Hazing in Texas: A Guide for Rowlett Families on Campus Abuse, Laws, and Accountability

The phone rings in the dead of night. Your child, a student at a Texas university, is on the line, their voice trembling. They’ve been at an off-campus initiation event, forced to drink far beyond their limit, enduring physical abuse and demeaning acts from older students. Others are filming, laughing, and chanting, caught up in the twisted “tradition.” Someone else gets hurt, collapses, but no one wants to call for help, fearful of shutting down the fraternity or getting in trouble. Your child feels trapped between loyalty to the group and their own safety, a world away from the familiar streets of Rowlett.

This chilling scenario, unfortunately, is not uncommon across Texas campuses. It’s a harsh reality that parents in Rowlett and across our state must confront – the dark side of campus life known as hazing.

We understand the fear and confusion this creates for families. This comprehensive guide is designed specifically for families in Rowlett, Rockwall County, and throughout Texas who need to understand:

• What hazing truly looks like in 2025, reaching far beyond old stereotypes.
• The intricacies of Texas and federal laws that govern hazing.
• Critical lessons from major national hazing cases and their direct relevance to Texas families.
• The specific hazing challenges and incidents that have occurred at prominent Texas institutions like the University of Houston, Texas A&M University, the University of Texas at Austin, Southern Methodist University, and Baylor University, as well as other Texas schools where Rowlett families send their children.
• The legal options and pathways to accountability available to victims and their families in Rowlett and across our great state.

This article provides general information. Every case has its unique facts and merits. The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, is a Houston-based Texas personal injury firm dedicated to evaluating individual cases and helping families navigate these complex situations. We serve families throughout Texas, including Rowlett, Rockwall County, and the broader Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES:

If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

• Call 911 for medical emergencies. Prioritize their health and safety above all else.
• Then call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911). We provide immediate help in legal emergencies—that’s why we’re the Legal Emergency Lawyers™.

In the first 48 hours, time is of the essence:

• Get medical attention immediately, even if the student insists they are “fine” or just want to go home. Documenting injuries is crucial.
• Preserve evidence BEFORE it’s deleted:
  • Screenshot group chats, texts, and direct messages immediately, capturing timestamps and participant names.
  • Photograph visible injuries from multiple angles, placing a ruler or coin next to them for scale.
  • Save any physical items that could be evidence (damaged clothing, receipts for forced purchases, or objects used in hazing).
• Write down everything while the memory is fresh: who, what, when, where, and any specific quotes or actions.
• Do NOT:
  • Confront the fraternity, sorority, or organization directly. This can lead to evidence destruction or witness coaching.
  • Sign anything from the university or insurance company without legal consultation. You may unknowingly waive your rights.
  • Post details on public social media. This can compromise your case.
  • Allow your child to delete messages or “clean up” evidence.

Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours:

• Evidence disappears fast—deleted group chats, destroyed paddles, coached witnesses.
• Universities move quickly to control the narrative and conduct internal investigations that may not prioritize your child’s legal rights.
• We can help preserve evidence, protect your child’s rights, and prevent critical mistakes.
• Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate consultation.

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like

The image of hazing as a harmless prank or a rite of passage is dangerously outdated. In 2025, hazing is a pervasive problem that spans diverse student organizations and often involves insidious psychological manipulation and digital tactics alongside traditional physical and alcohol abuse. For Rowlett families, understanding these modern forms of hazing is the first step toward prevention and protection.

Hazing is 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. It is crucial to emphasize that “I agreed to it” does not automatically make it safe or legal. When there is peer pressure, power imbalance, and a strong desire to belong, consent is often invalid.

Main Categories of Hazing

Modern hazing takes many forms, often escalating from subtle psychological manipulation to direct physical harm.

• Alcohol and Substance Hazing: This remains one of the most dangerous and common forms. It involves forced or coerced drinking, often through structured “games,” “lineups,” or rituals designed to compel rapid and excessive alcohol consumption. Pledges may be pressured to consume entire bottles of liquor, or drink until sick or unconscious. In some cases, students are also pressured to consume illegal drugs or unknown substances.

• Physical Hazing: This category includes direct bodily harm or extreme physical duress. Examples range from paddling and beatings to extreme calisthenics, “workouts,” or “smokings” far beyond normal athletic conditioning. Victims often endure sleep deprivation, forced standing for hours, or deprivation of food and water. Exposure to extreme cold or heat, or dangerous environments, also falls under physical hazing. This can lead to severe injuries like broken bones, internal organ damage, or rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown from extreme exertion).

• Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing: These acts are profoundly degrading and can cause lasting psychological trauma. They include forced nudity or partial nudity, simulated sexual acts (often referred to as “roasted pig” positions or “elephant walks”), or being forced to wear demeaning costumes. Hazing can also involve racial, homophobic, or sexist overtones, including the use of slurs or forcing individuals to perform stereotypical acts.

• Psychological Hazing: Often overlooked but deeply damaging, psychological hazing focuses on mental manipulation and distress. This includes verbal abuse, threats, isolation from family and friends, or constant demeaning insults. Victims may be subjected to “grilling” sessions where they are barraged with questions and criticism, forced confessions, public shaming on social media or in meetings, and constant surveillance, leading to severe anxiety, depression, and loss of self-worth.

• Digital/Online Hazing: With the ubiquity of smartphones and social media, digital hazing has become a prevalent and insidious method. Pledges are often monitored 24/7 through GroupMe, WhatsApp, Discord, or Instagram group chats, where they are compelled to respond instantly, participate in dares, “challenges,” or public humiliation. They may be pressured to create or share compromising images or videos, or have embarrassing content posted about them. Location sharing apps might be mandated, creating a constant sense of surveillance and control.

Where Hazing Actually Happens

Hazing is not confined to the stereotypes of fraternity houses. It permeates a wide array of student organizations and activities, including:

• Fraternities and Sororities: This includes social groups across all councils (Interfraternity Council – IFC, Panhellenic Council, National Pan-Hellenic Council – NPHC, and Multicultural Greek Council – MGC).
• Corps of Cadets / ROTC / Military-Style Groups: Highly structured environments can sometimes foster traditions that cross the line into hazing.
• Spirit Squads, Tradition Clubs, and Honor Societies: Groups like college cheerleading teams, dance teams, and other exclusive student clubs have been known to engage in hazing rituals.
• Athletic Teams: From football and basketball to baseball, soccer, and other varsity and club sports, hazing can occur within team environments, often under the guise of “team bonding” or “toughening up.”
• Marching Bands and Performance Groups: Even seemingly benevolent artistic or performance groups can engage in hazing practices.
• Academic, Cultural, and Service Organizations: Many other student groups, including those focused on community service or academic achievement, have faced hazing allegations.

The persistence of hazing, despite widespread knowledge of its illegality and danger, is often fueled by a potent mix of social status, deeply entrenched “traditions,” and a strong code of secrecy designed to protect the organization over its members.

Law & Liability Framework (Texas + Federal)

For families in Rowlett facing the nightmare of hazing, understanding the legal landscape is paramount. Texas has specific laws prosecuting hazing crimes and allowing civil lawsuits for damages, often supplemented by federal legislation.

Texas Hazing Law Basics (Education Code)

Texas law defines hazing broadly, covering a range of harmful actions. Under Texas Education Code § 37.151, hazing is any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, by one person alone or with others, directed against a student, that:

• Endangers the physical health or safety of a student (e.g., beating, forced exercise, forced consumption of alcohol/drugs).
• Or substantially affects the mental health or safety of a student (e.g., extreme humiliation, isolation, intimidation).

Crucially, this must occur for the purpose of pledging, initiation into, affiliation with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization whose members include students.

Key aspects of Texas hazing law:

• Criminal Penalties (§ 37.152): Hazing is a criminal offense in Texas.

  • By default, it’s a Class B Misdemeanor (punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,000).
  • It escalates to a Class A Misdemeanor if the hazing causes bodily injury requiring medical attention.
  • Most critically, it becomes a State Jail Felony if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. This means potential prison time.
  • Individuals, including officers of organizations, can also be charged with a misdemeanor for knowingly failing to report a hazing incident. Retaliation against someone who reports hazing is also a misdemeanor.

• Organizational Liability (§ 37.153): Organizations themselves (fraternities, sororities, clubs, teams) can be held criminally responsible for hazing if they authorized or encouraged the acts, or if an officer or member acting in an official capacity knew about the hazing and failed to report it. Penalties can include fines of up to $10,000 per violation, and universities can revoke recognition or ban the organization.

• Immunity for Good-Faith Reporting (§ 37.154): To encourage reporting and seeking help, Texas law provides immunity for individuals who report a hazing incident in good faith to university authorities or law enforcement. Additionally, Texas law and many university policies offer amnesty for students who call 911 in a medical emergency, even if they were underage drinking or otherwise involved.

• Consent Not a Defense (§ 37.155): This is a cornerstone of Texas hazing law: it is explicitly stated that a person’s consent to the hazing activity is not a defense to prosecution. This means even if a student verbally “agreed” to participate, it doesn’t absolve the perpetrators or the organization of legal responsibility.

• Reporting by Educational Institutions (§ 37.156): Texas colleges and universities are required to provide hazing prevention education, publish their policies, and publicly report hazing violations and disciplinary actions annually. This promotes transparency and allows families in Rowlett to research an organization’s history.

This summary provides a foundational understanding; the actual law is highly technical.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases

When hazing occurs, two distinct legal processes can unfold:

• Criminal Cases: These are initiated by the state (prosecutors) against individuals or organizations accused of violating hazing laws. The objective is to impose penalties like fines, jail time, or probation. Common criminal charges related to hazing can include hazing offenses, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, battery, and even negligent homicide or manslaughter in cases of serious injury or death.

• Civil Cases: These are brought by victims or their surviving families against those responsible. The primary aim is monetary compensation for the harm suffered and to hold individuals and institutions accountable. Civil claims often involve theories of negligence, gross negligence, wrongful death, negligent hiring or supervision, premises liability, and intentional infliction of emotional distress. A criminal conviction is not a prerequisite for filing a civil lawsuit, and the standards of proof differ.

Both types of cases can proceed concurrently, offering different avenues for justice and accountability.

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

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

• Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This landmark federal legislation compels colleges and universities receiving federal funding to enact stricter anti-hazing measures. By around 2026, institutions must report hazing incidents more transparently, strengthen prevention initiatives, and make hazing data publicly accessible. This offers Rowlett families new avenues for information and accountability.

• Title IX / Clery Act: When hazing involves elements of sexual harassment, sexual assault, or creates a hostile environment based on sex, Title IX (which prohibits sex-based discrimination in education) obligations are triggered, requiring universities to investigate and address the conduct. The Clery Act mandates that colleges and universities disclose campus crime statistics, and hazing incidents that involve assaults, alcohol or drug crimes, or other reportable offenses often fall under its reporting requirements.

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit

Determining who is legally responsible in a hazing case is complex but crucial for securing justice and compensation. Potential defendants can include:

• Individual Students: The individuals who actively planned, organized, carried out, or significantly participated in the hazing acts, supplied alcohol, or assisted in covering up the incident.
• Local Chapter / Organization: The fraternity, sorority, club, or team itself, particularly if it operates as a recognized legal entity. Officers and “pledge educators” often hold key positions of liability.
• National Fraternity/Sorority: The national headquarters of a Greek-letter organization can be held liable. This often hinges on whether the national organization had knowledge of systemic hazing within its chapters, failed to enforce its anti-hazing policies, or had a history of similar incidents across other chapters that showed foreseeability.
• University or Governing Board: Colleges and universities may be sued under various negligence theories, especially if they had prior knowledge of hazing, failed to adequately supervise organizations, or did not enforce their own anti-hazing policies. Public universities in Texas (like UH, Texas A&M, UT) may invoke sovereign immunity, but exceptions exist for gross negligence or certain Title IX violations. Private universities (SMU, Baylor) typically have fewer such protections.
• Third Parties: In some cases, liability can extend to landlords or owners of off-campus houses or event spaces where hazing occurred, or even commercial establishments that illegally furnished alcohol.

Every hazing case is fact-specific, and the liable parties will vary depending on the unique circumstances and evidence.

National Hazing Case Patterns (Anchor Stories)

Hazing is not unique to Texas, but the national patterns and legal precedents set by tragic incidents across the country directly inform how hazing cases, including those potentially involving students from Rowlett, are pursued in Texas courts. These anchor stories highlight the devastating consequences of hazing and the determined fight for accountability.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

Forced alcohol consumption continues to be the most common and deadliest form of hazing, creating a tragic pattern evident in cases nationwide.

• Timothy Piazza – Penn State University, Beta Theta Pi (2017): Timothy Piazza died after a “bid acceptance” event involving extreme drinking. Frantic hours passed after his fall, captured on fraternity security cameras, before members called for medical help. The incident led to dozens of criminal charges against fraternity members, extensive civil litigation, and the powerful “Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law” in Pennsylvania. This case underscores how extreme intoxication, delayed medical intervention, and a pervasive culture of silence can converge with devastating and legally damning results.

• Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (2017): Andrew Coffey died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” event. Pledges were given handles of hard liquor and pressured to consume them quickly. The incident resulted in criminal hazing charges against several members, and Florida State University responded with a temporary suspension of all Greek life, followed by a significant overhaul of campus hazing policies. It’s a painful reminder that formulaic “tradition” drinking nights are a recurring script for disaster.

• Max Gruver – Louisiana State University, Phi Delta Theta (2017): Maxwell “Max” Gruver died after being forced to participate in a “Bible study” drinking game, where incorrect answers led to forced drinking. His death was a direct catalyst for the “Max Gruver Act” in Louisiana, a felony hazing law that carries significant prison sentences. This case demonstrates how a clear instance of hazing, resulting in tragedy, can spur critical legislative change fueled by public outcry.

• Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021): Stone Foltz died after being forced to consume an entire bottle of whiskey during a “Big/Little” night. The incident resulted in multiple criminal convictions for fraternity members. The Foltz family reached a $10 million settlement in 2023, with approximately $3 million from Bowling Green State University (a public institution) and $7 million from the Pi Kappa Alpha national fraternity. This case powerfully illustrates that universities, even public ones, can face substantial financial and reputational consequences alongside the implicated fraternities.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Beyond alcohol, physical and ritualized abuse also constitutes a pattern of severe hazing, leading to serious injury and death.

• Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013): Michael Deng died after being subjected to a violent, blindfolded “glass ceiling” ritual at an off-campus fraternity retreat in the Pocono Mountains. Members repeatedly tackled him while he was weighted with a backpack, causing a fatal head injury. Like the Piazza case, critical medical help was delayed. Multiple fraternity members were convicted, and the Pi Delta Psi national fraternity was itself criminally convicted and banned from operating in Pennsylvania for 10 years. This landmark case highlighted that off-campus “retreats” can be as dangerous or worse than on-campus parties, and national organizations can face severe criminal and civil sanctions.

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Hazing is not confined to Greek life; it also deeply affects athletic programs, where a culture of “toughness” can be twisted into abuse.

• Northwestern University Football (2023–2025): Former players of the Northwestern football program alleged widespread sexualized and racist hazing that occurred over multiple years within the team. This led to multiple lawsuits against Northwestern University and its coaching staff, the termination of head coach Pat Fitzgerald, and his subsequent confidential settlement for a wrongful-termination suit in 2025. This scandal unequivocally demonstrated that hazing extends far beyond Greek life, with big-money athletic programs also harboring systemic abuse and institutional liability.

What These Cases Mean for Texas Families

These national tragedies share common, heartbreaking threads: forced drinking, humiliation, physical violence, delayed or denied medical care, and a pervasive culture of silence and cover-ups. The pattern reveals that significant reforms and multi-million-dollar settlements often only follow after tragedy strikes and determined legal action is taken.

For Rowlett families, and all Texas families, understanding these national lessons is vital. If a student from Rowlett experiences hazing at the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, or any other Texas institution, they are not isolated incidents. They are part of a larger, well-documented pattern. The legal precedents established in these national cases directly strengthen the ability of Texas hazing lawyers to build robust claims for accountability and justice in our state’s courts.

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

Families across Rowlett and Rockwall County often send their children to major universities throughout Texas, including the University of North Texas in Denton, Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, or schools in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Others attend schools further afield, such as the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, or Baylor. While each campus has its own unique culture, the threat of hazing remains a shared concern. For those in Rowlett, understanding the specific dynamics and hazing history of Texas’s largest institutions is critical, regardless of where your child attends.

Jurisdiction for hazing cases in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, including Rowlett, involves local police departments such as the Rowlett Police Department, Rockwall County Sheriff’s Office, and potentially campus police if the incident occurred within a local university. Civil lawsuits would likely be filed in Rockwall County, Dallas County, or other nearby District Courts, depending on the specific location of the hazing and the domicile of the defendants. Even if a case is filed closer to Houston or Central Texas for an incident at UH or Baylor, for example, our firm can still assist Rowlett families in navigating the complexities of discovery, evidence, and proceedings.

University of Houston (UH)

5.1.1 Campus & culture snapshot

The University of Houston, a large urban campus situated in the heart of the nation’s fourth-largest city, is known for its diverse student body and active Greek life. With a mix of commuter and residential students, UH fosters a vibrant environment that includes numerous fraternities, sororities across all councils, and a wide array of student organizations from cultural groups to sports clubs. Many students from the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, including Rowlett, choose UH for its strong academic programs and urban opportunities.

5.1.2 Official hazing policy & reporting channels

UH maintains a clear anti-hazing policy, emphasizing that any form of hazing, whether on-campus or off-campus, is strictly prohibited. The policy specifically bans forced consumption of alcohol, food, or drugs, sleep deprivation, physical mistreatment, mental distress, and other demeaning acts as part of initiation or affiliation. Students and parents can report concerns through the Dean of Students’ office, the Office of Student Conduct, or the University of Houston Police Department (UHPD). UH also provides information on its website regarding hazing prevention and some disciplinary actions.

5.1.3 Selected documented incidents & responses

While publicly available detailed records for UH hazing incidents are not as comprehensive as some other institutions, notable cases have emerged. In 2016, a Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) pledge allegedly suffered a lacerated spleen after being violently slammed onto a table during a multi-day hazing event where students were deprived of food, water, and sleep. The chapter faced misdemeanor hazing charges and a university suspension. Other disciplinary actions have targeted fraternities for behaviors “likely to produce mental or physical discomfort,” including alcohol misuse and policy violations. These incidents highlight UH’s willingness to impose suspensions and disciplinary measures when hazing is detected.

5.1.4 How a UH hazing case might proceed

Given UH’s location, any hazing case would likely involve investigations by the University of Houston Police Department (UHPD) and potentially the Houston Police Department if incidents occur off-campus in city jurisdiction. Civil lawsuits stemming from hazing at UH would typically be filed in courts within Harris County. Potential defendants in such actions often include the individual students involved, the local chapter, the national fraternity or sorority organization, and potentially the University of Houston itself, along with any property owners where the hazing took place. Our Houston-based firm is ideally positioned to handle these cases, and we can easily assist Rowlett families navigating the logistics of a suit in Harris County.

5.1.5 What UH students & parents should do

For Rowlett families with children attending the University of Houston, proactive measures are critical:

• Understand UH’s Reporting Channels: Know how to report hazing to the Dean of Students, UHPD, or utilize online reporting forms available on the UH website.
• Document Everything: If you suspect hazing, immediately gather screenshots of communications, photos of injuries, and detailed notes on incidents.
• Research Past Incidents: Look for any public information regarding disciplinary actions against specific organizations at UH to identify patterns.
• Seek Legal Counsel: Contact a lawyer experienced in Houston-based hazing cases to help uncover prior disciplinary actions, navigate the university’s internal processes, and pursue appropriate legal action.
• Prioritize Safety: If your student is in immediate danger, call 911 first, then contact an attorney.

Texas A&M University

5.2.1 Campus & culture snapshot

Texas A&M University, located in College Station, is deeply rooted in tradition, exemplified by its renowned Corps of Cadets. Attracting students from across Texas, including many from communities like Rowlett, A&M’s campus culture is known for its strong sense of community, honor, and loyalty. Its Greek life is also prominent, and alongside student organizations, the Corps itself often faces scrutiny regarding its traditional “outfit” practices.

5.2.2 Official hazing policy & reporting channels

Texas A&M strictly prohibits hazing within any student organization, including the Corps of Cadets. Their policy aligns with Texas law, defining hazing broadly to include acts that endanger mental or physical health for initiation or affiliation purposes. Reporting channels are available through the Division of Student Affairs, the Corps of Cadets leadership, and the Texas A&M University Police Department (TAMU PD). The university also provides an online reporting form for anonymous submissions.

5.2.3 Selected documented incidents & responses

Texas A&M has faced several significant hazing allegations and incidents. Around 2021, two pledges of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) fraternity at Texas A&M filed a $1 million lawsuit, alleging they were forced to endure strenuous physical activity and then doused with substances including industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit, causing severe chemical burns that required skin graft surgeries. The fraternity was suspended for two years.

More recently, in 2023, a former Corps of Cadets member alleged degrading hazing practices, including simulated sexual acts and being bound between beds in a “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth. This individual sought over $1 million in damages, highlighting the challenges of hazing within even highly structured, traditional organizations. Texas A&M’s response asserted that the matter was handled internally in accordance with university policies.

These incidents underscore the ongoing tension between deeply ingrained traditions and anti-hazing regulations at A&M, demonstrating that hazing concerns extend to both Greek life and the Corps.

5.2.4 How a Texas A&M hazing case might proceed

Hazing cases at Texas A&M often involve the Texas A&M University Police Department (TAMU PD) for on-campus incidents, or the Bryan or College Station police departments for off-campus events. Civil suits are typically brought in state courts in Brazos County. Jurisdiction within Texas means that Rowlett families can pursue legal action with the support of a Texas-based firm like ours, even if the incident occurred hours away in College Station. Potential defendants include individuals, local chapters, national organizations (like SAE), and potentially the university and its leadership, particularly regarding incidents within the Corps of Cadets.

5.2.5 What Texas A&M students & parents should do

For Rowlett families whose children attend Texas A&M, or for alumni from our community:

• Understand Corps Traditions vs. Hazing: Be acutely aware of the line between challenging traditions and illegal hazing, especially within the Corps.
• Screenshot and Document: Crucially, any evidence of hazing, whether in Greek life or the Corps, from group chats to photos of injuries, must be preserved immediately.
• Report Internally and Externally: Use A&M’s official reporting channels, but also consider contacting local police or an experienced hazing attorney.
• Legal precedent: Recognize that past incidents, like the SAE chemical burns case or the Corps allegations, can establish a pattern of knowledge and bolster civil claims.
• Contact Attorney911: We have experience with complex institutional cases, including those involving powerful university entities.

University of Texas at Austin (UT)

5.3.1 Campus & culture snapshot

The University of Texas at Austin, the flagship institution of the UT System, is a sprawling campus known for its vibrant academic and social scene. With a highly active Greek life and a multitude of student organizations, UT draws students from all over Texas, including a significant population from the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, such as Rowlett. Its campus culture, while academically focused, also boasts deeply ingrained traditions and powerful student groups.

5.3.2 Official hazing policy & reporting channels

UT Austin maintains a robust anti-hazing policy, strictly prohibiting any act that endangers the mental or physical health of a student for the purpose of initiation or affiliation. UT’s policies are often highlighted by its commitment to transparency. Students and parents can report hazing through the Office of the Dean of Students, the Behavior Concerns Advice Line (BCAL), or the University of Texas Police Department (UTPD). Crucially, UT Austin actively publishes a comprehensive and publicly accessible Hazing Violations page on its website (e.g., hazing.utexas.edu), detailing organizations, dates, conduct, and sanctions.

5.3.3 Selected documented incidents & responses

UT’s public Hazing Violations page reveals a consistent history of hazing incidents across various organizations. For example, in 2023, the Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) fraternity faced sanctions for directing new members to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics, which was deemed hazing. The chapter was placed on probation and mandated to implement new hazing-prevention education. Other student groups, including spirit organizations and tradition-based clubs like the Texas Wranglers, have also received sanctions for hazing involving forced workouts, alcohol misuse, or punishment-based practices. This public record provides invaluable insight into the pervasive nature of hazing. In January 2024, a Sigm Alpha Epsilon (SAE) chapter at UT was sued for over $1 million by an Australian exchange student who alleged assault by fraternity members, resulting in severe injuries including a dislocated leg and multiple fractures, highlighting the dangerous environment that can exist within these organizations, even those already under university scrutiny.

5.3.4 How a UT Austin hazing case might proceed

Hazing cases at UT Austin often involve multiple law enforcement agencies, including the University of Texas Police Department (UTPD) for on-campus incidents and the Austin Police Department (APD) for occurrences off-campus. Civil lawsuits would typically be filed in state courts in Travis County. Rowlett families seeking legal recourse for incidents at UT Austin will find that the university’s public hazing log can be a powerful tool, as prior violations can strongly support civil suits by demonstrating a pattern of knowledge regarding an organization’s hazing history. Potential defendants include individual students, the local chapter, national organizations, and potentially the university itself, given its knowledge of past incidents.

5.3.5 What UT Austin students & parents should do

For Rowlett families whose children attend or plan to attend UT Austin:

• Utilize UT’s Public Hazing Log: Regularly check UT Austin’s public Hazing Violations page to research the disciplinary history of any organization your student is considering joining.
• Document Everything Meticulously: Given the prevalence of digital evidence in modern hazing, screenshot group chats, social media exchanges, and document any physical or psychological changes.
• Report All Concerns: Use UT’s diverse reporting channels, including the Dean of Students’ office and UTPD.
• Understand the Legal Implications of Past Violations: The documented history of hazing at UT, especially against specific fraternities like Pi Kappa Alpha or SAE, can significantly strengthen a civil case by demonstrating the university’s and national organization’s knowledge of recurring issues.
• Consult an Attorney: An attorney experienced in Texas hazing law can help Rowlett families leverage UT’s transparency to build a strong case.

Southern Methodist University (SMU)

5.4.1 Campus & culture snapshot

Southern Methodist University, a private institution nestled in a prominent area of Dallas, boasts a reputation for academic excellence and a robust, affluent Greek life. Many students from Rowlett and communities across the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex aspire to attend SMU, with its strong emphasis on tradition and a vibrant social scene that heavily features fraternities and sororities.

5.4.2 Official hazing policy & reporting channels

SMU maintains a strict anti-hazing policy, clearly defining prohibited behaviors that endanger mental or physical health for initiation or affiliation. As a private university, SMU’s policies and enforcement mechanisms are internal, though they align with Texas state law. SMU encourages reporting through its Office of the Dean of Students, Student Conduct & Community Standards, and the SMU Police Department. The university also utilizes anonymous reporting systems and educational initiatives, such as its partnership with Real Response, to encourage students to come forward.

5.4.3 Selected documented incidents & responses

Despite its private status, hazing incidents at SMU have periodically become public. In 2017, the Kappa Alpha Order fraternity at SMU was heavily sanctioned after reports of new members being paddled, forced to consume alcohol, and deprived of sleep. The chapter faced suspension and stringent restrictions on its recruitment activities for several years. While SMU doesn’t maintain a public hazing log comparable to UT Austin, these incidents highlight that hazing concerns are present even at private institutions with significant Greek populations.

5.4.4 How an SMU hazing case might proceed

Hazing cases at SMU would typically involve investigations by the SMU Police Department and potentially the Dallas Police Department for incidents occurring off-campus, within Dallas city limits. Civil lawsuits would generally be filed in state courts within Dallas County. Because SMU is a private university, it does not have the same sovereign immunity protections as public institutions, which can sometimes streamline the legal process for victims seeking civil compensation. Rowlett families pursuing a hazing claim against SMU or its organizations will require an attorney well-versed in both Texas hazing law and the specific nuances of litigating against private entities. Our Houston-based firm is familiar with legal processes throughout North and Central Texas, including Dallas County.

5.4.5 What SMU students & parents should do

For Rowlett families and students at Southern Methodist University:

• Understand Privacy vs. Transparency: Be aware that while SMU discourages hazing, detailed public records of violations might be less accessible than at public universities.
• Document All Evidence: Meticulous evidence collection, especially digital communications and medical records, becomes even more critical when public transparency is limited.
• Utilize SMU’s Reporting Systems: Report incidents through the Dean of Students or SMU PD, and consider anonymous tools like Real Response.
• Know Your Rights Against Private Institutions: Private universities like SMU do not have sovereign immunity, potentially simplifying the path to civil litigation.
• Engage Legal Counsel Early: Due to the private nature of the university, consulting an experienced hazing attorney is vital to navigate the internal investigation process and determine the best course for legal action without waiving any rights.

Baylor University

5.5.1 Campus & culture snapshot

Baylor University, located in Waco, Texas, is the oldest continually operating university in our state and is affiliated with the Baptist General Convention of Texas. With a strong religious identity, Baylor attracts students from across the state, including Rowlett and the surrounding areas, seeking a value-based education. Its campus culture, while emphasizing faith and community, also includes an active Greek life and various sports teams, both of which have faced scrutiny regarding student conduct.

5.5.2 Official hazing policy & reporting channels

Baylor University has a “zero tolerance” policy for hazing. Its policy explicitly prohibits acts that endanger the mental or physical health of students, aligning with Texas state law. Baylor encourages students and parents to report hazing to the Dean of Students’ office, the Department of Student Activities, or the Baylor Police Department (BUPD). The university also provides an EthicsPoint hotline for anonymous reporting of misconduct.

5.5.3 Selected documented incidents & responses

Baylor University has a complex history regarding student conduct and institutional oversight, most notably following a major sexual assault scandal involving its football program and multiple Title IX violations. This history has led to increased scrutiny over all forms of student misconduct, including hazing. In 2020, for example, the Baylor Baseball team faced significant consequences when 14 players were suspended following a hazing investigation. These suspensions were staggered over the early season, impacting team performance. This incident, while not reaching the severity of some national cases, highlights that hazing persists even under intense institutional scrutiny and can impact well-regarded athletic programs at Baylor.

5.5.4 How a Baylor hazing case might proceed

Hazing cases at Baylor University typically involve investigations by the Baylor Police Department (BUPD) for on-campus incidents, and potentially the Waco Police Department for off-campus events. Civil lawsuits would usually be filed in state courts within McLennan County. Like SMU, as a private university, Baylor does not benefit from sovereign immunity, which can simplify the legal avenues for Rowlett families seeking compensation and accountability. Our firm can effectively assist families from Rowlett and across Texas in navigating hazing cases at Baylor, offering guidance through internal processes and litigation.

5.5.5 What Baylor students & parents should do

For Rowlett families connected to Baylor University:

• Be Aware of Baylor’s History: Understand that Baylor’s history of institutional oversight challenges, particularly concerning student safety and Title IX, means hazing allegations will likely be met with internal processes you need to navigate carefully.
• Prioritize Documentation: Documenting all evidence, from digital communications to medical records, is paramount.
• Report Swiftly: Use Baylor’s reporting mechanisms, including the Dean of Students’ office or the EthicsPoint hotline.
• Seek Independent Legal Advice: Due to the complexities of litigating against private universities with a history of student conduct controversies, consulting an attorney experienced in Texas hazing law is crucial for understanding your rights and options.
• Connect with Attorney911: We are well-versed in the legal strategies required for cases involving private universities and powerful institutions, ensuring your family’s rights are protected.

Fraternities & Sororities: Campus-Specific + National Histories

The patterns of hazing activity, whether at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor, or elsewhere, are not isolated incidents. They are often deeply connected to the histories and practices of their national organizations. For Rowlett families, understanding these national patterns is crucial, as they demonstrate a disturbing predictability that can strengthen legal arguments in Texas.

Why National Histories Matter

Most fraternities and sororities active on Texas campuses are chapters of national or international organizations. These national headquarters often possess extensive anti-hazing manuals and risk management policies—policies that exist precisely because they have faced tragic deaths and catastrophic injuries in the past. They are acutely aware of the recurring patterns: forced drinking nights, physically abusive traditions, and demeaning rituals that have plagued various chapters across the country for decades.

When a local Texas chapter, whether at the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, or Baylor, repeats the same scripts or harmful behaviors that have led to another chapter being suspended, sued, or shut down in another state, it establishes a crucial legal concept: foreseeability. This pattern of repeated misconduct can directly support arguments of negligence or even punitive damages against national entities in a Texas court. It shows that the national organization had ample warning and, arguably, failed to take sufficient action to prevent harm.

Organization Mapping (Synthesized)

While an exhaustive list of every chapter and incident is beyond the scope of this guide, several national fraternities and sororities with a presence on Texas campuses have well-documented hazing histories. Understanding these patterns is key for Rowlett families.

Our research, confirmed by public records and trusted databases, highlights some organizations with recurring hazing incidents:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike): Present at UH, Texas A&M, and UT Austin. Nationally, Pike has been associated with multiple hazing-related deaths and severe injuries. The tragic death of Stone Foltz at Bowling Green State University in 2021 from forced alcohol consumption during a “Big/Little” night led to a $10 million settlement and multiple criminal convictions. Another case, David Bogenberger at Northern Illinois University in 2012, resulted in a $14 million settlement for alcohol poisoning. These incidents, among others, demonstrate a clear pattern of dangerous alcohol hazing within the organization, which has been reflected in disciplinary actions at Texas campuses like UT Austin and UH.

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE): Active at UH, Texas A&M, and UT Austin. SAE has a national history marred by numerous hazing-related deaths and severe injuries, leading the national organization to (unsuccessfully) attempt to ban pledging entirely in 2014. Recent lawsuits include a tragic traumatic brain injury case filed at the University of Alabama in 2023. In Texas, SAE chapters have faced direct accusations: at Texas A&M in 2021, two pledges alleged they suffered severe chemical burns from industrial cleaner and other substances poured on them; and at UT Austin in January 2024, an exchange student sued the chapter for extensive injuries following an alleged assault.

• Phi Delta Theta: Found at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and SMU. The organization is nationally linked to the death of Max Gruver at Louisiana State University in 2017, who died of alcohol poisoning during a forced drinking “Bible study” game. This incident specifically spurred the Max Gruver Act in Louisiana, making felony hazing easier to prosecute.

• Pi Kappa Phi: Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, and UT Austin. Nationally, Pi Kappa Phi was involved in the death of Andrew Coffey at Florida State University in 2017, another tragic case of alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” event.

• Beta Theta Pi: Present at UH, Texas A&M, and UT Austin. Most notably, Beta Theta Pi was at the center of the Timothy Piazza tragedy at Penn State University in 2017, where delayed medical care after an extreme alcohol-fueled hazing event led to his death. This case became a national flashpoint for anti-hazing legislation and prosecution.

• Kappa Alpha Order: This fraternity has chapters at Texas A&M and SMU. Repeated national incidents and widespread allegations of hazing, including paddling and alcohol abuse, have led to suspensions and disciplinary actions at various campuses, including SMU in 2017.

• Omega Psi Phi (ΩΨΦ): Present at UH and Texas A&M, and a prominent National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) fraternity. Omega Psi Phi has faced numerous hazing allegations across the country, including a federal lawsuit filed in April 2023 by a former student at the University of Southern Mississippi alleging severe beatings with a wooden paddle during “Hell Night,” resulting in emergency surgery and months of rehabilitation. Earlier, in 1997, Joseph Snell’s case against Omega Psi Phi resulted in a $375,000 verdict for severe beatings, establishing important precedents for national liability.

• Phi Gamma Delta (FIJI): Active at Texas A&M. This fraternity was implicated in the horrific Danny Santulli case at the University of Missouri in 2021, where excessive forced alcohol consumption left Santulli with severe, permanent brain damage, requiring 24/7 care. The family settled with 22 defendants, including the fraternity, for reportedly multi-million-dollar amounts.

• Kappa Sigma: Present at UH, Texas A&M, and UT Austin. Nationally, Kappa Sigma has been connected to several hazing incidents, including the $12.6 million jury verdict awarded to the family of Chad Meredith (University of Miami, 2001) who drowned after being encouraged by fraternity members to swim while intoxicated. More recently, a 2023 case at Texas A&M involved allegations of severe injuries, including rhabdomyolysis, stemming from physical hazing.

This pattern demonstrates that these behaviors are not isolated actions by a few “bad apples” but often reflect systemic issues within organizations that, despite national policies, continue to recur.

Tie Back to Legal Strategy

The documented history of hazing within these national organizations is not merely anecdotal; it forms a critical component of legal strategy in civil lawsuits in Texas.

• Foreseeability: Repeated incidents across states and campuses demonstrate that national organizations and universities had clear knowledge that specific hazing activities were dangerous and recurring. This discredits claims that a particular incident was an “unforeseeable accident” or the act of a “rogue chapter.”
• Failure to Act: Plaintiffs can demonstrate that despite this knowledge, national organizations and universities failed to implement or enforce effective anti-hazing policies, train members adequately, or punish prior violations aggressively enough to deter future misconduct.
• Insurance Coverage: Knowing an organization’s history can impact insurance coverage disputes. If insurers consistently pay out for certain types of hazing incidents, it becomes harder for them to claim a new incident is “unforeseeable” or falls outside coverage.
• Punitive Damages: In egregious cases, especially where an organization exhibited a pattern of willful blindness or gross negligence despite prior warnings, courts may consider awarding punitive damages. These damages are designed to punish the defendant and deter similar conduct in the future, sending a strong message that systemic failures will not be tolerated.

For Rowlett families, connecting their child’s local hazing experience to these national patterns is invaluable. It transforms a perceived “isolated incident” into a part of a larger, preventable problem, significantly strengthening the legal argument for accountability and compensation.

Building a Case: Evidence, Damages, Strategy

Successfully pursuing a hazing lawsuit requires an aggressive, meticulous approach to evidence collection, a clear understanding of potential damages, and a sophisticated legal strategy. When we represent families in Rowlett and across Texas, we leverage our deep experience to navigate these complexities.

Evidence

Modern hazing cases are often won or lost based on the quality and comprehensiveness of the evidence.

• Digital Communications: In 2025, group chats and direct messages are the new “smoking gun.” We meticulously collect and analyze communications from platforms like GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Snapchat, TikTok, and proprietary fraternity/sorority apps. This includes both current messages and, crucially, those that perpetrators attempted to delete, often retrievable through digital forensics. These messages reveal planning, intent, knowledge, and the identities of those involved. Attorney911’s video on using your phone to document evidence (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs) explains best practices for preserving screenshots and photos.

• Photos & Videos: Beyond official documentation, content filmed by members during hazing events, shared in group chats, or posted on social media, provides irrefutable proof. We also seek out security camera footage from houses, bars, or event venues, as well as testimony from those who took or saw such footage.

• Internal Organization Documents: These include pledge manuals, initiation scripts, lists of “traditions,” and emails or texts from officers about new member activities. National fraternity/sorority policies and training materials are also critical, as they can expose gaps between stated prohibitions and actual enforcement.

• University Records: We subpoena university conduct files, including prior disciplinary actions, probations, or suspensions against the implicated organization or individuals. Campus police reports, student conduct office records, Clery Act reports, and internal emails among administrators can expose a pattern of ignored warnings or inadequate responses.

• Medical and Psychological Records: Comprehensive documentation of injuries and psychological trauma is paramount. This includes emergency room and hospitalization records, surgery and rehabilitation notes, toxicology reports, and psychological evaluations diagnosing PTSD, depression, anxiety, or other mental health conditions resulting from the hazing. These records establish the extent of the harm suffered.

• Witness Testimony: Eyewitness accounts from other pledges, current or former members, roommates, coaches, RAs, or even bystanders are invaluable. We identify and interview individuals who can corroborate the hazing events, often building trust with those initially reluctant to speak out due to fear of retaliation.

Damages

Hazing can inflict profound and lasting harm. A civil lawsuit seeks to compensate victims and their families for these damages.

• Medical Bills & Future Care: This covers all costs related to physical injuries, from immediate emergency care and hospitalization to surgeries, ongoing physical therapy, medications, and any necessary medical equipment. For catastrophic injuries like brain damage, this can include a “life care plan” estimating future medical and personal care needs for the remainder of the victim’s life.

• Lost Earnings / Educational Impact: This includes lost wages if the victim or a parent had to miss work due to the incident. It also covers the significant educational impact: missed semesters, tuition costs for courses that had to be dropped, lost scholarships, and any setback in entering the workforce, or reduced earning capacity if permanent injuries impact career prospects.

• Non-Economic Damages: These are harder to quantify but devastatingly real. They include physical pain and suffering, emotional distress, trauma, humiliation, and the profound “loss of enjoyment of life”—the inability to participate in beloved activities, social withdrawal, and damage to personal relationships. Psychological trauma, such as PTSD, depression, and anxiety, is a significant component of non-economic damages.

• Wrongful Death Damages (for Families): In the most tragic cases, where hazing results in death, surviving family members (parents, spouse, children) can seek compensation for funeral and burial costs, the loss of financial support the deceased would have provided, and “non-economic” losses like loss of companionship, love, guidance, and the profound grief and emotional suffering. Attorney911 has extensive wrongful death experience (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/), having recovered millions for families in catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases.

• Punitive Damages: In cases of extreme recklessness, willful indifference, or malicious conduct by defendants, courts may award punitive damages. These are not about compensating the victim but punishing the wrongdoer and deterring similar conduct in the future. In Texas, punitive damages are available but often capped, except in certain intentional tort cases.

Role of Different Defendants and Insurance Coverage

Part of our strategy involves identifying all potentially liable parties and their available insurance coverage. National fraternities, universities, and other organizations typically carry extensive insurance policies. However, their insurers often argue that hazing, as an “intentional act” or “criminal conduct,” is excluded from coverage. This is a common tactic to avoid paying claims.

An experienced hazing lawyer knows how to:

• Identify all potential sources of recovery, including national organization policies, local chapter policies, university umbrella policies, and even homeowner’s policies of individual members.
• Navigate complex insurance coverage disputes, arguing that even if the hazing was intentional, the national organization’s or university’s negligent supervision or failure to prevent foreseeable harm should be covered.
• Force insurers to defend their policyholders and, ultimately, to negotiate fair settlements. Lupe Peña’s background as a former insurance defense attorney (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/) is crucial for navigating fraternity and university insurance coverage disputes.

By meticulously building the evidentiary case, understanding the full scope of damages, and strategically engaging with all defendants and their insurers, we strive to secure maximum accountability and compensation for our Rowlett clients.

Practical Guides & FAQs

When hazing impacts your family in Rowlett, immediate, practical guidance is essential. The following sections offer advice for parents, students, and witnesses, aiming to empower you with knowledge and actionable steps.

For Parents

As a parent, your instincts are to protect your child. Knowing the warning signs and how to respond is crucial.

• Warning Signs of Hazing: Be vigilant for physical and behavioral changes:

  • Unexplained Injuries: Look for bruises, burns, cuts, or repeated “accidents” with inconsistent explanations.
  • Extreme Fatigue: Sudden exhaustion, chronic sleep deprivation, or constant calls/texts at odd hours.
  • Mood & Behavior Changes: Drastic shifts in mood, increased anxiety, irritability, withdrawal from family or old friends, and a sudden secrecy about campus activities (“I can’t talk about it”).
  • Obsessive Phone Use: Constant checking for group chat messages, anxiety when the phone buzzes, or intense secrecy regarding digital communications.
  • Academic Decline: A sudden drop in grades, missed classes, or prioritizing organization activities over academics.

• How to Talk to Your Child: Approach with empathy and an open mind.

  • Ask open-ended questions like, “How are things really going with [organization]?” or “Is there anything making you uncomfortable?”
  • Emphasize that their safety and well-being are your top priority, far above any group affiliation or status. Reassure them you will support them no matter what.

• If Your Child is Hurt:

  • Seek Medical Care Immediately: This is the absolute priority, even if they insist they’re “fine.”
  • Document Everything: Take clear photos of injuries, screenshot any relevant texts or digital communications, and make detailed notes of everything your child tells you, including names, dates, and locations.

• Dealing with the University:

  • Document all communications with administrators—emails, phone calls, meetings.
  • Specifically ask about prior incidents involving the same organization and what the school did (or didn’t do) in response. This information can be vital for establishing a pattern of negligence.

• When to Talk to a Lawyer: If your child has sustained significant physical or psychological harm, or if you feel the university or organization is minimizing or actively hiding what happened, it’s time to call an attorney specializing in hazing cases. Do not wait.

For Students / Pledges

If you are a student or pledge in Rowlett questioning your experience, your safety and well-being come first.

• Is This Hazing or Just Tradition? If you feel unsafe, humiliated, exploited, or coerced; if you’re forced to drink or endure pain; if the activity is shrouded in secrecy or hidden from non-members or administrators—it is almost certainly hazing, regardless of what they call it. Trust your gut.

• Why “Consent” Isn’t the End of the Story: Organizations may claim you “consented” or “agreed” to the activities. However, the law, particularly Texas Education Code § 37.155, explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. Courts recognize the immense power dynamics, social pressure, fear of exclusion, and desire to belong that render true voluntary consent impossible in these situations.

• Exiting and Reporting Safely: You have the right to leave a pledging process or organization at any time, despite any threats or psychological pressure.

  • If in immediate danger, call 911.
  • Inform a trusted adult outside the organization (parent, RA, academic advisor) before officially withdrawing.
  • If you fear retaliation, document any threats and report them to the Dean of Students or campus police.
  • You can report hazing privately or anonymously through campus channels, ethics hotlines, or the National Anti-Hazing Hotline (1-888-NOT-HAZE).

• Good-Faith Reporting and Amnesty: Many schools and Texas law provide protections for students who call for help in a medical emergency, even if underage drinking or other rule violations were involved. These “good Samaritan” or “amnesty” policies aim to remove barriers to seeking life-saving assistance.

For Former Members / Witnesses

If you were a member of an organization where hazing occurred, or witnessed it, you may be grappling with guilt or fear.

• Your Role in Accountability: Your testimony and any evidence you possess can be crucial in preventing future harm and saving lives. Coming forward, despite initial fears, can be a vital step toward accountability and healing for victims.
• Seek Legal Advice: If you are concerned about your own legal exposure (criminal or civil), it is wise to seek confidential legal advice from an attorney regarding your rights and potential protections. Lawyers can help you understand your options and navigate the process as a witness or even if you have dual exposure.
• Cooperation is Key: While difficult, cooperating with investigations can prevent further tragedies and contribute to lasting institutional change.

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Hazing Case

For Rowlett families, navigating a hazing incident requires extreme care to avoid common pitfalls that can devastate a 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 looks like a cover-up, can be considered obstruction of justice, and makes prosecuting a legitimate hazing claim nearly impossible. Digital evidence is often the strongest proof.
   • What to do instead: Preserve everything immediately—screenshots, photos, videos—even if it’s embarrassing.

2. Confronting the fraternity/sorority directly:

   • What parents think: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind.”
   • Why it’s wrong: This prompts the organization to immediately engage legal counsel, destroy evidence, coach witnesses, and prepare defenses. You lose the element of surprise and evidence.
   • What to do instead: Document everything discreetly, then call a lawyer before any direct confrontation.

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

   • What universities do: They may pressure families to sign waivers or agree to “internal resolution” that keeps details private.
   • Why it’s wrong: You may unknowingly waive your right to pursue a civil lawsuit, and any internal “settlement” is often far below the actual value of your case.
   • What to do instead: Do NOT sign anything from the university or organization 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: Anything posted becomes discoverable by defense attorneys, can create inconsistencies that hurt credibility, and may inadvertently waive legal privileges.
   • What to do instead: Document privately; let your lawyer control public messaging after a strategic assessment.

5. Letting your child go back to “one last meeting” or “talk it out”:

   • What fraternities say: “Come talk to us before you do anything drastic; let’s resolve this internally.”
   • Why it’s wrong: They will use this opportunity to pressure, intimidate, or extract statements that can later be used against your legal claim.
   • 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, the statute of limitations may run, and the university’s internal process prioritizes its own interests, not necessarily full accountability or compensation for your child.
   • What to do instead: Preserve evidence NOW; consult a lawyer immediately. Remember, the university’s internal process is not a substitute for real accountability.

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, representing the defendant, are trained to minimize payouts. Your recorded statements can be used against you, and early settlement offers are invariably low-ball.
   • What to do instead: Politely decline to speak with them and state, “My attorney will contact you.”

You can learn more about these critical mistakes in our video, “Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Injury Case” by Attorney911 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY).

Short FAQ

• “Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
  Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities (like UH, Texas A&M, UT) benefit from some sovereign immunity, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, or when suing individuals in their personal capacity. Private universities (like SMU, Baylor) have fewer immunity protections. Every case depends on its specific facts. Contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a case-specific analysis tailored to your family in Rowlett.

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

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

• “How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?”
  Generally, you have two years from the date of injury or death to file a hazing lawsuit in Texas. However, the “discovery rule” can extend this if the harm or its cause wasn’t immediately known. In cases involving cover-ups or fraud, the statute of limitations may be tolled (paused). Time is critical as evidence disappears and witnesses’ memories fade. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately. You can also view our video on this topic: “Is There a Statute of Limitations on My Case?” by Attorney911 (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 can still be liable based on their sponsorship, control, knowledge, and foreseeability of hazing, regardless of whether it occurred on official property. Many major hazing cases, such as Michael Deng’s death at a remote retreat or Collin Wiant’s death at an unofficial house, occurred off-campus and still resulted in multi-million-dollar judgments.

• “Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”
  Most hazing cases settle confidentially before ever going to trial. We prioritize your family’s privacy and can often arrange for sealed court records and confidential settlement terms. We aim to achieve accountability while protecting your child’s future.

About The Manginello Law Firm + Call to Action

When your family faces the profound trauma of a hazing incident, you need more than just a general personal injury lawyer. You need tenacious attorneys who understand how powerful institutions—universities, national fraternities, athletic programs—fight back, and how to effectively overcome their defenses.

That’s precisely what The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, operating as Attorney911, brings to families in Rowlett and across Texas. We are a Houston-based Texas personal injury firm with deep experience in serious injury, wrongful death, and complex institutional accountability cases. We understand that hazing at Texas universities impacts families in Rowlett, Rockwall County, and throughout the surrounding Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex.

Our firm’s unique qualifications for hazing litigation are built on a foundation of aggressive advocacy and insider knowledge:

• Insurance Insider Advantage (Lupe Peña): Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, spent years as a former insurance defense attorney at a national firm. She knows precisely how fraternity and university insurance companies value (and often undervalue) hazing claims, anticipates their delay tactics, understands their coverage exclusion arguments, and dismantles their settlement strategies. We know their playbook because we used to run it. You can learn more about Lupe Peña’s background at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/.

• Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions (Ralph Manginello): Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has extensive experience taking on formidable defendants. He was one of the few Texas firms involved in the significant BP Texas City explosion litigation and possesses federal court experience in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. We are not intimidated by national fraternities, powerful universities, or their well-resourced defense teams. We’ve taken on billion-dollar corporations and won. We know how to effectively fight powerful defendants. Learn more about Ralph Manginello’s credentials at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/.

• Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death and Catastrophic Injury Experience: We have a proven track record in complex wrongful death cases, collaborating with economists to accurately value the devastating loss of life. We have experience valuing and litigating cases involving lifetime care needs for victims with brain injuries or other permanent disabilities. We don’t settle cheaply; we meticulously build cases that compel accountability and secure the maximum possible compensation.

• Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise: Ralph’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) equips us with a critical understanding of how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation. This dual perspective is invaluable for advising witnesses, former members, or even victims who may face criminal exposure while pursuing a civil claim. Our criminal defense page at https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/ details this expertise.

• Investigative Depth: We are committed to thorough, relentless investigation. This includes leveraging a network of experts—medical professionals, digital forensics specialists, economists, and psychologists—to build an unassailable case. We have experience obtaining seemingly hidden evidence, such as deleted group chats and social media content, subpoenaing national fraternity records to prove prior incidents, and uncovering critical university files through discovery and public records requests. We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does.

We understand that you are navigating one of the hardest things a family can face. Our job is to get you answers, hold the responsible parties accountable, and work tirelessly to prevent this from happening to another family. We balance compassionate understanding with aggressive legal action, driven by a commitment to justice and lasting change, not quick settlements.

Call to Action for Rowlett Families

If you or your child experienced hazing at any Texas campus—whether the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, or schools closer to home like the University of North Texas or Texas Christian University—we want to hear from you. Families in Rowlett and throughout Rockwall County have the right to answers, accountability, and justice.

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

What to expect in your free consultation:

• We will listen to your story with empathy and without judgment.
• We will review any evidence you have collected, including photos, texts, or medical records.
• We will explain your legal options, discussing whether a criminal report, a civil lawsuit, both, or neither is appropriate for your situation.
• We will discuss realistic timelines and what to expect throughout the legal process.
• We will transparently answer your questions about costs. We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning we don’t get paid unless we win your case. Learn more here: “How Do Contingency Fees Work?” by Attorney911 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F1Nc).
• There is absolutely no pressure to hire us on the spot. We want you to feel informed and empowered to make the best decision for your family.
• Everything you discuss with us is confidential.

Contact Us Today:

Call: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct: (713) 528-9070
Cell: (713) 443-4781
Website: https://attorney911.com
Email: ralph@atty911.com

Hablamos Español
For consultation in Spanish, please contact Lupe Peña directly at lupe@atty911.com. Servicios legales en español disponibles.

Whether you’re in Rowlett, Rockwall County, or anywhere across Texas, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone. Call us today.

Legal Disclaimer

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

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

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

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