Hazing at Texas Universities: A Comprehensive Guide for City of Garland Families

The humid air hangs heavy over a familiar college campus, perhaps a short drive from City of Garland. It’s initiation night for a student from Garland, caught between the excitement of joining a new community and a growing unease. Under the pretense of “tradition,” they are being pressured to drink far beyond safe limits, endure relentless physical demands, and perform deeply degrading acts. In the flickering light of an off-campus house, others are filming on phones, chanting, and laughing. Suddenly, someone stumbles, vomits, or even collapses, but the overwhelming fear is not for their safety, but for the looming threat of “getting the chapter shut down” or facing expulsion. The student feels trapped, torn between a desperate desire for belonging and an instinct for self-preservation.

This scenario, tragically common, could unfold at any university across our state, including institutions where families from Garland, located in Dallas County, entrust their children. From the bustling campuses of the University of Houston and the University of Texas at Austin, to the revered traditions of Texas A&M, the competitive Greek life at Southern Methodist University, and the faith-based community of Baylor University, hazing remains a persistent and dangerous shadow.

We understand that for families in Garland, understanding the complex world of hazing, its legal ramifications, and available protections can feel overwhelming. This comprehensive guide is designed to empower you with knowledge. We will explore what hazing truly looks like in 2025, moving beyond outdated stereotypes to reveal its modern, insidious forms. We’ll break down the Texas legal framework for hazing, examining both criminal and civil avenues for accountability. By connecting major national hazing cases with recent incidents and patterns at our state’s leading universities, we aim to provide an unflinching look at the risks our students face. Most importantly, we will outline the legal options available to victims and their families in Garland and throughout Texas, offering actionable steps toward justice and prevention.

This article provides general information and is not specific legal advice. While we aim to inform and empower, please remember that every case is unique. The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, is a Texas personal injury firm with deep expertise in hazing litigation, and we are dedicated to helping families throughout Texas, including those in Garland, navigate these challenging circumstances.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES:

If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

• Call 911 for medical emergencies.
• Then call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911).
• We provide immediate help – that’s why we’re the Legal Emergency Lawyers™.

In the first 48 hours:

• Get medical attention immediately, even if the student insists they are “fine.”
• Preserve evidence BEFORE it’s deleted:
  • Screenshot group chats, texts, DMs immediately.
  • Photograph injuries from multiple angles.
  • Save physical items (clothing, receipts, objects).
• Write down everything while memory is fresh (who, what, when, where).
• Do NOT:
  • Confront the fraternity/sorority.
  • Sign anything from the university or insurance company.
  • Post details on public social media.
  • Let your child delete messages or “clean up” evidence.

Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours:

• Evidence disappears fast (deleted group chats, destroyed paddles, coached witnesses).
• Universities move quickly to control the narrative.
• We can help preserve evidence and protect your child’s rights.
• Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate consultation.

2. Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like

When City of Garland families hear the word “hazing,” many might still picture classic movie scenes of mild pranks or innocent antics. However, the reality of hazing in 2025 is far more sinister and complex. It has evolved to become more sophisticated, covert, and often tragically dangerous. Hazing today is defined less by its visibility and more by its impact: any forced, coerced, or strongly pressured action tied to joining, keeping membership, or gaining status in a group, where the behavior endangers physical or mental health, humiliates, or exploits.

It’s crucial to understand that a student “agreeing” to participate does not automatically make it safe or legal. When there’s immense peer pressure, a power imbalance between new members and older members, and the fear of exclusion, a student’s consent is often coerced and thus legally invalid.

2.1 Main Categories of Hazing

Hazing manifests in various forms, often escalating in severity. These categories are not mutually exclusive; hazers often combine tactics to maintain control and secrecy.

• Alcohol and Substance Hazing
  This is by far the most common and deadliest form of hazing. It involves forced or coerced drinking, often through elaborate “chugging challenges,” “lineups” where pledges are forced to rapidly consume alcohol, or drinking games where “wrong” answers lead to excessive consumption. Students may be pressured to consume unknown substances or dangerous mixes, leading to severe alcohol poisoning, injury, or death. The underlying goal is often to impair judgment, increase vulnerability, and ensure compliance.

• Physical Hazing
  Beyond alcohol, physical hazing can include direct assault such as paddling and beatings. More subtly, it involves extreme calisthenics, euphemistically called “workouts” or “smokings,” which push students far beyond safe physical limits. Sleep deprivation, often spanning multiple nights, and deprivation of food or water are common tactics. Students may also be exposed to harsh environments, forced to endure extreme cold or heat, or placed in dangerous situations. These acts are designed to break down individual resistance and foster a sense of shared misery and dependence on the group.

• Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing
  This deeply degrading form of hazing often involves forced nudity or partial nudity, simulated sexual acts like “elephant walks” or “roasted pig” positions, and being made to wear humiliating costumes. Such acts strip individuals of their dignity and can have devastating psychological consequences. Hazing can also feature racist, homophobic, or sexist overtones, using slurs or forcing individuals to perform demeaning acts that play into harmful stereotypes.

• Psychological Hazing
  Often less visible but equally damaging, psychological hazing uses verbal abuse, constant threats, and deliberate social isolation to exert control. This can escalate to manipulation, forced confessions, or public shaming, sometimes orchestrated on social media or during group meetings where individuals are “grilled” or “roasted.” The aim is to shatter self-esteem, enforce obedience, and instill fear.

• Digital/Online Hazing
  The digital age has introduced new forms of hazing. This includes “group chat dares” where pledges are compelled to perform humiliating acts and post the results, or participate in online “challenges” across platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, Discord, and even fraternity-specific apps. Students may be pressured to create or share compromising images or videos of themselves or others. Constant monitoring, demanding immediate responses from new members at all hours, and weaponizing social media against those who don’t comply are increasingly common. This 24/7 digital leash ensures pledges are always “on call.”

2.2 Where Hazing Actually Happens

A common misconception is that hazing is limited to a few rowdy fraternities. In reality, hazing permeates diverse student organizations across virtually all campuses, from the largest public universities like the University of Texas at Austin and Texas A&M University, to private institutions like Southern Methodist University and Baylor.

• Fraternities and Sororities: This is the most widely recognized setting, encompassing Interfraternity Council (IFC), Panhellenic, National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), and various multicultural Greek organizations.
• Corps of Cadets / ROTC / Military-Style Groups: At institutions like Texas A&M, the Corps has a long history, not always positive, concerning rites of passage that have crossed into hazing.
• Spirit Squads, Tradition Clubs: Organizations like the Texas Cowboys at UT Austin, or various spirit groups at other universities, can also fall into hazing patterns.
• Athletic Teams: From football and basketball to baseball, cheerleading, and even club sports, hazing can be used as a perverse form of “team building.”
• Marching Bands and Performance Groups: Even seemingly benign groups can engage in hazing, seeing it as a way to forge loyalty or test dedication.
• Service, Cultural, and Academic Organizations: Any group with an “initiation” or “new member period” that carries a power imbalance can be susceptible.

For families in Garland, understanding these complex dynamics is vital. Social status, reverence for “tradition,” and a powerful culture of secrecy combine to keep these dangerous practices alive, often despite clear university prohibitions. This culture of silence protects perpetrators and creates devastating risks for new members who feel they must endure abuse to belong.

3. Law & Liability Framework (Texas + Federal)

For families in Garland seeking justice for hazing incidents, understanding the legal landscape is paramount. Texas, like many states, has robust anti-hazing laws, but navigating their intricacies and pursuing accountability requires experienced legal guidance.

3.1 Texas Hazing Law Basics (Education Code)

Texas has specific anti-hazing provisions enshrined in the Texas Education Code, primarily Chapter 37, Subchapter F. In plain terms, hazing is broadly defined as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, committed by one student or group of students, off or on campus, against another student for the purpose of initiation, affiliation, or maintaining membership in an organization whose members are primarily students. To qualify as hazing, this act must:

• Endanger the mental or physical health or safety of a student (e.g., beating, forced exercise, coerced consumption of alcohol or drugs).
• Or substantially affect the mental health or safety of a student (e.g., extreme humiliation, intimidation, prolonged sleep deprivation).

Crucially, consent is not a defense under Texas law. Even if a student “agreed” to participate, the law recognizes the coercive environment of hazing and often invalidates such “consent” when there’s peer pressure and a significant power imbalance.

• Criminal Penalties: Individuals involved in hazing can face criminal charges. By default, hazing is a Class B misdemeanor, but it escalates to a Class A misdemeanor if it causes medical treatment for an injury. Most significantly, it becomes a state jail felony if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. It’s also a misdemeanor to fail to report hazing if you’re a member or officer and knew about it, or to retaliate against someone who reports hazing.
• Organizational Liability: Student organizations can also face criminal prosecution. This happens if the organization either authorized or encouraged the hazing, or if an officer or member acting in official capacity knew about hazing and failed to report it. Penalties can include fines of up to $10,000 per violation and the university revoking the organization’s recognition, effectively banning it from campus.
• Reporter Protections: Texas law also provides limited immunity for individuals who report a hazing incident in good faith to university authorities or law enforcement. This encourages bystanders and victims to come forward without fear of criminal or civil liability for the report itself. Furthermore, in medical emergencies, Texas law and university policies often grant amnesty for students who call 911, even if they were drinking underage or involved in the hazing.

This summary provides a foundational understanding; the actual Texas Education Code (Title 3, Subtitle C, Chapter 37, Subchapter F) offers the complete legal text.

3.2 Criminal vs. Civil Cases

It’s important for Garland families to distinguish between criminal and civil legal actions, even though they can sometimes run concurrently.

• Criminal Cases: These are brought by the state (a prosecutor, such as the Dallas County District Attorney’s office) against individuals, or sometimes against organizations, for breaking laws. The aim is punishment, which can include fines, jail time, or probation. In hazing contexts, common criminal charges include the specific hazing offenses outlined above, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, battery, or even manslaughter or negligent homicide in fatal cases.
• Civil Cases: These are brought by victims or their surviving families against individuals, organizations, and institutions seeking monetary compensation for injuries and losses sustained. The aim is to make the victim “whole” again, as much as possible, through financial recovery. Civil hazing lawsuits often focus on claims of:
  • Negligence and Gross Negligence: Arguing that a duty of care was breached, leading to harm.
  • Wrongful Death: When hazing results in a fatality.
  • Assault and Battery: For physical injuries.
  • Negligent Hiring/Supervision: Against universities or national organizations that failed to properly oversee their registered groups or employees.
  • Premises Liability: If the hazing occurred on property where the owner was negligent in preventing harm.
  • Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress: For severe psychological damage.

A critical point is that a criminal conviction is not required to pursue a civil case. The burden of proof is lower in civil court, and it’s possible for a defendant to be found “not guilty” criminally but still be held liable in a civil lawsuit.

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

Beyond state law, several federal mandates also play a role in hazing accountability and prevention, especially relevant for major institutions attended by Garland students.

• Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This recent federal law requires colleges and universities receiving federal funding to be more transparent about hazing incidents. By around 2026, institutions must publicly report detailed information about hazing violations, including the date, nature of the violation, and sanctions imposed. This aims to strengthen hazing education, prevention efforts, and provide vital information to prospective students and their families. This increased transparency will significantly aid victims and their legal teams in demonstrating patterns of misconduct.
• Title IX / Clery Act: When hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, or gender-based discrimination or hostility, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 is triggered. This federal law prohibits sex-based discrimination in any education program or activity receiving federal financial assistance. Universities have specific obligations to investigate and address such instances. Similarly, the Clery Act (Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act) mandates that colleges and universities receiving federal funding disclose information about crime on and around their campuses. Hazing incidents, particularly those involving assaults, alcohol/drug violations, or even sexual offenses, often overlap with Clery-reportable categories, requiring institutions to maintain and report these statistics.

3.4 Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit

Determining who is legally responsible in a hazing incident can be complex, involving multiple layers of individuals and institutions. Our firm specializes in identifying and holding all responsible parties accountable.

• Individual Students: The students who actively planned, enforced, or directly participated in the hazing acts are often the primary targets. This includes those who supplied alcohol, carried out assaults, or contributed to cover-ups.
• Local Chapter / Student Organization: The specific fraternity, sorority, club, or team itself can be held liable as a legal entity. This extends to individuals acting in leadership roles, such as the chapter president, vice president, or “pledge educators,” who often have direct organizational responsibility.
• National Fraternity/Sorority: The national headquarters of Greek letter organizations can be held liable, especially if they exercised control over the local chapter, received dues, or had knowledge of past hazing incidents within the chapter or the organization nationally. Liability often hinges on whether the national body adequately supervised, disciplined, or prevented hazardous “traditions.”
• University or Governing Board: Colleges and universities, both public and private, may be sued under various theories, including:
  • Negligence: For failing to adequately supervise student organizations, enforce anti-hazing policies, or respond to known risks.
  • Gross Negligence: For showing a reckless disregard for student safety.
  • Title IX Violations: If the hazing involved sex-based discrimination or sexual harassment.
  • Failure to Protect: Especially if the institution had prior warnings or knowledge of dangerous activities.
    Public universities (like UT Austin, Texas A&M, and UH) may assert sovereign immunity, but exceptions exist, particularly for gross negligence or state-created dangers, and when suing individual employees in their personal capacity. Private universities (such as SMU and Baylor) generally have fewer immunity protections.
• Third Parties: Other entities can be drawn into a lawsuit, including:
  • Landlords or Property Owners: If the hazing occurred on their property and they were aware of dangerous activities or failed to provide a safe environment.
  • Alcohol Providers: Businesses (bars, liquor stores) that unlawfully serve minors or intoxicated individuals, contributing to hazing-related incidents, can be sued under dram shop laws.
  • Security Companies or Event Organizers: If their negligence contributed to the incident.

Every case is fact-specific, and not every party will be liable in every situation. An experienced hazing attorney meticulously investigates all potential defendants to ensure comprehensive accountability for families in Garland and throughout Texas.

4. National Hazing Case Patterns (Anchor Stories)

Hazing deaths and severe injuries are not isolated incidents; they reveal disturbing patterns that transcend campuses and state lines. For City of Garland families, understanding these national “anchor stories” is crucial because they demonstrate the foreseeability of harm and the legal precedents that hold institutions accountable. These cases show that the tragic scripts play out repeatedly, often within the same organizations, providing critical evidence that national headquarters and universities knew or should have known the dangers.

4.1 Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

The most common and consistently fatal form of hazing involves forced or coerced alcohol consumption. These cases highlight systemic failures to prevent, intervene, and provide timely medical care.

• Timothy Piazza – Penn State, Beta Theta Pi (2017)
  In one of the nation’s most widely publicized hazing tragedies, 19-year-old Timothy Piazza died after “bid acceptance” night at Beta Theta Pi. Pledges were forced to drink heavily, and Piazza consumed 18 alcoholic drinks in 82 minutes. He suffered severe falls, some captured on fraternity security cameras, sustaining traumatic brain injuries. Other members delayed calling 911 for nearly 12 hours, attempting a cover-up to protect the fraternity. This case resulted in dozens of criminal charges against fraternity members, extensive civil litigation, and the enactment of the Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law in Pennsylvania, making hazing a much more serious offense. For our Texas clients, this case underscores how extreme intoxication, delayed medical intervention, and a pervasive culture of silence can be legally devastating, leading to both criminal conviction and substantial civil liability.

• Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (2017)
  Andrew Coffey, a 20-year-old pledge, died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” event. He was given an entire handle of liquor and was essentially forced to consume it. The incident, which occurred just two months after the Max Gruver death, highlighted the repetitive nature of these tragedies. Multiple members faced criminal hazing charges, and Florida State University temporarily suspended all Greek life, overhauling its anti-hazing policies. This case demonstrates that formulaic “tradition” drinking nights are a repeating script for disaster, showing a clear pattern of dangerous behavior.

• Maxwell “Max” Gruver – Louisiana State University, Phi Delta Theta (2017)
  Max Gruver, an 18-year-old pledge, died from severe alcohol toxicity with a blood alcohol content of 0.495% after participating in a “Bible study” drinking game. During this hazing ritual, pledges were forced to drink when they answered questions incorrectly. His death directly led to the passing of the Max Gruver Act in Louisiana, a felony hazing law. One member was convicted of negligent homicide, and the family settled a civil lawsuit. The Gruver case is a stark reminder that legislative change often follows public outrage and clear, undeniable proof of hazing, impacting policies and precedents across the nation, including how hazing is prosecuted in a state like Texas.

• Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021)
  20-year-old Stone Foltz died of alcohol poisoning after a “Big/Little” pledge night forced him to consume an entire bottle of alcohol. Multiple fraternity members were criminally convicted of hazing-related offenses. Civally, the Foltz family reached a $10 million settlement in 2023, with $7 million from Pi Kappa Alpha national and nearly $3 million from Bowling Green State University. This case, where a state university was held liable, shows that institutions themselves can face significant financial and reputational consequences alongside fraternities, particularly when they are found to have been negligent in their oversight.

4.2 Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Beyond alcohol, physically degrading or dangerous rituals continue to claim lives and inflict severe trauma.

• Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013)
  Chun “Michael” Deng, a 19-year-old pledge, tragically died after being blindfolded, weighted down with a backpack, and repeatedly tackled during a violent “glass ceiling” ritual at a fraternity retreat in the Pocono Mountains. His “brothers” delayed calling 911 for fear of getting caught. In a landmark ruling, the national fraternity was criminally convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter, and individuals faced jail sentences. Pi Delta Psi was banned from Pennsylvania for a decade. This case powerfully demonstrates that off-campus “retreats” can be as dangerous, or even more so, than typical parties, and national organizations can face severe criminal penalties and civil liability even for actions far from campus.

4.3 Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Hazing is not exclusive to Greek life; it infiltrates other high-profile student groups, including major athletic programs.

• Northwestern University Football (2023–2025)
  In a shocking scandal, former football players at Northwestern University alleged widespread sexualized and racist hazing within the program spanning multiple decades. These allegations included forced nudity, simulated sexual acts, and emotional abuse (“running the gauntlet”). The fallout included multiple lawsuits against the university and coaching staff, the firing of head coach Pat Fitzgerald (who later settled a wrongful-termination suit confidentially), and a profound examination of institutional oversight. While not a death case, this illustrates that hazing extends far beyond Greek life into major athletic programs, raising questions about systemic abuse and delayed reporting. For Texas families, this highlights that parents of athletes, not just Greek members, must be vigilant, and that our firm is equipped to investigate hazing in all student organizations.

4.4 What These Cases Mean for Texas Families in Garland

These anchor stories reveal critical common threads in hazing incidents: forced drinking, physical abuse, profound humiliation, often culminating in delayed or denied medical care and elaborate cover-ups. While each case has its unique details, they all underscore that reforms and multi-million-dollar settlements or verdicts typically follow only after tragedy, aggressive litigation, and public outcry.

For Garland families whose children attend the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, or Baylor, these national lessons are directly applicable. The legal strategies developed in these cases, the evidence brought forth, and the accountability achieved provide a roadmap for seeking justice here in Texas. You are not alone, and we operate in a legal landscape increasingly shaped by these powerful precedents.

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

For families in City of Garland, understanding the specific dynamics, policies, and histories of hazing at major Texas universities is essential. While hazing is a nationwide problem, its manifestation can be influenced by campus culture, institutional responses, and proximity to your community. As a Houston-based firm, we frequently encounter cases involving these prominent Texas schools and serve families across the state, including in Dallas County and Garland.

5.1 University of Houston (UH)

Thousands of students from the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, including Garland, attend the University of Houston, drawn to its urban campus and diverse opportunities. For these families, understanding UH’s anti-hazing stance and history is crucial.

5.1.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

The University of Houston is a large, vibrant urban campus, blending a significant commuter population with a growing residential student body. Its Greek life is active and diverse, encompassing traditional IFC and Panhellenic organizations, as well as robust NPHC and multicultural Greek councils. Beyond Greek life, UH boasts a wide array of student organizations, including cultural groups, academic societies, and competitive sports clubs. This rich campus environment, while offering many opportunities, also creates various contexts where hazing can occur.

5.1.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

The University of Houston maintains a strict anti-hazing policy, clearly stating that hazing, whether on or off campus, is prohibited. Their policy defines hazing broadly to include any act that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of initiation, admission, affiliation, or maintaining membership in an organization. Prohibited acts explicitly include forced consumption of alcohol, food, or drugs, sleep deprivation, physical mistreatment, and any activity that could cause mental distress. UH provides multiple reporting channels through the Dean of Students Office, the Student Conduct Office, and the University of Houston Police Department (UHPD). The university also often publishes a statement against hazing and details disciplinary actions on its website, though the level of detail can vary.

5.1.3 Example Incident & Response

One notable incident involved the Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) fraternity at UH in 2016. Pledges allegedly suffered from severe sleep, food, and water deprivation during a multi-day “initiation” event. One student involved reportedly sustained a lacerated spleen after being slammed onto a table or similar surface, highlighting the extreme physical dangers. The chapter faced misdemeanor hazing charges filed by the Harris County District Attorney’s Office and was placed under significant university suspension, eventually having its charter revoked.

While the specific details of UH’s disciplinary actions are not always as publicly granular as some other institutions, the university has a track record of suspending chapters for behaviors that are “likely to produce mental or physical discomfort,” especially when involving alcohol misuse and policy violations. This demonstrates UH’s willingness to suspend organizations; however, the lack of extensive public violation lists, compared to universities like UT Austin, can sometimes make it challenging for parents to research prior incidents.

5.1.4 How a UH Hazing Case Might Proceed

Families in Garland facing a hazing incident at UH will likely see their local court options in Houston (Harris County justice system). If criminal charges are filed, initial investigations may involve UHPD for on-campus incidents or the Houston Police Department for off-campus events. Civil lawsuits would typically be filed in courts with jurisdiction over Houston and Harris County. Potential defendants in such a case could include the individual students directly involved, the local chapter itself, the national fraternity or sorority, and potentially the University of Houston, depending on the specifics of their knowledge and actions (or inactions) leading up to the incident. Because UH is a public university, there may be arguments of sovereign immunity, though exceptions exist for gross negligence or Title IX violations.

5.1.5 What UH Students & Parents Should Do

For Garland families whose children attend the University of Houston:

• Know the reporting channels: Familiarize yourself with the Dean of Students Office, Student Conduct Office, and UHPD contact information. Utilize their anonymous reporting forms if needed.
• Document everything vigilantly: If you suspect hazing, begin a meticulous record of dates, times, communications (screenshots of GroupMe, texts, DMs), any witnessed incidents, and physical evidence (e.g., photos of injuries) as this evidence is critical for any legal action.
• Research prior incidents: While UH may not have the most robust public database, seek out news reports or university disciplinary announcements regarding the specific organization. This information can reveal a pattern critical to a civil claim.
• Consult with an attorney experienced in Houston hazing cases: An attorney familiar with the local legal landscape in Houston can help families navigate the UH system and uncover crucial disciplinary and internal files that inform legal strategy.

5.2 Texas A&M University

For many families in Garland and across Texas, Texas A&M University in College Station represents a deep-seated tradition, often embodying values of honor and service. Yet, even in this esteemed environment, hazing can occur, particularly within its large Greek system and the highly traditional Corps of Cadets.

5.2.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Texas A&M is renowned for its traditions, strong alumni network, and the unique Corps of Cadets. With a sprawling campus in College Station, A&M fosters a unique culture blending military-style discipline, deep-rooted spirit organizations, and a significant Greek life presence. This tradition-heavy environment, while fostering strong bonds, has unfortunately also provided fertile ground for hazing practices, particularly within certain peer-led groups where “earning your way” can cross into abuse.

5.2.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Texas A&M unequivocally prohibits hazing, articulating a clear definition that mirrors state law. Their policy highlights that hazing is fundamentally incompatible with the university’s core values. The university provides robust reporting mechanisms through the Student Conduct Office, the Office of Fraternity & Sorority Life, and the University Police Department (UPD). They also encourage anonymous reports through their ethics and hazing hotlines. All members of the Aggie community are expected to report suspected hazing, and specific policies are in place for the Corps of Cadets regarding new cadet training.

5.2.3 Example Incidents & Responses

Hazing at Texas A&M has surfaced in both Greek life and the Corps. A high-profile case involved Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) fraternity around 2021. Two pledges alleged severe physical and chemical hazing, where they were forced to engage in strenuous activity and substances including industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit were poured on them. This resulted in severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries for the victims. The pledges filed a $1 million lawsuit against the fraternity and individuals, and the university suspended the chapter for a significant period.

Separately, the Corps of Cadets has faced scrutiny. In a 2023 lawsuit, a former cadet alleged degrading and physically harmful hazing, including simulated sexual acts and being bound between beds in a notorious “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth. The lawsuit sought over $1 million, asserting that the university had failed to adequately address known hazing within the Corps. Texas A&M, while defending its actions, stated it strictly handled the matter under its internal regulations, but the public exposure highlighted ongoing concerns within this traditional institution.

These incidents demonstrate that even a university with strong traditions and a disciplined culture can struggle to fully eradicate hazing, particularly when it is deeply embedded in organizational “rites of passage.”

5.2.4 How a Texas A&M Hazing Case Might Proceed

For Garland families, a hazing incident at Texas A&M would involve legal proceedings in Bryan/College Station, falling under the Brazos County court system. Investigations could involve the Texas A&M University Police Department (UPD) for campus incidents or the College Station Police Department for activities in the broader community. Given Texas A&M is a public university, any civil suit naming the university itself would need to navigate sovereign immunity claims, requiring a focus on gross negligence, deliberate indifference, or Title IX violations. Cases involving the Corps of Cadets may present unique complexities, requiring a deep understanding of its structure, command chain, and internal discipline.

5.2.5 What Texas A&M Students & Parents Should Do

For Garland families with students at Texas A&M:

• Understand the “culture” vs. “hazing” distinction: Be vigilant about distinguishing between rigorous but legitimate tradition and illegal hazing, especially within the Corps or deep-rooted spirit groups. If an activity compromises physical or mental health, it’s hazing.
• Document with precision: Any incidents of hazing, whether physical abuse or psychological torment, must be meticulously documented. This includes text messages, photos, videos, and detailed written accounts with dates and participants.
• Report through official channels, but consult legal counsel first: Use A&M’s Student Conduct Office, Office of Fraternity & Sorority Life, or the UPD. However, before engaging with university officials, especially in a formal investigation, consult a hazing attorney to understand your rights and protect your child’s interests.
• Seek legal guidance: Our firm has experience with the unique dynamics of Texas A&M, including hazing claims within the Corps of Cadets and Greek life. We can help families navigate the institutional complexities and pursue accountability.

5.3 University of Texas at Austin (UT)

The University of Texas at Austin is a flagship institution for many Garland residents, known for its academic rigor and vibrant campus life. As a major public university, UT Austin has a prominent Greek system and numerous student organizations where hazing can become a serious concern.

5.3.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

The University of Texas at Austin, located in the heart of the state capital, is an expansive campus rich in academic and social opportunities. Its Greek life is extensive and deeply embedded in campus culture, complemented by a vast array of student organizations ranging from academic and professional clubs to political and spirit groups. This dynamic environment, while offering unparalleled experiences, also necessitates a strong focus on student safety and the prevention of harmful practices like hazing.

5.3.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

UT Austin maintains a clear and comprehensive anti-hazing policy that strictly prohibits any hazing activity. The university’s definition closely aligns with Texas state law, encompassing any act that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of initiation, affiliation, or maintaining membership. UT Austin is particularly notable for its commitment to transparency regarding hazing. The university’s Hazing Violations webpage (hazing.utexas.edu) publicly lists organizations, the dates of violations, a detailed description of the conduct, and the corresponding sanctions imposed. This commitment to public disclosure is a valuable resource for prospective students, current families, and legal teams alike. Reporting channels include the Dean of Students, Student Conduct and Academic Integrity, the University of Texas Police Department (UTPD), and anonymous online reporting forms.

5.3.3 Example Incidents & Responses

UT Austin’s public Hazing Violations webpage consistently documents incidents, demonstrating that hazing is an ongoing challenge across various student groups. For instance, Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) in 2023 was sanctioned after new members were reportedly directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics, actions clearly falling under the university’s hazing definition. The chapter was placed on probation and mandated to implement new hazing-prevention education.

Beyond Greek life, other groups, such as the Texas Wranglers (a spirit organization), have faced disciplinary action for hazing that included forced workouts, alcohol-related misconduct, and practices designed to punish new members. The transparency offered by UT’s website, while indicating an ongoing problem, also serves as a critical resource. Each publicly listed violation provides potential pattern evidence and demonstrates that the university has prior knowledge of hazing within specific organizations—a vital point in civil litigation.

5.3.4 How a UT Austin Hazing Case Might Proceed

For Garland families, a hazing incident at UT Austin would typically involve local law enforcement like the University of Texas Police Department (UTPD) or the Austin Police Department for events occurring off-campus. Civil lawsuits would be filed in the Travis County court system. As a public university, UT Austin may invoke sovereign immunity, but our firm has extensive experience navigating these defenses, particularly when there is evidence of gross negligence or a violation of federal laws like Title IX. The university’s publicly documented history of hazing violations can be a powerful tool in civil cases, demonstrating a pattern of misconduct and the university’s knowledge of recurring issues.

5.3.5 What UT Austin Students & Parents Should Do

For Garland families with students at the University of Texas at Austin:

• Utilize the Hazing Violations webpage: This public resource (hazing.utexas.edu) is invaluable for researching an organization’s history before joining or if you suspect an issue. Document any prior violations relevant to your situation.
• Report strategically: UT Austin’s multiple reporting channels are helpful, but before making a formal report that could trigger an investigation, consult with an experienced hazing lawyer. We can help you understand the implications of reporting and guide you on preserving crucial evidence.
• Connect prior violations to your case: If the organization involved has a history of similar hazing on UT’s public log, this significantly strengthens any civil claim by demonstrating a pattern and the university’s (and national organization’s) knowledge of the danger.
• Preserve digital evidence: Given the prevalence of digital hazing, securing chat logs, social media posts, and videos is paramount. Our firm can advise on proper evidence collection and preservation techniques.

5.4 Southern Methodist University (SMU)

For families in Garland, Southern Methodist University (SMU) in Dallas is a premier private institution known for its strong Greek life and rigorous academics. As a private university, SMU operates under different legal considerations than public institutions, impacting how hazing cases might unfold.

5.4.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Southern Methodist University is an affluent and prestigious private university, characterized by a vibrant campus culture and a particularly strong Greek life presence, which plays a central role in the social experience for many students. Its location in Dallas, a hub for many Garland families, makes it a popular choice. While offering excellent academic programs, the intense social environment can, at times, contribute to pressures that manifest as hazing.

5.4.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

SMU maintains a clear anti-hazing policy, defining and prohibiting hazing consistent with Texas law. Its policies explicitly cover both on-campus and off-campus activities, and emphasize that consent is not a defense. SMU utilizes various reporting mechanisms, including the Office of Student Conduct & Community Standards, the Office of Fraternity & Sorority Life, the SMU Police Department, and an anonymous reporting system, often engaging tools like “Real Response” to encourage student reporting. The university is committed to fostering a safe environment, and its policies reflect a zero-tolerance stance towards hazing.

5.4.3 Example Incident & Response

One significant incident at SMU involved the Kappa Alpha Order (KA) fraternity in 2017. Reports indicated that new members were subjected to physically aggressive hazing, including paddling and forced alcohol consumption, resulting in injuries and substantial sleep deprivation. The university responded with a severe sanction, placing the chapter on an extended suspension for multiple years, including restrictions on recruiting new members until around 2021. This action, while demonstrating SMU’s willingness to act, underscored the persistence of aggressive hazing within its Greek system. While private university policies and disciplinary actions may not always be as publicly transparent as those of public institutions, such incidents signal the kind of behavior that prompts legal intervention.

5.4.4 How a SMU Hazing Case Might Proceed

For Garland families with a student at SMU, a hazing incident would fall under the Dallas County court system. Investigations could involve the SMU Police Department for campus incidents or the Dallas Police Department for off-campus events. As a private university, SMU does not benefit from sovereign immunity, making it potentially more directly liable in civil lawsuits for negligence, gross negligence, or other tort claims. Civil suits against SMU can compel the discovery of internal records and communications that might not be readily available to the public, providing crucial evidence of prior knowledge or systemic failures.

5.4.5 What SMU Students & Parents Should Do

For Garland families with students at Southern Methodist University:

• Review SMU’s Student Code of Conduct carefully: Understand their specific policies on hazing and the disciplinary process.
• Document everything: Private university environments, while not subject to the same public records requests as public schools, still require meticulous documentation. Capture all digital communications, physical evidence, and witness accounts.
• Consult legal counsel early: The nuances of litigating against a private institution differ from a public one. An attorney experienced in hazing lawsuits against private universities can help navigate SMU’s internal processes while simultaneously building a robust civil case.
• Understand institutional responsibility: Your legal team will focus on whether SMU adequately supervised its registered organizations, responded to previous complaints, and enforced its own anti-hazing policies, which can be critical for establishing liability.

5.5 Baylor University

Baylor University in Waco holds a unique place for many Dallas County families, including those in Garland, offering a faith-based educational environment. Despite its values and strong community, Baylor has faced its own challenges with serious student misconduct, including hazing, necessitating a careful understanding for its students and parents.

5.5.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Baylor University is a private Christian university known for its strong academic programs, vibrant campus spirit, and deep commitment to its faith mission. Located in Waco, it attracts students from all over Texas and beyond. Baylor’s campus culture, while emphasizing community and integrity, has nonetheless wrestled with serious issues in the past, including high-profile athletic scandals concerning Title IX and student safety. This history informs the context in which any hazing incidents on campus must be viewed.

5.5.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Baylor University has a clear and strict anti-hazing policy, explicitly prohibiting any activity that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of students for the purpose of initiation, affiliation, or membership. Their policy covers both on- and off-campus activities, underscoring that the university maintains jurisdiction over student conduct even beyond its immediate grounds. Baylor uses a variety of reporting avenues, including the Office of Student Conduct, the Department of Student Activities (which oversees Greek life), the Baylor Police Department, and an anonymous reporting system, emphasizing a “zero-tolerance” stance against hazing.

5.5.3 Example Incident & Response

Baylor has faced scrutiny not just for Greek hazing, but also within its athletic programs, echoing the broader national trend. A notable incident occurred in 2020 with the Baylor baseball team, where 14 players were suspended following an investigation into hazing allegations. These suspensions were staggered over the early season, impacting team performance but demonstrating the university’s response to an internal investigation. This incident, while not resulting in public litigation, placed in context Baylor’s broader cultural and oversight challenges, particularly in high-profile student organizations that can operate with a degree of insularity. It reinforces that despite official “zero tolerance” statements, misconduct can reoccur.

5.5.4 How a Baylor Hazing Case Might Proceed

For Garland families whose student experiences hazing at Baylor, legal proceedings would take place in the McLennan County court system (Waco). Investigations could involve the Baylor Police Department for campus-related incidents or the Waco Police Department for off-campus events. As a private university, Baylor does not receive sovereign immunity protection, meaning it can be directly sued for negligence, gross negligence, or other torts under Texas law. The legal strategy would carefully examine Baylor’s specific policies, its history of controversy (particularly concerning student welfare and Title IX), and whether its “zero-tolerance” policies were genuinely enforced or merely served as a public relations shield.

5.3.5 What Baylor Students & Parents Should Do

For Garland families with students at Baylor University:

• Understand Baylor’s history: Be aware of Baylor’s past challenges regarding student misconduct and institutional response. This context is important for evaluating the university’s actions in any hazing incident.
• Document and report carefully: While Baylor aims for a “zero-tolerance” environment, it’s crucial to meticulously document any hazing with digital evidence (texts, photos) and detailed written accounts. Use Baylor’s reporting channels, but consult a hazing attorney beforehand.
• Focus on institutional accountability: In a civil suit, our firm would investigate whether Baylor’s oversight of student organizations, including its athletic programs and Greek life, was sufficient, or if there were systemic failures in preventing and addressing known risks, especially given its prior controversies.
• Seek support: Baylor’s values-based approach can provide strong internal support systems, but for legal accountability, an objective and experienced outside counsel is vital to represent victim interests.

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

When hazing tears a family apart in Garland, the local chapter at a Texas university is often just one piece of a much larger puzzle. Many of these local chapters, whether at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, or Baylor, are affiliated with powerful national organizations—and those national organizations frequently carry a long and often tragic history of hazing.

6.1 Why National Histories Matter

It is crucial to understand that many fraternities and sororities (including prominent names like Pi Kappa Alpha, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Phi Delta Theta, and Pi Kappa Phi) are part of national or international organizations. These national headquarters typically:

• Possess extensive anti-hazing manuals and detailed risk management policies. These policies are not arbitrary; they have been developed and refined over decades, often in direct response to the deaths, catastrophic injuries, and multi-million-dollar lawsuits that have occurred at their chapters nationwide.
• Are acutely aware of common hazing patterns. They know the recurring “scripts” that lead to disaster: forced drinking nights (often termed “Big/Little” rituals or “pledge acceptance” events), physical abuse like paddling, and psychologically damaging humiliating rituals. They have seen these patterns repeated across campuses, from coast to coast.

When a local Texas chapter of one of these organizations repeats a hazing script that has already led to injury, death, or major litigation at another chapter in another state, this provides profound legal leverage. It demonstrates foreseeability – the national organization knew or should have known that such conduct carried extreme risks. This “pattern evidence” is powerful in arguments of negligence, gross negligence, and even punitive damages against national entities in civil litigation. It proves that the latest tragedy wasn’t a “rogue incident” but part of a predictable, and preventable, pattern.

6.2 Organization Mapping (Synthesized)

While we cannot list every single chapter at every university, here’s a look at some of the major fraternities and sororities present at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor, focusing on those with publicly known national hazing issues. We emphasize patterns, not exhaustive lists, and the incidents mentioned occurred at various universities, not necessarily at the Texas schools listed, unless specified.

• Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / Pike)

  • Description: A large national fraternity with a social focus. Known for a strong presence at many Texas universities, including UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and Baylor.
  • National Hazing History: Pike has been associated with multiple severe alcohol-related hazing incidents. The death of Stone Foltz at Bowling Green State University (2021), where a pledge was forced to consume a bottle of liquor, resulted in a $10 million settlement ($7M from national Pike, $3M from university). In 2012, David Bogenberger died from alcohol poisoning during a Pike event at Northern Illinois University, leading to a $14 million settlement. These repeated tragedies involving forced alcohol consumption, particularly during “Big/Little” events, demonstrate a clear pattern of risk for any Pike chapter, including those near Garland.

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / SAE)

  • Description: A very large national fraternity, often found at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and SMU. Historically known for an athletic and social presence.
  • National Hazing History: SAE has a long and tragic history of hazing-related deaths, prompting the national organization to (unsuccessfully) attempt to eliminate its traditional pledge process entirely in 2014. Incidents include fatal alcohol poisonings (e.g., Carson Starkey at Cal Poly in 2008). More recently, a 2023 lawsuit was filed against SAE alleging a pledge suffered a traumatic brain injury at the University of Alabama. The Texas A&M chapter faced a $1 million lawsuit around 2021 after pledges allegedly suffered chemical burns from industrial-strength cleaner, eggs, and spit. A lawsuit was also filed in January 2024 against the UT Austin chapter after an exchange student was allegedly assaulted and seriously injured at a party. This pattern of serious injury and death provides strong evidence of foreseeability.

• Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ)

  • Description: A prominent national fraternity with chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor.
  • National Hazing History: Phi Delta Theta was tragically linked to the death of Maxwell “Max” Gruver at Louisiana State University (2017) during a “Bible study” drinking game. This incident directly led to Louisiana’s felony hazing statute, the Max Gruver Act. The case resulted in criminal convictions and a significant civil settlement from the family, highlighting the dangers of forced drinking games disguised as “tradition.”

• Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ)

  • Description: Another significant national fraternity with chapters at UH and Texas A&M.
  • National Hazing History: Pi Kappa Phi was involved in the death of Andrew Coffey at Florida State University (2017), another case of fatal alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” where pledges were given large quantities of hard liquor. This reinforces the pattern of extreme alcohol hazing leading to death.

• Beta Theta Pi (ΒΘΠ)

  • Description: A national fraternity with chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and SMU.
  • National Hazing History: Famously associated with the death of Timothy Piazza at Penn State University (2017), which led to high-profile criminal prosecutions and the Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law in Pennsylvania. Piazza died after severe binge drinking and multiple falls were ignored by fraternity members for hours. The case exposed a horrifying cover-up culture and institutional negligence.

• Phi Gamma Delta (ΦΓΔ / FIJI)

  • Description: A national fraternity with chapters at Texas A&M and in the past at UT Austin.
  • National Hazing History: Linked to the catastrophic injury of Danny Santulli at the University of Missouri (2021), a pledge who suffered severe, permanent brain damage after being forced to consume a dangerous amount of alcohol during a “pledge dad reveal” night. His family settled with 22 defendants, reportedly for multi-million-dollar amounts. This case showcases the potential for lifelong, disabling injuries and the broad liability of multiple parties.

• Sigma Chi (ΣΧ)

  • Description: A long-established national fraternity with chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, Baylor, and SMU.
  • National Hazing History: A recent case involving the Sigma Chi chapter at the College of Charleston resulted in a family receiving more than $10 million in damages (2024) for severe physical beatings, forced consumption, and psychological torment. This demonstrates juries’ willingness for massive awards for severe hazing. The UT Arlington chapter also saw a pledge hospitalized with alcohol poisoning in 2020, leading to a settlement in 2021.

• Kappa Sigma (ΚΣ)

  • Description: The largest national fraternity, with chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and Baylor.
  • National Hazing History: Responsible for the death of Chad Meredith at the University of Miami (2001), who drowned after being persuaded by members to swim in a lake while intoxicated. A jury awarded his parents a $12.6 million verdict, establishing a Hazing is a Felony law in Florida. More recently, the Texas A&M chapter has been involved in ongoing litigation in 2023 for alleged hazing resulting in severe injuries including rhabdomyolysis from extreme physical exertion.

These examples merely scratch the surface but illustrate how recurring patterns of dangerous activity across different chapters of the same national organization can be powerful evidence in a civil case.

6.3 Tie Back to Legal Strategy

For Garland families, linking a local hazing incident to a national organization’s history is a cornerstone of effective legal strategy. Our firm understands how to leverage this information.

• Demonstrating Foreseeability: When a national organization’s chapters repeatedly engage in similar dangerous hazing acts, it becomes difficult for the national body to claim ignorance. Our legal team can argue that these organizations had constructive notice of the risks and were therefore negligent in their failure to prevent harm.
• Challenging “Paper Policies”: Many national fraternities and universities can point to thick anti-hazing manuals and training sessions as proof they prohibit hazing. However, if a pattern of similar incidents exists, we can argue that these policies were mere “window-dressing,” not meaningfully enforced. We investigate whether prior violations resulted in minimal punishment, indicating a culture that tolerated, or even tacitly encouraged, hazing.
• Influencing Insurance Coverage and Settlement Leverage: Extensive prior claims and evidence of negligence strengthen a victim’s position. It puts pressure on both national organizations and their insurance carriers, compelling them to settle for fairer compensation rather than risk a trial where their history could be exposed to a jury. This evidence also affects disputes about insurance coverage, as experienced lawyers can argue that a pattern of negligence should lead to coverage, even if the insurer attempts to deny it based on “intentional acts.”
• Enhancing Potential for Punitive Damages: In cases where a national organization or university demonstrated a callous indifference to known risks or failed to act despite clear warnings, courts may award punitive damages. These damages are designed not just to compensate the victim, but to punish the defendant and deter similar conduct in the future.

By meticulously connecting local incidents to these broader patterns, we build cases that force accountability, not just from the individual perpetrators, but from the powerful institutions that enabled the hazing to occur.

7. Building a Case: Evidence, Damages, Strategy

Building a compelling hazing case requires a level of investigative depth and legal sophistication far beyond a typical personal injury claim. For Garland families seeking justice, understanding what evidence matters, what damages can be recovered, and how a strategic legal approach can dismantle defenses is crucial.

7.1 Evidence: The Foundation of Your Case

In hazing litigation, evidence is often digital, ephemeral, and deliberately concealed. Our firm employs cutting-edge techniques to uncover and preserve critical information.

• Digital Communications: These are often the most crucial pieces of evidence in modern hazing cases.

  • Group Messaging Apps: Platforms like GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, and Snapchat are where hazing is often planned, discussed, and executed. We seek to obtain full threads showing instructions, threats, derogatory comments, and even explicit hazing orders.
  • Social Media: Instagram stories, TikTok videos, Facebook posts, and even private DMs can capture moments of hazing, humiliation, or injuries. We meticulously scour these platforms and work with digital forensics experts to preserve this content.
  • Recovered/Deleted Messages: Even “deleted” messages are often recoverable through phone backups or sophisticated digital forensics techniques. The Manginello Law Firm’s video on using your phone to document evidence (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs) explains best practices for preserving such crucial information.

• Photos & Videos: Beyond messaging apps, direct visual evidence is invaluable.

  • Member-Captured Content: Many hazing incidents are filmed by members themselves for “entertainment” or “proof,” then shared privately. These often provide undeniable proof of the activities.
  • Security Footage: Cameras at houses, venues, or on campus can capture events leading up to, during, or immediately after hazing incidents.

• Internal Organization Documents: We aggressively seek internal records that shed light on an organization’s true practices versus its stated policies.

  • Pledge Manuals/Ritual Books: Often contain unwritten “traditions” or instructions that violate anti-hazing policies.
  • Emails/Texts from Officers: Communications discussing plans, “rules” for new members, or cover-up strategies.
  • National Policies/Training: Comparing these to actual conduct can reveal a negligent gap.

• University Records: These records can prove a university’s knowledge of, or indifference to, hazing.

  • Prior Conduct Files: Records of past probation, suspensions, or warnings against the organization.
  • Campus Police Reports: Incident reports from UTPD, UHPD, or Baylor PD related to the organization or its members.
  • Clery Reports: Annual safety statistics that may show patterns of alcohol violations, assaults, or other crimes often linked to hazing.
  • Internal Communications: Emails and memos among administrators discussing student organizations can reveal a lot about institutional awareness.

• Medical and Psychological Records: These are essential to proving the extent of the harm suffered.

  • Hospital/ER Records: Documentation of injuries, treatments, and toxicology reports.
  • Rehab/Therapy Notes: Evidence of physical recovery or ongoing mental health challenges like PTSD, depression, or anxiety.
  • Psychological Evaluations: Critical for quantifying emotional distress and mental health impacts.

• Witness Testimony: Beyond the victim, other individuals can provide crucial eyewitness accounts.

  • Other Pledges/Members: Though often reluctant or fearful, their testimony can be compelling, especially if they reveal similar experiences or a pattern of hazing.
  • Former Members/Insiders: Those who have left the organization or were expelled can provide invaluable insights into its internal culture and practices.
  • University Staff/Advisors: Individuals who may have had knowledge of a fraternity’s activities.

7.2 Damages: Recovering for the Full Scope of Harm

When hazing inflicts injury, financial recovery is not merely about “getting money.” It’s about securing resources for a lifetime of care, compensating for profound losses, and holding perpetrators accountable. The Manginello Law Firm meticulously calculates and advocates for the full range of damages your family is entitled to.

• Medical Bills & Future Care: This includes all past and projected costs related to injuries.

  • Immediate Care: Emergency room visits, ambulance transport, and hospitalization, sometimes in intensive care.
  • Ongoing Treatment: Surgeries, physical and occupational therapy, medication costs, and specialist consultations.
  • Long-Term Care: For catastrophic injuries like traumatic brain injury or organ damage, this can involve economist-backed life care plans to cover decades of personal care, adaptive equipment, and medical support.

• Lost Earnings / Educational Impact: Hazing injuries can derail a student’s academic and professional future.

  • Missed Semesters/Tuition: Costs of withdrawing from school or taking medical leave.
  • Lost Scholarships: Academic or athletic aid revoked due to injury or inability to participate.
  • Diminished Earning Capacity: If injuries are permanent, an expert economist will calculate the lifetime loss of earning potential, representing a significant financial blow to the individual and their family.

• Non-Economic Damages: These address the profound, often invisible, suffering a victim endures.

  • Physical Pain and Suffering: From acute injuries to chronic pain and loss of physical function.
  • Emotional Distress, Trauma, Humiliation: Psychological harm, including PTSD, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, and the devastating impact of public shame or degradation.
  • Loss of Enjoyment of Life: The inability to participate in beloved activities, social withdrawal, and a diminished quality of life.

• Wrongful Death Damages (for Families): When hazing leads to a fatality, surviving family members can pursue a wrongful death claim. Attorney911 has extensive wrongful death experience (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/), having recovered millions for families in catastrophic cases. These damages include:

  • Funeral and Burial Costs: Direct expenses related to the death.
  • Loss of Companionship, Love, and Support: The irreplaceable emotional and familial contributions the deceased would have made.
  • Loss of Financial Support: If the deceased would have contributed to the family’s income in the future.
  • Emotional Harm to Parents and Siblings: Compensation for the profound grief and suffering caused by the tragic loss.

• Punitive Damages: In cases where defendants display extreme recklessness, malice, or deliberate indifference, punitive damages may be awarded. These are intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct. Texas law does place some caps on punitive damages, but their potential impact can be significant, especially against institutions that ignored repeated warnings.

7.3 Role of Different Defendants and Insurance Coverage

The complexity of hazing cases often involves multiple defendants and intricate battles over insurance coverage.

• Multiple Defendants: Unlike a simple car accident, hazing cases typically involve individual students, the local chapter, the national organization, and often the university. Each defendant may bring their own legal team and insurance carrier.
• Insurance Coverage Disputes: National fraternities, sororities, and universities all typically carry substantial liability insurance policies. However, insurers often argue that hazing and “intentional acts” are explicitly excluded from coverage. This is where an experienced hazing lawyer becomes indispensable. 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. She knows their playbook because she used to run it. We understand how to:
  • Identify all potential sources of coverage: Beyond the national organization, this can include local chapter policies, individual homeowner’s policies of participants, and university umbrella policies.
  • Reframe the actions: Even if an act of hazing was “intentional,” the failure to supervise by a national organization or university can be argued as “negligent,” which is typically covered.
  • Force carriers to defend: Aggressive legal action can compel insurers to defend their policyholders, covering legal costs and potentially settlement amounts.
  • Litigate bad faith claims: If an insurer wrongfully denies coverage, we can pursue claims against the insurance company itself for acting in bad faith.

The goal is to cast a wide net across all potentially liable parties and ensure that powerful institutions cannot use legal technicalities or insurance loopholes to escape accountability. Our firm is not intimidated by deep-pocketed defendants or their sophisticated legal teams. Ralph Manginello’s complex litigation experience (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/), including his involvement in the BP Texas City explosion litigation, means we are uniquely equipped to take on massive corporations and institutions, just as we do in hazing cases.

8. Practical Guides & FAQs

For Garland families, swift and informed action can make all the difference in a hazing incident. This section provides immediate, actionable guidance for parents, students, and witnesses, empowering them to protect themselves and those they care about.

8.1 For Parents: Your Child, Hazing, and Immediate Action

The moment you suspect hazing, your role shifts to vigilant protector and advocate.

• Warning Signs of Hazing: Be alert to changes that can signal hazing, subtly or overtly.

  • Physical Indicators: Unexplained bruises, cuts, burns, or repeated “accidents.” Extreme fatigue or sleep deprivation. Dramatic weight loss or gain. Signs of alcohol poisoning or drug use that are out of character.
  • Behavioral & Emotional Shifts: Sudden secrecy about their organization’s activities (“I can’t talk about it”). Withdrawal from family or old friends. Increased anxiety, depression, irritability, or anger. Defensiveness when asked questions. They might say things like “I just have to get through this” or “everyone did it before me.”
  • Academic & Financial Red Flags: A sudden drop in grades, missed classes, or prioritizing “mandatory” events over academics. Unexpected large expenses, constant requests for money without clear explanation, or purchasing excessive items for older members.

• How to Talk to Your Child (and What to Avoid): Approach the conversation with empathy and without judgment.

  • Ask Open-Ended Questions: “How are things going with [organization]? Are you truly enjoying it?” “Is there anything making you uncomfortable?” “Do you feel safe?”
  • Emphasize Safety: Make it clear that their safety and well-being are paramount, far above status or belonging. Reassure them you will support them, no matter what.
  • Avoid Confrontation: Do not accuse or pressure them to confess. Instead, create a safe space for them to open up.

• If Your Child is Hurt, Act Immediately:

  • Seek Medical Care: If there’s any injury, intoxication, or distress, get immediate medical attention. Prioritize health above all else.
  • Document Everything (Meticulously): Write down dates, times, names, what your child tells you. Screenshot every relevant text message, GroupMe chat, or social media post. Photograph all injuries from multiple angles and track their progression. Save any physical items like damaged clothing or receipts for forced purchases.

• Dealing with the University:

  • Document Communications: Keep a precise record of all interactions with university administrators, including who you spoke to, when, and what was discussed.
  • Ask Key Questions: Specifically ask about prior incidents involving the same organization. What disciplinary actions were taken then? What internal records exist?

• When to Talk to a Lawyer: It’s never too early.

  • Consult with a lawyer if your child has experienced significant physical or psychological harm.
  • Seek legal counsel if you feel the university or organization is minimizing the incident, stonewalling you, or hiding crucial information.

8.2 For Students / Pledges: Self-Assessment & Safe Exit Strategies

If you’re a student from Garland or elsewhere in Texas questioning your experience, this guide is for you.

• Is This Hazing or Just Tradition? Ask yourself:

  • Am I being forced or pressured to do something I genuinely don’t want to do?
  • Would I do this if there were no social consequences or fear of being “cut”?
  • Is this activity dangerous, degrading, embarrassing, or illegal?
  • Would my parents or the university approve if they knew exactly what was happening?
  • Are older members making me do tasks they wouldn’t do themselves?
  • Am I being told to keep secrets, lie, or hide this from outsiders?
    If you answered YES to any of these, it’s highly probable you are being hazed.

• Why “Consent” Isn’t the End of the Story: In hazing, “consent” is often coerced. You might “agree” because you fear exclusion, want to belong, or believe it’s the only way to gain membership. Texas law acknowledges this power dynamic, explicitly stating that consent is not a defense to hazing. Your individual choice doesn’t make an illegal act legal.

• Exiting and Reporting Safely:

  • Immediate Danger: If you are physically threatened or fear harm, call 911 immediately. Get to a safe place (your dorm, a trusted friend’s house, a public area). Remember, in Texas, you cannot be penalized for seeking medical help in an emergency, even if underage drinking was involved.
  • De-Pledging/Quitting: You have the legal right to leave an organization at any time. Send an email or text message to the chapter president or new member educator stating, “I am resigning my pledge/membership effective immediately.” Do not go to a “final meeting” alone, where you might be pressured or intimidated.
  • Protection from Retaliation: If you fear retaliation, immediately report your concerns to the Dean of Students or campus police. Document any threats, harassment (digital or in person), or negative social repercussions.

• Good-Faith Reporting and Amnesty: Texas law and many universities offer protections for students who report hazing or call for help in an emergency. This means you can often report or seek aid without fear of personal academic or criminal penalties, especially if you act in good faith. Don’t let fear of “getting in trouble” prevent you from seeking help.

8.3 For Former Members / Witnesses: A Path to Accountability

If you’re a former member or witness who has participated in or observed hazing, you might carry heavy guilt or fear of consequences.

• Your Role in Accountability: Your testimony and evidence can be pivotal. You have the power to stop future harm and potentially save lives. Many former members find a sense of redemption in stepping forward.
• Navigating Your Involvement: It’s understandable to worry about your own legal exposure. However, cooperating with investigators (university or legal) can be an important step toward accountability. An attorney can help you navigate your role as a witness or even as a co-defendant, ensuring your rights are protected while you assist in bringing justice. Texas law does offer immunity for good-faith reporting.

8.4 Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

For Garland families, avoiding these common missteps is critical to success in a hazing lawsuit. These mistakes can compromise your legal standing, destroy evidence, and empower the opposition.

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, makes your child appear untruthful, and can even be considered obstruction of justice. It makes building a case nearly impossible.
   • What to do instead: Preserve EVERYTHING immediately, even content that is embarrassing or seems unimportant. Screenshot every chat, text, and social media post meticulously. Our video, “Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Injury Case” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY), explains this in detail.

2. Confronting the fraternity/sorority directly.

   • What parents think: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Direct confrontation immediately tips off the organization, allowing them to lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses, and prepare defenses. You lose the element of surprise.
   • What to do instead: Document everything privately, then call a lawyer before taking any confrontational action.

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

   • What universities do: They often pressure families to sign waivers or “internal resolution” agreements to quickly close an incident.
   • Why it’s wrong: You may inadvertently waive your fundamental right to pursue a civil lawsuit. Such “settlements” are often far below the true value of your case, designed to protect the university’s interests, not yours.
   • What to do instead: Do NOT sign anything from the university without having an attorney review 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 on public social media can be used against you by defense attorneys. Inconsistencies or emotional posts can harm your credibility and potentially waive certain legal protections.
   • What to do instead: Document privately, save everything offline, and let your lawyer control public messaging at the appropriate time.

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.”
   • Why it’s wrong: This is a common tactic to pressure, intimidate, or extract statements that can be used against them in a legal case.
   • What to do instead: Once you are considering legal action, all communication should go through your lawyer.

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

   • What universities promise: “We’re investigating; let us handle this internally.”
   • Why it’s wrong: While universities typically have internal processes, they are often focused on institutional protection, not full civil accountability. Crucial evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, and the statute of limitations continues to run.
   • What to do instead: Preserve evidence NOW, and consult a lawyer immediately. The university process is separate from pursuing real accountability and compensation.

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 are legally binding and will be used against you. Early settlement offers are almost always lowball.
   • What to do instead: Politely decline to speak with them and say, “My attorney will contact you.”

8.5 Short FAQ

• “Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
  Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities (like UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin) often assert sovereign immunity, but exceptions exist, especially for gross negligence, deliberate indifference, violations of federal laws like Title IX, or when suing individual employees in their personal capacity. Private universities (such as SMU and Baylor) have fewer immunity protections. Every case is fact-dependent—contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for case-specific analysis.

• “Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
  It can be. While basic hazing is typically a Class B misdemeanor, it escalates to a state jail felony if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. Individuals who are officers of an organization and fail to report hazing can also face misdemeanor charges.

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

• “How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?”
  Generally, you have 2 years from the date of injury or death to file a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit in Texas. However, the “discovery rule” may extend this period if the harm or its cause was not immediately apparent. Also, in cases involving cover-ups or fraud, the statute may be tolled (paused). Time is absolutely critical—evidence disappears, witnesses’ memories fade, and organizations may destroy records. For precise guidance, it is imperative to call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately. Our video, “Is There a Statute of Limitations on My Case?” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c), provides further insight.

• “What if the hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?”
  The location of the hazing does not eliminate liability. Universities and national organizations can still be held responsible based on factors like sponsorship, control, knowledge of dangerous activities, and foreseeability. Many major hazing cases (e.g., Pi Delta Psi’s retreat hazing, Sigma Pi’s unofficial house) occurred off-campus and still resulted in multi-million-dollar judgments and convictions.

• “Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”
  While some high-profile hazing cases make headlines, the vast majority of civil hazing lawsuits settle confidentially before trial. Confidentiality is often a key term of settlement, and we can request sealed court records to protect your child’s privacy. We prioritize your family’s privacy interests while fiercely pursuing accountability.

9. About The Manginello Law Firm + Call to Action

When your family in City of Garland is grappling with the aftermath of a hazing incident, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand the intricate ways powerful institutions fight back—and how to win anyway. At The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, operating as Attorney911, the Legal Emergency Lawyers™, we provide exactly that: sophisticated, unwavering advocacy for victims of hazing across Texas.

From our Houston office, we serve families throughout Texas, including Garland and the surrounding areas in Dallas County. We understand that hazing at Texas universities affects families in Garland and across the region, regardless of how far their child’s campus may be.

What makes Attorney911 uniquely qualified for hazing cases?

• The Insurance Insider Advantage: Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, brings invaluable insight. As a former insurance defense attorney at a national firm, she knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies value (and undervalue) hazing claims. She understands their delay tactics, coverage exclusion arguments, and settlement strategies because she used to run their playbook. This “insider” knowledge is critical for effectively navigating complex insurance battles and maximizing your family’s recovery. Her complete credentials are detailed at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/.

• Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions: Ralph P. Manginello, our managing partner, has extensive experience taking on powerful defendants. Our firm was one of the few Texas firms involved in the BP Texas City explosion litigation, a monumental case against a multi-billion-dollar corporation. This federal court and complex litigation experience means we are not intimidated by national fraternities, multi-million-dollar universities, or their sophisticated defense teams. We’ve taken on massive defendants and won; we know how to fight powerful institutions, and we do so for your child. Ralph Manginello’s complete credentials and case history are detailed at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/.

• Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death and Catastrophic Injury Experience: We don’t shy away from the most tragic cases. Our firm has a proven track record in complex wrongful death and catastrophic injury cases, working with economists and medical experts to fully value lifetime care needs for brain injuries or permanent disabilities. We don’t settle cheap; we build cases that force accountability and secure the resources your family needs for a lifetime.

• Dual Criminal and Civil Hazing Expertise: Hazing frequently involves both civil liability and criminal charges. Ralph’s membership in the prestigious Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) provides a distinct advantage. We understand how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation and can advise witnesses and former members who may face dual exposure. Attorney911’s criminal defense experience (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/) means we can provide comprehensive guidance through every legal avenue.

• Unrivaled Investigative Depth: We don’t wait for evidence to appear; we actively uncover it. Our firm partners with a vast network of experts: digital forensics specialists to recover deleted group chats and social media content, medical experts to quantify physical and psychological trauma, economists to project future losses, and psychologists to explain the dynamics of coercion. We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does. Our video on using your phone to document evidence (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs) offers valuable insights into this process.

We understand how fraternities, sororities, Corps programs, and athletic departments actually work behind closed doors. We know how to navigate the powerful currents of Greek culture and tradition, and how to prove coercion even when victims initially “agreed” to abusive acts. Our firm empathizes deeply with the profound pain and trauma hazing inflicts. We know this is one of the hardest things a family can face, and our job is to get you answers, hold the responsible parties accountable, and help ensure this doesn’t happen to another family. We pursue thorough investigation and real accountability, not just quick settlements.

Call to Action for City of Garland Families

If you or your child experienced hazing at any Texas campus—whether it’s UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, or another institution—we want to hear from you. Families in Garland and throughout Dallas County have the right to answers and accountability when their loved ones are harmed by illegal hazing.

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

You can expect us to:

• Listen to your story with compassion and discretion.
• Review any evidence you have, such as photos, text messages, or medical records.
• Clearly explain your legal options, whether that involves a criminal report, a civil lawsuit, both, or neither.
• Discuss realistic timelines and what you can expect during the legal process.
• Answer all your questions, including those about costs. We operate on a contingency fee basis (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc), which means we don’t get paid unless we win your case.
• There is no pressure to hire us on the spot; we encourage you to take the time you need to make an informed decision. Everything you tell us is strictly confidential.

You don’t have to face this alone.

Call us today for immediate assistance:

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 Manginello directly: ralph@atty911.com

Hablamos Español – Contact Lupe Peña directly for consultation in Spanish: lupe@atty911.com.

Whether you’re in City of Garland or anywhere across Texas, if hazing has impacted your family, you deserve powerful, empathetic legal representation. 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