Texas Hazing Litigation: A Comprehensive Guide for Wilson County Families and Beyond

The cold night air chills deeper than the late autumn in Texas. You hear the hushed whispers of phone calls, furtive texts, and the distant, raucous shouts from a late-night gathering just off campus at a Texas university. Your child, home for what feels like too brief a visit from their studies, barely sleeps. They’ve lost weight, their eyes are shadowed, and they flinch when the phone buzzes. They give evasive answers about “new member education” or “bonding events” with their fraternity or sorority, or maybe their ROTC unit, or even a spirit squad. You brush it off, at first – “kids will be kids.” But as the weeks wear on, the changes intensify: secretiveness, forced smiles, a strange brand-new deference to older students. Then comes the call you dread, or perhaps the social media post you weren’t meant to see: a picture of your child, blindfolded, humiliated, or worse, passed out from excessive alcohol.

This chilling scenario is not an isolated incident, nor is it a relic of the past. It’s a modern reality that continues to plague Texas university campuses, from Austin to College Station, Houston to Waco, and Dallas to Lubbock. And as families in Wilson County, Texas, send their children off to pursue higher education, the threat of hazing remains a profound and often unspoken fear.

This comprehensive guide is designed for families in Wilson County and across Texas who are grappling with the devastating reality or the gnawing suspicion of hazing. We delve into:

What hazing truly looks like in 2025, far beyond mere pranks.
The intricacies of Texas and federal laws that govern hazing.
The critical lessons from major national hazing cases and their relevance to Texas families.
The specific hazing landscapes 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 interplay between local chapter conduct and national fraternity/sorority histories in legal accountability.
The legal options available to victims and their families in Wilson County and throughout the state.

Please understand that this article provides general information and is not specific legal advice. The Manginello Law Firm is here to evaluate individual cases based on their unique facts. We proudly serve families throughout Texas, including our neighbors in Wilson County, providing zealous advocacy when you need it most.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES:

If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW, whether physically harmed, severely intoxicated, or facing threats:

Call 911 for any medical emergency.
Then call Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911). We provide immediate help in legal emergencies—that’s why we’re the Legal Emergency Lawyers™.

In the critical first 48 hours following a suspected hazing incident:

Prioritize medical attention, even if your child insists they are “fine.”
Preserve evidence BEFORE it can be deleted or vanish:
- Screenshot group chats, texts, and direct messages instantly.
- Photograph any injuries from multiple angles.
- Save any physical items linked to the hazing (clothing, receipts for forced purchases, specific objects used).
Write down everything you remember while the details are fresh: who was involved, what precisely happened, when and where it occurred.
Crucially, DO NOT:
- Directly confront the fraternity, sorority, or group.
- Sign any documents or waivers from the university or an insurance company.
- Post any details on public social media platforms.
- Allow your child to delete messages or “clean up” any evidence.

Contacting an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours is vital. Evidence can disappear rapidly, universities often move quickly to manage the narrative, and having legal counsel can help preserve crucial information and protect your child’s 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 Wilson County and across the country, the common understanding of hazing often lags behind its modern reality. It’s no longer just about silly pranks or harmless dares. Hazing today is sophisticated, often hidden, and deeply entrenched, creating psychological and physical devastation for countless students.

Hazing, in plain language, refers to any forced, coerced, or strongly pressured action connected to joining, maintaining membership, or gaining status within a group. This behavior, whether on or off campus, endangers physical or mental health, humiliates, or exploits students. A critical point to understand is that a student’s verbal “agreement” or “consent” does not automatically make the activity safe or legal, especially when peer pressure and significant power imbalances are at play.

The forms of hazing have evolved, often becoming more insidious and harder to detect from the outside looking in.

Main Categories of Modern Hazing

Alcohol and Substance Hazing: This remains one of the most dangerous and prevalent forms. It involves forced or coerced drinking of excessive amounts of alcohol, often through “chugging challenges,” “lineups,” or drinking games designed to induce rapid intoxication. Students may also be pressured to consume unknown or mixed substances, putting their lives at grave risk.
Physical Hazing: While some might consider paddles or beatings old-fashioned, they persist. This category also includes extreme calisthenics, brutal “workouts,” or “smokings” far beyond typical athletic conditioning, leading to injuries like rhabdomyolysis. Sleep deprivation, enforced food or water restriction, and exposure to extreme temperatures or dangerous environments are also common tactics used to break down new members.
Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing: This deeply degrading form can involve forced nudity or partial nudity, simulated sexual acts (such as “roasted pig” positions or “elephant walks”), or forcing members to wear humiliating costumes. Often, these acts carry overt racial, sexist, or homophobic undertones, using slurs or forcing individuals into demeaning role-plays.
Psychological Hazing: This less visible but equally destructive form targets a student’s mental and emotional well-being. It includes relentless verbal abuse, constant threats, isolating new members from friends and family, and manipulative tactics designed to induce guilt or force confessions. Public shaming, whether offline or on social media, leaves lasting scars.
Digital/Online Hazing: With the ubiquity of smartphones, hazing has moved into the digital realm. This includes dares, “challenges,” and public humiliation orchestrated via platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, Discord, and group messaging apps. Students can be pressured to create or share compromising images or videos, or be subjected to relentless monitoring and demands through group chats.

Where Hazing Actually Happens

Hazing is not confined to one specific type of student organization. While often associated with Greek life, it is prevalent across a diverse range of campus groups:

Fraternities and Sororities: This includes those under the Interfraternity Council (IFC) and Panhellenic Council, as well as National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) “Divine Nine” and multicultural Greek organizations.
Corps of Cadets / ROTC / Military-Style Groups: These groups, with their emphasis on tradition and hierarchy, can sometimes foster environments where hazing takes root under the guise of “training” or “discipline.”
Spirit Squads, Tradition Clubs, and Student Groups: Organizations like the Texas Cowboys at UT, or various spirit and tradition groups at other schools, have been sanctioned for hazing in the past.
Athletic Teams: From football and basketball to baseball, cheerleading, and even club sports, hazing can occur within teams as a twisted form of team-building or initiation.
Marching Bands and Performance Groups: Even seemingly benign artistic groups can fall prey to hazing rituals.
Service, Cultural, and Academic Organizations: Any student group where social status, loyalty, and secrecy are valued can, unfortunately, become an environment for hazing.

The persistence of hazing, even with widespread awareness campaigns and specific university policies, is often due to powerful dynamics like social status, deeply ingrained traditions, and an enforced code of secrecy among members. These elements create a fertile ground for practices that are both illegal and profoundly harmful.

Law & Liability Framework (Texas + Federal)

Understanding the legal landscape surrounding hazing in Texas is crucial for families in Wilson County and across the state. Several layers of law—state and federal—along with university policies, dictate how hazing is defined, prosecuted, and litigated.

Texas Hazing Law Basics (Education Code)

Texas has specific, robust anti-hazing provisions primarily outlined in the Texas Education Code, Chapter 37, Subchapter F. This law broadly defines hazing as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, committed by one person alone or with others, directed against a student, that:

Endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student, whether on or off campus, AND
Occurs for the purpose of pledging, initiation into, affiliation with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization whose members include students.

In plain language, if someone makes you do something dangerous, harmful, or degrading to join or remain in a group, and they were aware of the risk or intended the act, that is hazing under Texas law. The location—on or off campus—does not diminish its illegality.

Criminal Penalties: Hazing can lead to criminal charges. It is typically a Class B Misdemeanor, but this escalates to a Class A Misdemeanor if the hazing causes bodily injury requiring medical attention. Crucially, if hazing results in serious bodily injury or death, it can be prosecuted as a state jail felony. Additionally, individuals who knowingly fail to report hazing or retaliate against those who do can also face misdemeanor charges.
Reporter Protections: Texas law also includes provisions to protect those who report hazing in good faith. These individuals are generally immune from civil or criminal liability related to their report. Furthermore, in medical emergencies related to hazing, Texas law and many university policies offer good-faith reporter amnesty to students calling 911, even if underage drinking was involved.

A critical provision within the Texas Education Code, § 37.155, explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. This means that even if a student verbally or implicitly “agreed” to participate, the act can still be legally classified as hazing, recognizing the immense peer pressure and power dynamics involved.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases

It is important for Wilson County families to understand the distinction between criminal and civil hazing cases:

Criminal Cases: These are brought by the state (prosecutors) and aim to punish individuals for violating hazing laws. Typical criminal charges related to hazing can include hazing offenses, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, battery, and even negligent homicide or manslaughter in fatal cases.
Civil Cases: These are pursued by victims or their surviving families, with the goal of securing monetary compensation and holding responsible parties accountable. Civil claims often involve allegations of negligence, gross negligence, wrongful death, negligent hiring or supervision, premises liability, and intentional infliction of emotional distress. A criminal conviction is not a prerequisite for filing a civil lawsuit; both types of cases can proceed simultaneously.

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

Federal regulations also play a role in addressing hazing on university campuses.

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This significant federal legislation mandates that colleges and universities receiving federal financial assistance adhere to specific requirements aimed at increasing transparency and prevention. By around 2026, these institutions will be required to publicly report hazing incidents, enhance educational programs, and maintain more comprehensive hazing data.
Title IX / Clery Act: When hazing incidents involve sexual harassment, sexual assault, or gender-based hostility, the university’s obligations under Title IX are triggered. Similarly, the Clery Act requires institutions to disclose campus crime statistics and security policies. Hazing incidents frequently overlap with Clery-mandated reporting categories when assaults, alcohol-related offenses, or drug offenses are involved.

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit

Determining who is legally responsible in a civil hazing lawsuit can be complex, but key parties often include:

Individual Students: Those who actively planned, enforced, carried out, or helped conceal the hazing acts.
Local Chapter/Organization: The specific fraternity, sorority, club, or team itself, particularly if it operates as a recognized legal entity. Officers or “pledge educators” who organized or oversaw the hazing can be especially vulnerable.
National Fraternity/Sorority: The larger, national organization that provides oversight, policies, and often financial support to local chapters. Their liability can stem from what they knew (or should have known) about a chapter’s hazing history or general hazing patterns within their organization.
University or Governing Board: Universities can be sued under theories of negligence, failure to supervise, or in some cases, civil rights violations. Liability often hinges on whether the institution had prior warnings, adequately enforced its policies, or displayed deliberate indifference to known hazing risks. Public universities in Texas (such as UH, Texas A&M, UT) may assert sovereign immunity, but important exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and when suing individuals in their personal capacity. Private universities (like SMU or Baylor) generally face fewer immunity protections.
Third Parties: This can include landlords or property owners of off-campus houses where hazing occurred, bars or other establishments that furnished alcohol to minors or intoxicated individuals (under dram shop laws), and security companies or event organizers.

Each hazing case is unique, and the specific parties held liable will depend entirely on the facts and evidence presented. An experienced hazing attorney can identify all potential defendants and avenues for accountability.

National Hazing Case Patterns (Anchor Stories)

When a hazing incident rocks a Texas campus and impacts a family in Wilson County, understanding national precedents can be incredibly empowering. These anchor stories reveal recurring patterns, the devastating stakes, and how both criminal and civil justice systems have responded, setting important benchmarks for accountability.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

Forced alcohol consumption continues to be the deadliest form of hazing. Multiple national incidents underscore this tragic reality:

Timothy Piazza – Penn State University, Beta Theta Pi (February 2017): Timothy Piazza, a 19-year-old pledge, died after a “bid acceptance” event where he was forced to consume dangerous amounts of alcohol. Fraternity surveillance cameras captured him falling repeatedly, incurring severe head injuries. Crucially, brothers delayed calling for emergency medical help for hours, exacerbating his condition. This tragedy led to over a thousand criminal charges against fraternity members, extensive civil litigation, and the landmark Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law in Pennsylvania. The takeaway here for Texas families is that extreme intoxication, coupled with a deliberate delay in seeking medical aid and a pervasive culture of silence, can lead to severe criminal and civil consequences.
Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (November 2017): During a “Big Brother Night,” Andrew Coffey was given a handle of hard liquor and consumed it rapidly, dying of acute alcohol poisoning. Multiple members were prosecuted for hazing, and FSU temporarily suspended all Greek life to overhaul its policies. This case highlights how seemingly “traditional” drinking nights, designed around forced consumption, are a recurring script for disaster, impacting students even in Wilson County who might attend similar events.
Maxwell “Max” Gruver – Louisiana State University, Phi Delta Theta (September 2017): Max Gruver died from alcohol toxicity with a BAC of 0.495% after a “Bible study” drinking game where pledges were forced to drink whenever they answered questions incorrectly. His death spurred Louisiana to enact the Max Gruver Act, a felony hazing statute. This case vividly demonstrates how public outrage and undeniable proof of hazing often pave the way for critical legislative change, potentially influencing how hazing cases are handled in Texas.
Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (March 2021): Stone Foltz, a 20-year-old pledge, was forced to drink an entire bottle of whiskey during a “Big/Little” night and died of alcohol poisoning. This incident resulted in multiple criminal convictions of fraternity members and a significant $10 million settlement in 2023, paid by both the Pi Kappa Alpha national organization and BGSU. This outcome underscores that both fraternities and universities can face substantial financial and reputational accountability for hazing deaths.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Hazing isn’t solely alcohol-related. Violent rituals, often masked as “tradition,” also claim lives:

Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (December 2013): Michael Deng died from a traumatic brain injury during a fraternity retreat in Pennsylvania’s Pocono Mountains. He was blindfolded, weighted with a backpack, and repeatedly tackled in a brutal ritual known as “glass ceiling.” Fraternity members delayed calling 911. Multiple members were convicted, and the national fraternity was criminally convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter and subsequently banned from Pennsylvania for a decade. This case serves as a stark warning to Texas families that off-campus “retreats” or gatherings can be as dangerous, if not more so, than typical parties, and national organizations can be held directly responsible.

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Hazing’s reach extends beyond Greek letter organizations, sometimes infiltrating the highest levels of university athletics:

Northwestern University Football (2023–2025): Former players from Northwestern’s prestigious football program alleged widespread sexualized and racist hazing over many years. This scandal led to multiple lawsuits against the university and its coaching staff, the firing of head coach Pat Fitzgerald (who later reached a confidential settlement in a wrongful-termination suit), and a national reckoning regarding institutional oversight within athletics. This pattern highlights to families in Wilson County and across Texas that hazing is not exclusive to Greek life; it can thrive in high-profile athletic programs where perceived “tradition” or team-building can mask severe abuse.

What These Cases Mean for Texas Families

These national anchor cases, while geographically distant from Wilson County, share critical common threads: forced consumption of dangerous substances, extreme humiliation, pervasive patterns of violence, and most tragically, delayed or denied medical care that often proves fatal. In nearly every instance, there were attempts at cover-ups. The multi-million-dollar settlements, the criminal convictions, and the legislative changes that frequently follow these tragedies demonstrate that strong legal action can bring about real accountability.

Texas families facing hazing at institutions like UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, or Baylor are not alone. The legal framework and lessons learned from these national cases provide a blueprint for seeking justice and holding powerful institutions accountable in Texas courts.

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

For families in Wilson County, Texas, sending students to any of Texas’s prominent universities comes with a mixture of immense pride and, for some, a lingering concern about campus safety, including hazing. While Wilson County is not home to one of these large universities, its residents are deeply connected to them. Many Wilson County students attend these schools, alumni reside in the area, and the cultural impact of these institutions is felt statewide. This section provides an in-depth look at the hazing landscape at five key Texas universities, reflecting patterns that can impact any student, regardless of where they began their journey in Texas.

5.1 University of Houston (UH)

5.1.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

The University of Houston, a vibrant Tier One research institution located in the heart of Houston, offers a dynamic urban campus experience. It serves a diverse student body, comprising both commuters and residents, with active Greek life spanning various fraternities and sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, Multicultural Greek Council, and United Greek Council chapters). Beyond Greek life, UH hosts myriad student organizations, cultural groups, and competitive sports clubs. Families from Wilson County might send their students here seeking a world-class education within a major metropolitan environment, often benefiting from the university’s proximity to diverse industries and cultural opportunities.

5.1.2 Hazing Policy & Reporting

UH maintains a clear stance against hazing, as outlined in its Student Handbook and Code of Conduct. Their policy explicitly prohibits hazing, whether it occurs on-campus or off-campus. This includes any activity that involves forced consumption of alcohol, food, or illicit substances, sleep deprivation, physical mistreatment, or any action designed to inflict mental distress intended for initiation, affiliation, or continued membership. UH provides official reporting channels via the Dean of Students Office, the Office of Student Conduct, and the University of Houston Police Department (UHPD). While UH is proactive in its stance, the challenge, as with many universities, lies in consistent enforcement and transparency for parents and students in Wilson County.

5.1.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Like many large universities, UH has faced its share of hazing allegations and disciplinary actions:

2016 Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) Case: This highly publicized incident involved pledges who were allegedly subjected to severe food, water, and sleep deprivation during a multi-day “pledge boot camp.” One student suffered a lacerated spleen after being slammed onto a table or similar surface. The chapter faced misdemeanor hazing charges, and the university placed the fraternity on suspension.
Ongoing Disciplinary Actions: UH’s own records indicate a pattern of disciplinary actions against various Greek organizations where conduct was documented as “likely to produce mental or physical discomfort.” These incidents often involved alcohol misuse, physical endurance activities, and policy violations leading to suspensions or significant probationary periods for chapters.

These examples highlight UH’s commitment to suspending chapters found in violation. However, the level of publicly available detail regarding specific incidents can sometimes be limited, which can be frustrating for families seeking comprehensive information before sending their children to campus.

5.1.4 How a UH Hazing Case Might Proceed

If a hazing incident were to occur involving a student from Wilson County at UH, multiple agencies might become involved. The University of Houston Police Department (UHPD) would likely investigate on campus, or the Houston Police Department (HPD) if the incident happened off-campus within city limits. Civil lawsuits related to hazing allegations would typically be filed in courts with jurisdiction over Houston and Harris County. Potential defendants in such a case could include the individual students directly involved, the local fraternity or sorority chapter, the national organization, and potentially the University of Houston itself or relevant property owners, depending on the specifics of the incident and university oversight.

5.1.5 What UH Students & Parents Should Do

For Wilson County parents and students attending the University of Houston:

Familiarize yourselves with UH’s official hazing policies and reporting mechanisms via the Dean of Students website.
Encourage open communication about “new member education” early and often.
Document any suspicious activity, injuries, or communications (texts, group chats) immediately.
If hazing is suspected, utilize UH’s official reporting channels (Dean of Students, UHPD) but also understand your right to file a report with HPD for criminal acts.
Given the complexity of Houston-based hazing cases, securing legal counsel experienced in navigating both university discipline and civil litigation can be invaluable to uncover prior discipline, internal files, and ensure effective representation.

5.2 Texas A&M University

5.2.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Texas A&M University, a legendary institution with deep roots in College Station, boasts a rich culture centered around tradition, community, and service. It is home to a robust Greek life, with numerous fraternities and sororities, but perhaps its most distinctive feature is the Corps of Cadets, one of the largest uniformed student bodies in the nation. The Corps, along with other student organizations, is steeped in ritual and hierarchy. For Wilson County families, sending a child to A&M often means embracing these traditions, but it also means understanding potential risks within environments that prioritize collectivism and rigorous initiation.

5.2.2 Hazing Policy & Reporting

Texas A&M maintains strict adherence to federal and state anti-hazing laws. The university policy unequivocally prohibits hazing for all university-recognized organizations, whether on or off campus, including registered student organizations, fraternities, sororities, and the Corps of Cadets. Violations can lead to severe disciplinary action for individuals and organizations, up to expulsion and permanent banishment. A&M actively encourages reporting through various channels, including their Student Conduct Office, UPD (University Police Department), and an anonymous hotline, but the cultural pressures within certain groups can make reporting challenging.

5.2.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Texas A&M has faced significant hazing allegations across its student body, including within its prominent Corps of Cadets and Greek life:

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) Chemical Burns Lawsuit (around 2021): This severe case involved pledges who alleged forced strenuous activity, followed by having industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit poured on them. The incident reportedly caused severe chemical burns, necessitating skin graft surgeries. The local SAE chapter was suspended for two years by the university, and the pledges subsequently filed a $1 million lawsuit against the fraternity and individuals involved.
Corps of Cadets Hazing (2023 Lawsuit): A male cadet filed a lawsuit alleging degrading and violent hazing within the Corps. The allegations included 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 in damages. Texas A&M officially stated that it addressed the matter under its internal rules, but the lawsuit brought public attention to the persistence of hazing within even its most revered traditions.

These incidents underscore the ongoing challenges that a large, tradition-bound university faces in eradicating hazing. Civil cases often focus on both Greek life and deeply ingrained Corps traditions.

5.2.4 How a Texas A&M Hazing Case Might Proceed

For a student from Wilson County attending Texas A&M, a hazing incident could involve investigations by the Texas A&M University Police Department (TAMU PD) or the Bryan Police Department if off-campus. Given A&M’s status as a public university, civil lawsuits would be filed in courts with jurisdiction over Brazos County. As with UH, potential defendants may include individual students, the local chapter, the national organization (if Greek life), and potentially high-ranking personnel within the Corps if the hazing was institutionalized.

5.2.5 What Texas A&M Students & Parents Should Do

For Wilson County families contemplating A&M or with Aggies currently there:

Thoroughly research A&M’s hazing policies, particularly as they apply to the Corps of Cadets and various student groups, not just Greek life.
Be aware of A&M’s reporting mechanisms, including their anonymous hotline, and encourage students to use them.
Understand that “tradition” is no legal defense for hazing, especially when it involves harm or humiliation.
If hazing is suspected within the Corps or Greek life, document every detail. Early legal counsel can help navigate the complex university structure and assess whether the university adequately investigated prior incidents.

5.3 University of Texas at Austin (UT)

5.3.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

The University of Texas at Austin is the flagship institution of the University of Texas System, known for its vibrant academic life, diverse student body, and prominent Greek system. Located in the bustling capital city, UT’s campus culture is rich with traditions, competitive academics, and enthusiastic engagement in student organizations. Many students from Wilson County aspire to attend UT Austin, drawn by its world-class programs and dynamic atmosphere in Central Texas.

5.3.2 Hazing Policy & Reporting

UT Austin has a well-defined anti-hazing policy that prohibits any practice that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of initiating or affiliating with an organization. The university actively publishes an online list of hazing violations, including organization names, dates of incidents, a description of the conduct, and the resulting sanctions. This level of transparency is notable among Texas universities. Students and parents can report hazing via the Dean of Students office, the UT Police Department (UTPD), or an anonymous online reporting system.

5.3.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

UT Austin’s public hazing violations page serves as a clear record of ongoing concerns:

Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike, 2023): The UT chapter of Pi Kappa Alpha was sanctioned after new members were reportedly directed to consume large quantities of milk and perform strenuous calisthenics, which the university classified as hazing. The chapter was placed on probation and mandated to implement new hazing-prevention education.
Texas Wranglers (2022): This spirit organization was disciplined for hazing violations that included alcohol misuse, forced physical activity, and degrading actions toward new members.
Other Student Organizations: UT’s public records show various other Greek and non-Greek student groups (including other fraternities and even cultural organizations) have faced disciplinary action for practices involving forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing, or punishment-based initiation rituals.

The transparency provided by UT’s public records is a valuable tool for Wilson County families, though the recurring nature of these violations highlights the persistent challenge of eliminating hazing.

5.3.4 How a UT Austin Hazing Case Might Proceed

Should a hazing incident involve a student from Wilson County attending UT, investigations could be led by the UT Police Department (UTPD) for on-campus incidents or the Austin Police Department (APD) if off-campus. Civil lawsuits would typically be filed in courts with jurisdiction over Travis County (where Austin is located). Importantly, the documented history of violations on UT’s public hazing log can provide strong supporting evidence for civil suits, demonstrating a pattern of misconduct and the university’s prior knowledge of an organization’s behavior.

5.3.5 What UT Austin Students & Parents Should Do

For Wilson County families connected to UT Austin:

Regularly check the UT Austin Hazing Violations website (hazing.utexas.edu) to understand which organizations have been disciplined and for what reasons. This provides a critical background check.
Engage in conversations with students about the broad definition of hazing, emphasizing that internal group rules or “tradition” do not supersede university policy or state law.
For any suspected hazing, utilize UT’s official reporting mechanisms, and be aware that calling UTPD or APD is an option for criminal acts.
While UT attempts transparency, an experienced hazing attorney can help interpret disciplinary records and explore the full scope of liability, especially for serious injuries.

5.4 Southern Methodist University (SMU)

5.4.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Southern Methodist University, nestled in the affluent University Park neighborhood of Dallas, is a private institution renowned for its strong academic programs and a vibrant, often prominent, Greek life. SMU’s campus culture emphasizes leadership, community engagement, and a lively social scene. Many Wilson County families may consider SMU for its smaller class sizes, strong alumni network, and prestigious reputation within North Texas.

5.4.2 Hazing Policy & Reporting

SMU maintains explicit anti-hazing policies that apply to all student organizations, both on and off campus. Their regulations are designed to align with Texas state law, prohibiting any act (physical, mental, or emotional) that could harm a student for the purpose of initiation or affiliation. SMU provides various reporting avenues, including the Office of Student Conduct, SMU Police Department (SMUPD), and anonymous reporting systems like “Real Response,” which allows students to text tips to the university. As a private university, SMU’s disciplinary processes are internal, and public transparency differs from public institutions; however, their commitment to addressing hazing incidents is clearly stated.

5.4.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

SMU has also faced significant challenges with hazing within its Greek system:

Kappa Alpha Order Incident (2017): SMU’s chapter of Kappa Alpha Order was suspended after allegations emerged of new members being subjected to paddling, forced alcohol consumption, and sleep deprivation. The chapter faced an initial suspension and restrictions on its ability to recruit new members for several years.
Recent Allegations & Audits: Like many universities, SMU continuously audits its Greek organizations and other student groups. While specific details may not be as publicly accessible as at state universities, SMU’s internal records often reveal a pattern of concerns, investigations, and disciplinary actions related to hazing.

These incidents highlight that even prestigious private institutions with strong anti-hazing stances must continually battle against embedded, harmful traditions.

5.4.4 How an SMU Hazing Case Might Proceed

For a Wilson County student attending SMU, a hazing investigation could involve the SMU Police Department (SMUPD) or the Dallas Police Department if off-campus within Dallas city limits. Civil lawsuits against SMU or its affiliated organizations would typically be filed in courts with jurisdiction over Dallas County. As a private university, SMU does not enjoy the same sovereign immunity protections as public institutions, which can simplify some aspects of civil litigation. An experienced attorney can compel discovery of internal reports and communications, even if not publicly posted, to build a case.

5.4.5 What SMU Students & Parents Should Do

For Wilson County families with ties to SMU:

Familiarize yourselves with SMU’s specific anti-hazing policies and its discreet reporting mechanisms, such as the “Real Response” tool.
Understand that as a private university, SMU handles disciplinary actions internally, and families may need to be proactive in requesting information regarding investigations.
Should hazing be suspected, documenting everything immediately is crucial. Legal counsel can advise on navigating SMU’s internal processes while also preserving the option for civil legal action, if appropriate.

5.5 Baylor University

5.5.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Baylor University, located in Waco, Texas, is the oldest continuously operating university in Texas and the largest Baptist university in the world. It is known for its strong Christian values, rigorous academics, and a vibrant community atmosphere. Baylor attracts students from across Texas, including Wilson County, who are often drawn to its distinctive faith-based educational environment and strong traditions around athletics and student organizations.

5.5.2 Hazing Policy & Reporting

Baylor University strictly prohibits hazing, articulating a “zero tolerance” policy in line with Texas state law. Its policies cover all university-affiliated groups, including fraternities, sororities, athletic teams, and other student organizations. Baylor’s policy explicitly bans acts that could endanger mental or physical health or safety. The university encourages students to report hazing through the Office of Student Conduct, the Baylor Police Department (BUPD), or an anonymous reporting system. Baylor’s historical scrutiny over past scandals, particularly those involving Title IX and sexual assault, has heightened awareness regarding institutional oversight and student safety.

5.5.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Baylor, despite its values-driven mission, has also contended with hazing incidents:

Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020): An investigation led to the suspension of 14 baseball players following allegations of hazing. The suspensions were staggered over the early part of the season. This incident, while handled internally, highlighted that hazing issues can impact even high-profile athletic programs at Baylor.
Prior Greek Life Disciplinary Actions: While specific public details on Greek life hazing at Baylor can be scarce due to its private nature, disciplinary actions against chapters for various code of conduct violations, sometimes linked to initiations or new member activities, have been documented internally.

These incidents are viewed within the context of Baylor’s broader institutional challenges concerning student safety and accountability, often leading to increased scrutiny from external bodies and the public.

5.5.4 How a Baylor Hazing Case Might Proceed

For a student from Wilson County attending Baylor, a hazing investigation would likely involve the Baylor Police Department (BUPD) for on-campus incidents or the Waco Police Department if off-campus. Civil lawsuits against Baylor or its organizations would be filed in courts with jurisdiction over McLennan County. As a private university, Baylor does not have sovereign immunity, making it directly subject to civil claims for negligence or oversight failures. An attorney deeply familiar with Baylor’s policies and internal culture can effectively navigate claims against the university and its associated groups.

5.4.5 What Baylor Students & Parents Should Do

For Wilson County families whose students attend Baylor:

Familiarize yourselves with Baylor’s detailed hazing policies and the various confidential reporting options available. Students should feel empowered to use these without fear of university retaliation.
Be aware that while Baylor promotes strong values, hazing can still occur. Focus on the conduct rather than the stated mission of an organization.
Given Baylor’s history, documenting any suspected hazing incident meticulously is vital. Experienced legal counsel can advise families on how to navigate Baylor’s internal processes and explore civil legal avenues against the university or involved organizations.

Fraternities & Sororities: Campus-Specific + National Histories

The Greek system, both at large public universities like UH, Texas A&M, and UT, and at private institutions like SMU and Baylor, often operates with a dual identity: a local chapter tied to campus life and a national organization dictating policies and values. For families in Wilson County, understanding this dynamic – and the intertwined hazing histories – is critical for seeking accountability.

Why National Histories Matter

The reality is that many fraternities and sororities present on these Texas campuses – including well-known names like Pi Kappa Alpha, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Phi Delta Theta, Pi Kappa Phi, and Kappa Alpha Order – are part of larger national organizations. These national headquarters are not distant, unaware entities.

It is precisely because these national organizations have witnessed countless deaths and catastrophic injuries at chapters across the country that they develop extensive anti-hazing manuals and risk management policies. They are acutely aware of the recurring patterns: the “Big/Little” drinking nights, the ritualistic beatings, the humiliating scavenger hunts, and the enforced secrecy that defines modern hazing. When a local Texas chapter repeats a hazing script that has already led to suspensions, lawsuits, or even criminal charges at another chapter in a different state, this establishes a powerful legal concept known as foreseeability. It means the national organization “knew or should have known” of the danger, significantly strengthening arguments for negligence or even punitive damages in a lawsuit.

Organization Mapping: Local Chapters and National Patterns

Without listing every single chapter at every university, we can identify patterns that connect local Texas conduct to national hazing histories. For instance:

Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike): Present at UH, Texas A&M, and UT Austin. Nationally, Pike has been implicated in numerous severe hazing incidents, most notably the Stone Foltz hazing death at Bowling Green State University (2021). The pattern of forced alcohol consumption during “Big/Little” events or initiations is well-established across Pike chapters. For families in Wilson County, knowledge of these national incidents shows a clear pattern of organizational risk.
Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE): Active at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and SMU. SAE has a notoriously grim national history, with multiple hazing-related deaths and severe injuries across the country. Lawsuits against SAE have included a traumatic brain injury claim at the University of Alabama (filed 2023) and, locally, the significant chemical burns lawsuit at Texas A&M (2021) and an assault lawsuit at the University of Texas at Austin (January 2024). These incidents demonstrate a pattern of severe physical and degrading hazing.
Phi Delta Theta: Found at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and Baylor. This fraternity was at the center of the tragic Max Gruver hazing death at Louisiana State University (2017), where forced drinking games led to fatal alcohol poisoning.
Pi Kappa Phi: Present at UH, Texas A&M, and UT Austin. The Andrew Coffey hazing death at Florida State University (2017) tragically highlighted Pi Kappa Phi’s national vulnerability to fatal alcohol hazing during initiation events.
Kappa Alpha Order: Active at Texas A&M and SMU. Chapters of Kappa Alpha Order have faced hazing suspensions at various universities, including SMU (2017), often involving physical mistreatment and forced alcohol consumption, demonstrating a recurring issue within the organization.
Sigma Chi: Present at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and Baylor. Sigma Chi was recently at the center of a case in 2024 at the College of Charleston where a pledge alleged physical beatings, forced drugs/alcohol, and psychological torment. This resulted in a confidential settlement of more than $10 million, one of the largest known hazing settlements.

It’s critical to understand that these examples are not exhaustive but illustrate known patterns. Many other national fraternities and sororities, including some from the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) and Multicultural Greek Council (MGC), have also faced hazing allegations, demonstrating that this is a system-wide problem, not limited to a few organizations.

Tie Back to Legal Strategy

This history is not just for public awareness; it forms a critical component of hazing litigation strategy. The repeated incidents across states and campuses demonstrate that certain organizations have received repeated warnings. Legal teams can argue that courts should consider whether national organizations:

Meaningfully enforced their anti-hazing policies, or if those policies were mere window dressing.
Responded to prior incidents with genuine aggression and effective measures, or if punishments were lax, setting the stage for future harm.

This pattern evidence can significantly influence various aspects of a case in Texas:

Settlement Leverage: A documented history of negligence can pressure national organizations and their insurers toward more substantial settlements.
Insurance Coverage Disputes: It can impact arguments against insurers who try to deny coverage by claiming a local chapter acted “rogue” or that hazing is an “intentional act” exclusion
Potential for Punitive Damages: In egregious cases, especially where an organization displayed a pattern of willful blindness to known dangers, courts or juries may award punitive damages to punish the defendant and deter future misconduct.

For families in Wilson County, connecting their child’s hazing experience to these national patterns is a powerful way to underscore the systemic nature of the problem and strengthen their legal position against well-resourced defendants.

Building a Case: Evidence, Damages, Strategy

Successfully pursuing a hazing lawsuit requires far more than just compelling testimony; it demands a meticulous, often aggressive, investigation and a sophisticated understanding of legal strategy. For families in Wilson County, knowing what evidence is crucial and what types of damages can be sought provides a clearer picture of the path to accountability.

Evidence is Everything

In modern hazing cases, every piece of information matters. An experienced legal team will work to uncover and preserve:

Digital Communications: These are often the most critical pieces of evidence. Group chat messages from platforms like GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, and fraternity-specific apps can reveal planning, peer pressure, coercion, and orders related to hazing. These include Instagram DMs, Snapchat messages, and TikTok comments. Even deleted messages can sometimes be recovered through digital forensics. The timestamps, participants, and context of these messages can be damning.
Photos & Videos: Any content recorded by members or pledges during hazing events, whether intended for social media or internal group sharing, can be invaluable. This includes footage of injuries, humiliating acts, or forced drinking. Security camera footage from houses, venues, or even Ring/doorbell cameras can also capture crucial moments.
Internal Organization Documents: Pledge manuals, initiation scripts, lists of “traditions,” and emails or texts from officers discussing plans for new members can shed light on institutional knowledge and intent. National policies and training materials, especially if they reveal a discrepancy between stated rules and observed conduct, are also key.
University Records: Through discovery or public records requests, lawyers can obtain prior conduct files for the organization, probation or suspension records, warning letters, and incident reports filed with campus police or student conduct offices. Campus-wide Clery Act reports and similar disclosures can also establish a pattern of institutional awareness.
Medical and Psychological Records: These document the full extent of the victim’s harm. They include emergency room reports, hospitalization records, surgery and rehabilitation notes, and crucial toxicology reports. Additionally, psychological evaluations from mental health professionals (diagnosing PTSD, depression, anxiety, or suicidality) are vital for establishing non-economic damages.
Witness Testimony: The accounts of other pledges, active members, roommates, Resident Advisors (RAs), coaches, trainers, or even independent bystanders can corroborate events. Former members who quit or were expelled for refusing to participate can be particularly powerful witnesses.

Types of Damages

When a lawsuit is successful, it aims to secure various categories of damages to compensate for the harm suffered:

Medical Bills & Future Care: This covers all costs incurred for treatment, from emergency room visits and ambulance transport to surgeries, ongoing physical or psychological therapy, medications, and any necessary medical equipment. In cases of catastrophic injuries (like brain damage or severe organ damage), a life care plan may be developed to estimate the extensive, long-term care needs.
Lost Earnings / Educational Impact: Hazing can disrupt a student’s academic career, leading to missed semesters, delayed graduation, and setbacks in entering the workforce. If injuries result in a permanent disability, victims may suffer a reduced earning capacity over their lifetime, which can be calculated by expert economists.
Non-Economic Damages: These intangible losses are often harder to quantify but represent significant suffering. They include physical pain and suffering, profound emotional distress, psychological trauma, and deep humiliation. Victims may also experience a loss of enjoyment of life, stemming from their inability to participate in activities they once loved or from lasting relationship damage.
Wrongful Death Damages (for Families): In the most tragic cases, when hazing leads to a student’s death, surviving family members (typically parents, spouses, and children) can seek damages for funeral and burial costs, the loss of financial support the deceased would have provided, and compensation for their profound grief, emotional suffering, and the loss of companionship, love, and society.

It’s important to stress that these are descriptions of types of damages, not promises of specific dollar amounts. Each case is evaluated individually.

Role of Different Defendants and Insurance Coverage

The complexity of hazing cases often involves multiple defendants, each with their own legal counsel and, frequently, insurance coverage. National fraternities and universities, in particular, commonly carry substantial insurance policies designed to protect them from liability.

However, insurers often attempt to limit or deny coverage by arguing that hazing constitutes “intentional conduct” or “criminal acts,” which may be excluded under policy terms. This is where an experienced hazing lawyer becomes indispensable. They know how to:

Identify all potential sources of insurance coverage, including individual member policies, local chapter policies, national organization policies, and university umbrella policies.
Argue that while individual actions may have been intentional, the negligence of the organization or institution (e.g., failure to supervise, failure to enforce policies) is what proximately caused the harm, making it covered under insurance.
Fights over insurance coverage are heavily fact-specific, but skilled legal representation can navigate these complex arguments, often forcing insurers to defend the case and ultimately settle within policy limits, or even face bad faith claims if they wrongfully deny coverage.

Practical Guides & FAQs

For Wilson County families and students, knowing what to do, what to look for, and who to trust following a hazing incident can feel overwhelming. This section provides actionable advice tailored to parents, students, and even former members or witnesses.

8.1 For Parents: Navigating Suspected Hazing

The signs of hazing can be subtle at first, often masked as “transition period” stress. Remain vigilant for these indicators:

Warning Signs of Hazing:
- Unexplained injuries (bruises, cuts, burns) or repeated “accidents” with inconsistent stories.
- Sudden, extreme exhaustion or sleep deprivation, impacting academic performance and mood.
- Drastic changes in mood or personality: increased anxiety, depression, irritability, or social withdrawal from non-group activities.
- Constant secretive phone use (group chats) and acute anxiety about missing “mandatory” events.
- Uncharacteristic weight loss or gain, often due to forced overeating or restricted food/water.
- Intense secretiveness about group activities, using phrases like “I can’t talk about it,” especially if they are usually open with you.
How to Talk to Your Child: Approach conversation with empathy, not accusation. Ask open-ended questions like, “How are things really going with the group? Is anything making you uncomfortable?” Emphasize your unconditional support for their safety and well-being over any group affiliation, and reassure them that you won’t judge them.
If Your Child is Hurt: Prioritize their health. Get them immediate medical care. While at the healthcare facility, ensure they explicitly state they were hazed so it’s documented in their medical records. Then, meticulously document everything: photograph injuries from multiple angles and dates, screenshot any relevant texts or group chats on their phone, and write down every detail they share with you (who, what, when, where).
Dealing with the University: Document every communication with university administrators. When speaking with them, specifically inquire about:
- Any prior incidents or disciplinary actions involving the organization in question.
- What actions the school took (or didn’t take) in response to those incidents.
- Crucially, do not sign any release forms or agree to internal resolutions without legal counsel.
When to Talk to a Lawyer: If your child has sustained significant physical or psychological harm, or if you feel the university or organization is minimizing, stonewalling, or attempting to conceal what happened, it is imperative to contact an experienced hazing attorney. We can offer clarity and legal guidance regarding your options.

8.2 For Students / Pledges: Self-Assessment & Safety Planning

If you are a student from Wilson County enrolled at a Texas university, and you’re questioning whether your experiences within a group constitute hazing, consider this:

Is This Hazing or Just Tradition? Ask yourself: Am I being forced or pressured to do things that make me feel unsafe, humiliated, or coerced? Am I forced to consume alcohol or endure physical pain? Is this activity kept secret from the public or administrators? If you believe the activity requires secrecy because it would be disapproved of by authorities, that’s a strong indicator. If older members are doing things to new members that they don’t do themselves, it is almost certainly hazing. Ultimately, if it feels wrong, dangerous, or forced, it probably is hazing.
Why “Consent” Isn’t the End of the Story: You have legal rights, even if you verbally “agreed” to certain activities. Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. Understanding the immense power dynamics, social pressure, and fear of exclusion in these situations, the law often views such “consent” as coerced.
Exiting and Reporting Safely: You have the legal right to leave an organization or de-pledge at any time, regardless of what anyone tells you. If you are in immediate danger, call 911. For anonymous or confidential reporting, utilize campus anti-hazing hotlines or the National Anti-Hazing Hotline (1-888-NOT-HAZE). You can also report directly to the Dean of Students, student conduct office, or campus police.
Good-Faith Reporting and Amnesty: Texas law and many university policies offer protections for students who call 911 or seek medical help in an emergency, even if underage drinking or minor policy violations were involved. This “good Samaritan” or medical amnesty encourages seeking help without fear of personal punishment.

8.3 For Former Members / Witnesses: A Path to Accountability

If you are a former member or witnessed hazing, and you carry the burden of what you saw or participated in, know this:

Acknowledging guilt or fear is a natural first step. Your testimony and any evidence you possess could be pivotal in preventing future harm and potentially saving lives.
While you may face your own legal complexities, cooperating with an investigation can be an important step towards personal healing and demanding accountability.
An attorney can provide legal advice tailored to your specific situation, helping you understand your rights and obligations as a witness or even a co-defendant, ensuring you are protected throughout the process.

8.4 Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

For Wilson County families, pursuing a hazing case is challenging enough without inadvertently undermining your own efforts. Avoid these common, damaging mistakes:

Letting your child delete messages or “clean up” evidence: Parents often want to protect their child from further trouble, leading to the deletion of incriminating messages. This can be viewed as a cover-up, makes your case nearly impossible, and can even be considered obstruction of justice. Preserve everything immediately, even if it’s embarrassing or seems trivial.
Confronting the fraternity/sorority directly: While your instinct may be to express your anger, direct confrontation tells the organization to “lawyer up.” They will immediately begin destroying evidence, coaching witnesses, and building their defense. Document everything first, then contact a lawyer before any direct engagement with the group.
Signing university “release” or “resolution” forms: Universities may pressure families into signing waivers or agreeing to internal “resolutions.” Doing so might inadvertently waive your right to pursue a lawsuit or accept a settlement far below the actual value of your case. Never sign any document from the university without independent legal review.
Posting details on social media before talking to a lawyer: Your desire to share your story is understandable, but anything posted on public social media can be scrutinized by defense attorneys, potentially creating inconsistencies, damaging credibility, and even waiving legal privileges. Document privately, and let your lawyer control any public messaging.
Letting your child go back for “one last meeting”: The organization may attempt to draw your child back to “talk things over.” This is often a tactic to pressure, intimidate, or extract statements that can later be used against you. Once you consider legal action, all communications with the organization should cease or be funneled through your attorney.
Waiting “to see how the university handles it”: Universities often promise internal investigations, but this delay allows critical evidence to vanish, witnesses to graduate, and the statute of limitations to expire. University processes seldom deliver the full accountability and compensation available through civil litigation. Preserve evidence NOW and consult a lawyer immediately.
Talking to insurance adjusters without a lawyer: Insurance adjusters, representing the defendant’s interests, will often seek a recorded statement or try to settle quickly for a minimal amount. Your words can and will be used against you. Politently decline and state, “My attorney will contact you.”

Attorney911’s video, “Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Injury Case” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY, further explains these pitfalls and how to avoid them.

8.5 Short FAQ

“Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities (like UH, Texas A&M, UT) benefit from sovereign immunity, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and when suing individuals in their personal capacity. Private universities (such as SMU, Baylor) have fewer immunity protections. Every case hinges on its specific facts; contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a case-specific analysis.
“Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
Yes, it can be. Texas law primarily classifies hazing as a Class B misdemeanor. However, it becomes a state jail felony if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. Individuals who are officers of an organization and fail to report hazing can also face misdemeanor charges.
“Can my child bring a case if they ‘agreed’ to the initiation?”
Absolutely. Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. Courts acknowledge the immense power imbalances, peer pressure, and fear of exclusion that often mitigate true voluntary consent in hazing scenarios.
“How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit in Texas?”
Generally, there is a 2-year statute of limitations from the date of injury or death in Texas. However, the “discovery rule” can extend this period if the harm or its cause was not immediately apparent. In cases involving active cover-ups or fraud, the statute may be “tolled” (paused). Time is always critical: evidence can disappear, witnesses forget, and organizations destroy records. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately. Attorney911’s video on statute of limitations, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c, provides more detail.
“What if the hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?”
The location of the hazing does not necessarily eliminate liability. Universities and national fraternities or organizations can still be held liable based on their sponsorship, control, knowledge, and the foreseeability of hazing activities. Many major, successful hazing cases involved incidents that occurred off-campus, demonstrating that off-campus location is not a shield.
“Will a hazing lawsuit be confidential, or will my child’s name be publicized?”
The majority of hazing lawsuits resolve through confidential settlements before reaching trial. It is often possible to request sealed court records and confidential settlement terms. Our firm prioritizes your family’s privacy while aggressively pursuing accountability and justice.

About The Manginello Law Firm + Call to Action

When your family in Wilson County faces a hazing incident, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who intimately understand how powerful institutions—national fraternities, wealthy universities, and their insurers—fight back, and how to win against them. You need the Legal Emergency Lawyers™ at The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC.

Our firm brings a unique blend of strengths specifically tailored for complex hazing litigation:

Insurance Insider Advantage: Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, brings invaluable insight from her previous role as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm. She knows precisely how fraternity and university insurance companies value (and often undervalue) hazing claims. She understands their delay tactics, coverage exclusion arguments, and settlement strategies because, as she puts it, “We know their playbook because we used to run it.” You can learn more about Lupe’s background at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/.
Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions: Led by managing partner Ralph Manginello, our firm is not intimidated by deep-pocketed defendants. Ralph was one of the few Texas attorneys involved in the historic BP Texas City explosion litigation, a testament to our firm’s capability in complex federal court cases against billion-dollar corporations. Whether it’s taking on a national fraternity, a state university system, or their formidable defense teams, we have the experience to fight and win. Ralph Manginello’s complete credentials and case history are detailed at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/.
Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death & Catastrophic Injury Experience: We have a proven track record of securing multi-million dollar settlements in complex wrongful death and catastrophic injury cases. We work hand-in-hand with economists and medical experts to fully value the long-term impact of injuries, including comprehensive life care plans for brain injury victims. Our commitment at https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/ is not to settle cheap, but to build cases that force genuine accountability.
Dual Civil & Criminal Hazing Expertise: Ralph’s membership in the prestigious Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) provides a distinct advantage. We understand how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation and can advise witnesses and former members who may have dual exposure, protecting their rights on both fronts. Learn more about our criminal defense capabilities at https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/.
Investigative Depth: We know hazing goes underground. We leverage a network of experts—digital forensics specialists, medical professionals, and psychologists—to uncover hidden evidence. From subpoenaing deleted group chats and national fraternity records of prior incidents to obtaining university files through discovery and public records requests, we investigate as if your child’s life depends on it—because it often does. Our video “Use Your Cellphone to Document a Legal Case” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs offers practical advice on evidence preservation.

From our Houston office, we serve families throughout Texas, including Wilson County and surrounding areas. We understand that hazing at any Texas university has a ripple effect, impacting families far beyond campus borders. We know how fraternities, sororities, Corps programs, and athletic departments operate behind closed doors, and we are adept at navigating the unique challenges of hazing cases. Our focus is on thorough investigation and real accountability, prioritizing your child’s well-being and seeking justice that helps prevent future tragedies.

Call to Action: Your Next Step for Justice

If you or your child has experienced hazing at any Texas campus – whether it’s at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, or another institution – we want to hear from you. Families in Wilson County and throughout the surrounding region have the right to answers and accountability.

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

What to Expect in Your Free Consultation:

A compassionate and non-judgmental review of your situation.
Guidance on preserving any evidence you may have (photos, texts, medical records).
A clear explanation of your legal options, including criminal reporting, civil lawsuits, or both.
An honest discussion of realistic timelines and what to anticipate from the legal process.
Answers to your questions about costs – we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning we don’t get paid unless we win your case. You can learn more about this by watching our video “How Do Contingency Fees Work?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc.
There is no pressure to hire us on the spot; we encourage you to take the time you need to make the right decision for your family.
Everything you share with us is strictly confidential.

Contact The Legal Emergency Lawyers™ Today:

Whether you’re in Wilson County or anywhere across Texas, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone. We are here to help.

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 directly for a consultation in Spanish at lupe@atty911.com. Servicios legales en español disponibles.

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