In Falls County, our Fraternity & Sorority Hazing Lawyers at Attorney911 — Legal Emergency Lawyers™ offer unparalleled expertise. We handle University Hazing Injury & Wrongful Death cases, leveraging a former insurance defense attorney’s knowledge of fraternity insurance tactics. With federal court experience against national fraternities and universities, and a proven fight against massive institutions from BP Explosion Litigation, our HCCLA Criminal Defense + Civil Wrongful Death expertise delivers multi-million dollar results. We represent victims from UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor, specializing in evidence preservation with over 25 years of experience. Hablamos Español. Free consultation. Contingency fee: No win, no fee. Call 1-888-ATTY-911.

Our son was at an off-campus fraternity event at a Texas university, excitedly anticipating his “big brother reveal”—a core tradition for new members. The night quickly took a turn as he and others were pressured to consume alarming amounts of alcohol, playing a high-stakes “game” where wrong answers meant chugging entire bottles of liquor. Others filmed on their phones, chanting and laughing, as the room spun and the pressure mounted. When our son collapsed, no one wanted to call for help, fearing “getting the chapter shut down” or facing disciplinary action. He felt trapped, caught between his desire to belong and his own rapidly failing body.

This scenario, tragically, is far from uncommon at universities across Texas, affecting families from our close-knit communities in Falls County, including Riesel, Marlin, Lott, and Rosebud. Even if your child attends school far from Falls County, Texas hazing law and experienced Texas counsel can help. This comprehensive guide is designed for families in Falls County and across Texas who need to understand the complex world of hazing:

• What modern hazing truly looks like in 2025, extending far beyond outdated stereotypes.
• How Texas and federal laws address hazing, outlining the legal landscape that protects our children.
• Lessons from major national hazing cases and their crucial applicability to Texas families.
• Specific insights into hazing dynamics at the University of Houston (UH), Texas A&M University, the University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin), Southern Methodist University (SMU), and Baylor University.
• The legal options available to victims and families in Falls County and throughout Texas.

This article offers general information and is not specific legal advice. However, The Manginello Law Firm is here to provide confidential, case-specific evaluations. We proudly serve families throughout Texas, including those right here in Falls County.

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 Falls County families unfamiliar with modern Greek life or collegiate organizations, the image of hazing might still be limited to outdated pranks from movies. However, the reality of hazing in 2025 is far more insidious, dangerous, and often deeply psychological. It’s not just “a dumb prank” or “just partying”; it’s a systemic abuse of power designed to break down individuals and enforce conformity through fear and coercion.

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 an individual’s “agreement” to participate does not automatically make the activity safe or legal, especially when there is significant peer pressure and a clear power imbalance within the group. The law often looks past superficial “consent” to the underlying coercion.

Main Categories of Hazing

Hazing manifests in various forms, often escalating in severity. Understanding these categories is crucial for identifying hazing, even when it’s disguised as “tradition” or “team-building.” Falls County parents and students need to be aware of the full spectrum of behaviors.

• Alcohol and Substance Hazing
  This is, tragically, one of the most common and deadliest forms of hazing. It involves forced or coerced drinking of excessive amounts of alcohol, often in rapid succession. Examples include “chugging challenges,” “lineups” where pledges consume multiple alcoholic beverages, or drinking games where incorrect answers to trivia or questions—regardless of actual knowledge—lead to mandated consumption of liquor. Beyond alcohol, some individuals are pressured to consume unknown or mixed substances, posing severe health risks. The goal is often to incapacitate, humiliate, or break down the individual’s resistance, reinforcing the power dynamics within the group. This type of hazing can quickly lead to alcohol poisoning, permanent injury, or death.

• Physical Hazing
  Physical hazing goes far beyond roughhousing. It includes brutal acts such as paddling and beatings, often inflicted with objects or bare hands, resulting in significant bruising, internal injuries, and lasting trauma. Extreme calisthenics, known as “workouts” or “smokings,” involve prolonged and excessive physical exertion beyond safe limits, leading to muscle breakdown (rhabdomyolysis), heatstroke, or physical collapse. Sleep deprivation, often spanning multiple days, severely impairs judgment and physical health. Other forms include food or water deprivation, exposure to extreme cold or heat, or being forced into dangerous environments without adequate clothing or protection. These acts are designed to instill fear, obedience, and perceived loyalty.

• Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing
  This deeply degrading form of hazing targets an individual’s dignity and privacy. It can involve forced nudity or partial nudity, simulated sexual acts known by offensive terms like “roasted pig” positions or “elephant walks,” and wearing degrading costumes in public or private. This category also includes acts with racial, homophobic, or sexist overtones, where individuals are subjected to slurs, stereotypes, or forced role-play that shames their identity. The psychological scars from such hazing can be profound and lifelong, affecting self-esteem, relationships, and trust.

• Psychological Hazing
  While often less visible than physical harm, psychological hazing is equally damaging and pervades many hazing incidents. It encompasses verbal abuse, relentless screaming, insults, and threats that erode self-worth. Social isolation, manipulation, and forced confessions or disclosures of personal information are common tactics. Victims may experience public shaming on social media or in group meetings, designed to control and demean them. This can lead to severe anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health crises, often manifesting as withdrawal from friends, family, and activities.

• Digital/Online Hazing
  In the digital age, hazing has evolved to exploit online platforms. Group chats on apps like GroupMe, WhatsApp, Discord, or Instagram are used for constant monitoring, issuing humiliating dares, or demanding immediate responsiveness at all hours, interfering with sleep and academic focus. Pledges might be forced to participate in “challenges” or create embarrassing content for platforms like TikTok or Snapchat, often under threat of social exclusion or punishment. There’s also immense pressure to create or share compromising images or videos of themselves or others, creating a digital trail of abuse that can haunt victims long after the hazing ends. This form of hazing leverages technology to extend the power imbalance and coercion into every aspect of a new member’s life.

Where Hazing Actually Happens

Hazing is not confined to one type of organization or campus. While often associated with fraternities and sororities, it is a pervasive problem that touches many parts of collegiate life. Families in Falls County should understand that children in various organizations could be at risk.

• Fraternities and Sororities: This includes those under the Interfraternity Council (IFC), Panhellenic Council, National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), and various multicultural Greek councils. Despite national anti-hazing policies, local chapters often perpetuate dangerous “traditions.”
• Corps of Cadets / ROTC / Military-Style Groups: These groups, often emphasizing discipline and tradition, can sometimes blur the line between rigorous training and abusive hazing practices.
• Spirit Squads, Tradition Clubs: Groups like university spirit organizations, cheerleading squads, and long-standing campus clubs (similar to the Texas Cowboys at UT Austin) can also be venues for hazing, where members are expected to endure trials to “prove” their dedication.
• Athletic Teams: From football and basketball to baseball, soccer, and cheerleading, hazing can occur within team settings, disguised as “team building” or “veteran privilege.”
• Marching Bands and Performance Groups: Even seemingly innocuous organizations like marching bands, a cappella groups, or theatrical ensembles have reported hazing incidents, where new members are subjected to degrading or uncomfortable rituals.
• Service, Cultural, and Academic Organizations: Hazing can even creep into groups ostensibly focused on positive endeavors, demonstrating that the underlying dynamic of power and control can arise anywhere.

The continued existence of these practices, even with widespread awareness and anti-hazing policies, is often fueled by a powerful mix of social status, intense group loyalty, pressure to uphold “tradition,” and a pervasive culture of secrecy. New members are often told that “everyone went through this” or that they must earn their place, creating a coercive environment where reporting feels like betrayal.

Law & Liability Framework (Texas + Federal)

Understanding the legal landscape around hazing in Texas is critical for Falls County families seeking accountability and justice. Both state and federal laws play a role, offering avenues for both criminal prosecution and civil litigation.

Texas Hazing Law Basics (Education Code)

Texas has specific, robust anti-hazing provisions embedded in its Education Code, particularly Subchapter F, which outlines what constitutes hazing and its consequences. In plain terms, hazing under Texas law means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, whether on or off campus, performed by one person or a group, 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 is broad and intentionally covers a wide array of harmful behaviors. Importantly, this means that harming a student, physically or mentally, in the context of joining or staying in a group, is hazing. The law doesn’t require malicious intent; simply being “reckless” about the risks your actions pose is sufficient.

Under Texas law:

• Criminal Penalties: Hazing can lead to fines and even jail time. The severity of charges increases dramatically if the hazing causes significant bodily injury or death. While a default hazing offense is a Class B misdemeanor, it can escalate to a Class A misdemeanor if medical treatment for an injury is required, and even a state jail felony if serious bodily injury or death results.
• Organizational Liability: Beyond individuals, organizations themselves (fraternities, sororities, clubs, etc.) can be held criminally responsible and fined up to $10,000 per violation if they authorized or encouraged hazing, or if their officers knew about it and failed to report. Universities can also revoke recognition and ban organizations.
• Reporter Protections: Texas law provides some immunity for individuals who report hazing incidents or call for help in good faith. This protection is designed to encourage witnesses and victims to come forward without fear of legal reprisal, although social pressures often still deter reporting. Crucially, in medical emergencies, Texas law also provides amnesty for students who call 911 for assistance, even if underage drinking or other minor offenses were involved.

It’s important to remember that this is a summary; real-world application of the law can be complex and technical.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases

When hazing occurs, there are typically two distinct legal avenues that can be pursued:

• Criminal Cases: These are initiated by the state (through a prosecutor) against those alleged to have committed criminal acts, such as hazing, assault, furnishing alcohol to minors, or even manslaughter or negligent homicide in fatal instances. The primary goal of a criminal case is to punish the offender through incarceration, fines, or probation. While a criminal conviction provides a measure of justice, it does not directly compensate the victim or their family for their losses.

• Civil Cases: These are brought by victims or their surviving families against individuals and organizations responsible for the harm. The aim is to secure monetary compensation for damages suffered, hold negligent parties accountable, and motivate institutions to implement preventative measures. Civil cases often focus on legal theories such as:

  • Negligence and Gross Negligence: Failure to exercise reasonable care, or a conscious disregard for the safety of others.
  • Wrongful Death: When an individual’s death is caused by the negligence or misconduct of another.
  • Negligent Supervision/Retention: When an organization or institution fails to adequately supervise its members or retains individuals known to be a risk.
  • Premises Liability: When an injury occurs due to unsafe conditions on property, perhaps an off-campus house where hazing took place.
  • Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress: For severe psychological harm caused by outrageous conduct.

A crucial point for families in Falls County to understand is that criminal and civil cases can proceed independently. A criminal conviction is not a prerequisite for pursuing a successful civil claim, and outcomes in one realm do not automatically dictate the other. Both pathways are essential for achieving full accountability and justice.

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

Beyond state laws, federal regulations and acts also influence how hazing incidents are addressed, particularly at institutions receiving federal funding:

• Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This significant federal legislation mandates that colleges and universities receiving federal financial assistance improve transparency and prevention efforts regarding hazing. By around 2026, these institutions will be required to publicly report hazing incidents, establish comprehensive hazing education programs, and maintain accessible data on hazing violations. This act aims to create a more comprehensive national picture of hazing and compel institutions to be more proactive.

• Title IX / Clery Act: When hazing involves elements of sexual harassment, sexual assault, gender-based hostility, or discrimination, Title IX is triggered. This federal civil rights law prohibits sex-based discrimination in education and requires institutions to respond promptly and effectively to such incidents. Similarly, the Clery Act requires colleges and universities to report campus crime data, including certain hazing incidents that may overlap with categories like assault, aggravated assault, or alcohol/drug-related offenses, and to issue timely warnings about threats to campus safety. These federal frameworks provide additional layers of protection and reporting obligations, irrespective of whether the hazing occurs on or off campus, so long as it falls within the scope of institutional knowledge or responsibility.

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit

Filing a civil hazing lawsuit in Texas involves identifying all parties who may bear responsibility for the harm caused. This can be a complex process, but it ensures that all those who contributed to the injury or death are held accountable. For families in Falls County, knowing who can be named as defendants is crucial:

• Individual Students: The students who actively planned, enforced, or carried out the hazing acts, supplied illegal substances, or participated in cover-ups can face direct liability. This includes “pledge educators” or designated leaders of new member activities. In cases involving severe harm or death, individual liability can be substantial, as seen in the Daylen Dunson case, where a fraternity president was ordered to personally pay $6.5 million to the family of Stone Foltz.

• Local Chapter / Organization: The fraternity, sorority, or club itself, as a semi-autonomous entity, can be sued. This is often the immediate organizational target, representing the collective actions and failures of its members and leadership.

• National Fraternity/Sorority: The national headquarters or governing body of a Greek-letter organization often plays a significant role. They establish policies, provide training, receive dues, and exert a degree of control over local chapters. Liability can arise if they:

  • Failed to adequately enforce their own anti-hazing policies.
  • Knew or should have known about a pattern of hazing at a specific chapter or within the organization nationally and failed to intervene.
  • Provided insufficient oversight or ineffective risk management.

• University or Governing Board: The educational institution may also be held liable under certain legal theories. This is particularly true if the university:

  • Had prior knowledge of hazing at an organization and failed to act.
  • Negligently supervised recognized student groups.
  • Failed to enforce its own hazing policies.
  • Theories like negligent supervision, premises liability, or violations of federal acts like Title IX could apply. Public universities in Texas, such as UH, Texas A&M, and UT Austin, may assert sovereign immunity, but exceptions exist, particularly for gross negligence or when individual employees are sued in their personal capacity. Private universities like SMU and Baylor generally have fewer immunity defenses.

• Third Parties: Other entities may also bear responsibility:

  • Landlords or Property Owners: If hazing occurred at an off-campus house where the owner knew or should have known about dangerous activities.
  • Bars or Alcohol Suppliers: Under Texas’ dram shop laws, establishments that negligently overserve visibly intoxicated individuals who then cause harm can be held liable.
  • Security Companies or Event Organizers: If their negligence contributed to a hazing incident at an event they were hired to manage.

It’s crucial to understand that every hazing case is unique, and the specific parties held liable will depend heavily on the distinct facts, available evidence, and the applicable laws in that situation. A thorough investigation is necessary to identify all potential defendants.

National Hazing Case Patterns (Anchor Stories)

While each hazing tragedy is distinct, powerful patterns emerge from national cases. These anchor stories illustrate the severity of hazing, the legal consequences, and the systemic failures that often lead to these incidents. For Falls County and other Texas families, these cases provide crucial precedents and underscore the importance of holding all responsible parties accountable.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

Forced alcohol consumption continues to be a leading cause of hazing fatalities across the nation.

• Timothy Piazza – Penn State University, Beta Theta Pi (2017): The death of 19-year-old pledge Timothy Piazza became a national flashpoint for hazing reform. During a “bid acceptance” night characterized by extreme and forced alcohol consumption, Timothy endured severe falls. Chilling surveillance footage from the fraternity house revealed that fraternity brothers delayed calling for medical help for nearly 12 hours after he sustained traumatic brain injuries. This egregious delay and cover-up led to dozens of criminal charges against fraternity members, comprehensive civil litigation, and the enactment of the Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law in Pennsylvania, one of the nation’s toughest anti-hazing statutes. The case starkly highlighted how a culture of silence and fear can turn a medical emergency into a fatality.

• Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (2017): In another tragic “Big Brother Night” ritual, freshman Andrew Coffey died from acute alcohol poisoning. Pledges were given handles of hard liquor and pressured into rapid consumption. His death led to criminal hazing charges against multiple members and prompted Florida State University to temporarily suspend all Greek life activities, initiating a thorough review of campus culture and policies. The case emphasized how ritualistic forced drinking, disguised as tradition, can have lethal consequences, creating a formulaic script for disaster within Greek organizations nationwide.

• Maxwell “Max” Gruver – Louisiana State University, Phi Delta Theta (2017): Max Gruver died with a blood alcohol content of 0.495% after participating in a hazing ritual known as “Bible study” at Phi Delta Theta. Pledges were forced to drink large quantities of alcohol if they answered questions incorrectly. Max’s death was a direct catalyst for the Louisiana legislature to pass the Max Gruver Act, a landmark felony hazing law that increased penalties for hazing that results in serious injury or death. This case clearly demonstrated how legislative change often follows public outrage and clear proof of systemic hazing within university organizations.

• Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021): During a “Big/Little night,” 20-year-old pledge Stone Foltz was forced to consume an entire bottle of an alcoholic beverage. He died from alcohol poisoning days later. This incident resulted in multiple criminal convictions for fraternity members involved in the hazing and a significant $10 million settlement for his family—comprising $7 million from the Pi Kappa Alpha national fraternity and approximately $3 million from Bowling Green State University. The case underscored that universities can face substantial financial and reputational consequences alongside the fraternities themselves.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Hazing extends beyond alcohol, often involving brutal physical rituals or dangerous acts.

• Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College / Pi Delta Psi (2013): Michael Deng died after he was blindfolded, weighted down with a heavy backpack, and repeatedly tackled during a “glass ceiling” ritual at an off-campus fraternity retreat in Pennsylvania. Fraternal members delayed summoning medical help, contributing to his death from traumatic brain injury. The aftermath led to the criminal conviction of multiple members and, significantly, the national Pi Delta Psi fraternity itself was convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter, and banned from operating in Pennsylvania for 10 years. This case was a landmark in showing that off-campus “retreats” and “unofficial” events do not absolve organizations of liability, and national bodies can be held criminally responsible.

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Hazing is not exclusive to Greek life; it is a pervasive issue that can impact any student group, including prominent athletic programs.

• Northwestern University Football (2023–2025): A shocking scandal unfolded as former Northwestern football players alleged widespread sexualized and racist hazing within the program over multiple years. These allegations prompted multiple lawsuits against the university and coaching staff, ultimately leading to the firing of long-time head coach Pat Fitzgerald, who later reached a confidential settlement in a wrongful-termination suit with the university. This high-profile case sent ripples through collegiate sports, proving that hazing can infiltrate even major athletic programs, raising profound questions about institutional oversight and the responsibility of universities to protect their athletes.

What These Cases Mean for Texas Families

The cases highlighted above, though occurring in different states, reveal a pervasive and dangerous culture that has sadly also touched university campuses throughout Texas. For Falls County families whose children attend or plan to attend UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, or Baylor, these national patterns serve as critical warnings.

The common threads are alarming: forced drinking, extreme humiliation, severe physical violence, deliberate delays or denials of medical care, and a pervasive culture of cover-ups. These tragedies highlight that meaningful reforms and multi-million-dollar settlements often only follow after a victim’s family pursues complex litigation, forcing powerful institutions to confront their failures.

Texas families facing hazing at any university are not alone. The legal landscape has been shaped by these national lessons, providing stronger tools for accountability. Understanding these patterns is the first step toward seeking justice and preventing more tragedies.

Texas Focus: UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor

For families across Falls County and the wider Central Texas region, understanding the specific environments at Texas’s major universities is paramount. Many Falls County students pursue higher education at these institutions, or families within Falls County have ties to their alumni networks. Our firm recognizes that while all universities grapple with hazing, each campus has its distinct culture, policies, and history of addressing these issues. We will examine five key Texas universities, recognizing that Falls County, located between Waco and Bryan-College Station, has a close relationship with Baylor University and Texas A&M University, while also sending students to the larger urban campuses.

Baylor University

Baylor University, a private Christian university located in Waco, holds a significant connection for many Falls County families due to its proximity and strong academic and athletic reputation in Central Texas. The community in Falls County and cities like Marlin, Lott, and Rosebud often has direct ties to Baylor students, alumni, or faculty. McLennan County, where Baylor is located, often sees students from Falls County on a regular basis.

5.5.1 Campus & culture snapshot

Baylor is known for its strong Christian identity, robust academic programs, and passionate athletic teams. Its campus culture often emphasizes community and tradition, which, while positive in many respects, can sometimes be manipulated to perpetuate hazing under the guise of “earning your place” or displaying loyalty. The university’s emphasis on faith-based values adds a layer of complexity when addressing behaviors that contradict those values.

5.5.2 Official hazing policy & reporting channels

Baylor maintains a strict anti-hazing policy, clearly stating its prohibition as inconsistent with the university’s values and Texas law. Hazing is defined broadly to include any physical, mental, emotional, or social harm. Reporting channels include the Baylor Department of Public Safety (BUPD), the Dean of Students Office, and an anonymous online reporting system. The university is committed to investigating all reports and taking disciplinary action.

5.5.3 Selected documented incidents & responses

Baylor has faced its share of incidents and scrutiny, particularly in the realm of student conduct and Title IX investigations (unrelated to hazing but indicative of broader institutional oversight challenges). In 2020, Baylor’s baseball program faced a hazing investigation that led to disciplinary action. Fourteen players were suspended following the investigation, with suspensions staggered to minimize athletic impact but still sending a strong message regarding the university’s stance on hazing within its athletic programs. This incident highlighted that hazing issues at Baylor extend beyond Greek life into other student organizations and athletics.

5.5.4 How a Baylor hazing case might proceed

Given Baylor’s status as a private university, it does not hold sovereign immunity, which can simplify some aspects of civil litigation compared to public Texas institutions. Civil suits would typically be filed in McLennan County courts. Agencies for criminal investigation would include BUPD or the Waco Police Department. Potential defendants would include individual students, the local chapter, relevant national organizations (if Greek life), and Baylor University itself, particularly if there’s evidence of negligent supervision or failure to address known hazing. Falls County families understand the Waco legal environment, making a local counsel familiar with these dynamics helpful.

5.5.5 What students and parents at Baylor should do

For students and parents from Falls County and other Central Texas communities with ties to Baylor, proactive measures are critical:

• Familiarize yourselves with Baylor’s hazing policy and official reporting mechanisms.
• Encourage open communication about any uncomfortable situations, emphasizing that safety and well-being come before “loyalty.”
• Document any suspected hazing with detailed notes, timestamps, photos, and screenshots of digital communications.
• If hazing is suspected, contact the Baylor Department of Public Safety (BUPD) for immediate safety concerns, or the Dean of Students office for broader investigations.
• For serious injuries or if you feel the university’s response is inadequate, consult an experienced hazing attorney who understands both Texas law and the specific nuances of private university liability.

5.2 Texas A&M University

For Falls County families, Texas A&M University in College Station represents a significant educational destination, with many former students settling in communities like Riesel and Marlin. It’s a short drive down Highway 6, making the A&M campus deeply intertwined with the Brazos Valley and surrounding counties like Falls County.

5.2.1 Campus & culture snapshot

Texas A&M is renowned for its deeply ingrained traditions, unwavering Aggie spirit, and strong military ethos embodied by the Corps of Cadets. Its campus culture emphasizes loyalty, camaraderie, and a sense of belonging. While these values are powerful assets, they can, at times, foster environments where hazing is rationalized as a necessary component of “tradition” or “earning your Aggie ring.” This vibrant campus includes a large Greek system and numerous other student organizations.

5.2.2 Official hazing policy & reporting channels

Texas A&M strictly prohibits hazing, adhering to Texas law and its own Code of Conduct. The university defines hazing broadly to include any act that causes mental or physical harm, discomfort, or humiliation, especially in the context of initiation or maintaining membership. Reporting channels include the Dean of Students Office, the University Police Department (UPD), the Campus Hazing Report Form, and the “Aggie Speak Up” hotline.

5.2.3 Selected documented incidents & responses

Texas A&M has faced high-profile hazing incidents, demonstrating the challenges of enforcing anti-hazing policies within a tradition-rich environment:

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) lawsuit (around 2021): Multiple pledges alleged they were subjected to a brutal hazing ritual that involved pouring industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit on them. This resulted in severe chemical burns requiring emergency skin grafts and extensive medical treatment. The fraternity faced university suspension, and the victims pursued civil litigation against the chapter and national organization, highlighting the grave physical harm that can result from hazing.
• Corps of Cadets lawsuit (2023): A former cadet filed a lawsuit alleging degrading and sexually suggestive hazing practices within the Corps. These included simulated sexual acts and being bound in demeaning positions, such as the “roasted pig” pose with an apple in the mouth. The university stated it addressed the matter through its internal disciplinary processes. This case underscores that hazing exists across many student groups, not just Greek life, and can involve profoundly humiliating and psychologically damaging acts.

5.2.4 How a Texas A&M hazing case might proceed

Hazing cases at Texas A&M would involve agencies such as the Texas A&M University Police Department (UPD) and potentially the Bryan Police Department or College Station Police Department for off-campus incidents. Civil suits against Texas A&M, as a public university, often contend with claims of sovereign immunity, meaning the university asserts protection from lawsuits unless specific conditions (like gross negligence or Title IX violations) are met, or if claims are directed at individual employees in their personal capacity. However, the university and its associated organizations can still be held accountable. Cases would typically be filed in Brazos County courts.

5.2.5 What Texas A&M students & parents should do

For Falls County students and parents connected to Texas A&M, understanding the unique cultural dynamics and taking proactive steps is vital:

• Be transparent about Corps of Cadets or Greek life “traditions”—if it’s a secret, there’s likely a reason.
• Students should utilize the anonymous reporting options available through the Dean of Students Office or the “Aggie Speak Up” hotline if they experience or witness hazing.
• Preserve all digital evidence of hazing, including group chats, photos, and videos. These “traditions” are often shared among members and can be crucial.
• For severe injuries like the chemical burns reported in the SAE case, immediate medical attention is paramount, followed by consultation with a lawyer experienced in hazing and complex institutional liability.

5.1 University of Houston (UH)

Houston, the largest city in Texas, is easily accessible to many Falls County families, especially due to major highways connecting Central Texas to this vibrant metropolis. The University of Houston, a Tier One research institution, attracts a diverse student body from across Texas and beyond, making its campus environment a subject of concern for families seeking higher education opportunities.

5.1.1 Campus & culture snapshot

The University of Houston is a sprawling urban campus with a rich tapestry of students, offering both a commuter and residential experience. Its Greek life is robust and diverse, encompassing a wide array of fraternities and sororities, including traditional IFC and Panhellenic chapters, as well as NPHC and multicultural Greek organizations. Beyond Greek life, UH boasts a vibrant ecosystem of student clubs, athletic teams, and cultural associations, all of which contribute to the campus social fabric.

5.1.2 Official hazing policy & reporting channels

The University of Houston maintains a comprehensive anti-hazing policy, strictly prohibiting any act that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of initiation or affiliation. This prohibition applies whether the activity occurs on or off-campus. UH’s policy specifically condemns forced consumption of alcohol, food, or drugs, sleep deprivation, physical mistreatment, and mentally distressing acts. Students and parents can report hazing through the Dean of Students Office, the Office of Student Conduct, the University of Houston Police Department (UHPD), or through anonymous online reporting forms.

5.1.3 Selected documented incidents & responses

UH has engaged in various investigations and disciplinary actions concerning hazing:

• In 2016, the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity faced severe scrutiny after a pledge allegedly suffered a lacerated spleen during a multi-day hazing event that involved sleep, food, and water deprivation, culminating in a physical assault. The chapter faced misdemeanor hazing charges and was subsequently suspended by the university.
• Other disciplinary actions involving various fraternities have been publicly noted, citing conduct that was “likely to produce mental or physical discomfort,” including incidents involving alcohol misuse and violations of university policy. These cases highlight UH’s willingness to suspend or sanction chapters, even though the public detail about these incidents may not be as extensive as some other universities that actively publish detailed hazing violation logs.

5.1.4 How a UH hazing case might proceed

Hazing cases originating from the University of Houston campus or involving its student organizations would typically involve investigations by the University of Houston Police Department (UHPD) for on-campus incidents, or the Houston Police Department for events occurring off-campus within city limits. Civil lawsuits against individuals, local chapters, national organizations, and potentially the university itself would likely be filed in the appropriate courts within Harris County, Texas. Given that Houston is the primary location of Attorney911, our firm possesses unique familiarity with these courts and local enforcement agencies. Potential defendants include individual students, the local chapter, the national fraternity/sorority, and potentially the university and property owners involved.

5.1.5 What UH students & parents should do

For students and parents in Falls County who have children attending UH, or are considering it, proactive steps can safeguard against hazing:

• Familiarize yourself with and openly discuss UH’s comprehensive anti-hazing policy.
• Be aware of the official channels for reporting hazing at UH, including contacting the Dean of Students, UHPD, or using anonymous reporting systems.
• If hazing is suspected, diligently document all details – dates, times, locations, individuals involved, and specific acts. Critically, preserve all digital evidence, such as group chats or social media posts, as these are often invaluable in investigations.
• If your child suffers physical or psychological harm due to hazing, contact a lawyer experienced in Houston-based hazing cases. This expertise can be crucial for navigating the local legal landscape, uncovering prior disciplinary actions, and effectively pursuing accountability from powerful defendants.

5.3 University of Texas at Austin (UT)

The University of Texas at Austin is a flagship institution that draws students from across Texas, including many from Falls County, who are attracted by its academic prowess and vibrant campus life. Given its status, UT Austin’s approach to student conduct, including hazing, sets a precedent.

5.3.1 Campus & culture snapshot

UT Austin is a massive, diverse campus with a dynamic student body and an exceptionally strong Greek system, alongside countless other student organizations, spirit groups, and athletic programs. Its culture is famously rich in traditions and school spirit, which unfortunately can sometimes be twisted into opportunities for hazing, especially within highly competitive or long-standing groups. The campus is deeply integrated with the city of Austin’s lively social scene.

5.3.2 Official hazing policy & reporting channels

UT Austin strictly prohibits hazing, adhering to Texas law and its institutional values. The university has a clearly articulated hazing policy that covers all student organizations and activities, both on and off campus. UT is notably transparent, maintaining a publicly accessible Hazing Violations page on its website, which lists organizations, dates of incidents, a summary of the conduct, and the disciplinary sanctions imposed. This dedication to transparency is a significant tool for families. Reporting channels include the Dean of Students Office, the Student Conduct and Academic Integrity office, the University of Texas Police Department (UTPD), and an anonymous online reporting system.

5.3.3 Selected documented incidents & responses

UT Austin’s public Hazing Violations page chronicles a recurring pattern of violations across many organizations:

• In 2023, the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity was sanctioned after new members were directed to consume milk and engage in strenuous calisthenics, actions that were deemed hazing. The chapter was placed on probation and required to implement enhanced hazing-prevention education.
• Various other groups, including spirit organizations like the Texas Wranglers, have faced sanctions for infractions, including forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing, social isolation practices, and other punishment-based initiations designed to degrade or coerce new members.
• The public record demonstrates that while UT is transparent, hazing remains a persistent challenge across its student body, underscoring the need for continuous vigilance.

5.3.4 How a UT Austin hazing case might proceed

Hazing incidents at UT Austin could be investigated by the University of Texas Police Department (UTPD) for on-campus occurrences, or the Austin Police Department for off-campus events. Civil lawsuits against the university, individual students, local chapters, and national organizations typically proceed in the courts of Travis County. The public nature of UT’s hazing violation log is a crucial resource for civil litigation, as it can be used to demonstrate a pattern of similar incidents and institutional knowledge, strengthening arguments for negligent supervision or failure to act.

5.3.5 What UT Austin students & parents should do

For Falls County families who have students at UT Austin, leveraging the university’s transparency and proactive measures are key:

• Regularly check UT Austin’s public Hazing Violations page (hazing.utexas.edu) to understand the history of organizations your child is interested in.
• Encourage your child to be aware of the university’s specific hazing policy and the numerous avenues for reporting, including anonymous options.
• Emphasize that “consent” does not validate hazing, and that their safety and well-being are paramount. Collect and preserve all digital and physical evidence should an incident occur.
• If hazing results in significant physical or psychological harm, promptly consult with an experienced hazing attorney who understands both Texas law and the specific institutional dynamics of UT Austin cases.

5.4 Southern Methodist University (SMU)

Located in Dallas, SMU is a premier private university whose academic and Greek life draw students from across Texas, including from geographically central areas like Falls County, albeit typically a longer drive compared to Baylor or Texas A&M. Its distinct character and private status mean a different operational and accountability dynamic than public universities.

5.4.1 Campus & culture snapshot

SMU maintains a reputation for a vibrant and sometimes exclusive social scene, heavily influenced by its thriving Greek life. With a strong emphasis on tradition and social circles, SMU’s campus culture can sometimes inadvertently foster environments where hazing is perceived as an integral, if unspoken, part of the new member experience. The university is situated in an affluent urban setting, attracting students from prominent families across the state and nation.

5.4.2 Official hazing policy & reporting channels

SMU strictly prohibits hazing, articulating a clear policy against any activity that endangers the mental or physical health of its students as part of their affiliation with a student organization. SMU uses various reporting mechanisms, including the Dean of Students Office, SMU Police Department, and an anonymous online reporting system, such as “Real Response,” designed to facilitate timely and confidential reporting. Regularly-updated hazing prevention materials are also required for all student organizations.

5.4.3 Selected documented incidents & responses

SMU has taken action against hazing incidents within its Greek system:

• In 2017, the Kappa Alpha Order fraternity faced severe disciplinary action after reports surfaced of new members being subjected to paddling, forced excessive alcohol consumption, and sleep deprivation. The chapter was suspended by the university for several years and faced significant restrictions on its activities, including recruitment, until later reinstatement. This case highlighted the persistent challenge of hazing even in private university settings.
• SMU’s consistent communication regarding its anti-hazing stance aims to deter, but incidents underscore the need for constant vigilance and strict enforcement.

5.4.4 How a SMU hazing case might proceed

As a private institution, SMU does not benefit from sovereign immunity, making it potentially more straightforward to pursue civil litigation against the university directly, alongside individual students, local chapters, and national organizations. Investigations may involve the SMU Police Department for campus incidents or the Dallas Police Department for off-campus events. Civil hazing lawsuits would typically be filed in courts within Dallas County. Given the often-private nature of SMU’s internal disciplinary records (compared to public university records), a lawyer experienced in navigating discovery against private institutions is critical to uncover evidence of prior knowledge or negligence.

5.4.5 What SMU students & parents should do

For Falls County families with students at SMU, specific considerations are important when confronting hazing:

• Understand that SMU’s private status means different rules for public information than state universities. While SMU has anti-hazing policies, internal disciplinary records are not always publicly transparent, necessitating thorough legal discovery in civil actions.
• Urge your child to report any concerning behavior immediately through SMU’s anonymous reporting tools or directly to the Dean of Students Office, emphasizing that the university takes these reports seriously.
• Document everything meticulously – especially if hazing occurs off-campus, where it may be harder to detect. Digital traces are vital.
• If hazing leads to injury or significant distress, consult with an attorney to navigate the unique landscape of private university litigation in Texas.

Fraternities & Sororities: Campus-Specific + National Histories

When a student from Falls County begins their collegiate journey, they might encounter a local fraternity or sorority chapter operating at their university. What many families don’t realize is that these local chapters are often extensions of larger, powerful national organizations. These national bodies, whether they are the traditional IFC (Interfraternity Council) or Panhellenic organizations present at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor, or the culturally diverse NPHC (National Pan-Hellenic Council) or MGC (Multicultural Greek Council) chapters, frequently share a history—and sometimes a pattern—of hazing incidents across their network of chapters nationwide.

Why National Histories Matter

The national histories of fraternities and sororities are not merely anecdotal; they are critical in hazing litigation because they demonstrate a pattern of behavior and establish foreseeability. Many national headquarters boast thick anti-hazing manuals and sophisticated risk management policies, precisely because they have a historical record of severe injuries and tragic deaths at their chapters. They are aware of the common scripts for dangerous hazing: forced drinking nights, physically abusive “traditions,” and humiliating rituals.

When a local chapter at a Texas university—be it at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, or Baylor—repeats the exact same hazing behavior that caused injury or death at another chapter in a different state, it demonstrates that the national organization had prior knowledge of this dangerous pattern. This knowledge can be a powerful tool in supporting arguments for negligence or even punitive damages against the national entity, because it shows they knew the risk and failed to prevent it.

Organization Mapping (Synthesized)

Many of the fraternities and sororities present at Texas’s major universities have national counterparts with documented hazing incidents. Here, we outline some of the prevalent organizations and a selection of their known national hazing histories from the National Hazing Incident Reference Database that are relevant to what Falls County families might encounter:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / Pike): A large national fraternity with chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and Baylor University. Nationally, Pike is infamous for alcohol-related hazing. The tragic death of Stone Foltz at Bowling Green State University in 2021 was a direct result of a “Big/Little” night where he was forced to consume an entire bottle of alcohol. His family received a $10 million settlement, with a significant portion from the national fraternity. Also, David Bogenberger died in 2012 at Northern Illinois University from alcohol poisoning at a Pike event, leading to a $14 million settlement. These cases illustrate a clear pattern of dangerous forced alcohol consumption at Pike chapters.

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / SAE): With chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and SMU, SAE has a significant national history of hazing, including multiple fatalities. A lawsuit filed in 2023 alleged a pledge suffered a traumatic brain injury during a hazing ritual at a University of Alabama chapter. In 2021, at a Texas A&M University chapter, two pledges alleged they suffered severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries after industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit were poured on them. In January 2024, an Australian exchange student sued an SAE chapter at the University of Texas at Austin for over $1 million after allegedly suffering a dislocated leg, broken ligaments, and fractured tibia during an assault at a party. These incidents clearly demonstrate a pattern of severe physical and chemical hazing at both national and Texas chapters, showing a disregard for student safety despite repeated warnings.

• Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ): Chapters are active at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor University. The death of Maxwell “Max” Gruver at Louisiana State University in 2017 from alcohol poisoning during a “Bible study” drinking game is a stark reminder of the dangers of its hazing traditions. This led to Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act, a felony hazing statute.

• Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ): Found at UH, Texas A&M, and UT Austin. Andrew Coffey’s death at Florida State University in 2017, due to acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” involving excessive alcohol, is a tragic precedent for this organization.

• Kappa Alpha Order (ΚΑ): With chapters at Texas A&M and SMU. The SMU chapter was notably suspended in 2017 for alleged hazing involving paddling, forced alcohol consumption, and sleep deprivation.

• Beta Theta Pi (ΒΘΠ): Present at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and SMU, Baylor University. The death of Timothy Piazza at Penn State University in 2017, due to extreme alcohol consumption and a significant delay in medical care, is one of the most well-known hazing cases in U.S. history, leading to comprehensive anti-hazing legislation in Pennsylvania.

• Phi Gamma Delta (ΦΓΔ / FIJI): Active at Texas A&M. This fraternity is associated with the severely debilitating hazing of Danny Santulli at the University of Missouri in 2021, where he suffered permanent brain damage from forced alcohol consumption. His family settled lawsuits with 22 defendants for reportedly multi-million-dollar amounts.

• Kappa Sigma (ΚΣ): Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and Baylor University. The drowning death of Chad Meredith at the University of Miami in 2001, tied to a fraternity event involving coerced lake swimming while intoxicated, resulted in a $12.6 million jury verdict against the fraternity and its members. More recently, in 2023, allegations of hazing resulting in severe injuries like rhabdomyolysis have surfaced against a Kappa Sigma chapter at Texas A&M University, highlighting ongoing physical hazing concerns.

• Sigma Chi (ΣΧ): Present at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and Baylor University. A case against a Sigma Chi chapter at the College of Charleston in 2024 resulted in the family receiving more than $10 million in damages for physical beatings, forced drug/alcohol consumption, and psychological torment, demonstrating significant financial accountability for severe hazing.

This is not an exhaustive list, but it highlights that many national organizations have a documented history of hazing incidents across their chapters.

Tie Back to Legal Strategy

These national and, in many cases, Texas-specific hazing histories are fundamental components of our legal strategy. When a local chapter repeats dangerous behaviors that have led to injuries or deaths elsewhere, it becomes incredibly difficult for their national organization to claim ignorance or that the incident was an “unforeseeable accident.”

Courts can consider whether national organizations:

• Meaningfully enforced their anti-hazing policies: Did they just have policies on paper, or did they actively monitor, investigate, and impose severe penalties for violations?
• Responded to prior incidents aggressively enough: Were past warnings and incidents treated as isolated events, or did they prompt systemic changes to prevent recurrence?

This pattern evidence is crucial because it can:

• Strengthen settlement leverage: Demonstrating a history of misconduct puts immense pressure on national fraternities and their insurers to settle cases rather than face a jury.
• Impact insurance coverage disputes: While insurers often try to argue hazing is an “intentional act” excluded from coverage, a pattern of negligent supervision by the national organization or a university can bring the claim back under insurance coverage.
• Increase punitive damage potential: If it can be shown that the national organization acted with reckless indifference to known dangers, punitive damages may be sought to punish them and deter future misconduct.

For families in Falls County facing hazing at any Texas university, understanding this connection between local and national history is a powerful tool in seeking accountability and justice for their child.

Building a Case: Evidence, Damages, Strategy

Building a compelling hazing case requires meticulous investigation, a deep understanding of legal strategy, and an aggressive pursuit of accountability. It’s not simply about recounting what happened; it’s about proving it with irrefutable evidence and demonstrating the full extent of the harm. For Falls County families, evidence collection must begin immediately, as critical information can disappear quickly.

Evidence

Modern hazing cases are often won or lost based on the quality and breadth of the evidence collected. This is why our firm, The Manginello Law Firm, places such a strong emphasis on evidence preservation, acting fast like the Legal Emergency Lawyers™ we are.

• Digital Communications: In 2025, group chats and direct messages are the single most critical source of evidence in hazing cases. This includes messages from platforms like GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Slack, and even fraternity-specific apps. Instagram DMs, Snapchat messages, and TikTok comments also play a significant role. These digital trails often contain discussions of planning hazing events, instructions to pledges, humiliating directives, and even admission of guilt. Critically, we know that screenshots taken immediately are invaluable, even though digital forensics can often recover deleted messages. Our Attorney911 video on using your phone to document a legal case (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs) explains best practices for preserving this crucial evidence.

• Photos & Videos: From content filmed by members during hazing events to footage shared in group chats or posted on social media, visual evidence is powerful. This also includes photos of injuries, humiliating acts, or forced consumption. Surveillance footage from security cameras or Ring/doorbell cameras at houses and venues where hazing occurred can also be critical. This visual documentation vividly captures the reality of the hazing.

• Internal Organization Documents: Through legal discovery, we can subpoena internal documents from local chapters and national organizations. This includes pledge manuals, initiation scripts, ritual “traditions” lists, emails or texts from officers discussing “new member education,” and national policies and training materials. These documents often reveal the systemic nature of hazing and the knowledge of those in authority.

• University Records: Universities maintain a wealth of information that can be vital. This includes prior conduct files related to the specific chapter or organization, records of probation, suspensions, or warning letters issued. Incident reports filed with campus police or student conduct offices, as well as Clery Act reports and similar disclosures, can establish a pattern of institutional knowledge regarding hazing.

• Medical and Psychological Records: Thorough documentation of a victim’s physical and mental health is paramount. This includes emergency room reports, ambulance records, hospitalization notes, surgical and rehabilitation notes, and toxicology reports (especially for alcohol or drug hazing). For psychological harm, evaluations from psychiatrists or psychologists diagnosing PTSD, depression, anxiety, or suicidality are crucial in demonstrating non-economic damages.

• Witness Testimony: The testimony of other pledges, active members, roommates, Resident Assistants (RAs), coaches, and even bystanders can be incredibly powerful. Former members who quit or were expelled, often disillusioned by the hazing culture, can provide insider perspectives that solidify a case. Our firm leverages its investigative expertise to identify and interview these critical witnesses.

Damages

The harm caused by hazing is multifaceted, affecting victims physically, emotionally, academically, and financially. Civil lawsuits aim to compensate for these “damages.”

• Medical Bills & Future Care: This category covers all healthcare expenses, from immediate emergency room visits and ambulance transport to ongoing surgeries, physical therapy, medications, and specialized long-term care for catastrophic injuries like brain damage (as seen in the Danny Santulli case) or organ damage.

• Lost Earnings / Educational Impact: Hazing can severely disrupt a student’s academic and professional trajectory. This includes compensation for missed semesters, tuition and fees for courses or scholarship opportunities lost, and the potential for a delayed graduation, which in turn delays entry into the workforce. In cases of permanent injury, economists can calculate the victim’s diminished future earning capacity, a significant component of damages.

• Non-Economic Damages: These are less tangible but equally devastating. They include physical pain and suffering from injuries, severe emotional distress, and enduring psychological trauma (PTSD, depression, anxiety, humiliation, loss of dignity). This also covers the loss of enjoyment of life, meaning the inability to pursue hobbies, social activities, or simply live life as they did before the hazing.

• Wrongful Death Damages (for families): When hazing leads to a tragic loss of life, surviving family members, such as parents, children, or sometimes siblings, can recover damages for the immense losses they endure. This includes funeral and burial costs, the loss of financial support the deceased would have provided, and critically, the profound emotional suffering and loss of companionship, love, and society of their loved one.

We understand that families come to us seeking not just financial recovery, but also accountability and a sense of justice for their child. Each dollar amount is painstakingly calculated to reflect the true cost of the tragedy.

Role of Different Defendants and Insurance Coverage

A crucial aspect of hazing litigation involves identifying all potential sources of recovery. National fraternities, national sororities, and universities often hold substantial insurance policies that are designed to protect them from liability. However, securing payouts from these policies is rarely straightforward.

Insurers commonly argue that:

• Hazing constitutes “intentional acts” or “criminal conduct,” which they claim are explicitly excluded from coverage under their policies.
• The policy limits apply to specific individuals, not the organization as a whole, or that certain defendants are not covered under the existing policy language.

This is where the unique expertise of The Manginello Law Firm comes into play. Lupe Peña, with her background as a former insurance defense attorney at a national firm, possesses invaluable insider knowledge of how these insurance companies operate. We can:

• Aggressively challenge coverage denials by demonstrating that while the hazing act itself may have been intentional by individuals, the national organization or university’s failure to supervise or enforce policies was a negligent act, which can be covered.
• Identify all potential sources of coverage, including policies held by individual members (homeowner’s policies if events occurred on private property), local chapter policies, national organization’s primary and umbrella policies, and university insurance.
• Navigate trigger dates, notice requirements, and complex exclusion language to ensure that all available coverage is made accessible to compensate victims.

This sophisticated understanding of insurance law is not just a strategic advantage; it is often the key to unlocking significant compensation for families, even when powerful institutions and their insurers initially resist.

Practical Guides & FAQs

When hazing impacts a family in Falls County, swift and informed action is crucial. Timely responses, coupled with a clear understanding of rights and reporting mechanisms, can make a significant difference in outcomes.

For Parents

Parents from Falls County communities like Riesel and Marlin are often the first to notice subtle changes in their child, but may struggle to identify hazing or how to address it.

• Warning Signs of Hazing: Pay close attention to unexplained injuries (bruises, burns, cuts) or repeated “accidents,” especially if the explanations don’t add up. Look for sudden and extreme fatigue, sleep deprivation, or drastic changes in mood such as anxiety, depression, or withdrawal. Your child might develop an obsession with constantly checking group chats on their phone or express fear of missing “mandatory” events. Secretive behavior around their organization’s activities is a major red flag—if they truly can’t tell you, it’s a problem.

• How to Talk to Your Child: Approach the conversation with empathy, not judgment. Ask open-ended questions like, “How are things really going with your group?” or “Is there anything about [the organization] that makes you uncomfortable?” Reassure them that their safety and well-being are your top priority, far more important than any social status or affiliation. Make it clear you will support them no matter what.

• If Your Child is Hurt: Seek immediate medical care, even if they insist they are “fine.” Critical physical injuries or severe intoxication require urgent professional attention. While seeking care, diligently document everything: photograph injuries from multiple angles and over several days, screenshot relevant texts or group chats, and write down everything your child tells you about who, what, when, and where.

• Dealing with the University: Document all communications with university administrators. When speaking with them, specifically inquire about any prior incidents involving the same organization and what actions the school took in response. Their history with the group can be vital evidence.

• When to Talk to a Lawyer: If your child has suffered significant physical or psychological harm, or if you feel the university or organization is minimizing what happened, it is crucial to consult with an experienced hazing attorney. We can help you navigate these complex situations and protect your child’s rights.

For Students / Pledges

This section is for students in Falls County communities like Lott and Rosebud, dealing with hazing directly. Knowing your rights and recognizing the signs are vital for your safety.

• Is This Hazing or Just Tradition?: Ask yourself: Do I feel unsafe, humiliated, or coerced? Am I being forced to drink or endure pain? Is this activity hidden from the public or administrators? If the answer is yes to any of these, it is likely hazing, regardless of what they call it. The law looks at the act, not the label.
• Why “Consent” Isn’t the End of the Story: You might feel like you “agreed” to participate, but in situations with power dynamics, peer pressure, and fear of exclusion, the law often views this as coerced “consent.” You have a right to say no, and your safety is not negotiable.
• Exiting and Reporting Safely: If you are in immediate danger, call 911 or campus police. If you want to leave an organization, you have the legal right to do so. Text or email the chapter president/new member educator a clear resignation statement. You can report hazing privately or anonymously through campus channels or national tip lines.
• Good-Faith Reporting and Amnesty: Many schools and Texas law offer protections (immunity or leniency) for students who call for help in an emergency, even if underage drinking or other minor offenses were involved. Focus on getting help for yourself or a friend.

For Former Members / Witnesses

If you were part of a hazing incident, or witnessed one, you might be struggling with guilt, fear, or a desire to make things right.

• Acknowledge that stepping forward is difficult. Your testimony and evidence, however, can be instrumental in preventing future harm and potentially saving lives. While you may want your own legal advice regarding your involvement, cooperating with authorities or a victim’s legal team can be a crucial step toward accountability and healing.
• Lawyers can help you navigate your role, advise you on potential risks, and explain protections available to witnesses or those cooperating in investigations. Your perspective as an insider is invaluable.

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

For Falls County families, understanding these common pitfalls is vital for anyone considering legal action after a hazing incident. These mistakes can severely undermine a potential claim.

1. Letting your child delete messages or “clean up” evidence: While parents may think they are protecting their child from further trouble, deleting evidence can be interpreted as a cover-up, obstruct justice, and make a civil case nearly impossible to prove. Instead, preserve everything immediately, even if it seems embarrassing or incriminating.

2. Confronting the fraternity/sorority directly: Angry confrontations will prompt the organization to lawyer up immediately, destroy evidence, coach witnesses, and prepare their defenses. This puts your family at a severe disadvantage. Instead, document everything, then call a lawyer before any direct interaction.

3. Signing university “release” or “resolution” forms: Universities may pressure families into signing waivers or “internal resolution” agreements. These forms often waive your right to pursue a civil lawsuit, and any internal “settlement” is typically far below the true value of your case. Do NOT sign anything without an attorney reviewing it first.

4. Posting details on social media before talking to a lawyer: While you may want to share your story, anything posted on public social media can be screenshotted by defense attorneys, used to discredit your child, or create inconsistencies that hurt credibility. It can also waive legal privilege. Document privately; let your lawyer control public messaging strategically.

5. Letting your child go back to “one last meeting”: Fraternities or sororities might try to entice your child back by saying, “Come talk to us before you do anything drastic.” This is often a tactic to pressure, intimidate, or extract statements that can later be used against them. Once you’re considering legal action, all communication should go through your lawyer.

6. Waiting “to see how the university handles it”: Universities often promise an internal investigation, but while they deliberate, critical evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, and the statute of limitations continues to run. Preserve evidence NOW and consult a lawyer immediately; the university’s internal process is distinct from real legal accountability.

7. Talking to insurance adjusters without a lawyer: Insurance adjusters, representing the defendants, may claim they “just need your statement to process the claim.” Recorded statements can be used against you, and early settlement offers are almost always lowball. Politely decline and state, “My attorney will contact you.”

Short FAQ

• “Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
  Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities (like UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin) often claim sovereign immunity, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, willful misconduct, violations of federal civil rights laws like Title IX, or when suing individuals in their personal capacity. Private universities (SMU, Baylor) generally have fewer immunity protections. Every case is unique and depends on specific facts—contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for case-specific analysis.

• “Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
  It can be. Texas Education Code states that hazing is a Class B misdemeanor by default. However, it becomes a state jail felony if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. Furthermore, individuals in positions of authority who knowingly fail to report hazing can also face criminal charges.

• “Can my child bring a case if they ‘agreed’ to the initiation?”
  Yes. Texas law, specifically Education Code § 37.155, explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. Courts recognize that “consent” given under peer pressure, a power imbalance, or fear of exclusion is not true voluntary consent.

• “How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?”
  Generally, in Texas, you have two years from the date of injury or death to file a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit. However, exceptions like the “discovery rule” (if the harm or its cause wasn’t immediately known) or “tolling” (pausing the clock for minors or in cases of fraudulent concealment) can extend this period. Time is critical—evidence disappears, memories fade, and organizations destroy records. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately. Our video on the statute of limitations (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c) provides more information.

• “What if the hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?”
  The location of the hazing does not eliminate liability. Universities and national fraternities/sororities can still be held liable based on their sponsorship, control, knowledge, and the foreseeability of hazing, regardless of where it occurs. Many major hazing cases that resulted in significant judgments, such as the Pi Delta Psi retreat death or 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 settle confidentially before going to trial. We prioritize your family’s privacy and can work to request sealed court records and confidential settlement terms. Our goal is to secure accountability while protecting your child’s future and well-being.

About The Manginello Law Firm + Call to Action

When your family faces a hazing case in Falls County or any community in Texas, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who intimately understand how powerful institutions fight back—and how to win despite their formidable defenses. You need the Legal Emergency Lawyers™.

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, operating as Attorney911, is 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 Falls County and across the region, and we are strategically positioned to serve those needs.

Our unique qualifications are especially suited to hazing litigation:

• Insurance Insider Advantage (Lupe Peña): Our Associate Attorney, Lupe Peña, brings invaluable insight from her previous role as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm. She knows precisely how fraternity and university insurance companies value (and undervalue) hazing claims. She understands their delay tactics, their arguments for coverage exclusions, and their defense playbooks because she used to run them. This insider knowledge is a critical strategic advantage for our clients. Lupe Peña’s profile is available at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/.

• Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions (Ralph Manginello): Ralph P. Manginello, our Managing Partner, is not intimidated by national fraternities, multi-billion-dollar universities, or their well-funded defense teams. Our firm was one of the few Texas firms involved in the complex BP Texas City explosion litigation, demonstrating our ability to take on and succeed against massive corporations. With extensive federal court experience (including the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas), we know how to fight powerful defendants on their own turf to secure justice. Ralph Manginello’s credentials are detailed 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, working with economists to value loss of life and securing multi-million dollar settlements. We understand the profound impact of catastrophic injuries like brain damage or organ failure, and how to value lifetime care needs. We don’t settle cheap; we build cases that force genuine accountability. Learn more about our wrongful death practice at https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/.

• Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise: Ralph Manginello’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) provides a crucial understanding of how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation. We can provide informed advice to witnesses or former members who may face dual exposure, navigating both the criminal and civil tracks for the best possible outcome. Information on our criminal defense practice can be found at https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/.

• Investigative Depth: We leverage a network of experts—medical professionals, digital forensics specialists, economists, and psychologists—to build comprehensive cases. We are relentless in obtaining hidden evidence, from deleted group chats and social media content to subpoenaed national fraternity records and university internal files. We investigate as if your child’s life depends on it—because it truly does.

At Attorney911, we understand the intricate dynamics of fraternities, sororities, Corps programs, and athletic departments. We know how to investigate modern hazing, including securing elusive digital evidence and uncovering patterns of institutional neglect. We balance victim privacy with the drive for public accountability, understanding the nuances of Greek culture and how to prove coercion. We know this is one of the hardest things a family can face, and our mission is to get you answers, hold the responsible parties accountable, and help prevent this from happening to another family.

Call to Action

If you or your child experienced hazing at any Texas campus—whether at Baylor, Texas A&M, UH, UT Austin, SMU, or another institution—we want to hear from you. Families in Falls County, including Riesel, Marlin, Lott, and Rosebud, and throughout the surrounding Central Texas region, have the right to answers and accountability.

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.

In your free consultation, you can expect us to:

• Listen attentively to your story, understanding the unique trauma your family has endured.
• Review any evidence you have, such as photos, texts, or medical records.
• Clearly explain your legal options, including a criminal report, a civil lawsuit, both, or neither.
• Discuss realistic timelines and what to expect during the legal process.
• Answer your questions about costs. We work on a contingency fee basis—meaning we don’t get paid unless we win your case. Our video explaining contingency fees is available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc.
• Provide a no-pressure environment—you’ll have the space to decide if we are the right firm for you.
• Assure you that everything you tell us is confidential.

You don’t have to face this alone.

Call Attorney911 today for immediate help and a confidential consultation:

• 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 Falls County or anywhere across Texas, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone. Call us today.

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