appear as if there’s something to hide.
   • What to do instead: Preserve and back up everything digitally, even embarrassing content. Use Attorney911’s video on documenting evidence with your cell phone (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs).

2. Confronting the Fraternity/Sorority Directly:

   • Why it’s wrong: A direct confrontation will cause the organization to immediately lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses, and prepare their defense, often before you’ve even sought legal counsel.
   • What to do instead: Document everything, then contact an experienced hazing lawyer before any confrontation.

3. Signing University “Release” or “Resolution” Forms:

   • Why it’s wrong: Universities often pressure families to sign waivers or “internal resolution” agreements that may waive your right to pursue a civil lawsuit, or settle for far less than your case is worth.
   • What to do instead: Do NOT sign anything from the university or an insurance company without an attorney reviewing it first.

4. Posting Details on Social Media Before Talking to a Lawyer:

   • Why it’s wrong: Anything posted online (“I want people to know what happened”) can be used by defense attorneys against your child. Inconsistencies can hurt credibility, and it could inadvertently waive legal protections.
   • What to do instead: Document privately. Your lawyer can advise on how and when to communicate information publicly, if at all.

5. Letting Your Child Go Back for “One Last Meeting”:

   • Why it’s wrong: Organizations will often try to lure a pledge back, sometimes under the guise of “clearing the air.” This is often a tactic to pressure, intimidate, or extract statements that hurt their case.
   • What to do instead: Once you’re considering legal action, all communication from the organization should be directed to your lawyer.

6. Waiting “to See How the University Handles It”:

   • Why it’s wrong: Universities have their own interests, which may not align with yours. Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, and the statute of limitations can run out.
   • What to do instead: Preserve evidence NOW and consult a lawyer immediately. The university’s internal process is separate from seeking real legal accountability.

7. Talking to Insurance Adjusters Without a Lawyer:

   • Why it’s wrong: Insurance adjusters, whether for the organization or the university, are trained to minimize payouts. Recorded statements can be used against you, and early settlement offers are almost always lowball.
   • What to do instead: Politely decline to talk directly to any adjusters and state, “My attorney will contact you.” Mr. Lupe Peña, our associate attorney, can provide insight from his background as an insurance defense attorney, where he learned exactly how large insurance companies value claims and defend cases.

Short FAQ

• “Can I sue a university for hazing in Alabama?”
  Yes, under certain circumstances. In Alabama, both public and private universities can potentially be held liable for hazing if they acted negligently, failed to enforce policies, or showed deliberate indifference to known hazing activity. Every case depends on specific facts—contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for case-specific analysis.

• “Is hazing a felony in Alabama?”
  Hazing can be a felony in Alabama, particularly if it results in serious bodily injury or death. This depends on the severity of the harm caused and the specific legal statute under which the charges are brought.

• “Can my child bring a case if they ‘agreed’ to the initiation rites?”
  Generally, yes. While laws vary, the legal principle that “consent is not a defense” is common in hazing statutes. Courts recognize that the power imbalance, peer pressure, and fear of exclusion inherent in hazing negate true voluntary consent.

• “How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?”
  The statute of limitations (the legal deadline to file a lawsuit) varies by state. In Alabama, for personal injury claims, this is typically two years from the date of injury. However, nuances such as the “discovery rule” (when the harm was reasonably discoverable) or if the victim was a minor, can affect this timeline. Time is critical—evidence disappears, witnesses forget, and organizations destroy records. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately. You can also watch our video explaining statutes of limitations: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c.

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

• “Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”
  Most hazing cases settle confidentially before trial. While we always prioritize a family’s privacy, you might have to choose between full anonymity and full public accountability. An experienced attorney can guide you through these difficult decisions.

About The Manginello Law Firm & Call to Action for Alabama Families

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. This is especially true when dealing with the national fraternities, universities, and corporations that operate in Alabama.

At The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, operating as Attorney911, we are Legal Emergency Lawyers™ based in Houston, Texas, with offices in Austin and Beaumont. We bring our deep experience in serious injury, wrongful death, and institutional accountability cases to families nationwide, including those in Alabama. We understand that the national organizations implicated in our active Texas litigation, such as the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity in the Leonel Bermudez case involving the University of Houston, affect students in Alabama as well. The very same fraternities, the same insurance companies, and the same cover-up tactics exist everywhere. We bring the same investigative rigor and strategic insight to every case, whether it originates in Texas or involves co-counseling with local Alabama attorneys.

Our unique qualifications are tailored to fighting hazing:

• Insurance Insider Advantage (Mr. Lupe Peña): Mr. Peña, our associate attorney, 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. He understands their delay tactics, coverage exclusion arguments, and settlement strategies—because he used to run that playbook. This insight is invaluable for maximizing compensation for hazing victims in Alabama.
• Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions (Ralph P. Manginello): Our managing partner, Ralph P. Manginello, has over 25 years of experience in complex litigation, including being one of the few Texas firms involved in the BP Texas City explosion litigation. This demonstrates our firm’s capability to take on billion-dollar corporations and win. We are not intimidated by national fraternities, universities, or their sophisticated defense teams. Our federal court experience means we are equipped for large-scale institutional battles.
• Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death and Catastrophic Injury Experience: We have a proven track record in complex wrongful death cases, working with economists and other experts to secure multi-million dollar settlements. We understand how to value lifetime care needs for catastrophic injuries, ensuring families in Alabama receive full compensation for the devastating impact of hazing. You can review some of our multi-million dollar recoveries at https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/.
• Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise: Ralph’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) provides unique insights into how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation. This dual capability is crucial when hazing incidents involve both criminal conduct and severe injuries.
• Investigative Depth: We deploy a network of experts, including medical specialists, digital forensics experts, and psychologists, to uncover hidden evidence. From obtaining deleted group chats and social media evidence to subpoenaing national fraternity records showing prior incidents, we investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does. Our video on using your cell phone to document a legal case (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs) provides essential guidance for families in Alabama.

We understand how fraternities, sororities, and university departments operate behind closed doors. We know what makes hazing cases different—the powerful institutional defendants, the insurance coverage fights, and the need to balance victim privacy with public accountability.

Call to Action for Alabama Families

If you or your child experienced hazing at any university, whether it’s the University of Alabama, Auburn, UAB, or any institution in Alabama or elsewhere, we want to hear from you. Families in Alabama and throughout the surrounding region have the right to answers and accountability.

Contact The Manginello Law Firm for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. We’ll listen to what happened, explain your legal options, and help you decide on the best path forward.

In your free consultation, you can expect us to:

• Listen to your story without judgment.
• Review any evidence you have (photos, texts, medical records).
• Explain your legal options, including criminal reporting, civil lawsuits, or both.
• Discuss realistic timelines and what to expect during the legal process.
• Answer your questions about costs – we work on a contingency fee basis (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc), meaning we don’t get paid unless we win.
• Ensure everything you share is confidential.

Whether you’re in Alabama or across the United States, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone.

Call Attorney911 today for immediate help and effective legal guidance:

• 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

Se Habla Español: Contact Mr. Lupe Peña directly at lupe@atty911.com for consultation in Spanish. Servicios legales en español disponibles.

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 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