In the Town of Addison, our Fraternity & Sorority Hazing Lawyers, Attorney911 — Legal Emergency Lawyers™, provide exceptional representation. With over 25 years of experience, including federal court and BP Explosion litigation, we fight massive institutions like national fraternities and universities. Our former insurance defense attorney understands fraternity insurance tactics. We offer HCCLA Criminal Defense + Civil Wrongful Death expertise, proven by multi-million dollar results in cases from UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor. We are evidence preservation specialists. Hablamos Español. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation; contingency fee means no win, no fee.

Texas Hazing: A Comprehensive Guide for Families in Town of Addison Through the Lens of UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor

The call comes late at night. You answer, your heart pounding, to hear your child’s voice—not bright and excited, as it usually is when they tell you about college life, but muffled, hesitant, and filled with a fear you instantly recognize as primal. They’ve been at an “initiation event” with a fraternity, sorority, or perhaps a student organization they desperately wanted to join. Now, they’ve collapsed, injured, or deeply humiliated, pressured beyond their limits. Someone else tells you, “Don’t call anyone; we’ll handle it. Don’t get the chapter shut down.” Your child is caught between loyalty to a group and their own safety, and you, sitting in your home in Town of Addison, feel a profound helplessness.

This scenario isn’t a distant nightmare; it’s a terrifying reality for families across Texas every year. It could happen to a student from Town of Addison attending the University of North Texas in Denton, or Southern Methodist University right in Dallas. It could even happen to a student at the University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M, Baylor, or the University of Houston, far from the familiar streets of Addison. The desire to belong, to find community in a new environment, can make young adults vulnerable to dangerous traditions disguised as “bonding experiences.”

We understand the fear and confusion that follows such an incident. This guide is for you—for parents, students, and anyone in Town of Addison and across North Texas navigating the complex and often painful world of hazing. Our comprehensive guide to hazing and the law in Texas will help you understand:

• What hazing truly looks like in 2025, moving beyond old stereotypes.
• How Texas and federal law address hazing, providing pathways for accountability.
• The critical lessons from major national hazing cases and their relevance to families with ties to Texas universities.
• Specific insights into what has been happening at the University of Houston (UH), Texas A&M University, the University of Texas at Austin (UT), Southern Methodist University (SMU), and Baylor University.
• The legal options and recourse available to victims and families in Town of Addison and throughout Texas.

This article offers general information to help you understand your situation. It is not specific legal advice. The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, serving families from Town of Addison to Houston and across Texas, is ready to evaluate individual cases based on their unique facts.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES:

Your child’s safety is our highest priority. If a hazing incident has just occurred or is occurring now, immediate action is critical.

• If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

  • Call 911 for any medical emergency or immediate threat.
  • 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, essential steps include:

  • Get medical attention immediately, even if the student insists they are “fine” or “just embarrassed.” Prioritize their health and document any injuries.
  • Preserve evidence BEFORE it’s destroyed or deleted:
    • Screenshot group chats, texts, and direct messages (DMs) immediately. These are often the most crucial pieces of evidence.
    • Photograph any physical injuries from multiple angles and over several days to show progression.
    • Save physical items involved, such as damaged clothing, receipts for forced purchases, or any objects used in the hazing.
  • Write down everything while the memory is fresh—who was involved, what exactly happened, when and where it took place.
  • Do NOT:
    • Confront the fraternity, sorority, or other organization directly. This could lead to evidence destruction or retaliation.
    • Sign anything from the university or an insurance company without legal counsel.
    • Post details on public social media, as this can compromise your case.
    • Allow your child to delete messages or “clean up” any evidence, no matter how embarrassing it may seem.

• Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours:

  • Evidence in hazing cases disappears rapidly—group chats are deleted, physical objects are discarded, and witnesses are coached to remain silent.
  • Universities and organizations often move quickly to control the narrative, which can hinder your pursuit of justice.
  • We can help preserve critical evidence and protect your child’s legal rights from the outset.
  • Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for an immediate, confidential consultation.

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like

For families in Town of Addison and across Texas, it’s crucial to understand that hazing has evolved far beyond the stereotypical “pranks” or “innocent initiation games” of the past. Today’s hazing tactics are often sophisticated, psychologically damaging, and can lead to severe injury or death. It is an abuse of power, designed to create loyalty through fear and humiliation.

Clear, Modern Definition of Hazing

At its core, hazing is any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, whether singular or recurring, forced or coerced, directly or indirectly, by one person alone or with others, directed against a student for the purpose of pledging, initiation into, affiliation, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization. This act must:

• Endanger the physical or mental health or safety of a student.
• Humiliate, degrade, or disgrace another individual, regardless of their willingness to participate.

It’s critical to emphasize that “I agreed to it” or “I wanted to join so I went along” does not automatically make the act safe or legal. When there’s a significant power imbalance, peer pressure, and the implicit threat of exclusion, any “consent” given is often not truly voluntary. Texas law, as we’ll discuss, explicitly supports this view.

Main Categories of Hazing

Modern hazing takes many forms, often overlapping and escalating in severity:

• Alcohol and Substance Hazing: This is by far the most common and often deadliest form of hazing. It involves forced or coerced drinking of excessive amounts of alcohol, often rapidly, through “chugging challenges,” “lineups,” “games” that punish incorrect answers with forced consumption, or “Big/Little reveal” nights with handles of hard liquor. Pledges may also be pressured to consume unknown substances or drugs. The goal is often to incapacitate pledges, making them more vulnerable and less likely to resist further abuse.

• Physical Hazing: This category includes acts that inflict bodily harm or extreme physical endurance. Examples range from paddling and beatings to extreme calisthenics, forced “workouts” (sometimes called “smokings”) that exceed safe limits, sleep deprivation, and deprivation of food or water. It can also involve exposure to extreme cold or heat, or forcing individuals into dangerous physical environments or stunts. A student from Town of Addison, for instance, could be forced to perform hundreds of push-ups until collapsing, or stand in extreme heat for hours without water.

• Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing: These acts are profoundly degrading and can cause severe psychological trauma. They include forced nudity or partial nudity, simulated sexual acts (such as “elephant walks” or “roasted pig” positions), wearing degrading costumes, or participating in acts with racist, sexist, or homophobic overtones, including the use of slurs or forced role-play that denigrates identities.

• Psychological Hazing: Often overlooked but deeply damaging, psychological hazing involves sustained mental anguish. This can manifest as verbal abuse, persistent threats, social isolation, forced confessions of intimate details, and public shaming, whether in-person or online. This type of hazing erodes self-esteem and creates an environment of fear and anxiety.

• Digital/Online Hazing: With the rise of smartphones and social media, hazing has moved into the digital realm. This includes group chat dares, forced participation in “challenges” or “games” on platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, or Discord that involve self-humiliation. There’s also immense pressure to create or share compromising images or videos, or to respond instantly to messages at all hours, leading to sleep deprivation and constant anxiety.

Where Hazing Actually Happens

A common misconception in Town of Addison and beyond is that hazing is exclusively a “fraternity problem.” The reality is far broader:

• Fraternities and Sororities: This remains a significant area, encompassing Interfraternity Council (IFC), Panhellenic, National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), and various multicultural Greek organizations.
• Corps of Cadets / ROTC / Military-Style Groups: At universities like Texas A&M, traditions within these highly structured environments can sometimes cross the line into hazing, emphasizing hierarchical control often through physical or psychological endurance tests.
• Spirit Squads, Tradition Clubs: Groups like those found at the University of Texas at Austin (e.g., Texas Cowboys, although now inactive due to hazing allegations) or other schools, where pride in tradition can lead to dangerous initiation rituals.
• Athletic Teams: From football and basketball to swimming, baseball, and cheerleading, hazing can occur across university athletic programs, often disguised as “team bonding” or “toughening up.”
• Marching Bands and Performance Groups: Even seemingly benign organizations, such as marching bands or theater groups, can harbor hazing practices.
• Some Service, Cultural, and Academic Organizations: Any group with a selective membership process, a strong sense of identity, and a hierarchy can be susceptible to hazing.

Across all these groups, the pervasive influence of social status, tradition, and intense secrecy allows these dangerous practices to persist, even when participants are fully aware that hazing is illegal and explicitly prohibited by university policies. This culture of silence is what hazing attorneys routinely confront.

Law & Liability Framework (Texas + Federal)

For families in Town of Addison grappling with a hazing incident, understanding the legal landscape in Texas is paramount. Both criminal and civil pathways exist, and a knowledgeable legal team can help navigate these often-complex systems.

Texas Hazing Law Basics (Education Code)

Texas has clear, specific anti-hazing provisions outlined in the Texas Education Code. These laws define what constitutes hazing, establish criminal penalties, and specify the responsibilities of organizations and educational institutions.

The Texas Education Code defines hazing quite broadly, encompassing any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, whether committed individually or with others, on or off campus, directed against a student. For an act to be considered hazing, it must:

• Endanger the physical health or safety of a student (e.g., forced consumption of alcohol or drugs, physical beatings, extreme calisthenics, sleep deprivation, or unsafe stunts).
• OR substantially affect the mental health or safety of a student (e.g., severe humiliation, intense intimidation, or psychological manipulation).
• AND occur for the purpose of pledging, initiation into, affiliation with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization whose members include students.

In plain English, if someone makes you do something dangerous, harmful, or degrading to join or stay in a group—and they acted intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly—that is hazing under Texas law, regardless of whether it caused physical wounds, mental anguish, or both.

Key aspects of Texas hazing law:

• Criminal Penalties (Texas Education Code § 37.152):

  • Most hazing offenses are classified as a Class B Misdemeanor (punishable by up to 180 days in county jail and/or a fine up to $2,000).
  • If the hazing causes bodily injury requiring medical attention, it elevates to a Class A Misdemeanor.
  • Crucially, if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death, it becomes a State Jail Felony (more severe penalties, including state prison time).
  • Additionally, failing to report hazing (if you are a member or officer and knew about it) or retaliating against someone who reports hazing are also misdemeanors.

• Organizational Liability (Texas Education Code § 37.153): Organizations themselves can face criminal prosecution and significant fines (up to $10,000 per violation) if they authorized or encouraged the hazing, or if an officer or member acting in an official capacity knew about the hazing and failed to report it. Furthermore, universities have the power to revoke an organization’s recognition and ban it from campus. This highlights that accountability extends beyond individuals to the group as a whole, a critical factor for families in Town of Addison seeking justice.

• Immunity for Good-Faith Reporting (Texas Education Code § 37.154): To encourage reporting, Texas law provides immunity from civil or criminal liability to individuals who, in good faith, report a hazing incident to university authorities or law enforcement. This provision, coupled with “medical amnesty” policies at many universities, aims to protect students who call for help in an emergency, even if underage drinking or other minor offenses were involved.

• Consent Not a Defense (Texas Education Code § 37.155): This is one of the most critical provisions. Texas law explicitly states that it is not a defense to prosecution for hazing that the person being hazed “consented” to the activity. This directly combats the common defense that victims “voluntarily participated” and acknowledges the coercive nature of hazing within power imbalances.

• Reporting by Educational Institutions (Texas Education Code § 37.156): Texas colleges and universities are required to provide hazing prevention education, publish their hazing policies, and, importantly, maintain and publish annual reports of hazing violations and disciplinary actions. This public record, such as that provided by UT Austin at hazing.utexas.edu, provides valuable information for families.

This summary outlines the fundamental aspects of Texas hazing law. The actual code is more technical, and its application varies with each unique set of facts.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding Your Options

When hazing occurs, two distinct legal processes can be initiated: criminal cases and civil cases. While both aim for justice, their functions, initiators, and outcomes differ significantly.

• Criminal Cases:

  • These are initiated and pursued by the State (through a prosecutor) against individuals who have allegedly violated criminal hazing statutes or related laws (e.g., assault, furnishing alcohol to a minor, manslaughter).
  • The primary objective of a criminal case is to punish the offender, which can involve jail time, fines, probation, or other court-ordered sanctions.
  • A key point for families in Town of Addison is that while a criminal conviction can bring a sense of justice and accountability, it does not directly provide financial compensation to the victim or their family for their losses, such as medical bills or psychological trauma.

• Civil Cases:

  • These lawsuits are brought directly by the victims of hazing (or their surviving family members in cases of wrongful death) against individuals and institutions believed to be responsible for the harm.
  • The main goal of a civil case is to secure monetary compensation (damages) for the victim’s losses, which can include medical expenses, lost educational opportunities, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.
  • Civil cases investigate various legal theories, including negligence (failure to exercise reasonable care), gross negligence (extreme or reckless negligence), wrongful death, negligent hiring or supervision, premises liability, and intentional infliction of emotional distress.
  • An important distinction is that a criminal conviction is not required to pursue a civil case. The burden of proof is lower in civil cases (preponderance of the evidence) than in criminal cases (beyond a reasonable doubt).

Both criminal and civil investigations can proceed simultaneously. A hazing incident in Town of Addison, for example, could lead to criminal charges against individual students while also forming the basis for a civil lawsuit against the university, the national fraternity, or other responsible parties.

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

Beyond state laws, federal regulations and acts introduce additional layers of oversight and accountability for hazing at colleges and universities:

• Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This significant federal legislation mandates that colleges and universities receiving federal funding (which includes almost all major institutions) increase transparency regarding hazing incidents. By approximately 2026, these institutions will be required to:

  • Report hazing incidents and related disciplinary actions more openly to the public.
  • Strengthen their hazing education and prevention programs.
  • Maintain and make available public hazing data, allowing parents and students to make more informed decisions about campus safety. This act aims to provide a more consistent national standard for addressing and preventing hazing.

• Title IX: While Title IX primarily addresses sex-based discrimination, it can become highly relevant in hazing cases when the hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, or hostile behaviors based on gender. If hazing includes forced nudity, sexually explicit acts, or other forms of gender-based hostility, the university has specific obligations under Title IX to investigate and respond. Failure to do so can lead to federal enforcement actions and civil lawsuits.

• Clery Act: The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act requires colleges and universities to disclose information about crime on and around their campuses. Hazing incidents, particularly those involving assault, sexual assault, alcohol or drug violations, or other criminal acts, must be included in the institution’s annual security report. This act ensures transparency regarding campus safety, allowing families to evaluate the overall environment of the schools their children attend.

These federal frameworks complement Texas state laws, providing multiple avenues for investigation, reporting, and, crucially, accountability for institutions that fail to prevent or adequately respond to hazing.

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit

One of the complexities of hazing litigation is identifying all parties who may be legally responsible for the harm caused. For families in Town of Addison, suing only the individual students involved often isn’t enough, as they may lack the financial resources to cover significant damages. Fortunately, numerous entities can be held accountable:

• Individual Students: The students who directly plan, organize, participate in, or facilitate hazing activities are often named as defendants. This includes those who coerce participation, furnish dangerous substances, or carry out physical abuse.
• Local Chapter / Organization: The collegiate chapter or student organization itself, if it operates as a legal entity, can be held liable. This extends to its officers and “pledge educators” who directly oversee or encourage hazing. Their actions, or failure to act, can be attributed to the chapter.
• National Fraternity/Sorority or Parent Organization: Most collegiate chapters are affiliated with a national or international parent organization. These national entities are often sued because they set policies, collect dues, provide training, and typically have a duty to supervise and regulate their local chapters. Liability often hinges on whether the national organization knew or should have known about a pattern of hazing (either within that specific chapter or across multiple chapters) and failed to take effective preventative action.
• The University or Governing Board: The educational institution itself (e.g., UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor) can be held liable under various legal theories, including negligence, gross negligence, premises liability, or in some cases, even civil rights violations (e.g., Title IX). Key factors include whether the university had prior warnings of hazing, adequately enforced its own policies, or demonstrated deliberate indifference to known risks. While public universities in Texas (like UH, Texas A&M, UT) benefit from sovereign immunity, exceptions can apply, especially in cases of gross negligence or when suing individual employees. Private universities (like SMU and Baylor) typically have fewer immunity protections.
• Third Parties: Depending on the specifics of the incident, other parties might also bear responsibility:
  • Landlords or Property Owners: Owners of off-campus houses, private residences, or event venues where hazing occurred may be liable if they knew or should have known about dangerous activities happening on their property.
  • Bars or Alcohol Providers: Under Texas dram shop laws, establishments that over-serve alcohol to visibly intoxicated individuals or provide alcohol to minors can be held liable if that alcohol contributed to the hazing injury or death.
  • Security Companies or Event Organizers: If a third-party was contracted to provide security or organize an event where hazing took place, and they failed in their duty of care, they could also be named as defendants.

Every hazing case is fact-specific, and not every party listed above will be liable in every situation. An experienced hazing attorney carefully investigates all potential defendants to ensure that every responsible party is held accountable.

National Hazing Case Patterns (Anchor Stories)

The tragedy of hazing is not new, but recent decades have seen a horrifying pattern of severe injuries and deaths, leading to landmark legal battles and legislative reforms across the nation. These cases, while happening in other states, are highly relevant to Town of Addison families. They establish precedents, highlight institutional failures, and demonstrate the kinds of accountability that can be pursued in Texas courts.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

Forced alcohol consumption remains the leading cause of hazing fatalities, a predictable and preventable tragedy that repeats across campuses.

• Timothy Piazza – Penn State University, Beta Theta Pi (2017): In one of the most high-profile hazing cases in U.S. history, 19-year-old Timothy Piazza died after falling repeatedly and suffering traumatic brain injuries during a “bid acceptance” initiation at the Beta Theta Pi fraternity. He was forced to consume dangerous amounts of alcohol in a short period. Security cameras within the fraternity house captured hours of his agonizing decline, during which fraternity brothers delayed calling for help, ignoring his cries and severe condition. The horrific details led to dozens of criminal charges against fraternity members, extensive civil litigation, and the enactment of the Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law in Pennsylvania. This case fundamentally shifted the legal understanding of a fraternity’s duty of care and the severe consequences of a culture of silence. It underscored that extreme intoxication, delay in calling 911, and a cover-up are devastating for liability.

• Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (2017): Just months after the Piazza tragedy, 20-year-old Andrew Coffey died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” initiation event at the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity. Pledges were given handles of hard liquor and forced to consume them rapidly. His death led to criminal hazing charges against multiple fraternity members, and Florida State University temporarily suspended all Greek life, overhauling its policies. The Coffey case, similar to Piazza’s, demonstrated how formulaic “tradition” drinking nights are a recurring script for disaster, with predictable and deadly outcomes.

• Max Gruver – Louisiana State University, Phi Delta Theta (2017): 18-year-old Max Gruver died from alcohol toxicity during a Phi Delta Theta “Bible study” drinking game at LSU. Pledges were forced to answer trivia questions about the fraternity; incorrect answers resulted in being forced to drink large quantities of alcohol, including 190-proof liquor, leading to a blood alcohol content of 0.495%. The profound impact of his death led Louisiana to enact the Max Gruver Act, a landmark felony hazing law. The case exemplifies how legislative change often follows intense public outrage and undeniable proof of hazing’s lethal consequences. Max’s family later received a $6.1 million verdict against the fraternity and its insurer.

• Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021): 20-year-old Stone Foltz tragically died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol during a Pi Kappa Alpha “Big/Little” initiation tradition. The incident, similar to countless others, highlighted the extreme dangers of forced consumption rituals. Multiple fraternity members were criminally convicted of hazing-related charges. In civil proceedings, Bowling Green State University (BGSU) agreed to a nearly $3 million settlement with the family, in addition to significant confidential settlements from the fraternity and individuals. This case underscored that public universities, even while claiming sovereign immunity, can face substantial financial and reputational consequences when their students are involved in fatal hazing incidents.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Beyond alcohol, physical and ritualized hazing carries its own set of severe risks, often involving direct assault and critical delays in medical care.

• Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013): Michael Deng, a 19-year-old pledge, died after participating in a Pi Delta Psi fraternity ritual known as “the glass ceiling” during a retreat in the Pocono Mountains. Blindfolded and burdened with a heavy backpack, he was repeatedly tackled by other fraternity members. He sustained a fatal traumatic brain injury, and help was tragically delayed for hours while members deliberated on a cover-up. Multiple members were criminally convicted, and the national fraternity itself was found guilty of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter, the first time a national Greek organization faced such charges. Pi Delta Psi was banned from operating in Pennsylvania for 10 years, and the case highlighted that off-campus “retreats” are often chosen precisely to avoid oversight and can be as dangerous or more so than on-campus events.

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Hazing isn’t exclusive to Greek life; it inflicts damage across various student organizations, notably within high-profile athletic programs.

• Northwestern University Football (2023–2025): In a scandal that rocked collegiate athletics, former football players at Northwestern University alleged widespread sexualized and racist hazing within the program over multiple years. This included forced sexual acts, racial discrimination, and physical abuse. The initial reports led to multiple lawsuits against Northwestern University, its coaching staff, and administrators. Head coach Pat Fitzgerald was fired and later pursued a confidential wrongful-termination settlement. This case was a stark reminder that hazing can permeate major athletic departments, challenging the notion that it’s solely a Greek life issue and raising serious questions about institutional oversight and the “win-at-all-costs” culture.

What These Cases Mean for Texas Families

These national anchor stories, while geographically diverse, share chilling common threads: forced drinking, physical or sexual humiliation, violence, intentional delays in seeking medical care, and concerted efforts to cover up the incidents. They reveal how deeply ingrained these dangerous “traditions” can be and the devastating consequences when institutions fail to intervene.

For families in Town of Addison and across Texas:

• These cases establish critical legal precedents, influencing how similar hazing incidents might be litigated in Texas courts.
• They demonstrate that public outrage and significant legal action are often necessary to bring about institutional reforms and multi-million-dollar settlements or verdicts.
• Knowing these histories underscores that when you send your child to a Texas university—be it UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, or Baylor—you are entrusting them to environments shaped by these national lessons, some of which have not led to sufficient change. The fight for accountability continues right here in Texas.

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

For families in Town of Addison, understanding the specific environments at Texas’s major universities is crucial. While Town of Addison is home to many who might send their children to local institutions in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, such as the University of North Texas in Denton or Southern Methodist University in Dallas, many also attend schools across the state. The patterns of hazing, institutional responses, and legal avenues for recourse differ significantly across these campuses. Let’s delve into what families should know about five prominent Texas universities.

5.1 University of Houston (UH)

The University of Houston, a vibrant urban campus located approximately 250 miles south of Town of Addison, is a major destination for students from across Texas. Families in Town of Addison whose children attend UH, or who consider it for higher education, should be aware of campus dynamics, particularly regarding hazing.

5.1.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

The University of Houston is a large, diverse R1-designated public research university located in the heart of Houston. It serves a mix of commuter and residential students, boasting active Greek life with a broad range of fraternities and sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, and multicultural councils). Beyond Greek life, UH hosts numerous student organizations, cultural groups, and competitive sports clubs, all of which carry the potential for hazing if not properly supervised.

5.1.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

The University of Houston maintains a strict anti-hazing policy, emphasizing that hazing is prohibited both on-campus and off-campus. Their policy explicitly bans activities such as forced consumption of alcohol, food, or drugs; sleep deprivation; physical mistreatment; and any acts designed to cause mental distress as part of initiation or affiliation.

UH provides several avenues for reporting hazing, including the Dean of Students office, the Office of Student Conduct, and the University of Houston Police Department (UHPD). The university also posts general information regarding hazing and its commitment to prevention on its website, though specific disciplinary actions may not always be as publicly detailed as at other institutions.

5.1.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

While UH continually works to combat hazing, incidents have occurred:

• 2016 Pi Kappa Alpha Case: In a significant incident, pledges of the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity at UH were allegedly subjected to a multi-day hazing event that included sleep and food deprivation. One pledge reportedly suffered a lacerated spleen after being slammed onto a table or similar surface during the hazing. This incident led to misdemeanor hazing charges and a university suspension for the chapter.
• Ongoing Disciplinary Actions: Public records and university reports indicate recurring disciplinary actions against various fraternities and sororities where behaviors “likely to produce mental or physical discomfort” were cited. These often include alcohol misuse, physical endurance activities, and violations of university policy during new member education periods.

These incidents highlight UH’s willingness to suspend chapters and respond to confirmed hazing, yet also underscore the ongoing challenges in eradicating these dangerous practices.

5.1.4 How a UH Hazing Case Might Proceed

For a family from Town of Addison pursuing a hazing case related to an incident at UH, both local and national agencies may be involved. Depending on whether the hazing occurred on campus or at an off-campus house in Houston, the involved law enforcement agencies could include UHPD and/or the Houston Police Department. Civil lawsuits would likely be filed in state or federal courts with jurisdiction over Houston and Harris County. Potential defendants could include individual students involved, the local chapter, the national fraternity/sorority, and potentially the University of Houston itself, along with property owners if the hazing occurred off-campus.

5.1.5 What UH Students and Parents Should Do

Families in Town of Addison whose children attend, or plan to attend, the University of Houston should take proactive steps:

• Report Internally (and Externally): If hazing is suspected, report it immediately to the UH Dean of Students Office or UHPD. Simultaneously, consider filing a report with the Houston Police Department if criminal acts are involved.
• Document Vigilantly: Preserve all evidence, including screenshots of group chats, photos of injuries or events, and a detailed written account of what happened. This information is crucial for any investigation or legal action.
• Understand Prior Incidents: While UH’s public disciplinary records may be less extensive than some other universities, a skilled hazing attorney can help uncover prior complaints and past incidents that may be relevant.
• Seek Legal Counsel: Contacting a lawyer experienced in Houston-based hazing cases is vital. Attorneys familiar with the local legal landscape and university policies can effectively navigate the system, helping to uncover prior discipline and internal files that may be difficult for families to access on their own. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate assistance.

5.2 Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University in College Station, approximately 160 miles southeast of Town of Addison, is known for its deep-rooted traditions, including the Corps of Cadets and a robust Greek life. The strong emphasis on tradition and loyalty within these groups can, at times, create conditions ripe for hazing.

5.2.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Texas A&M is one of the largest universities in the nation, with a highly spirited student body. Its unique culture is heavily influenced by the Corps of Cadets, a uniformed student military organization that emphasizes disciplined tradition. Alongside the Corps, Texas A&M hosts a large Greek system with numerous fraternities and sororities, all operating within a climate that values alumni connections and organizational loyalty. This environment, while fostering strong bonds, also presents distinct challenges regarding hazing.

5.2.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Texas A&M prohibits any form of hazing, defining it broadly to include physical and psychological abuse, and explicitly states that consent is not a defense. The university has a clearly articulated hazing prevention policy and reporting avenues through the Department of Student Activities, the Office of Student Conduct, and the Texas A&M University Police Department (UPD). The Corps of Cadets also has its own internal disciplinary process for hazing within its ranks.

5.2.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Texas A&M has faced several significant hazing allegations and incidents across its Greek life and Corps environment:

• 2021 Sigma Alpha Epsilon Lawsuit: This high-profile case involved two pledges of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) fraternity who alleged severe physical hazing. They claimed they were forced to endure strenuous physical activity and then covered in substances, including industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit. This resulted in severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries. The pledges sued the fraternity for $1 million, and the chapter was suspended by the university for two years.
• 2023 Corps of Cadets Lawsuit: A former cadet filed a federal lawsuit against Texas A&M, alleging degrading hazing rituals within the Corps. These rituals reportedly included forced simulated sexual acts and being bound between beds in a “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth. The cadet sought over $1 million, highlighting the severe psychological and physical impact of such acts. Texas A&M stated it handled the matter under its internal rules.
• Ongoing Hazing Concerns: Beyond these specific lawsuits, Texas A&M, like other major universities, has faced and investigated numerous other hazing allegations involving various Greek organizations and student groups over the years, leading to suspensions and other disciplinary actions.

These incidents underscore that hazing at Texas A&M is not confined to one type of organization but can emerge from both Greek life and long-standing traditions within the Corps.

5.2.4 How a Texas A&M Hazing Case Might Proceed

For families in Town of Addison pursuing a hazing case originating at Texas A&M, the process would involve the College Station Police Department or Texas A&M UPD for criminal investigations. Civil lawsuits would likely be filed in Brazos County or federal courts with jurisdiction. Potential defendants could include individual students, the local chapter, the national fraternity/sorority, and potentially Texas A&M University. Pursuing claims against A&M, as a public university, requires navigating sovereign immunity, though exceptions (like gross negligence) can apply. Furthermore, cases involving the Corps of Cadets often involve specialized legal considerations due to its unique structure.

5.2.5 What Texas A&M Students and Parents Should Do

Families and students connected to Texas A&M, including those from Town of Addison, should:

• Be Vigilant with Traditions: Understand that deeply ingrained traditions, particularly within the Corps and Greek life, can be fertile ground for hazing. Question any activity that feels coercive, degrading, or risky.
• Report Promptly: Utilize Texas A&M’s reporting channels (Student Activities, Student Conduct, UPD). If the incident involves a Corps member, additional reporting through Corps leadership is possible.
• Document Everything: As witnessed in the SAE chemical burn case, detailed documentation of injuries, messages, and events is critical.
• Seek Specialist Legal Advice: An attorney with experience addressing hazing within both Greek life and the Corps of Cadets, specifically in Texas, is invaluable. They can help dismantle the “tradition” defense and pursue accountability against all responsible parties. Our firm, from its Houston office, serves such families throughout Texas.

5.3 University of Texas at Austin (UT)

The University of Texas at Austin, a flagship institution roughly 200 miles south of Town of Addison, is a hub for academic excellence and vibrant student life, including an active Greek community and numerous prestigious student organizations. Its size and prominence often bring significant scrutiny to student conduct, including hazing.

5.3.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

UT Austin is one of the largest and most highly-ranked public universities in Texas. Its downtown Austin location contributes to a dynamic student culture with a thriving Greek system, competitive spirit organizations, and numerous clubs across academic, social, and athletic interests. The university prides itself on its traditions, but like any large institution, it faces ongoing challenges in preventing hazing within its diverse student body.

5.3.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

The University of Texas at Austin maintains an explicit and comprehensive anti-hazing policy. The university’s policy prohibits any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of affiliation or membership. UT is particularly notable for its robust transparency; it publishes a public Hazing Violations page on its website (hazing.utexas.edu) that lists organizations, dates of infractions, specific conduct, and the sanctions imposed. Reporting can be made through the Dean of Students, Student Conduct and Academic Integrity, and the University of Texas Police Department (UTPD).

5.3.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

UT Austin’s public Hazing Violations page serves as a clear testament to the ongoing struggle against hazing, and has featured prominent incidents:

• 2023 Pi Kappa Alpha (Pika) Incident: The UT Austin chapter of Pi Kappa Alpha was sanctioned following an incident where new members were allegedly directed to consume significant quantities of milk, engage in excessive physical activity, and abide by a restrictive code of conduct. The university found this to be hazing, leading to the chapter being placed on probation and required to implement enhanced hazing-prevention education.
• Texas Wranglers and Other Spirit/Tradition Organizations: Beyond Greek life, various spirit and tradition organizations at UT, such as the now-inactive Texas Cowboys which faced a permanent ban for hazing, have been sanctioned for practices including forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing, and other forms of punishment for prospective members. These incidents reinforce that hazing extends beyond Greek borders.
• 2024 Sigma Alpha Epsilon Lawsuit: An Australian exchange student alleged severe assault by Sigma Alpha Epsilon members at an off-campus party, resulting in injuries including a dislocated leg, broken ligaments, fractured tibia, and a broken nose. This prompted a lawsuit against the chapter and national organization for over $1 million, underscoring ongoing issues with this fraternity and the university’s oversight of campus events.

UT’s commitment to public transparency, while commendable, also highlights the persistent nature of hazing. The repeated appearance of certain organizations on its violations list demonstrates that policies and sanctions do not always deter misconduct.

5.3.4 How a UT Austin Hazing Case Might Proceed

For families from Town of Addison whose children encounter hazing at UT, criminal investigations could involve UTPD and/or the Austin Police Department. Civil lawsuits would likely be filed in Travis County or federal courts with jurisdiction. Potential defendants could include individual students, the local chapter, the national organization (which, in some cases, such as the national Pi Kappa Alpha, has repeatedly been implicated in severe hazing), and the University of Texas System. UT, as a public institution, benefits from sovereign immunity but can be held liable under certain exceptions like gross negligence.

Critically, the publicly available records of prior violations on UT’s website can significantly strengthen a civil suit, providing clear evidence of patterns of misconduct and the university’s prior knowledge of hazing within specific organizations.

5.3.5 What UT Austin Students and Parents Should Do

Families from Town of Addison with connections to UT Austin are strongly advised to:

• Review UT’s Hazing Violations Page: Before joining any organization, regularly check hazing.utexas.edu for a transparent record of past incidents and disciplinary actions. This is invaluable information.
• Report All Suspected Hazing: Utilize UT’s robust reporting channels, including the Dean of Students and UTPD. If sexual harassment or assault is involved, contact the Title IX Coordinator.
• Document Everything Thoroughly: Given the prevalence of digital communication, screenshots of group chats (especially those with disappearing messages), photos of injuries, and detailed chronological accounts are vital evidence.
• Consult Legal Expertise Early: An attorney experienced in Texas hazing litigation is crucial for a UT Austin case. They can leverage public records, investigate patterns of misconduct, and navigate the complexities of suing a large public institution. Contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a confidential discussion.

5.4 Southern Methodist University (SMU)

Southern Methodist University, nestled in Dallas just a short drive from Town of Addison, is a prestigious private university known for its strong Greek presence and affluent student body. Due to its close proximity, many Town of Addison families consider SMU for their children’s education, making an understanding of its hazing landscape particularly important.

5.4.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

SMU is a private, well-resourced university with a reputation for academic rigor and a vibrant social scene heavily influenced by its comprehensive Greek system. A significant portion of the student body participates in fraternities and sororities, making Greek life a central component of the campus experience. This environment, while offering strong social connections, also highlights the potential for hazing, which can fester under a culture of exclusivity and tradition.

5.4.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

SMU maintains strict policies against hazing, defining it broadly to include any action that places a member or prospective member at mental or physical risk. As a private institution, SMU’s policies and enforcement may differ from public universities but are no less serious. The university encourages reporting through various channels, including the Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities, the Dean of Students, and the SMU Police Department (SMU PD). SMU also utilizes initiatives like “Real Response,” an anonymous reporting system, to encourage students to come forward.

5.4.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Though a private institution with less public data than UT Austin, SMU has faced hazing concerns:

• 2017 Kappa Alpha Order Incident: The Kappa Alpha Order fraternity at SMU faced significant disciplinary action after allegations of hazing surfaced. Pledges were reportedly paddled, forced to consume excessive alcohol, and deprived of sleep. This led to the chapter’s suspension and severe restrictions on its ability to recruit new members for several years, highlighting SMU’s capacity to levy serious sanctions.
• Ongoing Monitoring: SMU actively monitors its Greek organizations and other student groups, conducting investigations into reports of misconduct. While specific details of every incident may not be as widely publicized as at public universities, disciplinary actions (including suspensions and probationary periods) indicate a continuous effort to address hazing.

These instances underscore that even at private institutions with a strong focus on student reputation, hazing remains a persistent issue requiring vigilant oversight and enforcement.

5.4.4 How an SMU Hazing Case Might Proceed

For a family from Town of Addison dealing with a hazing incident at SMU, criminal investigations would involve SMU PD and/or the Dallas Police Department. Civil lawsuits would likely be filed in state or federal courts with jurisdiction over Dallas County. Potential defendants would include individual students, the local chapter, the national fraternity/sorority, and Southern Methodist University itself. As a private university, SMU typically does not benefit from sovereign immunity, making it potentially more straightforward to sue the institution directly for negligence or other claims compared to public universities. This means the ability to compel discovery and uncover internal university records may be less constrained.

5.4.5 What SMU Students and Parents Should Do

For students and parents in Town of Addison connected to SMU:

• Be Aware of Cultural Expectations: SMU’s strong Greek culture, while providing social opportunities, can also foster environments where hazing is normalized. Be aware of peer pressure and unspoken expectations.
• Utilize Anonymous Reporting Systems: Tools like “Real Response” are designed to encourage students to report hazing without fear of immediate retaliation.
• Seek Prompt Legal Counsel: Given SMU’s status as a private institution, a lawyer experienced in hazing cases can navigate the specific legal and institutional challenges. Their expertise can be crucial in compelling the university to disclose information and pursuing accountability without the added hurdle of sovereign immunity often found at public universities. Contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for confidential advice.

5.5 Baylor University

Baylor University in Waco, approximately 100 miles south of Town of Addison, is a private Christian university with a unique blend of faith-based traditions and high-level collegiate athletics. Families in Town of Addison considering Baylor for their children should understand its specific history regarding student safety and institutional accountability.

5.5.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Baylor University is the world’s largest Baptist university, known for its strong Christian mission, academic programs, and nationally competitive sports teams. It offers a rich array of student organizations, including fraternities and sororities, and numerous athletic teams. Baylor’s culture places a high value on community and faith, yet this has not insulated it from significant challenges related to student conduct and oversight, as seen in past high-profile scandals involving sexual assault.

5.5.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Baylor University explicitly prohibits hazing and defines it as any activity that causes physical or mental discomfort, embarrassment, or ridicule as a condition of membership or initiation. The university states a “zero tolerance” approach to hazing. Reporting mechanisms are available through the Baylor Police Department, the Office of Student Conduct, and the Vice President for Student Life.

5.5.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Baylor has faced scrutiny over its institutional responses to student misconduct, which provides an important context for understanding hazing incidents:

• 2020 Baylor Baseball Hazing: A significant incident occurred within the Baylor Baseball team, where investigations led to the suspension of 14 players for hazing violations. These suspensions were staggered over the early season, impacting the team’s performance and highlighting that hazing is not limited to Greek life.
• Broader Institutional Scrutiny: Baylor’s history includes major controversies surrounding its handling of sexual assault allegations within its football program in the mid-2010s. This history of institutional failure in protecting students creates a heightened awareness for families about the university’s capacity for oversight and its potential liability in cases of student harm, including hazing. These past scandals underscore the importance of holding institutions accountable for fostering safe environments.

These incidents, combined with Baylor’s broader institutional history, emphasize the need for vigilant oversight and strong enforcement of anti-hazing policies, irrespective of a university’s stated values or mission.

5.4.4 How a Baylor Hazing Case Might Proceed

For families in Town of Addison pursuing a hazing case at Baylor, criminal investigations could involve the Baylor Police Department and/or the Waco Police Department. Civil lawsuits would likely be filed in McLennan County or federal courts with jurisdiction. Potential defendants would include individual students, the local chapter, the national fraternity/sorority (if applicable), and Baylor University itself. As a private institution, Baylor does not benefit from sovereign immunity, which can ease the process of compelling discovery and pursuing claims for negligence or other harms. However, the university’s past legal history means it is likely to be represented by aggressive defense counsel.

5.4.5 What Baylor Students and Parents Should Do

For students and parents in Town of Addison considering or attending Baylor:

• Scrutinize “Traditions”: Baylor’s strong sense of tradition can sometimes clash with modern safety standards. Critically evaluate any activity presented as a “tradition” that involves coercion, secrecy, or discomfort.
• Understand Institutional Context: Be aware of Baylor’s past challenges in student safety. This history means that while there may be “zero tolerance” policies, vigilance is still necessary.
• Document and Report: Immediately document any suspected hazing with detailed notes and evidence. Report incidents through Baylor’s official channels and, if criminal activity is involved, to local law enforcement.
• Consult an Independent Attorney: Given the complexities of Baylor’s institutional history and its private university status, an independent attorney experienced in hazing litigation in Texas is essential. Our firm serves families throughout Texas and can provide confidential advice.

Fraternities & Sororities: Campus-Specific + National Histories

Understanding that hazing is often deeply embedded within the historical fabric of certain fraternities and sororities—and not just isolated to individual chapters—is a critical piece of the puzzle for families in Town of Addison. The national organizations that govern these local chapters frequently have long, troubling histories of hazing that become a pivotal factor in litigation.

Why National Histories Matter

Many of the fraternities and sororities present at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor are part of vast national or international organizations. These national headquarters (HQs) are not merely distant figureheads; they are central entities that:

• Promulgate policies and risk management guidelines: They routinely issue thick anti-hazing manuals and conduct mandatory risk management training. These policies are often developed precisely because the national organization has a history of severe injuries, deaths, and multi-million-dollar lawsuits from prior hazing incidents.
• Collect dues and exercise oversight: National HQs collect significant dues from individual members and chapters, and in return, they are expected to supervise, intervene, and enforce their own rules.
• Possess institutional knowledge: They often have centralized records of past hazing violations, investigations, and disciplinary actions from chapters across the country.

This means that when a Texas chapter—say, a Pi Kappa Alpha chapter at UT Austin, or a Sigma Alpha Epsilon chapter at Texas A&M—repeats a pattern of behavior that has already caused death, injury, or severe disciplinary action at other chapters in other states (for example, Stone Foltz’s death in Ohio or the chemical burns at another SAE chapter), it can provide compelling evidence of foreseeability. It fundamentally strengthens arguments for negligence or even gross negligence against the national entity, as they had “prior notice” and failed to effectively prevent recurrence.

Organization Mapping (Synthesized)

While an exhaustive list of every chapter and incident is beyond this guide, it’s essential for Town of Addison families to recognize that many national organizations have recurring hazing patterns documented across their chapters. Here’s a look at some prominent fraternities and sororities found at Texas universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor) with notable national hazing histories:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / Pike):

  • Identity: A large national fraternity with chapters across the U.S.
  • National Incidents: infamous for the Stone Foltz fatality (Bowling Green State University, 2021), where a pledge died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to consume a bottle of whiskey. Another notable death was David Bogenberger (Northern Illinois University, 2012), also from alcohol poisoning during an initiation. These cases, often centered around “Big/Little” events, demonstrate a dangerous pattern of forced alcohol consumption.
  • Relevance: Chapters exist at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and Baylor. The national organization has faced, and continues to face, immense scrutiny and multi-million-dollar settlements due to these repeated incidents.

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / SAE):

  • Identity: Traditionally one of the largest fraternities, SAE made headlines for temporarily banning pledging nationwide in 2014 due to its alarming number of alcohol-related deaths.
  • National Incidents: Despite reforms, hazing persists.
    • At Texas A&M, an SAE chapter faced a lawsuit around 2021 where pledges alleged being doused in industrial-strength cleaner, suffering chemical burns and requiring skin grafts.
    • At the University of Alabama, a lawsuit was filed in 2023 alleging a pledge suffered a traumatic brain injury during hazing.
    • Most recently, in January 2024 at UT Austin, an exchange student alleged assault by fraternity members at a party, resulting in severe injuries, further highlighting ongoing concerns.
  • Relevance: Chapters often found at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and SMU. The national organization has a documented, tragic history of hazing, severe injuries, and deaths, demonstrating a clear pattern of organizational negligence.

• Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ):

  • Identity: Another major national fraternity.
  • National Incidents: Most notably, the Max Gruver fatality (Louisiana State University, 2017), where a pledge died from alcohol overconsumption during a “Bible study” drinking game.
  • Relevance: Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor. The Gruver case led to felony hazing laws and exposed how internal “games” can be deadly.

• Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ):

  • Identity: A prominent national fraternity.
  • National Incidents: The tragic death of Andrew Coffey (Florida State University, 2017) from alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” initiation.
  • Relevance: Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, and UT Austin. The Coffey case is another example of a death directly linked to traditional forced drinking rituals.

• Beta Theta Pi (ΒΘΠ):

  • Identity: An established national fraternity.
  • National Incidents: Central to the Timothy Piazza fatality (Penn State University, 2017), where a pledge died after sustained alcohol consumption and falls, exacerbated by delayed medical attention. This case led to over 1,000 criminal counts against members and seminal hazing legislation.
  • Relevance: Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and SMU, and Baylor. Piazza’s case is a cornerstone for establishing liability in delayed medical response cases.

• Kappa Sigma (ΚΣ):

  • Identity: A very large national fraternity.
  • National Incidents: The Chad Meredith drowning (University of Miami, 2001) where a pledge drowned after being coerced to swim while intoxicated, leading to a $12.6 million verdict against the fraternity and a criminal hazing law in Florida. Recent allegations of severe injuries, including rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown from extreme physical hazing), at Texas A&M (2023) continue to highlight persistent issues.
  • Relevance: Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and Baylor. Kappa Sigma’s long history of legal problems related to hazing makes any new incident deeply concerning due to the pattern of conduct.

• Phi Gamma Delta (ΦΓΔ / FIJI):

  • Identity: National fraternity.
  • National Incidents: Responsible for the catastrophic injury of Danny Santulli (University of Missouri, 2021) who suffered severe, permanent brain damage during initiation involving forced drinking. The family settled with 22 defendants for multi-million-dollar amounts.
  • Relevance: Chapters at Texas A&M. The Santulli case showcases how hazing can cause lifelong, debilitating injuries, not just death.

Tie Back to Legal Strategy

This pattern of national hazing incidents directly informs our legal strategy for Town of Addison families. When a local chapter at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, or Baylor commits hazing similar to that which has injured or killed students at other chapters nationwide, it significantly strengthens the argument that:

• The national organization had repeated warnings and thus foreseeability of the risk.
• Their anti-hazing policies were either mere “paper policies” and not meaningfully enforced, or their interventions were inadequate given the known dangers.
• This pattern evidence can be crucial in establishing negligence or even gross negligence against the national entity, potentially leading to higher damages, including punitive damages in certain cases.

Our firm’s experience with complex litigation, akin to taking on massive corporations in cases like the BP Texas City explosion, equips us to challenge national fraternities and their sophisticated legal teams. We understand the historical context and how to leverage it to serve our clients in Town of Addison and across Texas, fighting against powerful institutional defendants who have a long history of trying to evade responsibility.

Building a Case: Evidence, Damages, Strategy

Successfully pursuing a hazing claim against powerful institutions like national fraternities and universities requires meticulous investigation, a comprehensive understanding of complex liability laws, and a strategic approach at every stage. For families in Town of Addison, building a strong case means understanding what evidence matters, what damages can be recovered, and how an experienced legal team plans to achieve accountability.

What Evidence Matters

In modern hazing cases, evidence exists in various forms, much of it digital, and it disappears rapidly if not immediately preserved. Our firm focuses on securing every piece of relevant information:

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

  • GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Slack, Fraternity-Specific Apps: We hunt for messages, chat logs, and direct messages (DMs) that reveal planning, commands, coercion, threats, and discussions before, during, and after hazing events. These communications show intent, knowledge, and participation. 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.
  • Instagram DMs, Snapchat, TikTok: Content shared on social media platforms can document events, injuries, or discussions of hazing. Even “disappearing” messages on Snapchat can sometimes be recovered or indicate a deliberate attempt to hide evidence.

• Photos & Videos:

  • Content Filmed by Members: Pledges or active members may film hazing events for “internal use” or to mock victims. These often end up shared in private group chats or on social media.
  • Security Footage: Cameras at fraternity houses (some nationals require them), university buildings, or private venues (like businesses or bars) can capture events.
  • Witness Visuals: Photos or videos taken by bystanders, roommates, or others who observed the hazing or its aftermath.

• Internal Organization Documents:

  • Pledge Manuals, Initiation Scripts, “Tradition” Lists: These documents, often kept secret, can reveal sanctioned (or unsanctioned but known) activities that constitute hazing.
  • Emails/Texts from Officers: Communications from chapter leadership discussing expectations, punishments, or what will be done to new members.
  • National Policies and Training Materials: These documents can be used to show that the national organization knew the risks, had rules against hazing, but failed to enforce them effectively.

• University Records:

  • Prior Conduct Files: Crucial in establishing a pattern, these records show if the organization (or individuals within it) had previous hazing violations, probation periods, or suspensions.
  • Incident Reports: Documents filed with campus police or student conduct offices related to hazing or similar misconduct.
  • Clery Reports and Public Disclosures: Annual safety reports and any published hazing violation lists (like UT Austin’s) provide a public record of institutional knowledge and response.

• Medical and Psychological Records:

  • Emergency Room & Hospitalization Records: Document the immediate physical injuries, medical treatments, and any toxicology reports (e.g., blood alcohol levels, drug screens).
  • Surgery, Therapy & Rehab Notes: Essential for proving the extent of physical recovery and ongoing needs.
  • Psychological Evaluations: Critical for documenting non-physical damages like Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), severe anxiety, depression, and other mental health impacts. These records are vital for quantifying emotional distress.

• Witness Testimony:

  • Pledges & Members: Testimony from other individuals who experienced or observed the hazing. While initially hesitant due to fear of retaliation, many are willing to speak up with legal protection.
  • Roommates, RAs, Coaches, Trainers: Individuals who noticed changes in behavior, injuries, or heard complaints.
  • Former Members: Those who left the organization due to hazing practices can provide powerful insider perspectives.

What Damages Can Be Recovered

A hazing incident can shatter a young person’s life, leading to devastating physical, psychological, and financial consequences. For families in Town of Addison, pursuing a civil claim aims to recover comprehensive financial compensation for these losses. We outline the main categories of damages below, noting that specific amounts vary greatly based on the unique facts of each case:

• Medical Bills & Future Care: This includes all costs associated with the physical and mental health treatment of the victim.

  • Immediate Care: Emergency room visits, ambulance transport, and initial hospitalization.
  • Ongoing Treatment: Surgeries, physical therapy, occupational therapy, rehabilitation, and prescription medications.
  • Long-Term Care: For catastrophic injuries like traumatic brain injury or organ damage, this may include the highly significant costs of lifelong medical care, specialized equipment, and in-home assistance.

• Lost Earnings / Educational Impact: Hazing can derail a student’s academic and career trajectory.

  • Lost Wages: If the student was employed and missed work due to injury or recovery.
  • Missed Semesters/Tuition: Costs associated with withdrawal or medical leave from university, including lost tuition and fees.
  • Lost Scholarships: Academic, athletic, or Greek-specific scholarships that are revoked due to the incident.
  • Reduced Earning Capacity: If injuries (physical or psychological) are permanent and impact the victim’s ability to pursue their chosen career or work full-time, an economist may be used to calculate the lifetime loss of potential earnings.

• Non-Economic Damages: These are non-monetary losses that represent significant suffering and are often the largest component of damages in severe hazing cases.

  • Physical Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the actual physical discomfort and pain experienced from injuries.
  • Emotional Distress, Trauma, Humiliation: This includes compensation for diagnosed conditions like PTSD, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, and for the profound emotional anguish, fear, humiliation, loss of dignity, and psychological scarring associated with hazing.
  • Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Damages for the inability to participate in activities, hobbies, intellectual pursuits, and social engagements that the victim once enjoyed, and which have been taken away or diminished due to the hazing.

• Wrongful Death Damages (for families): In the most tragic cases, when hazing results in death, the surviving family members can pursue a wrongful death claim.

  • Funeral and Burial Costs: All expenses related to the memorial and interment.
  • Loss of Companionship, Love, and Society: Compensation for the profound grief and loss of the relationship with the deceased for parents, siblings, and/or a spouse/partner.
  • Loss of Financial Support: If the deceased would have contributed to the family’s finances over their lifetime.
  • Emotional Harm to Family: Compensation for the severe emotional suffering experienced by the surviving family members.

It is vital to understand that we are describing categories of potential damages, not promising specific dollar amounts. Every case is unique, and while the dollar figures can be substantial, the true aim is always accountability and justice for the immense suffering caused.

Role of Different Defendants and Insurance Coverage

Navigating hazing litigation often involves confronting multiple layers of defense, especially concerning insurance coverage. Major institutions like national fraternities/sororities and universities carry significant insurance policies designed to protect them from liability. However, these insurers are not quick to pay out, and often employ complex tactics to deny or minimize claims.

• Insurance Policies in Play: Hazing lawsuits typically seek to tap into several insurance policies:

  • National Organization Policies: These are large general liability policies covering the national fraternity or sorority.
  • Local Chapter Policies: Some local chapters may have their own smaller policies.
  • University Policies: Public and private universities carry substantial umbrella or general liability policies.
  • Homeowner’s Policies: Individual students involved in hazing may have some coverage under their parents’ homeowner’s policies.
  • Dram Shop Policies: Bars or establishments involved in furnishing alcohol to minors or already intoxicated individuals may have coverage here.

• The Insurance Defense Playbook: Insurers frequently argue that hazing, especially involving assault or illegal acts, falls under “intentional acts” exclusions in their policies. They claim these acts are not “accidents” and therefore not covered. They may also contend that furnishing alcohol to minors is an illegal act, similarly excluded. This is where an experienced hazing attorney’s expertise becomes indispensable.

• Experienced Hazing Lawyers Fight Back: Our firm, with Lupe Peña’s background as a former insurance defense attorney, understands this playbook intimately. We know how to:

  • Identify All Potential Coverage Sources: Thoroughly investigate every possible policy that could apply.
  • Navigate Exclusions: Argue that while the physical act might be intentional, the negligent supervision, failure to prevent foreseeable harm, or lack of policy enforcement by the national organization or university was negligent, and therefore covered by their policies.
  • Force Insurers to Defend: Demand that insurers fulfill their “duty to defend” even if they dispute coverage, often leading to settlement.
  • Pursue Bad Faith Claims: If an insurer wrongfully denies coverage, we can pursue additional claims for “bad faith” against the insurance company itself.

This strategic approach to insurance coverage ensures that families in Town of Addison have the best possible chance to secure the maximum compensation they deserve, breaking through the common institutional defenses.

Practical Guides & FAQs

For Town of Addison parents, students, and witnesses, timely and accurate information is critical when navigating a hazing situation. The following guides provide actionable advice on recognition, response, and seeking help.

For Parents: Your Child’s Safety is Paramount

As a parent, your child’s well-being is your highest priority. Recognizing the subtle and overt signs of hazing, and knowing how to respond, can make all the difference.

• Warning Signs of Hazing to Watch For:

  • Unexplained Injuries: Look for bruises, burns, cuts, or other physical marks, especially if your child’s explanations are vague or inconsistent.
  • Sudden Exhaustion/Sleep Deprivation: Persistent fatigue, falling asleep in class, or constant late-night demands from their organization.
  • Drastic Mood Swings: Noticeable anxiety, depression, irritability, withdrawal from social activities or family conversations.
  • Extreme Secrecy: Your child suddenly becoming secretive about organizational activities, using phrases like “I can’t talk about it” or “It’s a secret.”
  • Constant Phone Use: Obsessive checking of group chats or responding to messages at all hours, accompanied by anxiety if they miss a call/text.
  • Changes in Appearance/Hygiene: Being forced to wear specific clothing, having unusual haircuts, or neglecting personal hygiene.
  • Financial Red Flags: Unexplained requests for money, unusually high “dues,” or being forced to buy things for older members.

• How to Talk to Your Child:

  • Approach with Care: Choose a private, calm setting. Avoid accusatory tones.
  • Ask Open-Ended Questions: Instead of “Are you being hazed?”, try “How are things going with [Organization Name]? Are you enjoying it?” or “Is there anything about it that makes you uncomfortable?”
  • Emphasize Safety: Reassure your child that their safety and well-being are paramount, far above any organizational membership or social status. Let them know you will support them no matter what.
  • Validate Their Feelings: Acknowledge that the desire to fit in is normal, and that hazing manipulates that desire.

• If Your Child is Hurt:

  • Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Prioritize their physical and mental health. Take them to an emergency room or a doctor. Crucially, ensure the medical staff documents that the injuries are hazing-related.
  • Document Everything Meticulously:
    • Take clear, dated photos of all injuries from multiple angles, and continue to photograph their progression over several days.
    • Screenshot all relevant text messages, group chats, or social media posts, making sure timestamps and sender names are visible.
    • Write a detailed, chronological account of what your child tells you, including names, dates, times, and specific actions.
    • Save any physical evidence, such as clothing worn during the incident, damaged personal items, or receipts for forced purchases.
  • Contact Us Immediately: If your child has suffered significant physical or psychological harm, or if you feel the university or organization is minimizing what happened, call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a confidential consultation.

• Dealing with the University:

  • Document All Communications: Keep a detailed log of every phone call, email, or meeting with university officials. Record who you spoke to, their title, date, time, and what was discussed.
  • Formulate Specific Questions: Ask about the university’s anti-hazing policies, previous incidents involving the same organization, and the steps they are taking to investigate and protect your child.
  • Avoid Premature Settlements: Do not sign any “release” or “resolution” forms from the university or an insurance company without having an attorney review them. You could unknowingly waive your legal rights.

• When to Talk to a Lawyer:

  • If your child has suffered serious physical injuries—broken bones, organ damage, burns, a traumatic brain injury, or severe alcohol poisoning that required hospitalization.
  • If your child is experiencing significant psychological trauma—diagnosed PTSD, severe depression, anxiety, or suicidal ideation.
  • If the university or organization is being uncooperative, minimizing the incident, or attempting to silence your concerns.
  • If you suspect a cover-up, or if you believe the hazing was particularly egregious or part of a pattern of misconduct.
  • Waiting can be costly: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, and legal deadlines (statutes of limitations) can expire. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate guidance.

For Students / Pledges: Your Voice Matters, Your Rights Endure

If you are a student from Town of Addison, or anywhere in Texas, experiencing hazing, know that you are not alone, and you have rights. Your decision to speak up can prevent others from suffering.

• Is This Hazing or Just Tradition? A Self-Assessment:

  • If any activity makes you feel unsafe, humiliated, or coerced, it’s likely hazing.
  • If you are forced to consume alcohol or drugs, endure pain, or perform degrading acts, it is hazing.
  • If the activity is hidden from the public, university officials, or your parents, it is hazing.
  • If older members tell you to “just get through it” or say “everyone before you did it,” that validates a pattern of hazing.

• Why “Consent” Isn’t the End of the Story: Despite what older members might tell you, your “agreement” to participate in hazing is rarely considered true legal consent. The law recognizes the immense power dynamics at play, the fear of exclusion, and the intense social pressure that makes saying “no” incredibly difficult. Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. You are the victim, not an accomplice.

• Exiting and Reporting Safely:

  • Prioritize Your Safety: If you are in immediate danger, call 911 or campus police. Get to a safe location (your dorm, a trusted friend’s place, or a public area).
  • You Have the Right to Leave: You can de-pledge or resign from any organization at any time. You do not need their permission.
  • Inform Someone Trusted First: Tell a parent, a trusted university official (like an RA or professor), or a non-involved friend before notifying the organization.
  • Document Your Departure: Send a simple email or text to the chapter president/new member educator stating your resignation. Do not engage in arguments or attend “exit meetings” alone, as this can be an opportunity for pressure or intimidation.
  • Utilize Reporting Channels:
    • On Campus: Dean of Students, Office of Student Conduct, University Police.
    • Anonymous: Many universities offer anonymous online reporting. The National Anti-Hazing Hotline (1-888-NOT-HAZE) is also available 24/7.
    • Off Campus: Local Police (if a crime occurred).
    • Legal Counsel: Contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for confidential advice on your rights and options.

• Good-Faith Reporting and Amnesty: Many schools and Texas law provide “medical amnesty” or “good-faith reporter immunity.” This means if you, or someone else, calls for help in an emergency (e.g., for alcohol poisoning), you will generally not be disciplined by the university or face criminal charges for minor offenses (like underage drinking), so long as you called for help in good faith. Your safety and the safety of others are the priority.

For Former Members / Witnesses: Your Testimony Can Prevent Future Harm

If you are a former member, or a witness to hazing in Town of Addison or elsewhere in Texas, you may be grappling with guilt, fear, or a desire to do the right thing after realizing the harm hazing causes. Your insight and testimony are invaluable.

• Acknowledge Your Role (Without Self-Condemnation): We understand that many students participate in hazing due to immense peer pressure, fear of exclusion, or a misguided sense of tradition. It’s a complex dynamic.
• Your Testimony Matters: Your decision to speak up can be the crucial factor in holding individuals and institutions accountable, leading to policy changes, and most importantly, preventing future injuries or deaths. You have the power to create a safer environment for future students.
• Protect Yourself: Seek Legal Advice: Before speaking to university investigators or law enforcement, especially if you fear personal liability, it is wise to seek independent legal counsel. A lawyer can advise you on your rights, potential liabilities, and how to safely navigate providing a statement or testimony. Our firm’s criminal defense experience (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/) is relevant here, helping to advise individuals on dual exposure. We can help you understand how cooperation can be structured to protect your interests while still allowing you to contribute to justice.

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Hazing Case

For Town of Addison families, knowing what not to do after a hazing incident is as important as knowing what to do. These common mistakes, if made, can severely damage or entirely undermine a potential legal claim. Attorney911’s video on client mistakes (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY) further outlines these pitfalls.

1. Letting Your Child Delete Messages or “Clean Up” Evidence:

   • The Misconception: Parents or students often believe deleting incriminating group chats, photos, or texts will protect them from getting “in trouble” or hide embarrassing content.
   • The Reality: This act can be interpreted as spoliation of evidence, making it appear that you are attempting a cover-up. It can also be nearly impossible to rebuild a strong case without this critical digital evidence. Deleted messages can sometimes be forensically recovered, but original, untampered screenshots are invaluable.
   • What to Do Instead: Preserve everything immediately, no matter how embarrassing or seemingly minor. Screenshots, photos, and saved messages are the bedrock of modern hazing litigation.

2. Confronting the Fraternity/Sorority or Individuals Directly:

   • The Misconception: A parent’s natural instinct is to fiercely protect their child and confront those responsible for harm.
   • The Reality: Direct confrontation often leads to the immediate destruction of evidence, coaching of witnesses, and preparation of defenses by the opposing side. It gives them a crucial head start to dismantle your case.
   • What to Do Instead: Document every detail of the incident thoroughly, then contact a lawyer before making any direct contact with the organization or its members.

3. Signing University “Release” or “Resolution” Forms:

   • The Misconception: Universities may pressure families to sign agreements or waivers, promising “internal resolution” or swift disciplinary action.
   • The Reality: These forms often include clauses that waive your right to pursue further legal action, including civil lawsuits for compensation. The “resolution” offered by the university may be disproportionately low compared to the actual damages suffered.
   • What to Do Instead: Never sign any document from the university or an insurance company without an attorney reviewing it first.

4. Posting Details on Social Media Before Talking to a Lawyer:

   • The Misconception: Families want to raise awareness and ensure justice is served by sharing their story publicly.
   • The Reality: While cathartic, premature social media posts can be thoroughly scrutinized by defense attorneys. Any inconsistencies, even minor ones, can be used to discredit your child’s testimony. Furthermore, posting can inadvertently waive certain legal privileges or complicate settlement negotiations.
   • What to Do Instead: Document all details privately and thoroughly. Work with your attorney to determine the appropriate timing and strategy for public communication, if any.

5. Letting Your Child Go Back for “One Last Meeting” with the Organization:

   • The Misconception: The organization’s leadership might claim they want to talk, hear your child out, or make amends.
   • The Reality: These meetings are often designed to pressure your child, intimidate them, or extract statements that can later be used against them in legal proceedings.
   • What to Do Instead: Once you are considering legal action, all communication from the organization or its members should be directed through your attorney.

6. Waiting “to See How the University Handles It”:

   • The Misconception: Parents often hope the university’s internal investigation and disciplinary process will bring sufficient justice and resolution.
   • The Reality: University investigations are primarily concerned with adherence to campus policies, not necessarily with providing comprehensive compensation for severe injuries or wrongful death. Evidence can disappear, witnesses graduate, and the statute of limitations to file a lawsuit may expire while you wait for an internal process that may not deliver the outcome you need.
   • What to Do Instead: Preserve all evidence immediately and consult with a lawyer without delay. While university processes happen, your civil case can (and often should) proceed in parallel.

7. Talking to Insurance Adjusters Without a Lawyer:

   • The Misconception: Insurance adjusters sound friendly and claim they “just need your statement to process the claim.”
   • The Reality: Their primary loyalty is to their employer, the insurance company, whom they are legally obligated to represent. Any statements you give can be used against you, and initial settlement offers are almost always low-ball amounts designed to quickly close a severe hazing claim far below its true value.
   • What to Do Instead: Politely decline to speak with any insurance adjuster and tell them, “My attorney will contact you.”

Short FAQ: Navigating Common Questions

For families in Town of Addison seeking quick answers, here are some common questions about hazing and legal recourse in Texas. Learn about Texas statute of limitations in our video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c.

• “Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
  Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities in Texas (like UH, Texas A&M, UT) benefit from some sovereign immunity protections, which can make suing them directly more challenging. However, exceptions exist for cases involving gross negligence, Title IX violations, or when suing individual university employees in their personal capacity. Private universities (such as SMU and Baylor) typically have fewer immunity protections. Every case is highly fact-specific; contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for case-specific analysis.

• “Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
  Yes, it can be. While hazing is typically a Class B misdemeanor, it elevates to a State Jail Felony under Texas law if the incident causes serious bodily injury or death. Furthermore, individuals in leadership positions within an organization can face misdemeanor charges if they knowingly permit or fail to report hazing.

• “Can my child bring a case if they ‘agreed’ to the initiation?”
  Absolutely. Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. Courts and juries understand the immense pressure, fear of exclusion, and severe power imbalances within organizations that compel students to “agree” to participate. This is not considered true voluntary consent in the eyes of the law.

• “How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?”
  In Texas, there is generally a two-year statute of limitations from the date of the injury or death for most personal injury and wrongful death claims. However, specific circumstances (like a victim being a minor, cover-ups, or delayed discovery of the harm) can potentially extend or “toll” this period. Time is critical—evidence disappears, witness memories fade, and organizations destroy records. It’s imperative to consult with an attorney immediately.

• “What if the hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?”
  The location of the hazing does not eliminate liability. Major hazing lawsuits, including those resulting in multi-million-dollar judgments (such as the Pi Delta Psi retreat case or the Sigma Pi unofficial house case), have occurred off-campus. Universities, national fraternities, and property owners can still be held liable based on their sponsorship, control, knowledge of the activities, and their duty to prevent foreseeable harm, regardless of whether the incident occurred on university property.

• “Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”
  While some high-profile hazing cases make headlines, most civil hazing lawsuits, particularly those involving severe but not fatal injuries, are resolved confidentially through settlement before trial. It is often possible to request that court records be sealed and that settlement terms remain private. We prioritize your family’s privacy interests while fiercely pursuing accountability.

About The Manginello Law Firm + Call to Action

When your family faces a hazing case, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how powerful institutions — universities, national fraternities, and their insurers — fight back, and how to effectively challenge them. That’s precisely what The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, operating as Attorney911, brings to families in Town of Addison and across Texas.

From our Houston office, we serve families throughout Texas, including Town of Addison, Dallas, Fort Worth, and neighboring communities like Plano, Frisco, Irving, Grand Prairie, and Garland. We understand that hazing at Texas universities can impact families across the region, from those with children at SMU just down the road, to those at UT Austin, Texas A&M, UH, or Baylor.

We pride ourselves on a unique combination of expertise that makes us uniquely equipped to handle complex hazing litigation:

• Insurance Insider Advantage (Lupe Peña): Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, spent years as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm. Visit Lupe Peña’s professional profile at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/. This invaluable experience means she knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies value (and often undervalue) hazing claims. She understands their delay tactics, their arguments for coverage exclusions, and their settlement strategies because she used to be on the other side. This insider knowledge gives us a significant edge in navigating the complex insurance landscape that always accompanies hazing cases.

• Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions (Ralph Manginello): Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has a proven track record of taking on formidable opponents. He was one of the few Texas attorneys involved in the massive BP Texas City explosion litigation, showcasing his experience in complex, multi-party cases against billion-dollar corporations. Visit Ralph Manginello’s professional profile at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/. This background means our firm is not intimidated by national fraternities, large universities, or their well-funded defense teams. We know how to build a case that withstands intense scrutiny and pressure.

• Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death and Catastrophic Injury Experience: We have successfully recovered millions for families in catastrophic personal injury and wrongful death cases. Our extensive wrongful death experience (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/) means we understand how to collaborate with economists to accurately value the loss of life, and how to comprehensively calculate damages for lifelong care needs in cases involving traumatic brain injuries or permanent disabilities. We don’t settle cheap; we build cases that force accountability and secure dignified futures.

• Dual Criminal and Civil Hazing Expertise: Ralph’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) provides a crucial understanding of how criminal hazing charges (often brought in concert with civil lawsuits) interact with civil liability. This allows us to advise witnesses, former members, and victims on navigating both criminal exposure and civil recourse, offering a holistic approach to justice. Our firm’s criminal defense experience (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/) means we are prepared for every angle of a hazing case.

• Unmatched Investigative Depth: Winning hazing cases in 2025 demands sophisticated investigation. We work with a network of experts—digital forensics specialists to recover deleted messages, medical experts to testify on injuries, economists to project financial losses, and psychologists to document emotional trauma. We know how to uncover hidden evidence, subpoena national fraternity records showing prior incidents, and obtain crucial 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’re facing one of the hardest challenges a family can endure. Our mission is to provide you with answers, hold the responsible parties accountable, and ensure that what happened to your child does not happen to another family. We believe in thorough investigation and real accountability, not just quick settlements. Learn how contingency fees work in our video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc.

Call for a Confidential, No-Obligation Consultation Today.

If you or your child experienced hazing at any Texas campus—whether it was SMU close to home in Town of Addison, or farther afield at UT Austin, Texas A&M, UH, or Baylor—we want to hear from you. Families in Town of Addison, Dallas County, and throughout North Texas have the right to answers and accountability.

Contact The Manginello Law Firm for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. We will intently listen to what happened, explain your legal options transparently, and help you determine the best path forward for your family.

What you can expect from your free consultation:

• We will listen to your story without judgment.
• We will review any evidence you have, such as photos, texts, or medical records.
• We will explain your legal options, including criminal reporting, civil lawsuits, or both.
• We will discuss realistic timelines and what to expect throughout the process.
• We will answer your questions about costs, explaining our contingency fee basis – we don’t get paid unless we win your case.
• There is absolutely no pressure to hire us on the spot; take your time to decide.
• Everything you share with us is held in strict confidence.

Don’t wait. Evidence disappears, memories fade, and legal deadlines approach quickly.

Contact Attorney911 – The Legal Emergency Lawyers™:

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

Hablamos Español – Contact Lupe Peña at lupe@atty911.com for consultation in Spanish. Servicios legales en español disponibles para todos los clientes en Texas, incluyendo Town of Addison.

Whether you’re in Town of Addison 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