Texas Hazing Laws: A Comprehensive Guide for Limestone County Families Affected by Campus Abuse

The phone rings late—a parent’s worst fear. Your child, a student at a Texas university, is in trouble. They’ve been hazed, physically or psychologically pushed to their limits by a fraternity, sorority, athletic team, or student organization. Perhaps they’ve been forced to drink to excess, faced humiliating rituals, or endured physical abuse, all under the guise of “tradition” or “bonding.” They’re hurt, scared, and don’t know who to turn to. Perhaps it got worse—they collapsed, were hospitalized, or worse, suffered catastrophic injury or even died because no one called for help.

This scenario, tragically, is far too common at campuses across Texas, impactiing families not just in major cities but also in close-knit communities like Limestone County. Whether your child attends one of the state’s large universities like the University of Houston (UH), Texas A&M University, the University of Texas at Austin (UT), Southern Methodist University (SMU), or Baylor University, or another institution, the potential for hazing lurks beneath the surface of campus life. When these devastating incidents occur, the feeling of helplessness can be overwhelming. As parents, we send our children off to college trusting they’ll be safe and supported, only to find them caught in a dangerous web of abuse.

This comprehensive guide to hazing and the law in Texas is written specifically for families in Limestone County and across Texas who find themselves navigating this painful reality. We aim to equip you with the knowledge to understand:

• What hazing truly looks like in 2025, moving beyond outdated stereotypes.
• How Texas and federal laws address hazing, and what rights victims and their families possess.
• The critical lessons learned from major national hazing cases and how these apply to Texas families.
• What has been happening at prominent Texas universities—UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor—and how these institutions have responded.
• The legal options available to victims and families in Limestone County and throughout Texas seeking justice and accountability.

Please understand that this article provides general information and is not a substitute for specific legal advice. Every case is unique, and circumstances vary greatly. The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, can evaluate individual cases based on their specific facts. We serve families throughout Texas, including Limestone County, providing dedicated advocacy when you need it most.

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.” Prioritize their health and safety above all else.
• Preserve evidence BEFORE it’s deleted:
  • Screenshot group chats, texts, and direct messages (DMs) immediately.
  • Photograph any injuries from multiple angles, at different times, and with a size reference.
  • Save physical items like clothing worn during the incident, receipts for forced purchases, or any objects used in the hazing.
• Write down everything while memory is fresh: who was involved, what happened, when it occurred, and where.
• Do NOT:
  • Confront the fraternity, sorority, or organization directly. This can lead to evidence destruction or retaliation.
  • Sign anything from the university or an insurance company without legal counsel reviewing it first.
  • Post details on public social media, as this could compromise your case.
  • Allow your child to delete messages or attempt to “clean up” any evidence.

Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours:

• Evidence disappears fast: group chats are deleted, physical objects are destroyed, and witnesses can be coached or intimidated.
• Universities often move quickly to control the narrative or conduct rushed internal investigations that may not serve your child’s best interests.
• We can help preserve crucial evidence and protect your child’s legal rights.
• Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for an immediate consultation.

2. Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like

For Limestone County families, understanding hazing means moving beyond outdated images of simple pranks or trivial initiations. Modern hazing is often insidious, highly psychological, and far more dangerous, endangering participants’ physical and mental well-being for the sake of group “belonging.” It’s not just “a dumb prank” or “just partying”; it’s a systemic problem engrained in many campus organizations.

2.1 Clear, Modern Definition of Hazing

At its core, hazing refers to any forced, coerced, or strongly pressured action tied to joining, keeping membership, or gaining status in a group. This behavior endangers physical or mental health, humiliates, or exploits an individual.

It’s crucial to understand that a student’s “agreement” or “consent” to participate does not automatically make the activity safe, legal, or permissible, particularly when there is peer pressure, a power imbalance, or a fear of social exclusion. True consent cannot exist in a coercive environment.

2.2 Main Categories of Hazing

Hazing manifests in various forms, often escalating in severity. These categories help illustrate the breadth of the problem:

Alcohol and Substance Hazing

This is among the most dangerous and unfortunately common forms of hazing. It involves:

• Forced or coerced drinking: Requiring new members to consume specific amounts of alcohol within a given timeframe, often far exceeding safe limits.
• Chugging challenges, “lineups,” or drinking games: Activities designed to induce rapid and excessive alcohol consumption, putting individuals at high risk of alcohol poisoning.
• Pressured consumption of unknown or mixed substances: In some extreme cases, new members are forced to ingest substances they are unaware of, or multiple types of alcohol and drugs.

Physical Hazing

Physical hazing causes direct bodily harm or extreme discomfort and deprivation. Examples include:

• Paddling and beatings: Direct physical assault using an object or fists.
• Extreme calisthenics, “workouts,” or “smokings”: Forced physical exertion, often to exhaustion or injury, far beyond normal physical conditioning, such as hundreds of push-ups or holding painful positions for extended periods.
• Sleep deprivation: Deliberately depriving new members of adequate sleep, sometimes over multiple days, through late-night meetings, physical activities, or constant demands.
• Food/water deprivation: Restricting access to food or water, leading to weakness, dehydration, and increased vulnerability.
• Exposure to extreme cold/heat or dangerous environments: Forcing individuals to spend time outdoors in severe weather without adequate protection, or placing them in unsanitary or unsafe locations.

Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing

These tactics are designed to degrade, embarrass, and assault an individual’s dignity:

• Forced nudity or partial nudity: Requiring new members to strip during rituals, events, or in public settings.
• Simulated sexual acts: Forcing participants to engage in or witness simulated sexual acts, including degrading positions or “antics.”
• Racial, sexist, or homophobic acts: Hazing that uses slurs, stereotypes, or forces individuals to perform degrading acts based on their identity.
• Public humiliation: Requiring new members to perform embarrassing acts in public or private settings for the amusement of older members.

Psychological Hazing

This category inflicts emotional and mental distress, often with lasting consequences:

• Verbal abuse, threats, and intimidation: Constant yelling, insults, derogatory names, and threats of social exclusion or physical harm.
• Isolation: Forcing new members to cut off contact with non-members, family, or friends, creating dependence on the organization.
• Manipulation or forced confessions: Coercing individuals to reveal personal secrets or engage in self-blame.
• Public shaming: Humiliation on social media, in meetings, or in front of peers, designed to break down an individual’s self-esteem.

Digital/Online Hazing

In the age of social media and constant connectivity, hazing has adapted to the digital realm:

• Group chat dares and “challenges”: Using platforms like GroupMe, Snapchat, TikTok, or Discord to issue dares, challenge new members to perform humiliating acts, or force them to interact in degrading ways.
• Pressure to create or share compromising images/videos: Coercing individuals to take or distribute images or videos that could harm their reputation.
• Constant monitoring and demands: Requiring new members to be constantly available to respond to messages or calls, disrupting sleep and academic focus.
• Geo-tracking: Demanding members share their live location, violating privacy and creating a sense of constant surveillance.

2.3 Where Hazing Actually Happens

Hazing is not limited to “frat boys” or Greek life. It is a pervasive problem that can occur in a wide variety of student organizations:

• Fraternities and sororities: This includes social organizations (IFC, Panhellenic), historically Black Greek letter organizations (NPHC), and multicultural Greek councils.
• Corps of Cadets / ROTC / military-style groups: These programs, often emphasizing discipline and tradition, can sometimes foster environments where hazing takes root.
• Athletic teams: From football, basketball, and baseball to cheerleading, swimming, and track, hazing can occur across collegiate sports.
• Spirit squads, tradition clubs, and performance groups: Organizations like those focused on campus spirit, beloved university traditions, marching bands, or theatre groups have also been known to engage in hazing.
• Some service, cultural, and academic organizations: Even groups with positive missions can sometimes fall prey to harmful initiation rituals.

For Limestone County families unfamiliar with modern Greek life or other campus organizations, it’s vital to recognize that social status, the desire for belonging, and a powerful culture of secrecy often keep these dangerous practices alive, even when everyone “knows” hazing is illegal and explicitly prohibited by universities. The pressure to conform can be immense, making it incredibly difficult for students to speak up or refuse.

3. Law & Liability Framework (Texas + Federal)

Understanding the legal landscape surrounding hazing in Texas is crucial for Limestone County families seeking justice and accountability. While universities have internal policies, state and federal laws provide powerful avenues for recourse.

3.1 Texas Hazing Law Basics (Education Code)

Texas has specific, robust anti-hazing provisions outlined in the Texas Education Code, Chapter 37, Subchapter F.
Texas Education Code § 37.151. Definition clarifies that hazing means 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 is broad and critical because it means:

• Location doesn’t matter: Hazing can happen on or off campus, in a private residence, or at an event space.
• Type of harm: It covers both physical injury (beatings, forced exercise, forced binge drinking) and psychological harm (extreme humiliation, intimidation, sleep deprivation affecting mental well-being).
• Intent: The perpetrator doesn’t need to specifically intend to “haze.” If their act was reckless (they knew the risk and disregarded it), it can still qualify as hazing.
• “Consent” is not a defense: As explicitly stated in Texas Education Code § 37.155, it is not a defense to prosecution for hazing that the person being hazed consented to the hazing activity. This is a critical protection for victims pressured into dangerous situations.

Criminal Penalties

Hazing is a crime in Texas, with penalties varying based on the severity of the harm:

• Class B Misdemeanor (Texas Education Code § 37.152): The default charge for hazing that doesn’t cause serious injury, punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a fine up to $2,000.
• Class A Misdemeanor: If hazing causes bodily injury requiring medical treatment.
• State Jail Felony: If hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. This carries more severe penalties, including potential state jail time.

Additionally, certain individuals can face criminal charges for their roles:

• Failing to report hazing: If you’re a member or officer of an organization and you knew about hazing but failed to report it, that can be a misdemeanor.
• Retaliating against someone who reports hazing: This is also considered a misdemeanor.

Organizational Liability

Texas Education Code § 37.153 specifies that organizations themselves can be criminally prosecuted for hazing 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, and universities can revoke recognition or ban the organization from campus. This is significant because it highlights that both individuals and the organization can be held accountable, a principle that carries over to civil lawsuits.

Immunity for Good-Faith Reporting

To encourage reporting, Texas Education Code § 37.154 grants immunity:
A person who in good faith reports a hazing incident to university officials or law enforcement is immune from civil or criminal liability that might otherwise result from the report.
This also extends to situations where students call 911 in a medical emergency, even if underage drinking or other minor offenses were involved. This “amnesty” is designed to prioritize saving lives and encourage bystanders to seek help without fear of personal repercussions.

These legal provisions demonstrate that Texas law takes hazing seriously, defining it comprehensively and establishing clear penalties and protections. For Limestone County families navigating such a crisis, understanding these laws is the first step toward seeking justice.

3.2 Criminal vs. Civil Cases

When hazing occurs, there are typically two distinct legal avenues that can be pursued: criminal cases and civil cases. While both aim for accountability, their goals, processes, and outcomes differ significantly.

• Criminal Cases:

  • Initiated by: The State (a prosecutor, such as a District Attorney or County Attorney).
  • Aim: To punish individuals for violating state laws. Punishments can include fines, jail time, probation, or community service.
  • Burden of Proof: “Beyond a reasonable doubt,” which is a very high standard.
  • Hazing-Related Charges: In addition to specific Texas hazing offenses, individuals can be charged with:
    • Furnishing alcohol to minors.
    • Assault, aggravated assault, or battery.
    • Sexual assault.
    • Involuntary manslaughter or negligent homicide in cases of death.
    • Obstruction of justice or tampering with evidence.
  • Outcome: If convicted, the individual faces legal penalties imposed by the state.

• Civil Cases:

  • Initiated by: Victims or their surviving family members.
  • Aim: To obtain monetary compensation for the harm suffered and to hold responsible parties (individuals and institutions) financially accountable.
  • Burden of Proof: “Preponderance of the evidence,” meaning it’s more likely than not that the defendant is liable—a lower standard than in criminal cases.
  • Hazing-Related Claims: Civil lawsuits often include claims such as:
    • Negligence and Gross Negligence: Failure to exercise reasonable care under the circumstances, or an extreme departure from ordinary care.
    • Wrongful Death: When a hazing incident leads to a fatality, surviving family members can sue for their losses (see Appendix E).
    • Negligent Supervision: Failure by the university or national organization to adequately supervise student groups.
    • Premises Liability: If hazing occurred on property where the owner failed to maintain a safe environment.
    • Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress: For severe psychological harm.
    • Assault and Battery: For physical harm.
  • Outcome: If successful, the victim or family receives a monetary award (settlement or judgment) to cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. It can also lead to institutional changes designed to prevent future hazing.

It is important to note that criminal and civil cases can proceed simultaneously, and a criminal conviction is not a prerequisite for pursuing a civil lawsuit. For example, even if criminal charges are dropped or result in an acquittal, a civil case can still succeed with its lower burden of proof. Attorney911 can guide Limestone County families through both the criminal and civil aspects that may arise from a hazing incident.

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

Beyond state laws, a federal framework contributes to accountability and transparency in hazing incidents, especially for universities receiving federal funding.

• Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This significant piece of legislation mandates that colleges and universities receiving federal student aid must:

  • Publicly report hazing incidents: Institutions are required to disclose any findings of hazing violations and the sanctions imposed. This data will be phased in over the coming years, making hazing information more accessible by around 2026.
  • Strengthen hazing education and prevention efforts: Universities must implement comprehensive hazing prevention programs for students, faculty, and staff.
  • Maintain public hazing data: This requirement aims to create a clearer picture of the prevalence of hazing across U.S. campuses, offering greater transparency to students and parents.

• Title IX: This federal civil rights law prohibits sex-based discrimination in any education program or activity receiving federal financial assistance. When hazing involves:

  • Sexual harassment, sexual assault, or gender-based violence.
  • Discrimination based on sex, gender identity, or sexual orientation.
    Title IX obligations are triggered. Universities have a duty to investigate such incidents promptly and impartially, and to take steps to prevent their recurrence. Lawsuits under Title IX can target institutional failures to address sex-based hazing.

• Clery Act (Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act): This federal law requires colleges and universities to disclose information about crime on and around their campuses. While not specific to hazing, many hazing incidents overlap with Clery-reportable crimes, such as:

  • Assaults.
  • Alcohol or drug law violations.
  • Sexual offenses.
    If a hazing incident involves these elements, it must be included in the institution’s annual Clery report, contributing to a broader understanding of campus safety.

For Limestone County families, these federal laws mean that universities face increasing pressure to address hazing transparently and proactively. They provide additional legal levers for accountability, especially when universities fail to uphold their duties to protect students.

3.4 Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit

One of the complexities of hazing litigation is identifying all potential parties responsible for the harm. An experienced hazing attorney understands that liability often extends far beyond the individual students directly involved.

• Individual Students:

  • The students who directly planned, organized, facilitated, or carried out the hazing acts.
  • This includes individuals who supplied alcohol to minors or encouraged dangerous behavior.
  • Individual liability can also extend to student leaders or officers for their failure to intervene or to report.

• Local Chapter / Organization:

  • The specific fraternity, sorority, club, or student organization involved in the hazing. If the organization is an incorporated entity, it can be sued directly.
  • This includes the student officers and leaders acting in their official capacity.
  • Liability can arise from the group’s actions, traditions, or policies that foster hazing.

• National Fraternity / Sorority:

  • Most local chapters are part of larger national organizations (e.g., Pi Kappa Alpha, Sigma Alpha Epsilon). These national headquarters often:
    • Establish anti-hazing policies and risk management guidelines.
    • Collect dues from individual members and chapters.
    • Provide training and advisors to local chapters.
  • National organizations can be held liable if they:
    • Knew or should have known about a pattern of hazing within a chapter or across multiple chapters.
    • Failed to adequately enforce their own anti-hazing policies.
    • Negligently supervised their local chapters.
    • Benefited financially from the chapter’s existence despite known risks.

• University or Governing Board:

  • The college or university itself (or its governing board) can be sued under various legal theories:
    • Negligent Supervision: Failure to properly oversee student organizations, enforce policies, or respond to reported hazing.
    • Negligent Retention: Retaining employees (e.g., advisors, coaches) with known propensities for ignoring hazing.
    • Breach of Contract: If the university fails to uphold promises made in student handbooks or policies regarding safety.
    • Premises Liability: For incidents occurring on university property where hazards were present or not addressed.
    • Title IX: For hazing involving sex-based discrimination or sexual assault.
  • Public universities in Texas (like UH, Texas A&M, UT) benefit from sovereign immunity, which limits their liability. However, exceptions exist, particularly for gross negligence, in cases involving the negligent use of tangible property, or when bringing claims under federal law like Title IX. Private universities (SMU, Baylor) generally have fewer immunity protections.

• Third Parties:

  • Landlords or Property Owners: If hazing occurred at an off-campus house, apartment complex, or event venue, the property owner could be liable if they knew or should have known about dangerous activities.
  • Bars or Alcohol Providers: Under Texas dram shop laws, establishments that negligently overserve an obviously intoxicated person, or serve alcohol to a minor, who then goes on to cause injury, can be held liable. This is highly relevant when hazing involves forced alcohol consumption.
  • Security Companies or Event Organizers: If hired for an event where hazing occurred, their negligence could contribute to liability.

It is important to remember that every case is fact-specific, and not every party will be liable in every situation. Identifying all potential defendants requires a thorough investigation and a deep understanding of hazing law and institutional liability. This complexity is why experienced legal counsel is essential for Limestone County families pursuing a hazing claim.

4. National Hazing Case Patterns (Anchor Stories)

The tragic incidents of hazing that make national headlines are not isolated events; they often reflect systemic problems and patterns of behavior within Greek life and other student organizations. These cases, many of which have resulted in costly lawsuits, criminal charges, and legislative changes, establish critical precedents that inform hazing litigation in Texas. For Limestone County families, understanding these “anchor stories” illustrates the stakes involved and the legal landscape our firm navigates.

4.1 Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

Forced or excessive alcohol consumption remains the single leading cause of hazing fatalities. These cases often share common threads: intense pressure to drink, a culture of secrecy, and a dangerous delay in seeking medical help.

• Timothy Piazza – Penn State University, Beta Theta Pi (2017):
  A 19-year-old pledge, Timothy Piazza, died after falling repeatedly and suffering traumatic brain injuries during a “bid acceptance” event involving extreme alcohol consumption. Security cameras within the fraternity house captured the events, including fraternity brothers delaying calling for medical help for hours. This case led to dozens of criminal charges against fraternity members, extensive civil litigation with confidential settlements, and the passage of the Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law in Pennsylvania, a landmark piece of legislation.

  • Takeaway for Texas: The Piazza case highlighted that extreme intoxication, agonizing delays in calling 911, and a pervasive culture of silence and cover-up are legally devastating, amplifying both criminal liability and civil damages.

• Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (2017):
  During a “Big Brother Night” event, 20-year-old Andrew Coffey, a freshman pledge, died from acute alcohol poisoning. Pledges were given handles of hard liquor and pressured to finish them. Multiple fraternity members were prosecuted, mostly pleading guilty to misdemeanor hazing. The incident led Florida State to temporarily suspend all Greek life.

  • Takeaway for Texas: These formulaic “tradition” drinking nights with forced consumption are a recurring script for disaster, signaling a clear pattern of risk that national fraternities and universities can foresee.

• Maxwell “Max” Gruver – Louisiana State University, Phi Delta Theta (2017):
  Max Gruver, a freshman pledge, died after participating in a “Bible study” drinking game where he was forced to consume excessive alcohol for incorrectly answering questions. His blood alcohol content was 0.495%. Max’s death led to the passage of the Max Gruver Act in Louisiana, making hazing a felony offense when it results in serious bodily injury or death. His family secured a $6.1 million verdict later in court against several defendants.

  • Takeaway for Texas: Max’s tragic death demonstrates how legislative change often follows public outrage fueled by clear evidence of egregious hazing, leading to stronger laws that benefit future victims. The significant verdict also shows juries will hold individuals and organizations accountable.

• Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021):
  During a “Big/Little” pledge night, 20-year-old Stone Foltz was forced to drink an entire bottle of whiskey. He later died from alcohol poisoning. The incident resulted in multiple criminal convictions against fraternity members. Civilly, his family reached a $10 million settlement in 2023, with $7 million from the Pi Kappa Alpha national fraternity and approximately $3 million from Bowling Green State University, a public institution. Crucially, in 2024, a court ordered the former chapter president, Daylen Dunson, to personally pay $6.5 million for his role.

  • Takeaway for Texas: The Foltz case dramatically reinforced that universities, even public ones, can face significant financial and reputational consequences. It also underscored that chapter officers can face massive personal liability, not just the organization.

4.2 Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Beyond alcohol, physically brutal and degrading rituals continue to plague student organizations.

• Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013):
  Michael Deng, a pledge, died after being blindfolded and repeatedly tackled in a “glass ceiling” ritual at an off-campus fraternity retreat in the Pocono Mountains. His injuries were severe, and fraternity members delayed calling for medical help. The incident led to multiple criminal convictions, and critically, the national Pi Delta Psi fraternity was criminally convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter, and banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years.

  • Takeaway for Texas: This case showed that off-campus “retreats” are not a shield against liability. They can be just as, or more, dangerous than on-campus events. Furthermore, national organizations can face severe sanctions, including criminal convictions, when their rituals lead to death.

• Danny Santulli – University of Missouri, Phi Gamma Delta (2021):
  18-year-old 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, and requires 24/7 care. His family settled lawsuits with 22 defendants, including the fraternity, with reported multi-million-dollar settlements.

  • Takeaway for Texas: This case is a horrifying example of catastrophic non-fatal hazing injury, reminding us that damage can be permanent even if death is avoided. The breadth of defendants implicated underscores the widespread complicity often found in hazing incidents.

4.3 Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Hazing isn’t exclusive to Greek life; it’s a pervasive issue across many student groups, including high-profile athletic programs.

• Northwestern University Football (2023–2025):
  Multiple former football players alleged widespread sexualized and racist hazing within the program over many years. This included forced sexual acts, racial taunts, and degrading rituals. The scandal led to multiple lawsuits against Northwestern University and coaching staff. Head coach Pat Fitzgerald was fired and later confidentially settled a wrongful-termination lawsuit.
  • Takeaway for Texas: This shows that hazing extends beyond Greek life into major athletic programs, often protected by a culture of silence and institutional power. It raised critical questions about institutional oversight at the highest levels of collegiate sports.

4.4 What These Cases Mean for Limestone County Families

The common threads running through these national tragedies are chillingly consistent: forced drinking, extreme humiliation, physical violence, dangerous delays in seeking medical attention, and systematic cover-ups. These patterns establish a clear legal basis for foreseeability. National fraternities, universities, and other organizations cannot credibly claim ignorance when similar incidents have repeatedly occurred across the country.

For families in Limestone County facing hazing at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor, or any other Texas university, these national lessons are paramount. They demonstrate that you are not alone, that hazing is a recognized and prosecutable offense, and that multi-million-dollar settlements often follow only after tragedy and determined legal action. The Manginello Law Firm leverages these precedents to build strong cases, ensuring that those responsible are held accountable and that justice is served for victims and their families.

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

For Limestone County families, understanding the hazing landscape at prominent Texas universities is critically important. Your child may attend one of these institutions, or could transfer to one; their campuses draw students from every corner of the state, including Central Texas. While each university has its own unique culture, they all grapple with the persistent challenge of hazing. Our firm often works with families in Limestone County who have children attending these schools, which are accessible via major highways.

5.1 University of Houston (UH)

5.1.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

The University of Houston, a vibrant urban campus located in the heart of Houston, serves a diverse student body from across Texas and beyond, including many students with ties to Limestone County. As a major research university, UH offers a dynamic campus life with a significant proportion of commuter students alongside a growing residential community. Its Greek life is active and encompasses a wide range of fraternities and sororities, including Interfraternity Council (IFC), Panhellenic, National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), and Multicultural Greek Council (MGC) chapters. Beyond Greek life, UH boasts a multitude of student organizations, cultural groups, and sports clubs, all of which fall under the university’s anti-hazing policies.

5.1.2 Hazing Policy & Reporting

The University of Houston maintains a clear stance against hazing, outlining its policy in its Student Handbook and Code of Conduct. UH’s hazing policy prohibits any act, on or off campus, that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of initiation or affiliation with any organization. This explicitly includes forced consumption of alcohol, food, or drugs, sleep deprivation, physical mistreatment, and any activity causing mental distress.

UH provides multiple channels for reporting hazing incidents, including:

• The Dean of Students Office.
• The Office of Student Conduct.
• UH Police Department (UHPD).
• Online reporting forms (e.g., through their “Report Hazing” website).

UH typically publishes a hazing statement and some disciplinary information, although the level of detailed disclosure can vary compared to other institutions.

5.1.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Like many large universities, UH has faced its share of hazing incidents:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (2016): One widely publicized incident involved the Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) fraternity. Pledges were allegedly subjected to sleep, food, and water deprivation over several days. One student reportedly suffered a lacerated spleen after being slammed onto a table or similar surface during an event. The chapter faced misdemeanor hazing charges from law enforcement and was suspended by the university.
• Ongoing Disciplinary Actions: UH’s public records, while sometimes limited in granular detail compared to UT, show a consistent history of organizations being disciplined for activities that “likely produce mental or physical discomfort, degradation, abuse, or humiliation.” These often involve alcohol misuse, forced exercise, or activities that violate student code of conduct and anti-hazing policies, leading to suspensions, probations, or loss of recognition.

These incidents highlight UH’s efforts to enforce its policies, but also underscore the persistent challenge of hazing within its Greek and student organizations.

5.1.4 How a UH Hazing Case Might Proceed

For a Limestone County family whose child experiences hazing at the University of Houston, the legal proceedings could involve multiple jurisdictions and entities.

• Law Enforcement: Depending on where the hazing occurred, the UH Police Department (for on-campus incidents) or the Houston Police Department (for off-campus incidents in the city) would investigate criminal hazing reports.
• Civil Suits: Civil lawsuits seeking compensation for injuries or wrongful death would typically be filed in courts with jurisdiction over Houston and Harris County.
• Potential Defendants: These could include the individual students directly involved, the local chapter, the national fraternity/sorority (such as Pi Kappa Alpha or Sigma Alpha Epsilon), the University of Houston itself, and potentially landlords or property owners where the hazing took place.

Our firm, being Houston-based, has deep experience navigating the legal landscape in this metropolitan area, which is crucial for handling complex hazing cases efficiently and effectively.

5.1.5 What UH Students & Parents Should Do

For students at the University of Houston and their parents in Limestone County, taking decisive action is key:

• Report Hazing: Utilize UH’s reporting channels: contact the Dean of Students, UHPD, or use the online reporting forms. Remember, reporting in good faith is protected under Texas law.
• Document Everything Thoroughly: As outlined in our “48-Hour Action Checklist,” immediately screenshot group chats, photographs injuries, and meticulously record details of the event. These steps are vital for building a strong case and can help uncover prior discipline and internal files from the university or organization.
• Prioritize Immediate Safety: If there is an ongoing threat or medical emergency, always call 911 first.
• Understand University Processes: Be aware that university investigations, while necessary, primarily focus on internal disciplinary actions. They may not fully address the scope of criminal acts or the avenues for civil compensation.
• Contact an Experienced Houston-Based Attorney: For Limestone County families, consulting with a lawyer experienced in Houston-based hazing cases is crucial. Attorney911 can help you understand the full range of legal options, navigate complex university procedures, and seek full accountability from all responsible parties.

5.2 Texas A&M University

5.2.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Texas A&M University in College Station holds a unique place in Texas, known for its deep-rooted traditions, strong Aggie spirit, and the prominent Corps of Cadets. Students from Limestone County often find themselves drawn to A&M’s strong academic programs and distinctive campus culture. The university maintains a robust Greek life, featuring Collegiate Panhellenic Council (CPC) sororities, Interfraternity Council (IFC) fraternities, Multicultural Greek Council (MGC) organizations, and National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) chapters.

The Corps of Cadets, a significant part of A&M’s heritage, fosters a military-style environment with its own set of deeply ingrained traditions. While designed to instill leadership and discipline, this culture has unfortunately been associated with numerous hazing allegations over the years, alongside incidents within traditional Greek life. Understanding both aspects is crucial for any Limestone County family with a student at A&M.

5.2.2 Hazing Policy & Reporting

Texas A&M’s hazing policies are clearly articulated in its Student Code of Conduct, strictly prohibiting hazing activities by any student organization, including Greek life, the Corps of Cadets, and athletic teams. The university defines hazing in line with Texas Education Code, emphasizing acts that endanger mental or physical health for initiation or affiliation purposes.

Reporting channels at Texas A&M include:

• The Dean of Student Life.
• Student Activities – Fraternity and Sorority Life Engagement.
• The Corps of Cadets leadership (for Corps-specific incidents).
• Texas A&M University Police Department (UPD).
• Anonymous reporting options online.

A&M endeavors to investigate all hazing allegations promptly and fairly, with outcomes ranging from organizational probation to permanent suspension or disaffiliation.

5.2.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Texas A&M has faced several high-profile hazing incidents, often highlighting the challenges within both Greek life and the Corps:

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) Lawsuit (Around 2021): A significant case involved allegations against the Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) fraternity. Pledges claimed they were subjected to a brutal hazing ritual where substances, including an industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit, were poured on them. This reportedly caused severe chemical burns that required emergency skin graft surgeries for at least two pledges. The incident led to the fraternity’s suspension by the university, and a $1 million lawsuit was filed by the injured pledges, underscoring the severity of physical hazing.
• Corps of Cadets Lawsuit (2023): A former cadet filed a lawsuit alleging degrading hazing within the Corps. The allegations included being subjected to simulated sexual acts, being bound between beds in a “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth, and other humiliating acts. This cadet sought over $1 million in damages. A&M stated it had handled the matter internally according to its established policies and regulations. This incident highlights the challenges of hazing within traditional military-style programs.

These incidents demonstrate that despite A&M’s commitment to anti-hazing policies, dangerous practices persist within various student groups.

5.2.4 How a Texas A&M Hazing Case Might Proceed

For a Limestone County family whose child is involved in a hazing incident at Texas A&M University, the legal process will largely be handled in the Bryan-College Station area.

• Law Enforcement: The Texas A&M University Police Department (UPD) would be the primary agency for on-campus incidents. If off-campus, the College Station Police Department or Brazos County Sheriff’s Office would have jurisdiction.
• Civil Suits: Lawsuits seeking compensation would generally be filed in courts within Brazos County, where College Station is located.
• Potential Defendants: These could include individual hazers, the local chapter, the national fraternity/sorority (like Sigma Alpha Epsilon), and Texas A&M University. Given A&M’s status as a public university, sovereign immunity considerations would apply, though our firm is experienced in navigating these complexities by leveraging exceptions and pursuing federal claims where appropriate.

Our firm is well-versed in handling cases across Texas, including those involving the unique culture and legal dynamics of Texas A&M and Brazos County.

5.2.5 What Texas A&M Students & Parents Should Do

For Limestone County families with children at Texas A&M, proactive steps are vital:

• Understand Corpus & Greek Life: Recognize the distinct cultures within the Corps of Cadets and traditional Greek life, both of which have been associated with hazing. Educate yourself on the signs of hazing relevant to these environments.
• Report All Suspicions: Utilize A&M’s various reporting channels. Even anonymous reports can trigger investigations and help piece together patterns of behavior.
• Document EVERYTHING: Immediately capture all digital evidence (group chats, photos, videos) and physical evidence. The details of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon chemical burns case, for example, relied heavily on credible accounts and medical evidence.
• Prioritize Medical Care: If physical or psychological harm occurs, seek medical attention immediately from Texas A&M Health Services, local urgent care, or regional hospitals.
• Seek Legal Counsel Promptly: Given the potential for both Greek life and Corps-related hazing, contacting an experienced hazing attorney is crucial. Our firm can help navigate the specific nuances of A&M’s internal disciplinary processes, understand the interplay of state immunity laws, and pursue civil claims against all liable parties. We serve families right here in College Station and across the Central Texas region.

5.3 University of Texas at Austin (UT)

5.3.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

The University of Texas at Austin, a flagship institution, is a bustling urban campus in the state capital, drawing a significant number of students from Limestone County and across Texas. UT is renowned for its diverse student body, strong academics, and vibrant social scene, which includes one of the largest and most active Greek systems in the country. It hosts approximately 60 fraternity and sorority chapters across its University Panhellenic Council (UPC), Interfraternity Council (IFC), Texas Asian Pan-Hellenic Council (TAPC), Multicultural Greek Council (MGC), and National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC). Beyond Greek life, UT is home to numerous spirit groups, athletic teams, and prestigious academic organizations, all of whom are subject to the university’s anti-hazing regulations.

5.3.2 Hazing Policy & Reporting

The University of Texas at Austin maintains strong anti-hazing policies, explicitly forbidding any act that causes or is likely to cause mental or physical discomfort, degradation, abuse, or humiliation for the purpose of initiation or affiliation. UT’s policies align with the Texas Education Code and are rigorously enforced.

UT stands out for its public transparency regarding hazing. It maintains an easily accessible Hazing Violation Report on its website (hazing.utexas.edu), which lists:

• The organization involved.
• The date of the incident.
• A concise description of the hazing conduct.
• The sanctions imposed by the university.

Reporting channels at UT include:

• The Dean of Students Office, Student Conduct and Academic Integrity.
• University of Texas Police Department (UTPD).
• Online reporting forms and an anonymous hotline.

5.3.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

UT Austin’s public hazing log provides valuable insights into the ongoing nature of the problem:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): The Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) fraternity was cited for hazing where new members were directed to consume milk excessively (a known hazing tactic that can lead to physical discomfort) and perform strenuous calisthenics. The chapter was placed on probation and required to implement new hazing-prevention education. This specific incident follows a national pattern of Pike chapters being involved in physically demanding and alcohol-related hazing.
• Texas Wranglers (2022): This high-profile men’s spirit organization faced allegations of forced workouts, sleep deprivation, and other forms of physical and psychological hazing for pledges, leading to university sanctions.
• Other Examples from UT’s Public Log: Numerous other fraternities (such as Sigma Alpha Epsilon), sororities, and spirit organizations have been sanctioned for alcohol-related hazing, forced calisthenics, inappropriate attire, and other acts violating UT’s code of conduct. The frequency and range of incidents on this public log underscore that hazing is a recurring issue across various types of student groups at UT.

The fact that UT maintains such a transparent log, unlike many other universities, serves as both a testament to its commitment to transparency and a stark reminder that hazing continues despite these efforts.

5.3.4 How a UT Austin Hazing Case Might Proceed

For a Limestone County family whose child has been hazed at UT Austin, the legal avenues are typically routed through the state capital.

• Law Enforcement: The University of Texas Police Department (UTPD) handles on-campus incidents, while the Austin Police Department would investigate off-campus hazing within the city. Travis County civil and criminal district courts would handle cases.
• Civil Suits: Lawsuits seeking damages would be filed in courts within Travis County.
• Potential Defendants: These would include individual students, the local chapter, the national fraternity/sorority (such as Pi Kappa Alpha or Kappa Sigma), and the University of Texas at Austin. As a public university, UT benefits from sovereign immunity, but exceptions for gross negligence, claims involving tangible property, and federal complaints (like Title IX) can circumvent this.

Our firm is well-equipped to handle cases in Austin, drawing on our experience across Texas, and understands how to leverage UT’s own public records to support claims of institutional knowledge and negligence.

5.3.5 What UT Austin Students & Parents Should Do

Limestone County families with students at the University of Texas at Austin should take heed of the following:

• Review UT’s Hazing Report: Familiarize yourself with UT’s publicly available Hazing Violation Report (hazing.utexas.edu). This resource is incredibly valuable for identifying organizations with a history of violations, providing an important heads-up for prospective students and a factual basis for affected families.
• Utilize UT’s Reporting System: If you suspect or experience hazing, use the specific reporting channels provided by the Dean of Students, UTPD, or the online forms. Knowing an organization’s history can make reports more impactful.
• Document Everything Diligently: Given the clear public record, thoroughly documenting any new incident with digital evidence, injury photos, and detailed notes is paramount. This allows for clear comparisons against the university’s prior findings.
• Contact an Experienced Hazing Attorney: For Limestone County families, consulting with a lawyer who understands both the broad Texas hazing laws and the specific nuances of UT’s disciplinary system is crucial. Our firm can help interpret UT’s public records to build a compelling civil case, seeking accountability from individuals, the local chapter, the national organization, and the university.

5.4 Southern Methodist University (SMU)

5.4.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Southern Methodist University (SMU), located in Dallas, is a prestigious private university known for its beautiful campus, rigorous academics, and affluent student body. It attracts students from across Texas, including Limestone County, seeking a high-quality education and vibrant social life. SMU boasts a very active Greek life, with a strong presence of Panhellenic sororities and Interfraternity Council (IFC) fraternities, along with National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) and Multicultural Greek Council (MGC) chapters. The campus culture often includes numerous social events and traditions, some of which, unfortunately, have led to hazing allegations.

5.4.2 Hazing Policy & Reporting

SMU maintains clear anti-hazing policies, explicitly forbidding any activity that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of initiation, admission, affiliation, or continued membership. As a private institution, SMU’s policies are often detailed in its Student Handbook and its Fraternity and Sorority Life guidelines. While not subject to the same public reporting requirements as public universities regarding disciplinary actions, SMU does emphasize a commitment to investigating all reports.

Reporting mechanisms at SMU typically include:

• The Office of the Dean of Students.
• Fraternity and Sorority Life office.
• SMU Police Department (SMU PD).
• Anonymous reporting options like their “Real Response” system or other online forms.

5.4.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Like many universities with active Greek systems, SMU has dealt with hazing incidents:

• Kappa Alpha Order (2017): One notable incident involved the Kappa Alpha Order fraternity chapter. Reports indicated that new members were subjected to paddling, forced alcohol consumption, and sleep deprivation as part of their initiation activities. Following an investigation, SMU suspended the chapter, imposing restrictions that limited its recruiting activities until approximately 2021. This event underscores the persistence of traditional forms of physical hazing, even at private institutions with strict policies.
• Ongoing Scrutiny: While SMU does not maintain a public hazing log in the same manner as UT, internal records and university statements often confirm that various organizations face disciplinary actions for violations of anti-hazing policies. These often involve alcohol misuse and activities that degrade or endanger new members.

These incidents highlight the ongoing challenge SMU faces in ensuring a safe environment for all its students within its vibrant social scene.

5.4.4 How an SMU Hazing Case Might Proceed

For a Limestone County family dealing with a hazing incident at SMU, the legal process will be centered in Dallas.

• Law Enforcement: The SMU Police Department (SMU PD) would lead investigations on campus. For off-campus incidents in the broader Dallas area, the Dallas Police Department or Dallas County Sheriff’s Office would have jurisdiction.
• Civil Suits: Lawsuits seeking compensation would be filed in courts within Dallas County.
• Potential Defendants: These could include the individual students, the local chapter, the national fraternity/sorority (such as Kappa Alpha Order or Pi Kappa Alpha), and Southern Methodist University itself. As a private institution, SMU does not benefit from sovereign immunity, which can simplify the process of suing the university directly compared to public institutions.

Our firm’s presence and experience across Texas, including the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, mean we are well-positioned to handle complex hazing cases in this region.

5.4.5 What SMU Students & Parents Should Do

For Limestone County families with students at Southern Methodist University, an informed approach is essential:

• Familiarize with SMU Policies: Review SMU’s Student Handbook and Fraternity and Sorority Life guidelines to understand their specific anti-hazing policies and disciplinary processes.
• Report Promptly: Utilize SMU’s reporting mechanisms, including the Dean of Students, SMU PD, or anonymous options like Real Response. Prompt reporting can initiate critical investigations.
• Document Meticulously: Preserve all digital evidence—group chats, social media posts, photos, and videos—as well as comprehensive notes of events and any injuries. Given SMU’s status as a private institution, gathering this evidence is crucial to compel transparency.
• Seek Medical & Psychological Support: If physical or psychological harm occurs, prioritize medical attention and seek counseling. Documentation from healthcare professionals is vital for any potential legal claim.
• Consult an Experienced Attorney: Contacting a lawyer specializing in hazing cases is particularly important when dealing with private institutions like SMU. Our firm can effectively navigate the specific legal landscape of private universities, which have different liability considerations than public ones. We help Limestone County families pursue full accountability from all responsible parties, including the university, local chapter, national organization, and individual perpetrators.

5.5 Baylor University

5.5.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Baylor University, located in Waco, is a private Christian university deeply rooted in Baptist traditions, and it welcomes students from Limestone County and all corners of Texas. While its core mission is faith-based education, Baylor maintains a vibrant student life that includes collegiate athletics, numerous student organizations, and a strong presence of Greek fraternities and sororities (Panhellenic, IFC, NPHC, and MGC). For Limestone County families, understanding Baylor means recognizing its unique blend of religious values, campus traditions, and the challenges that arise within a large university environment, particularly concerning student behavior and oversight.

5.5.2 Hazing Policy & Reporting

Baylor University strictly prohibits hazing, articulating its policy in the Student Code of Conduct and its Fraternity & Sorority Life guidelines. Its definition of hazing is consistent with Texas state law, encompassing any act that endangers mental or physical health for the purpose of initiation or affiliation. Baylor emphasizes a “zero tolerance” approach to hazing and operates within the ethical framework of its Christian mission.

Reporting channels at Baylor include:

• The Division of Student Life.
• Department of Student Activities, specifically the Fraternity & Sorority Life office.
• Baylor University Police Department (BUPD).
• Online reporting forms and anonymous tip lines (e.g., through its “EthicsPoint” system).

Baylor regularly states its commitment to investigating all allegations thoroughly and imposing appropriate sanctions on individuals and organizations found responsible.

5.5.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Baylor’s history has included periods of intense scrutiny regarding campus safety and student conduct, providing a context for how it handles hazing:

• Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020): A significant incident involved the Baylor baseball team, where 14 players were suspended following a hazing investigation. These suspensions were staggered over the early season to mitigate the impact on team performance, yet still sent a message about the university’s response. The incident highlighted that hazing extends to athletic programs within Baylor.
• Ongoing Scrutiny and Past Scandals: Baylor has faced broader cultural and oversight challenges in its recent past, particularly relating to its handling of sexual assault cases within its athletic department a few years prior. This historical context informs how current hazing allegations might be viewed and adjudicated, emphasizing the university’s need to demonstrate rigorous enforcement of its policies. While specific hazing incidents involving Greek life might not always become public in explicit detail, Baylor’s statements often reiterate its commitment to its anti-hazing stance.

These incidents demonstrate the ongoing challenges Baylor faces in upholding its “zero tolerance” policy and maintaining a safe and responsible campus environment.

5.5.4 How a Baylor Hazing Case Might Proceed

For a Limestone County family whose child experiences hazing at Baylor University, the legal proceedings will primarily take place in Waco.

• Law Enforcement: The Baylor University Police Department (BUPD) would investigate on-campus incidents. For off-campus hazing in the Waco area, the Waco Police Department or McLennan County Sheriff’s Office would have jurisdiction.
• Civil Suits: Lawsuits seeking compensation would be filed in courts within McLennan County.
• Potential Defendants: These would include the individual students, the local chapter, the national fraternity/sorority (such as Kappa Sigma or Phi Delta Theta), and Baylor University itself. As a private institution, Baylor does not have sovereign immunity, meaning it can be sued directly without the governmental protections afforded to public universities. This can sometimes simplify the path to holding the university directly accountable.

Our firm is experienced with the legal landscape across Texas, including the unique environment of private religious institutions like Baylor, and is prepared to pursue claims against all liable parties.

5.5.5 What Baylor Students & Parents Should Do

For Limestone County families with students at Baylor University, an understanding of Baylor’s distinct environment is key:

• Review Baylor’s Policies: Understand the specific anti-hazing policies outlined in Baylor’s Student Code of Conduct and its Fraternity & Sorority Life guidelines. Be aware of how these policies connect with its broader Christian mission.
• Report All Concerns: Utilize Baylor’s reporting mechanisms, including the Division of Student Life, BUPD, or anonymous systems like EthicsPoint.Prompt and thorough reporting is essential for initiating investigations.
• Document Thoroughly: Immediately preserve all digital evidence (group chats, photos, videos) and detailed notes of events and any injuries. Documentation from medical professionals is vital for any potential legal claim.
• Seek Support During Investigations: Be aware that internal university investigations, while important, are primarily for disciplinary purposes. They may not align with your goals for full legal accountability and compensation.
• Contact an Experienced Hazing Attorney: For Limestone County families, consulting with a lawyer who understands both Texas hazing laws and the specific institutional dynamics of a private religious university like Baylor is crucial. Our firm can provide strategic guidance, navigate complex investigations, and pursue civil claims against individuals, local chapters, national organizations, and the university to achieve justice and accountability.

6. Fraternities & Sororities: Campus-Specific + National Histories

When hazing incidents occur at a Texas university, it’s not just about what happened at one particular campus. Many fraternities and sororities found at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor are chapters of larger national organizations. These national groups often have an extensive history, sometimes marred by prior hazing incidents at other universities across the country. For families in Limestone County, it’s important to understand how these national histories are vital to building a strong hazing case.

6.1 Why National Histories Matter

National fraternity and sorority headquarters wield significant influence over their local chapters. They:

• Establish policies and risk management guidelines: Often, these are extensive manuals developed precisely because the national organization has previously dealt with hazing allegations, catastrophic injuries, or even deaths.
• Collect dues and fees: Members pay national dues, which often fund insurance for the national organization.
• Provide training and oversight: Nationals send advisors, conduct training sessions, and have mechanisms for monitoring chapter behavior.

Due to this relationship, a national organization can be held accountable for its local chapters’ actions. When a Texas chapter of a national fraternity or sorority repeats the same dangerous “traditions”—be it forced drinking nights, physical abuse rituals, or humiliating acts—that have led to injuries or deaths at other chapters in other states, this establishes a critical legal concept: foreseeability.

Foreseeability means the national organization knew or should have known about the inherent dangers of such activities. They often have thick files detailing prior incidents, which can be uncovered in legal discovery. This pattern evidence can dramatically strengthen claims of negligence or even gross negligence against national entities, showing they ignored repeated warnings or failed to adequately enforce their own anti-hazing policies, directly contributing to the harm felt by Limestone County families.

6.2 Organization Mapping (Synthesized)

Many of the fraternities and sororities active at Texas’s major universities have national counterparts with documented hazing histories. Below, we highlight some of these organizations and their national incident records, demonstrating the pervasive nature of hazing within certain groups.

• Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / Pike):

  • Description: A large social fraternity with chapters across the nation, including at UH, Texas A&M, UT, and Baylor.
  • National History: Pi Kappa Alpha has a deeply troubling national history of hazing. Most notably, the Stone Foltz case at Bowling Green State University (2021), where a pledge died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink a full bottle of whiskey, resulted in a $10 million settlement for his family. Earlier, David Bogenberger (Northern Illinois University, 2012) also died from alcohol poisoning during a Pike event, leading to a $14 million settlement. These incidents, and countless others, establish a clear national pattern of dangerous alcohol-related hazing within Pike. Pike at UT Austin has also recently been disciplined for forced milk consumption and calisthenics (2023).

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / SAE):

  • Description: A prominent social fraternity with a significant presence at Texas universities, including UH, Texas A&M, UT, and SMU.
  • National History: SAE has faced intense national scrutiny and multiple fatalities over the years, largely due to patterns of alcohol-related hazing. In 2014, SAE made national headlines by eliminating its traditional pledge program in response to repeated deaths, though hazing has unfortunately persisted. More recently, a traumatic brain injury case was filed against SAE at the University of Alabama (2023) following an alleged hazing ritual. Closer to home, a $1 million lawsuit was filed against the Texas A&M SAE chapter (2021) by pledges who suffered severe chemical burns from industrial cleaner and other substances. In January 2024, the UT Austin SAE chapter was sued for over $1 million after an exchange student alleged a brutal assault by fraternity members at a party, occurring while the chapter was under suspension for prior hazing violations.

• Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ):

  • Description: A well-known social fraternity with chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT, and Baylor.
  • National History: Phi Delta Theta is tragically linked to the Maxwell “Max” Gruver case at Louisiana State University (2017). Max died from extreme alcohol toxicity after being forced to play a deadly “Bible study” drinking game. His death led to the landmark Max Gruver Act in Louisiana and solidified the pattern of severe alcohol hazing within the organization, resulting in a $6.1 million verdict against several defendants.

• Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ):

  • Description: A national social fraternity with chapters at UH and Texas A&M.
  • National History: Pi Kappa Phi was involved in the tragic Andrew Coffey case at Florida State University (2017), where a pledge died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” involving forced liquor consumption. Criminal charges followed against several members, and FSU suspended all Greek life operations.

• Beta Theta Pi (ΒΘΠ):

  • Description: A large social fraternity with chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT, and SMU.
  • National History: Beta Theta Pi is infamous for the Timothy Piazza case at Penn State University (2017), where a pledge died after falling and suffering severe injuries during a hazing event, as brothers delayed calling for medical help. This incident garnered national attention, led to numerous criminal charges, and inspired Pennsylvania’s anti-hazing law.

• Kappa Sigma (ΚΣ):

  • Description: A national social fraternity with chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT, and Baylor.
  • National History: Kappa Sigma was found liable in the Chad Meredith case (University of Miami, 2001), where a jury awarded Meredith’s parents $12.6 million after their son drowned due to hazing. More recently, allegations of hazing resulting in severe injuries like rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown from extreme physical hazing) have emerged at Texas A&M University (2023), leading to ongoing civil litigation.

• Omega Psi Phi (ΩΨΦ):

  • Description: A historically Black Greek letter fraternity (NPHC), part of the Divine Nine, with chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor.
  • National History: While NPHC organizations discourage and prohibit hazing, tragic incidents do occur. For instance, former student Rafeal Joseph alleged severe hazing including repeated beatings with a wooden paddle during “Hell Night” at the University of Southern Mississippi (2023), requiring emergency surgery and months of rehabilitation. Joseph filed a federal lawsuit. The tragic death of Joel Harris at Morehouse College (1989) was also linked to suspected paddling.

• Sigma Chi (ΣΧ):

  • Description: A prominent social fraternity with chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT, and Baylor.
  • National History: Sigma Chi has faced significant hazing allegations nationally, including a civil case at the College of Charleston (2024) where a family received more than $10 million in damages for allegations of physical beatings, forced drug/alcohol consumption, and psychological torment. Additionally, the University of Texas at Arlington (2020) chapter was involved in a case where a pledge was hospitalized with alcohol poisoning from hazing.

This is not an exhaustive list, but it highlights that hazing is a recurring issue across some large national organizations. For Limestone County families, recognizing these patterns can prevent future tragedies.

6.3 Tie Back to Legal Strategy

The documented national histories of these fraternities and sororities are not just anecdotal. They provide critical evidence for legal strategy:

• Pattern Evidence: Repeated incidents of similar hazing across different chapters of the same national organization demonstrate a systemic problem, not isolated incidents. This helps prove that the national organization had not only “should have known” but often “did know” the risks associated with certain “traditions.”
• Foreseeability: Courts can consider whether national organizations, given their past experiences, could have foreseen that similar hazing practices were likely to occur again. This strengthens claims of negligence against national entities for failing to prevent harm.
• Enforcement Failures: When a national organization has strict anti-hazing policies but repeatedly fails to enforce them or imposes only minimal sanctions after violations, it undermines their defense. An experienced attorney will uncover prior disciplinary actions (or lack thereof) to show a pattern of inadequate response.
• Insurance Coverage Disputes: Knowledge of extensive national hazing histories is crucial when navigating insurance coverage disputes. Insurance companies often try to deny coverage for “intentional acts” or “hazing,” but a history of organizational negligence in preventing such acts can force insurers to cover the claims.
• Punitive Damages: In egregious cases, especially where there’s a clear pattern of ignored warnings and institutional indifference, pattern evidence strongly supports claims for punitive damages. These damages aim to punish defendants for their reckless or malicious conduct and deter future hazing.

For Limestone County families, understanding these legal intricacies means that a hazing incident at a Texas university can be part of a larger story of institutional failure. Our firm expertly connects these dots, leveraging national patterns to build powerful cases for accountability and compensation.

7. Building a Case: Evidence, Damages, Strategy

Building a successful hazing case demands meticulous investigation, a comprehensive understanding of evidence, and a strategic legal approach. For Limestone County families navigating such a process, The Manginello Law Firm focuses on every detail, because in hazing cases, every piece of information matters.

7.1 Evidence

Evidence is the backbone of any legal claim, and in hazing cases, it can be particularly elusive due to secrecy and rapid destruction attempts. Our firm specializes in uncovering and preserving the critical types of evidence that make a case:

• Digital Communications: In 2025, group chats and direct messages are often the most potent source of evidence. Platforms like GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Snapchat, and various fraternity-specific apps are where plans are made, commands are issued, and hazing is often documented. We work to retrieve:

  • Screenshots: Showing full conversations, participant names, and timestamps.
  • Recovered Messages: Even deleted messages can often be forensically recovered from phones, cloud backups, or servers.
  • Social Media Content: Posts, stories, DMs, and comments from Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok can reveal humiliating acts, forced activities, or injuries. Crucially, we look for location tags and hashtags that link to events. (Learn more about documenting legal cases with your cellphone at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs).

• Photos & Videos: Visual evidence is incredibly powerful:

  • Member-Captured Content: Photos or videos taken by members themselves during hazing events, often shared in private group chats or stories.
  • Surveillance Footage: Security cameras (on campus or at off-campus venues, Ring/doorbell cameras at private residences) can capture students arriving, leaving, or the immediate aftermath of an incident.

• Internal Organization Documents: These provide insight into the group’s “traditions” and internal policies:

  • Pledge Manuals/Initiation Scripts: Often contain coded language or explicit descriptions of activities.
  • Emails/Texts from Officers: Communications planning events, issuing instructions to new members, or discussing how to manage problems.
  • National Policies/Training Materials: Show what the national organization knew and what standards they should have upheld.

• University Records: These records can expose a pattern of negligence or inaction:

  • Prior Conduct Files: Disciplinary records of the involved organization, showing past probations, suspensions, or warnings for hazing or similar misconduct. (UT Austin’s public log is a key example).
  • Incident Reports: Records from campus police or student conduct offices related to the incident or prior incidents involving the group.
  • Clery Reports: Annual safety statistics that may show patterns of related crimes (assault, alcohol violations) in the area.

• Medical and Psychological Records: Crucial for documenting the extent of harm:

  • Emergency Room & Hospitalization Records: Initial diagnoses, treatment protocols, and toxicology reports (e.g., blood alcohol levels, drug tests).
  • Ongoing Treatment Notes: Documentation from surgeries, physical therapy, rehabilitation, and follow-up medical care.
  • Psychological Evaluations: Records from therapists or psychiatrists diagnosing Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, or other mental health impacts.

• Witness Testimony: Eyewitness accounts are invaluable:

  • Pledges/New Members: Often reluctant but crucial for corroborating details.
  • Experienced Members: Current or former members who are willing to speak out.
  • Bystanders: Anyone who observed the events, including roommates, RAs, coaches, or faculty advisors.

7.2 Damages

In civil hazing cases, “damages” refer to the financial compensation a victim or their family can seek for the harm suffered. This compensation aims to make the victim “whole” again, as much as money can. While we cannot guarantee specific dollar amounts, we diligently pursue every category of damages available under Texas law.

• Medical Bills & Future Care: This includes all costs associated with physical and psychological treatment:

  • Immediate Care: Ambulance, emergency room visits, and initial hospital stays (e.g., ICU, surgery).
  • Ongoing Treatment: Costs for specialists, physical therapy, rehabilitation, and long-term medication.
  • Life Care Plans: For catastrophic injuries (like severe brain damage or permanent disability), these plans project the lifetime cost of care, including accessibility modifications, in-home care, and specialized equipment.

• Lost Earnings / Educational Impact:

  • Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost by the student or parents (if they had to take time off work to care for their child).
  • Educational Setbacks: Reimbursement for tuition, fees, and living expenses for semesters missed. This also includes the value of lost scholarships, delayed graduation, and its impact on career entry.
  • Diminished Earning Capacity: If the injury results in a permanent disability that affects the student’s ability to pursue their chosen career or earn at their full potential, an expert economist will calculate this loss over a lifetime.

• Non-Economic Damages: These compensate for intangible losses that profoundly affect a victim’s quality of life:

  • Physical Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the actual pain endured during and after the hazing, including chronic pain.
  • Emotional Distress, Trauma, Humiliation: This includes severe anxiety, depression, PTSD, panic attacks, humiliation, loss of dignity, and the profound trauma inflicted by hazing. Therapeutic records are vital here.
  • Loss of Enjoyment of Life: When injuries prevent a student from participating in activities they once loved (sports, hobbies, social life), or significantly diminish their overall life experience.

• Wrongful Death Damages (for Families): When hazing tragically results in death, certain surviving family members (spouse, parents, children in Texas) can seek compensation for:

  • Funeral and Burial Costs: Direct expenses related to the death.
  • Loss of Companionship, Love, and Support: The profound emotional and familial loss experienced by the surviving family members.
  • Parents’ & Siblings’ Emotional Harm: Compensation for the grief, mental anguish, and counseling needed to cope with such a traumatic loss.
  • (Learn more about wrongful death claims at https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/)

• Punitive Damages: In cases of extreme misconduct, gross negligence, or institutional indifference, punitive damages may be sought. These are designed not to compensate the victim but to punish the defendants and deter similar behavior in the future. In Texas, punitive damages are available but often capped, except in certain intentional tort cases. They are critically important for holding institutions accountable when they have a history of ignoring hazing.

7.3 Role of Different Defendants and Insurance Coverage

The complexity of hazing cases often arises from identifying all potential defendants and navigating the intricate world of insurance coverage.

• Multiple Defendants: As discussed in Section 3.4, hazing cases rarely involve just one individual. Liability can extend to the local chapter, the national fraternity/sorority, the university, and even third parties. Each of these entities may have assets or insurance policies to respond to an award.
• Insurance Coverage Fights: National fraternities, sororities, and universities almost always carry substantial insurance policies designed to cover general liability, including injuries on their premises or arising from their activities. However, insurers will often argue:
  • Hazing Exclusions: Policies may contain specific exclusions for “hazing” or “intentional acts,” arguing these are not covered risks.
  • Policy Won’t Cover Specific Defendants: Attempts to limit coverage to only certain parts of an organization.
  • Reporting Delays: Arguing the claim was not reported promptly.
  • This is where an experienced hazing lawyer becomes indispensable. Our firm (including our attorney Lupe Peña, who is a former insurance defense attorney at a national firm; learn more about Lupe at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/) is adept at:
    • Identifying All Potential Policies: Uncovering layers of coverage from the national organization, the local chapter, individual officers, and the university.
    • Challenging Exclusions: Arguing that even if hazing involved intentional acts, the deeper claim is often for negligent supervision or failure to enforce policies, which are typically covered.
    • Forcing Defense: Compelling insurers to provide a defense, which can lead to settlements even if ultimate liability is disputed.
    • Maximizing Recovery: Negotiating within policy limits or pursuing bad-faith claims against insurers who wrongfully deny coverage.

For Limestone County families, this strategic approach ensures that maximum available resources are brought to bear, increasing the likelihood of a just and comprehensive recovery for the extensive harm caused by hazing.

8. Practical Guides & FAQs

For Limestone County families and students navigating the aftermath or threat of hazing, actionable advice is essential. We’ve compiled guides for parents, students, and witnesses, along with answers to frequently asked questions.

8.1 For Parents

Parents in Limestone County are often the first line of defense. Here’s what you need to know:

• Warning Signs of Hazing: Be alert to changes in your child’s behavior and physical well-being. Look for:
  • Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts, or repeated “accidents” with inconsistent stories.
  • Sudden, extreme exhaustion or chronic sleep deprivation.
  • Drastic changes in mood, increased anxiety, withdrawal from usual activities, or irritability.
  • Mysterious, frequent phone use for group chats at odd hours; fear of missing “mandatory” events.
  • Unexplained financial pressures or requests for money.
  • Sudden secrecy about club activities or refusal to discuss their new member process.
• How to Talk to Your Child: Approach the conversation calmly and empathetically. Ask open-ended questions like, “How are things really going in new member activities?” or “Is there anything making you uncomfortable?” Emphasize that their safety, physical and emotional well-being, is your absolute priority, far above any group’s “tradition” or membership. Assure them you will support them, no matter what.
• If Your Child Is Hurt: Immediately prioritize medical care. Even if they claim to be fine, get them checked out. During medical encounters, ensure the medical staff documents what the student says about the cause of injury (e.g., “was forced to drink,” “fell after being pushed”). Then, meticulously document everything yourself: photos of injuries (daily, with scale), screenshots of all relevant texts/messages, and notes on what they recount (dates, times, names, locations).
• Dealing with the University: Document every communication with university administrators. Ask specific questions about:
  • The policies and procedures for investigating hazing.
  • What disciplinary actions have been taken against the specific organization in the past.
  • Demand transparency and accountability, ensuring you receive written responses.
• When to Talk to a Lawyer: Contact Attorney911 immediately if your child suffers significant physical or psychological harm, if they are hospitalized, or if you feel the university or organization is minimizing the incident or attempting a cover-up. Early legal involvement is crucial to preserve evidence.

8.2 For Students / Pledges

To students and pledges in Limestone County, know your rights and understand the reality of hazing:

• “Is This Hazing or Just Tradition?” Ask yourself: Does this activity make me feel unsafe, humiliated, or coerced? Am I being forced to consume excessive alcohol or endure physical pain? Is this activity kept secret from the public or university administrators? If you’re told, “Everyone went through it,” or “It’s just part of bonding,” but it violates your personal boundaries or endangers your health, it is hazing.
• Why “Consent” Isn’t the End of the Story: The desire to belong is powerful, but true consent requires a free, uncoerced choice. In hazing environments, fear of exclusion, social pressure, and power imbalances often negate true consent. Remember, Texas law explicitly states consent is not a defense to hazing. You have the right to say no, to leave, and to be safe.
• Exiting and Reporting Safely: If you feel unsafe or want to leave, you have the right to do so at any time. Inform a trusted adult (parent, RA, academic advisor) before acting. You can send a simple email or text to the chapter president stating, “I am resigning my pledge/membership effective immediately.” If you fear retaliation, report this concern to your Dean of Students or campus police. You can report hazing anonymously through university hotlines or the National Anti-Hazing Hotline at 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293).
• Good-Faith Reporting and Amnesty: Many schools and Texas law (Texas Education Code § 37.154) recognize “good-faith reporting.” This means if you or someone else calls for medical help in an emergency, you often won’t face disciplinary action for minor violations (like underage drinking), as the priority is saving a life.

8.3 For Former Members / Witnesses

If you were once involved in hazing, or witnessed it, and now carry guilt or see the harm that was done, your role in seeking justice can be profound.

• Your Testimony Matters: Your perspective and evidence can be instrumental in preventing future harm and saving lives. You may possess critical digital evidence, inside knowledge of traditions, or direct witness accounts that are vital to a case.
• Navigating Your Role: We understand the fear of repercussions. You may want to seek your own legal advice, but cooperating with a victim’s attorney can be an important step towards accountability and closure. An attorney can help you navigate your role as a witness, explain any potential legal exposure you may have, and protect your rights. Our firm has criminal defense experience (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/) that can be helpful in these complex situations.

8.4 Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

For Limestone County families, being aware of common pitfalls can protect your child’s rights and the integrity of a potential legal claim.

MISTAKES THAT CAN RUIN YOUR HAZING CASE:

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

   • What parents think: “I don’t want them to get in more trouble.”
   • Why it’s wrong: This can be seen as a cover-up, hindering any investigation and potentially leading to charges for obstruction of justice. It makes a legal case nearly impossible to build, as crucial evidence is lost forever.
   • What to do instead: Preserve everything immediately, even embarrassing or supposedly incriminating content. Digital forensics can recover deleted messages, but original screenshots are always best.

2. Confronting the fraternity/sorority directly:

   • What parents think: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind.”
   • Why it’s wrong: As soon as you confront them, they will likely “lawyer up,” destroy evidence, coach witnesses, and prepare defenses. This gives them a significant head start in protecting themselves.
   • What to do instead: Document everything in private, then call an experienced hazing lawyer before any direct confrontation.

3. Signing university “release” or “resolution” forms:

   • What universities do: They may pressure families to sign waivers or “internal resolution” agreements that often include confidentiality clauses.
   • Why it’s wrong: You may unknowingly waive your right to pursue a civil lawsuit, and any “settlement” offered is typically far below the true value of your child’s damages.
   • What to do instead: Do NOT sign anything from the university or an insurance company without an attorney reviewing it first.

4. Posting details on social media before talking to a lawyer:

   • What families think: “I want people to know what happened.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Defense attorneys will screenshot everything. Inconsistencies or emotional posts can be used to discredit your child’s testimony. It can also waive attorney-client privilege.
   • What to do instead: Document privately. Allow your lawyer to control public messaging, if any, to protect the integrity of the case.

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

   • What fraternities say: “Come talk to us before you do anything drastic; let’s clear the air.”
   • Why it’s wrong: This is often a tactic to pressure, intimidate, or extract statements that can be used against your child or the case.
   • What to do instead: Once you are considering legal action, all communication from the organization should be directed through your lawyer.

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

   • What universities promise: “We’re investigating, let us handle this internally.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate and become unreachable, the statute of limitations continues to run, and the university primarily controls its own narrative, which may not align with your goal of full accountability and compensation.
   • What to do instead: Preserve evidence NOW. Consult a lawyer immediately to ensure your rights are protected and to explore all legal avenues, not just internal university discipline.

7. Talking to insurance adjusters without a lawyer:

   • What adjusters say: “We just need your statement to process the claim.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Insurance adjusters represent the insurance company, not you. Recorded statements can be used against you, and early settlement offers are almost always lowball.
   • What to do instead: Politely decline to speak with them and state, “My attorney will contact you.”

For a deeper dive into common errors, watch Attorney911’s video on client mistakes that can ruin your injury case: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY

8.5 Short FAQ

“Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities like UH, Texas A&M, and UT benefit from some sovereign immunity, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, in cases involving tangible property, or when federal laws like Title IX are violated. Private universities like SMU and Baylor have fewer immunity protections. Every case is unique, so contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a case-specific analysis.

“Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
It can be. While basic hazing is a Class B misdemeanor, it becomes a state jail felony under Texas Education Code § 37.152 if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. Individuals who fail to report hazing can also face criminal charges.

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

“How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?”
Generally, the statute of limitations in Texas is 2 years from the date of injury or death. However, the “discovery rule” may extend this if the harm or its cause wasn’t immediately known. In cases involving cover-ups or fraud, the statute may be tolled (paused). Time is critical as evidence disappears quickly. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately. (Learn more about statutes of limitations in our video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c)

“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 liable based on their sponsorship, control, knowledge, and whether the hazing was foreseeable. Many major hazing cases that resulted in multi-million-dollar judgments (like 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 trial to avoid public exposure. We prioritize your family’s privacy and can often negotiate for sealed court records and confidential settlement terms. Our primary goal is accountability for the responsible parties, which can often be achieved without your child’s identity becoming public.

9. About The Manginello Law Firm + Call to Action

When your family in Limestone County faces a hazing case, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how powerful institutions fight back—and how to win anyway. At The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, operating as Attorney911, the Legal Emergency Lawyers™, we bring unparalleled experience and strategic depth to campus abuse cases.

From our Houston office, we serve families throughout Texas, including Limestone County and surrounding areas. We understand that hazing at Texas universities affects families in Limestone County and across the region, regardless of where their children attend school. Our team is dedicated to providing decisive, compassionate legal representation when you need it most.

Our firm’s unique qualifications for complex hazing litigation include:

• The Insurance Insider Advantage (Lupe Peña): Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, spent years as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm. She knows the insurance industry’s playbook inside and out—how they value (and undervalue) hazing claims, their delay tactics, coverage exclusion arguments, and settlement strategies. This insider knowledge is a formidable asset for your case, allowing us to anticipate and counteract the defenses of national fraternities and university insurers. Learn more about Lupe’s background at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/.
• Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions (Ralph Manginello): Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has a proven track record of taking on some of the largest corporations. He was part of the legal teams involved in the BP Texas City explosion litigation, a monumental case against a massive corporate defendant. This federal court experience (U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas) means we are not intimidated by national fraternities, universities, or their well-funded defense teams. We’ve taken on billion-dollar corporations and won. We know how to fight powerful defendants effectively. Learn more about Ralph’s extensive experience at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/.
• Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death and Catastrophic Injury Experience: We don’t settle cheap. We have a proven track record in complex wrongful death and catastrophic injury cases, working with economists and medical experts to fully value the extensive harm suffered. This includes experience calculating lifetime care needs for severe brain injuries or permanent disabilities. Our approach is to build cases strong enough to force accountability, advocating fiercely for the comprehensive compensation your family deserves.
• Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise: Ralph’s membership in the prestigious Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) provides us with a unique advantage. When hazing leads to criminal charges, we understand how those proceedings interact with civil litigation. This dual expertise means we can advise not only victims and their families but also witnesses and even former members who may face dual exposure, ensuring a comprehensive legal strategy.
• Investigative Depth: We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does. We deploy a network of experts, including digital forensics specialists to unearth deleted group chats and social media evidence, medical experts to fully document injuries, economists to project financial losses, and psychologists to assess emotional trauma. We know how to subpoena national fraternity records showing prior incidents and uncover university files through discovery and public records requests.

We recognize that hazing cases are different. They involve powerful institutional defendants with experienced defense lawyers, intricate insurance coverage fights, and the delicate balance of prioritizing victim privacy while pursuing public accountability. We understand Greek culture, its “traditions,” and how to effectively prove coercion, even when it’s disguised.

We know this is one of the hardest things a family can face. Our job is to get you answers, hold the right people accountable, and help prevent this from happening to another family. We focus on thorough investigation and real accountability, not just quick settlements.

Call to Action

If your child, friend, or family member, whether you’re in Limestone County or elsewhere, experienced hazing at the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, or any other Texas campus, we want to hear from you. Families in Limestone County and throughout the surrounding region have the right to answers and accountability.

Contact The Manginello Law Firm for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. We’ll listen to what happened without judgment, explain your legal options, and help you decide on the best path forward.

What to expect in your free consultation:

• We will listen to your story with empathy and without judgment.
• We’ll review any evidence you have, such as photos, texts, or medical records.
• We will clearly explain your legal options: whether to pursue a criminal report, a civil lawsuit, both, or neither.
• We will discuss realistic timelines and what to expect throughout the legal process.
• We will answer your questions about costs. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning we don’t get paid unless we win your case (learn more about contingency fees at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc).
• There is no pressure to hire us on the spot—take the time you need to decide.
• Everything you tell us is confidential.

The time to act is now. Evidence disappears rapidly, and the statute of limitations can limit your legal options. Don’t face this alone.

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC / Attorney911
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 Limestone County or anywhere across Texas, if hazing has impacted your family, you deserve powerful advocacy. 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