In Calhoun County, if you face fraternity or sorority hazing issues, our University Hazing Injury & Wrongful Death Attorneys at Attorney911 — Legal Emergency Lawyers™ are ready. Our former insurance defense attorney understands fraternity insurance tactics, with federal court experience against national fraternities and universities. BP Explosion Litigation proves our fight against massive institutions. With HCCLA Criminal Defense + Civil Wrongful Death Expertise, and multi-million dollar proven results, we handle UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor hazing cases. We are evidence preservation specialists with 25+ years experience. Hablamos Español. Free consultation. Contingency fee: No Win, No Fee. Call 1-888-ATTY-911.

When a young person from Calhoun County heads off to a Texas university, families hope for a vibrant college experience, not a nightmare. Yet, across our state, the shadows of hazing continue to loom large. It’s a dark truth that many incoming students and their parents, even those living here in our coastal communities like Port Lavaca, Seadrift, or Point Comfort, may not fully grasp until it’s too late.

Imagine this scenario: your child, a promising freshman from Calhoun County, is eager to join a fraternity or sorority at a major Texas campus. They attend recruitment events, make new friends, and feel a sense of belonging. Then, “pledge season” begins. The calls come in the middle of the night, demanding their presence for “brotherhood events.” What starts as mild inconvenience escalates to sleep deprivation, forced calisthenics, relentless verbal abuse, and then, the drinking. A “Big/Little” event turns into a forced alcohol consumption ritual, where refusal means being “dropped” or ostracized. Your child, caught between the desire to belong and a creeping sense of dread, endures the abuse. They see others get sick, fall, or pass out, sometimes left without medical attention because everyone fears “getting the chapter shut down.” They’re sworn to secrecy, told “this is tradition” or “everyone goes through it.”

This isn’t a scene from a movie; it’s a lived reality for far too many students across Texas, from the bustling campuses of Houston and Austin to the traditional halls of College Station, the private universities in Dallas, and the vibrant community in Waco. And it’s a reality that can shatter a family in an instant.

We understand the confusion, fear, and desperation that can grip parents and students in these situations. At The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, operating as Attorney911, we have seen firsthand the devastating impact of hazing on young lives and their families. This comprehensive guide is designed for Calhoun County families and anyone across Texas who needs to understand the truth about modern hazing: what it looks like, the Texas and federal laws designed to stop it, the patterns of abuse at our state’s major universities, and what you can do to seek justice and accountability.

While this article provides general information, we stand ready to evaluate individual cases based on their specific facts. We serve families throughout Texas, including those here in Calhoun County, our neighboring counties like Victoria, Jackson, and Matagorda, and across the entire region.

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

For families in Calhoun County unfamiliar with modern Greek life or collegiate traditions, the term “hazing” might conjure images of minor pranks portrayed in movies. However, the reality of hazing in 2025 is far more insidious, dangerous, and psychologically damaging. It’s not about “boys being boys” or innocent fun; it’s about control, humiliation, and often, life-threatening abuse, masked by the pretense of “tradition” or “bonding.”

At its core, 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 definition broadens significantly beyond just physical violence. The notion of “consent” in hazing is often a cruel illusion, as peer pressure, the desire to belong, and fear of social exclusion often strip away a new member’s true ability to refuse.

The Manginello Law Firm recognizes that hazing takes many forms, evolving to evade detection and leveraging modern technology. We classify hazing into three escalating tiers, from subtle manipulation to violent and life-threatening acts:

Tier 1: Subtle Hazing
These are behaviors that emphasize a power imbalance between new and existing members. They may be dismissed as “harmless” but create psychological harm and pave the way for escalation.

• Deception and secrecy oaths: Pledges are often told to lie to parents, university officials, or outsiders about group activities.
• Derogatory names or identities: New members may be forced to respond to demeaning nicknames.
• Servitude for older members: This can include acting as a designated driver at all hours, cleaning rooms, doing laundry, or running errands for active members. The “pledges are on call 24/7” mentality is a common sign.
• Social isolation: New members might be cut off from contact with non-members or require permission to socialize outside the group.
• Deprivation of privileges: This can involve not being allowed to speak unless spoken to, or being barred from certain seating or entryways.
• Academic interference: Mandatory late-night meetings or tasks that interfere with study time, especially during exams.
• “Scavenger hunts” or “tasks”: Activities seemingly harmless but designed to humiliate or endanger, such as stealing items or performing public stunts.
• Modern Digital Evolutions:
  • Group chat monitoring and control: Pledges are often required to respond instantly to group messages at all hours, with failure leading to punishment.
  • Geo-tracking: Requiring pledges to share live location via apps like Find My Friends or Snapchat Maps.
  • Social media policing: Controlling what pledges can post or requiring them to “like” specific content.

Tier 2: Harassment Hazing
This tier involves behaviors that cause emotional or physical discomfort, often creating a hostile or abusive environment, though they may not cause lasting physical injury.

• Verbal abuse: Yelling, screaming, insults, degrading language, and threats.
• Sleep deprivation: Late-night “meetings,” tasks, or forced wake-up calls, sometimes over several days.
• Food and water restriction: Limiting meals, or forcing the consumption of unpleasant substances like spoiled food, hot sauce, or excessive amounts of bland items.
• Forced physical activity: “Smokings” or extreme calisthenics beyond safe limits, or forced runs, disguised as “conditioning.”
• Public humiliation: Forcing pledges to perform embarrassing acts in public, wear degrading costumes, or endure “grilling” sessions where they are verbally attacked.
• Exposure to uncomfortable conditions: Forcing pledges into filthy spaces or covering them in non-harmful but degrading substances like food, condiments, or eggs.
• Modern Digital Evolutions:
  • “Voluntary” coercion: Activities framed as optional, but with clear social consequences for refusal.
  • Digital humiliation: Forcing pledges to post embarrassing content on social media or create degrading online videos.
  • Livestreaming or recording: Filming degrading acts and sharing them in private group chats or social media.

Tier 3: Violent Hazing
These are activities with a high potential for physical injury, sexual assault, or death.

• Forced or coerced alcohol/drug consumption: “Lineup” drinking games, “Big/Little” reveal nights with handles of hard liquor, or “Bible study” games where wrong answers mean forced drinking to extreme levels.
• Physical beatings and paddling: Punches, kicks, slaps, use of paddles, or “branding” with burns or cuts.
• Dangerous physical “tests”: Blindfolded tackling rituals (“glass ceiling”), forced fights (“gladiator” matches), jumping from heights, or dangerous driving while intoxicated.
• Sexualized hazing: Forced nudity, simulated sexual acts, sexual assault, or forcing pledges to engage in sexually degrading acts.
• Racist/homophobic/sexist hazing: Use of slurs, role-playing stereotypes, or forcing minority members to perform degrading acts.
• Kidnapping/restraint: Transporting pledges blindfolded, tying them up, or physically restraining them.
• Extreme environmental exposure: Being locked in freezing rooms, left outside in extreme weather, or denied access to bathrooms.
• Modern Digital Evolutions:
  • “Retreat” hazing: Moving violent hazing to unsupervised off-campus locations, Airbnbs, or rural properties to avoid detection.
  • Disguised abuse: Framing extreme hazing as “team building” or “wellness” challenges.
  • Fire/burn hazing: As seen in the San Diego State Phi Kappa Psi case where a pledge was set on fire.
  • Chemical hazing: The Texas A&M SAE case where pledges suffered chemical burns from industrial cleaner.

Where Hazing Actually Happens

While fraternities and sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural) are frequently associated with hazing incidents, this dangerous practice is not confined to Greek life. Hazing permeates various student organizations across our Texas campuses and beyond, including:

• Corps of Cadets / ROTC / Military-style groups: These organizations often have deeply entrenched traditions that can cross the line into hazing.
• Spirit squads, tradition clubs: Groups like the Texas Cowboys (though now suspended at UT) have historical ties to hazing.
• Athletic teams: From football and basketball to cheerleading and swim teams, hazing for incoming athletes is a persistent problem.
• Marching bands and performance groups: These academic-adjacent groups can also foster climates where hazing thrives.
• Other organizations: Some service, cultural, and academic organizations, eager to foster loyalty and exclusivity, may also engage in hazing practices.

The insidious nature of social status, ingrained traditions, and deliberate secrecy allows these practices to persist, even when participants are aware that hazing is illegal and explicitly prohibited by universities. The desire to belong and the fear of ostracism can be powerful motivators for compliance in these environments.

LAW & LIABILITY FRAMEWORK (TEXAS + FEDERAL)

Understanding the legal landscape surrounding hazing in Texas is crucial for families in Calhoun County, our area students, and indeed, anyone impacted by these dangerous practices across the state. Texas law, combined with federal regulations, provides a framework for both criminal prosecution and civil recourse, offering avenues for justice and accountability.

Texas Hazing Law Basics (Education Code)

Texas has specific anti-hazing provisions outlined in the Texas Education Code, Chapter 37, Subchapter F. These laws broadly define and prohibit hazing, seeking to protect students from harmful initiation rituals.

Under Texas law (§37.151), hazing is defined as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, by one person alone or with others, 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.

This definition captures a wide range of harmful behaviors and contains several critical components:

• On or off campus: The location where hazing occurs does not negate its illegality. An event at a private off-campus house, an Airbnb, or a remote retreat is still subject to Texas anti-hazing laws.
• Mental or physical harm: Hazing is not limited to physical violence. Psychological abuse, severe humiliation, extreme sleep deprivation, or coercion that significantly impacts a student’s mental well-being also constitute hazing.
• Intent: The law covers intentional acts, but also those committed “knowingly” (aware that the act was occurring) or “recklessly” (aware of a substantial and unjustifiable risk of harm but disregarding it). Malicious intent to injure is not required for a hazing act to be illegal.
• Purpose: The act must be connected to joining, staying in, or gaining status within a student organization.

Crucially, consent is not a defense in Texas hazing law (§37.155). This means that even if a student verbally “agreed” to participate, the act can still be classified as hazing due to the inherent power imbalance and coercive nature of such rituals.

Criminal Penalties

Hazing is a crime in Texas, and the severity of the penalties can increase depending on the harm caused (§37.152):

• Class B Misdemeanor: The default charge for hazing, carrying potential penalties of up to 180 days in jail and a fine up to $2,000.
• Class A Misdemeanor: If the hazing causes bodily injury requiring medical attention.
• State Jail Felony: If the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. This can result in a state jail sentence of 180 days to 2 years and a fine up to $10,000.

Additionally, Texas law holds individuals accountable for failing to act:

• Failing to Report: An officer or member of a student organization who had firsthand knowledge of hazing and failed to report it can face misdemeanor charges.
• Retaliation: Retaliating against someone who reports hazing is also a misdemeanor.

Organizational Liability

Student organizations themselves can face criminal prosecution for hazing under Texas law (§37.153) if:

• The organization authorized or encouraged the hazing, OR
• An officer or member acting in an official capacity knew about the hazing and failed to report it.

Penalties for organizations can include fines up to $10,000 per violation, along with the university revoking its recognition and banning it from campus. This provision underscores that accountability extends beyond individual students to the entities that perpetuate such environments.

Immunity for Good-Faith Reporting

Texas law (§37.154) offers a crucial protection: a person who in good faith reports a hazing incident to university authorities or law enforcement is immune from civil or criminal liability that might otherwise result from the report. This provision, often coupled with university-specific medical amnesty policies, aims to encourage students to report hazing or call for help in emergencies without fear of individual repercussions.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases

It’s important for Calhoun County families to understand the distinct, yet often interconnected, paths that legal action can take in a hazing incident: criminal and civil.

• Criminal Cases: These are brought by the state (prosecutors) and aim to punish unlawful behavior. In hazing incidents, criminal charges can be brought against individual students, and sometimes the organization itself, for violating Texas anti-hazing laws, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, or even manslaughter in cases of severe injury or death. The standard of proof is “beyond a reasonable doubt,” and the outcome can include jail time, fines, and probation. Our firm, with Attorney Ralph Manginello’s extensive background in criminal defense, understands how to navigate the complexities when criminal allegations overlap with civil claims. You can learn more about our criminal defense practice at https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/.

• Civil Cases: These are brought by victims or their surviving families against individuals or entities responsible for the harm. The goal of a civil lawsuit is to obtain monetary compensation (damages) for losses suffered and to hold negligent parties accountable. The standard of proof is “preponderance of the evidence” (more likely than not), which is lower than in criminal cases. Civil claims can include:

  • Negligence and Gross Negligence: For failing to prevent foreseeable harm.
  • Wrongful Death: When hazing leads to a fatality. You can find more information on our wrongful death claim page at https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/.
  • Negligent Hiring/Supervision: Against universities or national organizations that failed to properly oversee staff or chapters.
  • Premises Liability: Against property owners where hazing occurred.
  • Assault and Battery: For physically violent acts.
  • Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress: For severe psychological harm.

Crucially, a criminal conviction is not required to pursue a civil case. Civil and criminal proceedings can run concurrently, and our firm is equipped to assist families in Calhoun County, and across Texas, in navigating both.

Federal Overlay: Stop Campus Hazing Act, Title IX, Clery

Beyond Texas state law, federal regulations also play a role in shaping accountability for hazing:

• Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This significant federal legislation mandates that colleges and universities receiving federal funding (which includes most major Texas institutions) enhance their hazing prevention and reporting efforts. By around 2026, institutions will be required to publish detailed hazing incident reports, similar to how they report other campus crimes. This transparency will provide Calhoun County families with crucial information about organizations’ histories.
• Title IX: If hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, or gender-based discrimination or hostility, Title IX (the federal law prohibiting sex-based discrimination in education) obligations are triggered. This can compel universities to investigate and take action to ensure a safe educational environment.
• Clery Act: The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act requires institutions to disclose campus crime statistics and security information. Many hazing incidents, particularly those involving assaults, alcohol or drug offenses, or even deaths, overlap with Clery-reportable crimes, contributing to the public record of campus safety.

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit

In a civil hazing lawsuit, determining who is responsible for the harm is a complex process. Our firm meticulously investigates to identify all potentially liable parties, which can include:

• Individual Students: Those who actively planned, participated in, or carried out the hazing acts, or who failed to intervene or seek help when harm was foreseeable.
• Local Chapter/Organization: If the fraternity, sorority, club, or team operates as a legal entity, it can be named as a defendant. This often includes the student officers or “pledge educators” who directly orchestrated the hazing.
• National Fraternity/Sorority: The national headquarters, which sets policies, provides resources, and oversees local chapters, can be held liable. Their liability often hinges on whether they had knowledge of prior hazing incidents (either at the local chapter or other chapters nationwide) and failed to take adequate action to prevent similar harm.
• University or Governing Board: While public universities in Texas (like UH, Texas A&M, UT) benefit from some sovereign immunity protections, exceptions exist. Universities can be sued for:
  • Gross Negligence: If their actions (or inactions) demonstrate an extreme disregard for student safety.
  • Title IX Violations: If hazing involves egregious sexual harassment or gender-based violence.
  • Failure to Supervise/Intervene: If they knew or should have known about a pattern of hazing and failed to stop it.
  • Private universities (SMU, Baylor) generally have fewer immunity protections.
• Third Parties: This can include landlords or property owners of houses or event venues where hazing occurred, or bars/alcohol providers under dram shop laws if they negligently served alcohol that contributed to the incident.

Every case is fact-specific, and not every party will be liable in every situation. Our role at The Manginello Law Firm is to conduct a thorough investigation to identify all responsible parties and pursue accountability on behalf of our clients in Calhoun County and across Texas.

NATIONAL HAZING CASE PATTERNS (ANCHOR STORIES)

The devastating consequences of hazing are not isolated incidents; they are part of a recurring pattern that has tragically claimed lives and caused catastrophic injuries across the United States. These national cases are not just headlines; they are critical precedents that shape hazing litigation and accountability, even for families in Calhoun County navigating similar situations in Texas courts. They demonstrate a clear foreseeability of harm that universities and national organizations cannot ignore.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

Forced alcohol consumption remains the most common and deadly form of hazing. Our firm has seen the tragic results of these “traditions” firsthand.

• Timothy Piazza – Penn State University, Beta Theta Pi (February 2017): Timothy Piazza, a 19-year-old pledge, died after a “bid acceptance” event involving extreme forced drinking. He suffered multiple falls, including down a flight of stairs, captured on fraternity security cameras. Fraternity brothers delayed calling 911 for nearly 12 hours, fearing repercussions for the chapter. His death led to one of the largest hazing prosecutions in U.S. history, with multiple fraternity members facing criminal charges, including involuntary manslaughter. For the Piazza family, their civil litigation against the fraternity and individuals resulted in confidential, but reportedly substantial, settlements. More importantly, it spurred the creation of the Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law in Pennsylvania, making hazing a felony when it causes serious injury or death, and significantly increasing reporting requirements. This case exemplifies how extreme intoxication, deliberate delays in seeking medical attention, and a pervasive culture of silence are a recipe for devastating legal consequences for all involved.
• Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (November 2017): Andrew Coffey, a 20-year-old pledge, died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” event. Pledges were given handles of hard liquor and pressured to consume them quickly. Multiple fraternity members were prosecuted, mostly pleading guilty to misdemeanor hazing. The incident prompted Florida State University to temporarily suspend all Greek life and led to a statewide anti-hazing movement in Florida. The Coffey family filed a wrongful death suit, reaching confidential settlement terms. This tragedy underscores how formulaic “tradition” drinking nights are a repeating script for disaster, demonstrating a clear pattern of negligence by national organizations if they fail to prevent such events.
• Maxwell “Max” Gruver – Louisiana State University, Phi Delta Theta (September 2017): Max Gruver, an 18-year-old pledge, died with a blood alcohol content of 0.495% after a brutal “Bible study” drinking game. Pledges were forced to drink whenever they answered questions incorrectly. His death spurred Louisiana to enact the Max Gruver Act, a felony hazing statute with serious penalties. While the family’s civil settlement details remain confidential, a jury in a related case awarded the family $6.1 million against an individual involved in the hazing. The Gruver case is a stark reminder that legislative change often follows public outrage and clear proof of hazing, impacting how civil liabilities are assessed.
• Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (March 2021): Stone Foltz, a 20-year-old pledge, died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to consume an entire bottle of whiskey during a “Big/Little” reveal night. Multiple fraternity members were convicted of hazing-related charges. In 2023, the Foltz family reached a $10 million settlement ($7 million from the national Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity and approximately $3 million from Bowling Green State University). This landmark case highlighted how universities, even public institutions, can face significant financial and reputational consequences for their role in tolerating or failing to prevent hazing, in addition to the liability of national fraternities. Daylen Dunson, the former Pi Kappa Alpha president, was personally ordered by a court to pay $6.5 million to the Foltz family for his role, showing individual officers can face massive personal liability.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Beyond alcohol, physical and ritualized hazing continues to cause severe injury and death, often cloaked in secrecy and tradition.

• Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College / Pi Delta Psi (December 2013): Michael Deng, an 18-year-old pledge, died from a traumatic brain injury suffered during a “glass ceiling” ritual at an off-campus retreat in the Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania. Blindfolded and weighted down, he was repeatedly tackled. Fraternity members delayed calling 911 for over two hours. This case was significant as the national fraternity was criminally convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter, and subsequently banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years. It demonstrated that off-campus “retreats” are often chosen precisely to hide hazing, and that national organizations are not immune from criminal liability.
• Danny Santulli – University of Missouri, Phi Gamma Delta (October 2021): Danny Santulli sustained severe, permanent brain damage after being forced to consume excessive alcohol during a “pledge dad reveal” night. He cannot walk, talk, or see, requiring 24/7 care. His family settled lawsuits with 22 defendants, including the fraternity, reportedly for multi-million dollar amounts. This case has become a national example of catastrophic non-fatal hazing injury, illustrating how devastating these events are even when they don’t result in death.

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Hazing extends beyond Greek life, infiltrating other powerful student organizations, including collegiate athletics.

• Northwestern University Football Scandal (2023–2025): Multiple former Northwestern football players alleged widespread sexualized and racist hazing within the program over many years. This included forced sexual acts, racial discrimination, and other degrading rituals. The scandal led to the firing of head coach Pat Fitzgerald, who later settled a wrongful-termination lawsuit confidentially with the university. Multiple players filed civil lawsuits against Northwestern and its coaching staff. This case highlighted that hazing is not limited to Greek life, deeply entrenched tradition and power dynamics can enable systemic abuse within major athletic programs, and that institutional oversight often fails.

What These Cases Mean for Texas Families

These national tragedies share common, chilling threads: forced consumption of alcohol or drugs, physical abuse, psychological torture, intentional humiliation, deliberate delays in seeking medical care, and concerted efforts to cover up the truth. For families in Calhoun County, and across Texas, these cases are not distant legal precedents; they are warnings and blueprints. They demonstrate:

• Predictability of Harm: The patterns of hazing are well-established. National organizations and universities often have prior knowledge of similar incidents, making new occurrences “foreseeable” and strengthening arguments for negligence.
• The Power of Litigation: Multi-million dollar settlements and significant legislative reforms often only follow after determined civil litigation brings these dark practices into the light and forces accountability from powerful institutions. This is the path to ensuring justice for victims and preventing future harm.
• Calhoun County families sending their children to Texas universities are operating in a landscape shaped by these national lessons. When hazing occurs at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, or Baylor, it does not happen in a vacuum, and the legal strategies employed by our firm are informed by these hard-won national victories.

TEXAS FOCUS: UH, TEXAS A&M, UT, SMU, BAYLOR

For families in Calhoun County and surrounding areas, including communities like Friendswood, League City, and Victoria, where many students decide to attend college, understanding the specific hazing landscape at Texas’s major universities is crucial. While we are based in Houston and serve clients statewide, our proximity to Houston provides unique insights into the University of Houston, and we regularly represent families whose children attend the major institutions across Texas. Each university has its own culture, policies, and history of addressing hazing.

Our firm is committed to helping families from Calhoun County navigate the specific procedures and challenges presented by each of these institutions.

University of Houston (UH)

The University of Houston, a vibrant urban campus, is a significant draw for students from across Texas, including from Calhoun County due to its accessibility. It boasts a diverse student body and a robust Greek life, alongside numerous other student organizations.

Campus & Culture Snapshot

UH has a dynamic blend of commuter and residential students. Its Greek life, encompassing Houston Panhellenic Council (HPC), Interfraternity Council (IFC), Multicultural Greek Council (MGC), United Greek Council (UGC), and National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) chapters, is an active part of campus social life. This includes nationally recognized fraternities like Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ), Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ), Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ), and Sigma Chi (ΣΧ), and NPHC groups like Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. (ΑΚΑ) and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. (ΩΨΦ). Beyond Greek organizations, UH has a wide array of student groups, cultural associations, and athletic clubs that can also be contexts for hazing.

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

UH maintains a clear stance against hazing, defining it broadly whether on-campus or off-campus. Its policies prohibit forced consumption of alcohol, food, or drugs, sleep deprivation, physical mistreatment, and acts causing mental distress as part of initiation or membership. UH provides reporting channels through the Dean of Students office, the Office of Student Conduct, and the University of Houston Police Department (UHPD). The university also posts certain disciplinary information and a statement on hazing on its website, aiming for transparency.

Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

UH has a history of responding to hazing allegations. A notable incident involved Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) in 2016, where pledges allegedly experienced deprivation of food, water, and sleep during multi-day events, culminating in one student suffering a lacerated spleen after being slammed onto a table. The chapter faced misdemeanor hazing charges and was suspended by the university. While UH’s publicly available disciplinary records may not be as extensive as some other institutions, numerous chapters, including Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) and Delta Upsilon (ΔΥ), have faced suspensions or probation for behaviors defined as “likely to produce mental or physical discomfort,” including alcohol misuse and policy violations. This ongoing disciplinary action highlights UH’s challenges in fully eradicating hazing despite its policies.

How a UH Hazing Case Might Proceed

For a hazing incident at UH, legal proceedings might involve various agencies. Depending on the location of the incident (on-campus or off-campus in the greater Houston area), both the UH Police Department and the Houston Police Department could be involved in criminal investigations. Civil lawsuits would likely be filed in the appropriate courts with jurisdiction over Houston and Harris County, where our firm is based. Potential defendants could include the individual students involved, the local chapter itself, the national fraternity or sorority, and potentially the University of Houston and any involved property owners. Our firm’s deep roots and experience in Houston are invaluable in navigating these local legal systems.

What UH Students & Parents Should Do

For families in Calhoun County whose children attend or plan to attend UH, proactive steps are vital:

• Familiarize yourself with UH’s hazing policies and reporting mechanisms, including the Dean of Students and UHPD.
• Document any suspicious activity with screenshots of group chats, photos, and detailed notes of incidents.
• If hazing is suspected, contact a lawyer experienced in Houston-based hazing cases like Attorney911. Our deep understanding of the local landscape and ability to uncover prior disciplinary actions can be crucial.
• Encourage open communication with your child, reassuring them that their safety and well-being are paramount, not loyalty to a group.

Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University draws students from entirely different contexts, including a strong Contingent from rural and coastal Texas counties like Calhoun County. It is known for its deep-seated traditions, particularly within the Corps of Cadets, and a large, active Greek life system.

Campus & Culture Snapshot

Texas A&M is renowned for its traditions, including the Aggie Code of Honor and the Corps of Cadets, which has a proud military-style heritage. Its Greek system is extensive, including College Panhellenic Council (CPC) sororities like Chi Omega (ΧΩ) and Kappa Kappa Gamma (ΚΚΓ), and Interfraternity Council (IFC) fraternities such as Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ), Kappa Alpha Order (ΚΑ), and Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ). The university also supports large Multicultural Greek Council (MGC) and National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) chapters. While traditions are highly valued, some have historically created environments susceptible to hazing.

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Texas A&M unequivocally prohibits hazing, outlining its definition and consequences in its student rules. The university emphasizes reporting through official channels like the Dean of Student Life, Student Conduct Office, and the Texas A&M University Police Department (TAMUPD). Texas A&M’s strong emphasis on tradition makes it a unique environment where the line between “character-building” and hazing can become blurred, often intentionally by those perpetuating the abuse.

Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Texas A&M has faced significant hazing allegations:

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) Lawsuit (around 2021): This severe incident involved two pledges who alleged being forced through strenuous activity and covered with substances, including an industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit. This led to severe chemical burns requiring multiple skin graft surgeries. The pledges sued the fraternity for $1 million, resulting in the chapter’s university suspension for two years. This case tragically demonstrates the dangerous extremes hazing can reach.
• Corps of Cadets Lawsuit (2023): A former cadet filed a lawsuit alleging degrading hazing, including being forced into sexually suggestive acts and bound in a “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth. The cadet sought over $1 million, asserting that the university failed to protect him. This incident highlights that hazing is not exclusive to Greek life but can be deeply embedded in other revered campus organizations.
• Kappa Sigma (ΚΣ) (2023, ongoing): There have been allegations of hazing resulting in severe injuries, including rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown from extreme physical hazing). This has led to ongoing litigation that focuses on this specific and dangerous injury.

How a Texas A&M Hazing Case Might Proceed

Legal cases stemming from Texas A&M hazing incidents typically involve the TAMU Police Department for criminal investigations and civil lawsuits filed in Brazos County or other relevant Texas courts. Given the university’s public status, sovereign immunity can be a factor, though exceptions for gross negligence or Title IX violations may apply. Cases involving the Corps of Cadets can be particularly complex due to its unique structure and traditions, often requiring an understanding of both university and Corps-specific regulations.

What Texas A&M Students & Parents Should Do

For Calhoun County families with ties to Texas A&M, considering its powerful traditions, it’s vital to:

• Understand the specific hazing issues that have emerged from both Greek life and the Corps of Cadets.
• Be proactive about reporting concerns to the Dean of Student Life or TAMUPD.
• Recognize that “tradition” should never justify physical or psychological abuse.
• Seek legal counsel from a firm experienced in addressing hazing at large public universities. Attorney911 understands the nuances of A&M’s unique environment.

University of Texas at Austin (UT)

The University of Texas at Austin is the state’s flagship public university, attracting students from every corner of Texas, including Calhoun County. Its large, energetic student body and prominent Greek life consistently face scrutiny regarding hazing.

Campus & Culture Snapshot

UT Austin is one of the nation’s largest universities, noted for its academic rigor, spirited traditions, and a vibrant social scene. Its Greek life is extensive, with dozens of active chapters across Panhellenic, Interfraternity, Multicultural, and National Pan-Hellenic Councils, including major organizations like Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ), Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ), Kappa Sigma (ΚΣ), and Alpha Phi (ΑΦ). Beyond Greek organizations, UT also has numerous spirit groups (like the now-suspended Texas Cowboys) and student leadership organizations that have faced hazing allegations.

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

UT Austin prohibits hazing in any form, on or off campus, outlining its zero-tolerance policy in its General Information Catalog and Student Conduct Code. The university maintains one of the most transparent reporting systems in the state, publishing a comprehensive Hazing Violations page on its website (hazing.utexas.edu). This public log details organizations involved, dates, specific conduct, and disciplinary sanctions, serving as a critical resource for families. Reporting channels include the Dean of Students, Student Conduct and Academic Integrity, Title IX Office, and the University of Texas Police Department (UTPD).

Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

UT’s Hazing Violations page is a somber testament to the ongoing struggles with hazing:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) (2023): The chapter was sanctioned after new members were directed to consume milk and engage in strenuous calisthenics, actions found to constitute hazing. This resulted in the chapter being placed on probation and mandated to implement new hazing-prevention education.
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) (January 2024): This chapter faced a lawsuit from an Australian exchange student who alleged severe assault at a party, resulting in extreme injuries including a dislocated leg, fractured tibia, and broken nose. The chapter was already under university suspension for prior hazing and safety violations, demonstrating a pattern of disregard for rules.
• Numerous other groups, including Texas Wranglers, Sigma Chi (ΣΧ), and other fraternal organizations, have faced disciplinary action for issues ranging from forced workouts and alcohol-related hazing to degrading practices and violations of university policy.

These consistent entries on UT’s official log highlight the university’s ongoing challenge to stamp out hazing, despite its transparency in publishing violations.

How a UT Austin Hazing Case Might Proceed

For hazing incidents at UT Austin, investigations may involve the UTPD and/or the Austin Police Department, depending on the incident’s location. Civil lawsuits would typically be filed in Travis County courts. UT Austin’s status as a public university means sovereign immunity can be relevant, but its prior public record of hazing violations at hazing.utexas.edu provides a powerful foundation for demonstrating patterns of negligence. This kind of transparency can significantly bolster a plaintiff’s case by illustrating the university’s knowledge of ongoing issues with certain organizations.

What UT Austin Students & Parents Should Do

Calhoun County families with students at UT Austin should:

• Regularly check the university’s public Hazing Violations page (hazing.utexas.edu) to understand the history of organizations.
• Recognize that “tradition” at UT, if it involves any coercion or harm, is hazing and illegal.
• Document everything with meticulous detail, knowing that UT’s transparency can sometimes work in favor of demonstrating patterns.
• Given the significant power of this state institution, contacting an experienced hazing attorney immediately is crucial to navigate its complex legal landscape and utilize available public records effectively.

Southern Methodist University (SMU)

Southern Methodist University, a private institution in Dallas, is known for its strong Greek presence and draws students from affluent backgrounds, including from communities across Texas.

Campus & Culture Snapshot

SMU combines a rigorous academic environment with a reputation for a vibrant social scene, heavily influenced by its active Panhellenic and Interfraternity Councils. Key fraternities include Kappa Alpha Order (ΚΑ), Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ), Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ), and Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ), while sororities like Kappa Alpha Theta (ΚΑΘ) and Delta Delta Delta (ΔΔΔ) are prominent. SMU also recognizes NPHC and Multicultural Greek Council chapters. The private nature of the university, combined with its social dynamic, can create a unique context for hazing culture.

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

SMU strictly prohibits hazing and outlines its zero-tolerance policy in its Student Code of Conduct. The university provides various reporting options, including the Dean of Students, Student Conduct & Community Standards, and campus police. SMU also utilizes platforms such as Real Response, an anonymous reporting system, to encourage students to come forward with concerns.

Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

SMU has not been immune to hazing incidents:

• Kappa Alpha Order (ΚΑ) (2017): The national fraternity suspended its SMU chapter after allegations of hazing violations including paddling, forced excessive alcohol consumption, and sleep deprivation. The university placed the chapter under significant restrictions and ultimately suspended its recruiting efforts for a period. This incident highlighted the deep institutional patterns of abuse that sometimes plague even prominent fraternities.
• Other SMU fraternities, including Beta Theta Pi (ΒΘΠ) and Sigma Chi (ΣΧ), have also faced university sanctions and suspensions in recent years for various behavioral misconducts that include elements of hazing.

While SMU’s public reporting of disciplinary actions may not be as detailed or centralized as a public university like UT Austin, these incidents show that hazing remains a persistent concern.

How an SMU Hazing Case Might Proceed

For hazing incidents at SMU, criminal investigations would typically involve the SMU Police Department and/or the Dallas Police Department. Civil lawsuits against SMU, its fraternities, or individuals would be litigated in Dallas County courts. As a private institution, SMU generally does not have the same sovereign immunity protections as public universities, which can simplify some aspects of civil litigation. However, private institutions often vigorously defend against claims, requiring a thorough legal strategy. Civil suits can also compel significant discovery, allowing our firm to uncover internal university and fraternity records that might not otherwise be publicly disclosed.

What SMU Students & Parents Should Do

For Calhoun County families with children at SMU:

• Understand that SMU, despite its private status, is still obligated to maintain a safe environment and actively address hazing.
• Utilize SMU’s anonymous reporting systems if direct reporting is intimidating.
• Document any incidents meticulously, recognizing that transparency of records may differ from public institutions.
• Due to the private nature and generally higher profile of SMU’s Greek organizations, engaging an experienced hazing attorney with a strong background in complex litigation, like Attorney911, can be essential for effective investigation and legal action.

Baylor University

Baylor University, a private Baptist university in Waco, holds a unique place in Texas higher education. While known for its strong Christian identity, it has also faced significant scrutiny over student misconduct, particularly in the context of athletics and Title IX.

Campus & Culture Snapshot

Baylor’s environment is shaped deeply by its religious affiliation, fostering a strong community atmosphere. Its Greek life includes Panhellenic sororities like Alpha Chi Omega (ΑΧΩ) and Kappa Alpha Theta (ΚΑΘ), and IFC fraternities such as Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ) and Sigma Chi (ΣΧ). Baylor also has active NPHC and Multicultural Greek organizations. The university’s strong moral code and disciplinary framework are often contrasted with recurring instances of student misconduct, creating complex oversight challenges.

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Baylor maintains a strict anti-hazing policy, emphasizing its commitment to student safety and dignity. The university’s policies prohibit any form of hazing, aligning with its Christian mission. Reporting channels include the Department of Student Conduct, the Title IX Office, and the Baylor Police Department. Baylor also provides resources and educational programs aimed at preventing hazing and fostering a healthy campus culture.

Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Baylor’s history includes hazing incidents that have led to disciplinary action:

• Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020): Following a university investigation into hazing allegations, 14 Baylor baseball players were suspended. The suspensions were staggered to minimize the impact on the team’s season, which underscored the tension between maintaining institutional reputation and delivering meaningful punishment. This incident highlighted that hazing issues at Baylor are not isolated to Greek life but can extend to its prominent athletic programs.
• Other Baylor Greek organizations, including Delta Tau Delta (ΔΤΔ) and Kappa Sigma (ΚΣ), have been placed on probation or had their activities suspended for violating university policy related to misconduct and hazing.

These incidents, while distinct from the highly publicized Title IX scandal that rocked Baylor, demonstrate an ongoing pattern of misconduct that demands rigorous oversight and accountability.

How a Baylor Hazing Case Might Proceed

For hazing incidents at Baylor, criminal investigations would typically involve the Baylor Police Department and/or the Waco Police Department. Civil lawsuits would be litigated in McLennan County courts. As a private university, Baylor does not benefit from sovereign immunity. However, its significant financial resources mean it often mounts a vigorous defense. Cases at Baylor can also involve unique cultural dynamics, where victims may be reluctant to come forward due to fear of social repercussions within a tight-knit campus community, or religious implications.

What Baylor Students & Parents Should Do

For Calhoun County families with children attending Baylor:

• Be aware of Baylor’s specific policies and its history of handling student conduct issues, particularly in the context of its strong traditions and religious identity.
• Recognize that “zero tolerance” policies must be matched with active enforcement and support for victims.
• Document any incidents meticulously, and understand that spiritual or moral pressure should never be a reason to endure hazing.
• Pursuing a case against a large private institution like Baylor requires a law firm with not only legal acumen but also the strategic insight to navigate the university’s specific challenges and defense tactics.

FRATERNITIES & SORORITIES: CAMPUS-SPECIFIC + NATIONAL HISTORIES

For Calhoun County families, understanding the role of national fraternity and sorority organizations is critical when evaluating hazing incidents at a Texas university. Many chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor are not merely local clubs; they are interconnected branches of national entities with standardized policies, risk management guidelines, and — unfortunately — often a long history of hazing scandals across the country.

Why National Histories Matter

The reality is that many fraternities and sororities, including those with chapters here in Texas like Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike), Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE), Phi Delta Theta, Pi Kappa Phi, and Kappa Alpha Order, operate under national headquarters. These national organizations typically have comprehensive anti-hazing manuals and robust risk policies. They develop these policies not out of altruism, but because they have faced repeated tragedies, multi-million dollar lawsuits, and public outrage stemming from hazing deaths and catastrophic injuries at their chapters nationwide.

This extensive history means that national HQs know the patterns: the “Big/Little” drinking nights, the paddling traditions, the humiliating rituals. They understand that these are not isolated events but rather recurring scripts within their organizations. Therefore, when a Texas chapter repeats the same dangerous behaviors that led to injuries, deaths, or legal action at another chapter in a different state, it creates a powerful argument for foreseeability. It demonstrates that the national organization had prior knowledge of the risk and, arguably, failed to implement adequate measures or enforce its policies to prevent similar tragedies. This foreseeability can be a crucial factor in establishing negligence and supporting arguments for punitive damages against national entities in civil litigation.

Organization Mapping (Synthesized)

Below we highlight some of the major fraternities and sororities with chapters at the Texas universities discussed, noting their national hazing histories. This is not an exhaustive list, but it illustrates how common these issues are.

• Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / Pike): Active at UH, Texas A&M, UT, and Baylor.
  • National History: Pi Kappa Alpha has a particularly troubling national record. The tragic Stone Foltz death at Bowling Green State University in 2021 (a $10 million settlement with the family) and the David Bogenberger death at Northern Illinois University in 2012 (a $14 million settlement) both involved “Big/Little” alcohol hazing rituals. These incidents demonstrate a clear, devastating pattern within Pike’s chapters across the country.
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / SAE): Active at UH, Texas A&M, UT, and SMU.
  • National History: SAE has long been associated with severe hazing. Between 2005 and 2017, SAE was linked to multiple hazing-related deaths, many involving alcohol poisoning. In response to this pattern, SAE controversially eliminated their traditional pledge process in 2014, although hazing concerns persist. Recent lawsuits include a tragic traumatic brain injury case at the University of Alabama (filed 2023) and, as previously mentioned, allegations of pledges suffering chemical burns at Texas A&M (2021) and a severe assault case at UT Austin (2024).
• Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ): Active at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor.
  • National History: This fraternity was at the center of the Max Gruver death at Louisiana State University in 2017, where pledges were forced to drink heavily during a “Bible study” game. The Max Gruver Act, a felony hazing law, was named in his honor. This case highlights how “games” involving alcohol can quickly turn fatal.
• Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ): Active at UH, Texas A&M, and UT.
  • National History: Pi Kappa Phi was involved in the death of Andrew Coffey at Florida State University in 2017, who died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” event. This incident led to significant university suspensions and a statewide anti-hazing movement in Florida.
• Kappa Alpha Order (ΚΑ): Active at Texas A&M and SMU.
  • National History: Kappa Alpha Order has faced numerous hazing accusations and sanctions across the country, often involving physical abuse and forced consumption. The SMU chapter itself was previously suspended following allegations of paddling, forced drinking, and sleep deprivation (2017).
• Sigma Chi (ΣΧ): Active at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor.
  • National History: Sigma Chi has a history of hazing incidents, including a significant case at the College of Charleston in 2024 where a family received more than $10 million in damages for physical beatings, forced drug/alcohol consumption, and psychological torment. Another incident at the University of Texas at Arlington in 2020 resulted in a pledge being hospitalized with alcohol poisoning, leading to a settlement in 2021.
• Kappa Sigma (ΚΣ): Active at UH, Texas A&M, and UT.
  • National History: Kappa Sigma was involved in the Chad Meredith drowning death at the University of Miami in 2001, where an 18-year-old freshman with a 0.13 BAC drowned after being coaxed into swimming across a lake. A jury awarded Meredith’s parents a $12.6 million verdict. This contributed to Florida criminalizing hazing. More recently, allegations of hazing at Texas A&M in 2023 involving rhabdomyolysis show the continued prevalence of dangerous practices.
• Beta Theta Pi (ΒΘΠ): Active at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor.
  • National History: Beta Theta Pi was central to the catastrophic Timothy Piazza death at Penn State in 2017. This incident, involving extreme alcohol consumption and a significant delay in medical care, resulted in numerous criminal charges against members and the complete overhaul of Pennsylvania’s anti-hazing laws.
• Alpha Tau Omega (ΑΤΩ): Active at Texas A&M.
  • National History: Alpha Tau Omega was involved in the Terry Stirling death at Old Dominion University in 2006, where Stirling choked on vomit after a “big brother/little brother” night of excessive alcohol consumption. The family filed a $5.35 million lawsuit, settling for a confidential amount.

Tie Back to Legal Strategy

The extensive national histories of these organizations are not mere coincidences; they are crucial components in building a strong legal case for Calhoun County families. These patterns demonstrate:

• Prior Warnings: Many national organizations have received repeated warnings about specific hazing behaviors that lead to injury or death. When a Texas chapter perpetuates these known risks, it shows a disregard for student safety.
• Foreseeability: A national organization cannot plausibly claim ignorance or that a particular type of hazing (e.g., forced alcohol, physical abuse) was “unforeseeable” if it has occurred multiple times in other chapters. This strengthens arguments that they were negligent in supervising or training their chapters.
• Meaningful Enforcement: A paper policy against hazing means little if it’s not genuinely enforced. Our firm investigates whether national organizations truly responded to prior incidents with aggressive action, or if they allowed a culture of hazing to persist through minimal penalties or turning a blind eye.

This comprehensive understanding of national trends impacts:

• Settlement Leverage: Demonstrating a pattern of negligence or gross negligence can significantly increase the value of a hazing claim during settlement negotiations.
• Insurance Coverage Disputes: Our firm, leveraging Attorney Lupe Peña’s insider knowledge of insurance defense, can more effectively counter arguments that policies exclude “intentional acts” when the national organization’s negligence was in failing to prevent foreseeable patterns of harm.
• Potential for Punitive Damages: In egregious cases, where a national organization showed a reckless disregard for student safety despite repeated warnings, the potential for punitive damages (intended to punish and deter) becomes a powerful tool in seeking accountability, depending on the jurisdiction and specific claims.

BUILDING A CASE: EVIDENCE, DAMAGES, STRATEGY

Building a compelling hazing case requires meticulous investigation, a deep understanding of legal strategy, and relentless advocacy. For Calhoun County families, facing powerful institutions like national fraternities and major universities, the process can feel overwhelming. However, with the right legal team, it is possible to secure justice and accountability. Our firm approaches each case with the same investigative rigor employed in complex litigation, understanding that every piece of evidence matters.

Evidence

In today’s digital age, evidence in hazing cases is more abundant than ever, but it can also disappear quickly. Our firm employs systematic methods to secure and analyze all available evidence:

• Digital Communications: This is often the most critical category of evidence. Group chat messages, such as those from GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Slack, and even fraternity-specific apps, can reveal planning, intent, coercion, the identities of those involved, and discussions before, during, and after hazing events. We know how to preserve these, even when members try to delete them, and utilize digital forensics experts when necessary to recover deleted messages, crucial in the immediate hours and days following an incident.
• Photos & Videos: Content filmed by members themselves during hazing events, often shared in group chats or on private social media, can be damning. We also look for security camera footage or doorbell camera (e.g., Ring) recordings from fraternity houses or event venues. Moreover, photographic evidence of injuries, taken at multiple angles over several days, is vital for documenting physical harm. Our video on using your cellphone to document a legal case at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs provides families with practical guidance on capturing crucial evidence.
• Internal Organization Documents: These can include pledge manuals, initiation scripts, “tradition” lists, emails or texts from officers giving instructions, and national anti-hazing policies and training materials. These documents are often obtained through a formal discovery process during litigation.
• University Records: We subpoena university records, including prior conduct files, records of probation or suspension for the involved organization, incident reports filed with campus police or student conduct offices, and Clery Act disclosures. For campuses like UT Austin, public hazing violation logs (hazing.utexas.edu) provide essential pattern evidence.
• Medical and Psychological Records: These document the extent of physical and emotional harm. Medical records from emergency rooms, hospitals, and follow-up care (including lab results, toxicology reports, imaging like X-rays or MRIs) are crucial. Psychological evaluations diagnosing PTSD, depression, anxiety, or suicidal ideation are vital for documenting the profound mental and emotional toll of hazing. Our firm works with medical professionals and expert psychologists to fully assess and document these damages.
• Witness Testimony: Eyewitnesses, including other pledges, current or former members, roommates, resident advisors (RAs), coaches, and bystanders, can provide crucial accounts. Even those initially reluctant to speak may come forward with proper legal guidance and assurances.

Damages

When a Calhoun County family entrusts us with a hazing case, we meticulously calculate the full scope of damages their child and family have suffered. Our goal is to ensure comprehensive compensation for not only immediate losses but also long-term impacts. You can also review our educational YouTube videos such as “What Is Fair Compensation for Pain and Suffering?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LG07vbB4cdU and “How Much Is My Personal Injury Case Worth?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=onBzdkIWadY to understand more about how we assess damages.

• Economic Damages: These are quantifiable financial losses:

  • Medical Expenses: Past and future costs for emergency care, hospitalization, surgeries, physical therapy, medications, and ongoing psychiatric care for trauma. For catastrophic injuries, we work with life care planners to project lifetime medical needs.
  • Lost Earnings & Educational Impact: Compensation for missed work (by the victim or a parent acting as caregiver), lost tuition/fees, lost scholarships, delayed graduation, and reductions in future earning capacity if injuries lead to permanent disability or hinder career progression.
  • Other Economic Losses: Costs for property damage sustained during hazing, or even relocation costs if the victim needs to transfer schools due to trauma.

• Non-Economic Damages: These address subjective, but legally compensable, losses:

  • Physical Pain & Suffering: For the immediate and ongoing pain caused by injuries.
  • Emotional Distress & Psychological Harm: This includes diagnosed conditions like PTSD, depression, and anxiety, as well as the profound humiliation, shame, loss of dignity, fear, and impact on overall well-being. Evidence from therapists and psychologists is crucial here.
  • Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Compensation for the inability to participate in activities once loved, social withdrawal, and the overall disruption of the college experience.

• Wrongful Death Damages (for families): In the most tragic cases, when hazing leads to a fatality, surviving family members – parents, children, and spouses – can seek:

  • Economic Losses: Funeral and burial costs, and the loss of financial support the deceased would have provided.
  • Non-Economic Losses: The profound grief, mental anguish, loss of companionship, love, and society of the deceased. We have extensive experience in wrongful death cases, recovering millions for families in catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases. You can learn more about this at https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/.

• Punitive Damages: In Texas, punitive damages are available in cases of gross negligence or intentional misconduct, and are designed to punish defendants for egregious behavior and deter similar acts in the future. These are often sought when organizations have a history of ignoring warnings, covering up incidents, or demonstrating a reckless disregard for student safety.

Role of Different Defendants and Insurance Coverage

Understanding how different defendants interact with their insurance coverage is a specialized area where our firm’s experience, particularly Attorney Lupe Peña’s background as a former insurance defense attorney, offers a distinct advantage. National fraternities, universities, and individual students typically carry various insurance policies (commercial general liability, directors & officers, homeowners, umbrella policies).

Insurers often try to argue that hazing or other “intentional” or “criminal” acts are excluded from coverage. However, our firm knows how to:

• Identify all potential coverage sources: We look beyond the obvious policies to find every available avenue for recovery.
• Distinguish intentional actions from negligent supervision: Even if hazing was intentional, a national organization or university’s failure to supervise or prevent foreseeable harm can be argued as negligence, which is typically covered.
• Navigate exclusions and policy language: We challenge interpretations of exclusions and push for coverage where it should exist.
• Force insurers to defend: Leveraging our knowledge of insurance tactics, we compel insurers to uphold their duty to defend their policyholders, which can be critical for securing settlements.

This strategic approach to insurance coverage is vital, as it directly impacts the ability to secure meaningful compensation for our clients in Calhoun County and throughout Texas.

PRACTICAL GUIDES & FAQS

Navigating the aftermath of a hazing incident can feel overwhelming for students, parents, and even witnesses. The fear of reprisal, confusion about reporting, and the sheer emotional toll can be paralyzing. At The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, we believe in empowering families with clear, actionable guidance.

For Parents

As a parent in Calhoun County, your instincts are to protect your child. But hazing often unfolds outside your direct view, making it challenging to identify and address.

Warning Signs of Hazing

Pay close attention to these indicators, which may signal your child is being hazed:

• Physical Signs: Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts, or injuries (especially if explanations don’t add up); extreme fatigue or sleep deprivation; noticeable weight loss or gain; signs of alcohol poisoning or unusual drug use.
• Behavioral & Emotional Changes: Sudden secrecy about organizational activities (“I can’t talk about it”); withdrawal from family or old friends; personality changes like anxiety, depression, irritability, or anger; defensiveness when asked about the group; fear of “getting in trouble” or “letting the chapter down”; constant phone use for group chats; anxiety when their phone receives notifications.
• Academic Changes: Sudden drop in grades; missing classes; falling asleep during lectures due to exhaustion.
• Financial Red Flags: Unexpected large expenses, being pressured to buy gifts or alcohol for older members, “fines” or dues that seem exorbitant.

How to Talk to Your Child

Approach conversations with empathy and without judgment. Emphasize that their safety and well-being are your top priority, not their membership status or conforming to a group.

• “How are things going with your group? Are you truly enjoying it?”
• “Have they been respectful of your time for classes and sleep?”
• “What kinds of activities are they asking you to do as a new member?”
• “Is there anything that makes you uncomfortable, or that you wish you didn’t have to do?”
• “Do you feel like you can leave if you want to, or would there be negative consequences?”

If your child opens up, listen carefully without interrupting. If they shut down, don’t force it, but continue to monitor for warning signs and be ready to intervene.

If Your Child is Hurt

• Immediate Medical Care: If your child is injured, intoxicated, or experiencing severe distress, call 911 immediately. Prioritize their health and safety above all else. Texas law often provides reporter protections for medical emergencies.
• Document Everything: Write down what your child tells you, including dates, times, and who was involved. Take photos of any injuries, and save any relevant texts, group chat messages (screenshot them!), or physical items.
• Engage with the University: Every communication with university administrators should be carefully documented. Ask specific questions about prior incidents involving the same organization and the university’s response.
• Contact a Lawyer: If there is significant physical or psychological harm, or if you feel the university or organization is minimizing what happened, contact an experienced hazing attorney immediately. Our firm can help preserve evidence and ensure your child’s rights are protected.

For Students / Pledges

For students in Calhoun County, or anywhere in Texas, who are currently experiencing hazing, we want you to know: you are not alone, and you have rights.

Is This Hazing or Just Tradition? Decision Guide

Ask yourself these critical questions:

• Are you being forced or pressured to do something you don’t want to do?
• Would you do this if you had a genuine choice, without fear of social consequences or being “cut” from the group?
• Is this activity dangerous, degrading, humiliating, or illegal?
• Would your university or parents approve if they knew exactly what was happening? Is it being hidden?
• Are older members making new members do things they don’t have to do themselves?
• Are you being asked to keep secrets, lie, or hide these activities from outsiders?

If you answered YES to any of these questions, it is highly likely that you are being hazed. It’s not “just tradition” if it endangers your health, safety, or dignity.

Exiting and Reporting Safely

• Immediate Danger: If you are in immediate physical danger, call 911 or campus police. Your safety comes first.
• You Have the Right to Leave: You can leave any organization at any time. You do not need their permission. Notify a trusted adult (parent, RA, academic advisor) before you send a formal message to the organization. Send a concise email or text to the chapter president or new member educator stating: “I am resigning my pledge/membership effective immediately.”
• Avoid “One Last Meeting”: Act with caution. Do not attend “final meetings” where you might be pressured, intimidated, or retaliated against.
• Protect Yourself from Retaliation: Document any threats or harassment. Screenshot messages, record conversations (Texas is a one-party consent state, so you can record if you are a party to the conversation), and report fears of retaliation to the Dean of Students or campus police.
• Good-Faith Reporting and Amnesty: If you seek medical help for yourself or a friend in an emergency, Texas law and most university policies have “good faith reporter” or “medical amnesty” provisions. This means you will generally not be punished for calling for help, even if alcohol or drugs were involved. Your well-being is paramount.

For Former Members / Witnesses

You may feel a complex mix of guilt, fear, and a desire to do the right thing. Your testimony and evidence can be crucial in preventing future harm and holding those responsible accountable.

• Your Role is Vital: Your decision to come forward can save lives and prevent other students from suffering.
• Seek Legal Advice: You may want your own legal counsel to understand your rights, potential liabilities, and protections as a witness. Our firm can advise on these complex issues.
• Consider Cooperation: While each situation is unique, cooperating with investigations can be an important step toward personal healing and broader accountability. Lawyers can help you navigate this process.

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

As Attorney911, we frequently advise clients on avoiding common errors that can severely compromise or even destroy a hazing case. Families in Calhoun County, and across Texas, need to be aware of these pitfalls:

1. Letting your child delete messages or “clean up” evidence:

   • Why it’s wrong: While stemming from a desire to protect your child, it can be interpreted as a cover-up, makes proving the case nearly impossible, and can even carry legal consequences.
   • What to do instead: Preserve everything immediately – every screenshot, photo, voice memo, no matter how embarrassing. Our video on client mistakes that can ruin your injury case at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY emphasizes the importance of preserving evidence.

2. Confronting the fraternity/sorority directly:

   • Why it’s wrong: This immediately puts the organization on alert, prompting them to destroy evidence, coach witnesses, and prepare their legal defense, making our job exponentially harder.
   • What to do instead: Document everything in private, then contact our firm. We will handle all communications with the involved parties.

3. Signing university “release” or “resolution” forms without legal review:

   • Why it’s wrong: Universities often pressure families into internal resolutions or waivers that may release their claims for a fraction of their true value, or entirely. You might unknowingly sign away your right to pursue further legal action.
   • What to do instead: Do NOT sign anything from the university, national organization, or insurance company without an attorney reviewing it first.

4. Posting details on social media before consulting a lawyer:

   • Why it’s wrong: Anything posted online can be used by defense attorneys, creating inconsistencies, compromising your child’s privacy, or even inadvertently waiving legal protections.
   • What to do instead: Document everything privately. Your attorney can advise on strategic public messaging when appropriate.

5. Letting your child go back to “one last meeting” with the organization:

   • Why it’s wrong: Organizations often use these meetings to pressure, intimidate, or extract statements that can later be used against the victim in legal proceedings.
   • What to do instead: Once you are considering legal action, all communication should cease and be routed through your legal counsel to protect your child from further coercion.

6. Waiting “to see how the university handles it”:

   • Why it’s wrong: While universities should investigate, their process is often designed to protect the institution. Evidence disappears rapidly, witnesses graduate or forget details, and the statute of limitations continues to run.
   • What to do instead: Preserve evidence immediately and consult with an experienced hazing attorney. The university’s internal process is separate from and does not substitute for real accountability through legal action.

7. Talking to insurance adjusters without a lawyer:

   • Why it’s wrong: Adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. Any statement you give can be used against you, and initial settlement offers are often significantly below fair compensation.
   • What to do instead: Politely decline to speak with them and state, “My attorney will contact you.”

These mistakes can be costly. For a victim, the emotional and physical energy required to navigate these challenges is immense. This is why having an experienced legal team from Attorney911 on your side from the very beginning is so critical.

Short FAQ

“Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities in Texas (like UH, Texas A&M, and UT) have some sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, certain Title IX violations, and when suing individual employees in their personal capacity. Private universities (such as SMU and Baylor) generally have fewer immunity protections. Every case depends on its specific facts. If you believe you have a claim, contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a confidential, case-specific analysis.

“Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
It can be. While hazing is typically classified as a Class B misdemeanor, it elevates to a state jail felony if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. This can carry significant penalties, including jail time. Individuals who fail to report hazing can also face misdemeanor charges.

“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. The law recognizes that “agreement” under peer pressure, power imbalance, fear of exclusion, or intoxication is not true voluntary consent.

“How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?”
Generally, you have 2 years from the date of injury or death to file a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit in Texas. However, the “discovery rule” may extend this if the harm or its cause wasn’t immediately known. In cases with cover-ups or fraud, the statute may be “tolled” (paused). Time is always critical—evidence disappears, witnesses’ memories fade, and organizations may destroy records. We strongly advise contacting Attorney911 immediately. Our video, “Is There a Statute of Limitations on My Case?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c, provides more detail.

“What if the hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?”
The location where hazing occurs does not eliminate liability. Universities and national fraternities can still be liable based on their sponsorship, control, knowledge, and the foreseeability of hazing activities, even when they occur off-campus. Many major hazing cases that resulted in multi-million-dollar judgments, such as the Pi Delta Psi retreat death and the Sigma Pi “unofficial” house death, occurred off-campus.

“Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”
Most hazing cases, particularly those handled out of court, often resolve through confidential settlements. We prioritize your family’s privacy and can often work to request sealed court records and confidential settlement terms. Our primary focus is achieving justice and accountability while minimizing public exposure to the extent possible.

ABOUT THE MANGINELLO LAW FIRM + CALL TO ACTION

When your family faces a hazing case in Calhoun County or anywhere across Texas, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need tenacious attorneys who understand how powerful institutions fight back—and how to win anyway. At The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, operating as Attorney911, we are the Legal Emergency Lawyers™ dedicated to representing victims of hazing and campus abuse throughout our state. We bring a unique blend of empathy, legal precision, and strategic insight to every case.

We are a Houston-based Texas personal injury firm with deep experience in serious injury, wrongful death, and institutional accountability cases. We understand that hazing at Texas universities impacts families in Calhoun County, our neighboring coastal communities, and across the state.

Our unique qualifications are especially suited to these complex cases:

• Insurance Insider Advantage (Lupe Peña): Attorney Lupe Peña previously worked as an insurance defense attorney for a national firm. This experience means she knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies value (and often undervalue) hazing claims. She understands their delay tactics, coverage exclusion arguments, and settlement strategies because she used to run that playbook. This insider knowledge is invaluable for navigating the complex insurance disputes often present in hazing litigation, as detailed on her profile at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/.
• Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions (Ralph Manginello): Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has extensive experience in complex federal court litigation, including being one of the few Texas firms involved in the BP Texas City explosion litigation. We are not intimidated by national fraternities, universities, or their well-funded defense teams. We’ve taken on billion-dollar corporations and won, so we know how to fight powerful defendants and secure justice. You can learn more about Ralph’s extensive credentials at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/.
• Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death and Catastrophic Injury Experience: We have a proven track record in complex wrongful death cases, collaborating with economists and life care planners to ensure comprehensive compensation for lifetime care needs in severe brain injury or permanent disability cases. We don’t settle cheap; we build cases that compel accountability and secure fair settlements.
• Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise: Ralph’s membership in the prestigious Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) provides a crucial understanding of how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation. This dual perspective means we can effectively advise witnesses and former members facing potential criminal exposure while simultaneously pursuing civil justice.
• Investigative Depth: We leverage a vast network of experts, including medical professionals, digital forensics specialists, economists, and psychologists. Our experience in obtaining hidden evidence – from deleted group chats and social media data to subpoenaed national fraternity records and university files – is paramount. We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does.

We understand how fraternities, sororities, Corps programs, and athletic departments operate behind closed doors. We know how to investigate modern hazing, from uncovering digital evidence to demonstrating how organizational policies were ignored. We realize that hazing cases are different: they involve powerful institutional defendants, complex insurance coverage fights, and the delicate balance of victim privacy with public accountability.

Ultimately, we believe that holding perpetrators and institutions accountable for hazing is not just about financial compensation; it’s about preventing future tragedies. It’s about getting answers, ensuring justice, and honoring victims by creating lasting change. We know this is one of the hardest things a family can face, and our job is to guide you with empathy, resolve, and unparalleled legal skill.

Our promise is to provide clear communication and keep you updated on your case. Our video “Will You Keep Me Updated on My Case?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9JrQowOLv1k highlights our commitment to transparent client relationships. We also understand the financial burden of legal action, which is why we work on a contingency fee basis. As explained in our video “How Do Contingency Fees Work?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc, we don’t get paid unless we win your case.

Contact The Manginello Law Firm today.

If your family in Calhoun County, or anywhere across Texas, has been impacted by hazing, you don’t have to face this alone. Contact The Manginello Law Firm for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. We’ll listen to your story without judgment, explain your legal options, and help you decide on the best path forward.

Here’s what you can expect in your free consultation:

• We will listen carefully to your story.
• We’ll review any evidence you have, such as photos, texts, or medical records.
• We will explain your legal options: a criminal report, a civil lawsuit, both, or neither.
• We’ll discuss realistic timelines and what to expect from the legal process.
• We’ll answer your questions about costs, explaining our contingency fee structure transparently.
• There’s no pressure to hire us on the spot; take your time to decide what’s best for your family.
• Everything you tell us is completely confidential.

Call us today.

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

Hablamos Español – Contact Lupe Peña at lupe@atty911.com for consultation in Spanish. Servicios legales en español disponibles.

Whether you’re in Port Lavaca, Seadrift, Point Comfort, or anywhere across Texas, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone. Let us be your Legal Emergency Lawyers™.

Legal Disclaimer

This article is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC.

Hazing laws, university policies, and legal precedents can change. The information in this guide is current as of late 2025 but may not reflect the most recent developments. Every hazing case is unique, and outcomes depend on the specific facts, evidence, applicable law, and many other factors.

If you or your child has been affected by hazing, we strongly encourage you to consult with a qualified Texas attorney who can review your specific situation, explain your legal rights, and advise you on the best course of action for your family.

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC / Attorney911
Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas
Call: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct: (713) 528-9070 | Cell: (713) 443-4781
Website: https://attorney911.com
Email: ralph@atty911.com