Hazing in Texas: A Complete Legal Guide for Lewisville Families

If Your Child Was Hazed at UNT, TWU, UT, A&M, or Any Texas Campus, You Need to Read This

Imagine this scenario, familiar to many Lewisville families: Your child, excited about college life at the University of North Texas just 15 minutes away in Denton, or perhaps at Texas A&M a few hours south, decides to join a fraternity or sorority. What starts as social events and “bonding” gradually becomes something darker. Late-night calls, unexplained injuries, constant exhaustion, and a creeping sense that something is wrong. Then comes the nightmare: your child hospitalized with kidney failure from extreme forced exercise, or suffering alcohol poisoning after being pressured to drink dangerously large amounts. The organization that promised brotherhood or sisterhood has instead inflicted trauma, and the university seems more concerned with reputation than accountability.

This is not hypothetical. Right now, our firm is fighting one of the most serious hazing cases in Texas history—the $10 million lawsuit filed on behalf of Leonel Bermudez against the University of Houston and the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter. The details are harrowing: forced consumption until vomiting, extreme physical “workouts” causing rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure, humiliating “pledge fanny pack” requirements, and threats of expulsion for non-compliance. As reported by Click2Houston, Bermudez’s urine was brown from muscle breakdown before his four-day hospitalization. The chapter has been shut down, but the physical and psychological damage remains.

For Lewisville parents and families across Denton County, this case serves as a stark warning: hazing happens here in Texas, at our universities, to our children. This comprehensive guide explains what hazing really looks like in 2025, your legal rights under Texas law, what’s happening on Texas campuses including those near Lewisville, and how experienced legal counsel can help families seek accountability and prevent future harm.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR LEWISVILLE HAZING EMERGENCIES

If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

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

In the first 48 hours:

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

Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours:
Evidence disappears fast (deleted group chats, destroyed evidence, coached witnesses). Universities move quickly to control the narrative. We can help preserve evidence and protect your child’s rights. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate consultation.

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like at Texas Universities

Beyond the Stereotypes: Modern Hazing Tactics

Many Lewisville families imagine hazing as outdated paddling or harmless pranks. The reality in 2025 is more sophisticated, more dangerous, and often hidden behind digital screens and “optional” traditions. Today’s hazing falls into three escalating categories that every parent should recognize:

Tier 1: Subtle Hazing—Often dismissed as “just tradition” but creates power imbalance:

Required servitude: acting as 24/7 designated drivers, cleaning members’ rooms, running errands
Social isolation: cutting off contact with non-members, requiring permission to socialize
Constant digital monitoring: instant response demands in GroupMe, location sharing via apps
“Optional” events that are socially mandatory for inclusion

Tier 2: Harassment Hazing—Causes measurable physical or psychological harm:

Sleep deprivation through late-night “meetings” or early-morning wake-up calls
Forced consumption of unpleasant substances (spoiled food, hot sauce, excessive milk)
Extreme calisthenics framed as “conditioning” but actually punitive
Public humiliation through embarrassing costumes or performances
Digital shaming via TikTok challenges or degrading social media posts

Tier 3: Violent Hazing—High potential for serious injury or death:

Forced/coerced alcohol consumption: “Big/Little” nights, drinking games with wrong-answer penalties
Physical beatings or paddling (still occurring despite national prohibitions)
Dangerous physical tests: blindfolded tackles, extreme temperature exposure
Sexualized hazing: forced nudity, simulated sexual acts, sexual assault
Chemical exposure: industrial cleaners causing burns (as in Texas A&M SAE case)

Where Hazing Happens: Not Just Fraternities

While Greek organizations receive most attention, Lewisville students face hazing risks in multiple campus organizations:

Fraternities and Sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural councils)
Corps of Cadets/ROTC programs with military-style traditions
Athletic teams from football to cheerleading
Spirit and tradition groups like Texas Cowboys or similar organizations
Marching bands and performance groups
Academic and service organizations

The common threads: power imbalance, secrecy, tradition justification, and fear of exclusion that keeps victims silent. For Denton County families, understanding these dynamics is crucial for recognizing warning signs and taking appropriate action.

Texas Hazing Law: What Lewisville Families Need to Know

Texas Education Code Chapter 37: Your Legal Foundation

Texas has specific anti-hazing laws that protect students at both public and private institutions. For Lewisville residents with children at UNT, TWU, or any Texas campus, these laws provide critical protections:

§ 37.151 Definition: Hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, directed against a student that:

Endangers mental or physical health or safety, AND
Occurs for pledging, initiation, affiliation, holding office, or maintaining membership

Key implications for Lewisville families:

Location doesn’t matter: off-campus houses, Airbnbs, retreats are all covered
Mental harm counts: psychological trauma qualifies alongside physical injury
Recklessness suffices: intent to harm isn’t required—just disregard for risk
Consent is NOT a defense (Texas Education Code § 37.155)

§ 37.152 Criminal Penalties:

Class B Misdemeanor: hazing without serious injury (up to 180 days jail, $2,000 fine)
Class A Misdemeanor: hazing causing injury requiring medical treatment
State Jail Felony: hazing causing serious bodily injury or death

§ 37.153 Organizational Liability:
Fraternities, sororities, clubs, and teams can face:

Criminal prosecution if they authorized or encouraged hazing
Fines up to $10,000 per violation
University recognition revocation

§ 37.154 Immunity for Good-Faith Reporting:
Students who report hazing to university or law enforcement in good faith receive immunity from civil or criminal liability that might otherwise result.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding the Difference

When Lewisville families encounter hazing, they face two parallel legal tracks:

Criminal Cases (State brings charges):

Purpose: Punishment (jail, fines, probation)
Common charges: hazing, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, battery, manslaughter
Burden: Beyond reasonable doubt
Example: Fraternity members charged with felony hazing causing serious injury

Civil Cases (Family brings lawsuit):

Purpose: Compensation, accountability, prevention
Claims: negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision, emotional distress
Burden: Preponderance of evidence (more likely than not)
Example: $10M lawsuit against UH and Pi Kappa Phi for Bermudez’s injuries

Critical point: These cases can proceed simultaneously. A criminal conviction isn’t required for civil action, and vice versa. Many Denton County families pursue civil cases even when criminal charges aren’t filed, as the burden of proof is lower and the focus is on recovery and accountability.

Federal Law Overlay: Additional Protections

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024):

Requires colleges receiving federal aid to report hazing transparently
Strengthens prevention education
Phased implementation through 2026
Impact for Lewisville students: More public data on campus hazing incidents

Title IX Implications:

When hazing involves sexual harassment or gender-based hostility
Triggers university investigation obligations
Can lead to federal complaints if mishandled

Clery Act Reporting:

Requires reporting certain crimes in campus safety statistics
Hazing incidents with assault or alcohol/drug crimes often overlap

The Flagship Case: Leonel Bermudez v. University of Houston & Pi Kappa Phi

What Happened: A Texas Hazing Nightmare

As detailed in ABC13 coverage, Leonel Bermudez’s fall 2025 pledge period at UH’s Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter descended into systematic abuse:

The Hazing Timeline:

Sept 16, 2025: Bermudez accepts bid
Sept-Oct: Forced dress codes, hours-long “study/work” blocks, weekly interviews, overnight chauffeuring duties
Oct 13: Another pledge hog-tied face-down on table with object in mouth for over an hour
Nov 3: Bermudez forced through 100+ push-ups, 500 squats under expulsion threats
Nov 6: Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters suspends chapter after hazing reports
Nov 6-9: Bermudez hospitalized four days with rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure

Specific Hazing Acts:

“Pledge fanny pack” requirement carrying condoms, sex toy, nicotine devices
Cold-weather exposure in underwear at Yellowstone Boulevard Park
Lying in vomit-soaked grass
Hose spraying in face “similar to waterboarding” with actual waterboarding threats
Forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, peppercorns until vomiting, then immediate sprints
“Save-your-brother” drills, bear crawls, wheelbarrow races

Medical Catastrophe:
Bermudez developed rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown) and acute kidney failure, passing brown urine with critically high creatine kinase levels. He faces ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage and requires continued medical and psychological care.

Defendants in the $10M Lawsuit:

University of Houston
UH System Board of Regents
Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters
Beta Nu housing corporation
13 individual fraternity leaders/members (president, pledgemaster, sorority relations chair, risk manager, etc.)

Institutional Response:

Nov 6, 2025: Chapter suspended by nationals
Nov 14, 2025: Members vote to surrender charter; chapter shut down
UH statement: Conduct “deeply disturbing,” cooperation with law enforcement promised
As Hoodline reported, this rapid closure shows institutional recognition of severity

Why This Case Matters to Lewisville Families

This isn’t just a Houston story. For Lewisville parents, the Bermudez case demonstrates:

It happens at major Texas universities—not just “problem schools”
National fraternities with local chapters can harbor dangerous cultures
Universities often know or should know about systemic issues
Medical consequences can be catastrophic and lifelong
Experienced legal counsel can secure accountability against powerful institutions

Attorney911 represents Bermudez in this ongoing litigation, bringing our insurance insider knowledge, federal court experience, and institutional litigation skills to bear against the university and national fraternity. As attorney Lupe Peña (he/him) told ABC13: “If this prevents harm to another person… Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.”

The Dallas-Fort Worth Greek Ecosystem: What Lewisville Families Need to Know

Local Campus Landscape: Where Lewisville Students Go

Primary Campuses for Lewisville/Denton County Families:

University of North Texas (Denton)

15 minutes from Lewisville, primary local university
Active Greek life with multiple councils
Texas Woman’s University shares Denton location

Texas A&M University (College Station)

Common choice for Lewisville graduates
Large Greek system + Corps of Cadets
Distance: ~3 hour drive, many Lewisville families visit regularly

University of Texas at Austin

Top destination for academically competitive Lewisville students
3+ hour drive, but strong family connections maintained
Transparent hazing violation reporting at hazing.utexas.edu

Other Regional Options:

Southern Methodist University (45 minutes)
Texas Christian University (45 minutes)
University of Texas at Dallas (30 minutes)
Texas Tech University (5+ hours, but significant Lewisville enrollment)

The Dallas-Fort Worth Greek Infrastructure: A Hidden Network

Through our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine, we maintain detailed data on Greek organizations serving DFW families. Here’s what Lewisville parents should understand about the ecosystem:

Metro-Level Scale (Cause IQ Data):

Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington Metro: 510+ Greek-related organizations
Includes undergraduate chapters, alumni associations, housing corporations, honor societies
Both nationally recognized and local organizations

Example Organizations Serving Lewisville/DFW Area:

Beta Upsilon Chi Fraternity (EIN 742911848) | Fort Worth, TX 76244
Texas Kappa Sigma Educational Foundation Inc (EIN 741380362) | Fort Worth, TX 76147
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity – Lambda Lambda Chapter (EIN 521278573) | Dallas, TX 75241
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc – Phi Psi Zeta Chapter (EIN 611562040) | Lewisville, TX 75029
Denton-Lewisville Guide Right Foundation (EIN 861205340) | Flower Mound, TX 75028
Frisco TX Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Inc (EIN 920575785) | Frisco, TX 75034

IRS B83 Registered Entities (Partial List):
These Texas-registered organizations have EINs, legal names, and physical addresses in public filings:

KAPPA SIGMA – MU GAMMA CHAPTER INC (EIN 273662583) | Lufkin, TX 75904
ALPHA EPSILON PI FRATERNITY – MU GAMMA CHAPTER (EIN 262025321) | Denton, TX 76201
HONOR SOCIETY OF PHI KAPPA PHI – TEXAS WOMENS UNIVERSITY CHAPTER (EIN 263170920) | Denton, TX 76204
NATIONAL PAN-HELLENIC COUNCIL NORTH DALLAS SUBURBIA (EIN 264080411) | Carrollton, TX 75011
BETA NU PI KAPPA PHI FRATERNITY HOUSING CORPORATION INC (EIN 462267515) | Frisco, TX 75035
ZETA SIGMA HOUSE CORPORATION OF KAPPA KAPPA GAMMA FRATERNITY INC (EIN 752620706) | Dallas, TX 75223

Why This Data Matters for Lewisville Families:
When hazing occurs, multiple entities may share liability:

Undergraduate chapter (often not incorporated separately)
Housing corporation (owns/manages property, often has insurance)
Alumni association (may provide funding, oversight)
National headquarters (sets policies, collects dues, provides insurance)
Educational foundations (separate 501(c)(3) entities)

Our directory helps identify all potentially responsible parties—something few families or even general practice attorneys understand. For Lewisville victims, this means we can pursue insurance coverage and assets across multiple entities, not just the visible chapter.

Texas University Hazing Realities: Campus-by-Campus Analysis

University of North Texas (Denton): Lewisville’s Backyard University

Campus Culture & Greek Life:

15-minute drive from Lewisville, making it the most accessible university
Approximately 40 fraternities and sororities across four councils
Mix of residential and commuter students, including many from Lewisville

Hazing Policy & Reporting:

UNT prohibits hazing in Student Code of Conduct
Reporting through Dean of Students, Student Conduct, or UNT Police
Online reporting forms available

Recent History & Context:
While UNT doesn’t maintain public hazing logs like UT Austin, incidents occur. The proximity to Lewisville means:

Students often live at home while attending, complicating parental awareness
Weekend events may occur in Lewisville or surrounding communities
Digital hazing via group chats affects students regardless of residence

What Lewisville UNT Students/Parents Should Do:

Document ALL incidents, not just “major” events
Report to both UNT authorities AND Lewisville Police if incidents occur locally
Preserve digital evidence: GroupMe, Instagram, TikTok content
Understand that “just off-campus” doesn’t mean UNT lacks responsibility

Texas Woman’s University (Denton): Unique Considerations

Campus Profile:

Primarily women’s university with coeducational graduate programs
Smaller Greek system but active student organizations
Many cross-campus activities with UNT

Hazing Realities:
Sorority hazing often involves:

Psychological pressure rather than physical violence
Social isolation and exclusion tactics
Financial exploitation through mandatory purchases
Sleep deprivation for “bonding” events

For Lewisville Families at TWU:

Don’t dismiss concerns because “it’s not a party school”
Emotional and psychological harm qualifies as hazing under Texas law
Document all demands for money, time, or social compliance

Texas A&M University: Tradition, Corps, and Accountability

Distance from Lewisville: ~3 hours, but strong family connections

Corps of Cadets Culture:

Military-style environment with reported discipline issues
2023 lawsuit: cadet alleged degrading hazing including simulated sexual acts and being bound in “roasted pig” position
Tradition-heavy atmosphere can normalize abusive behavior

Greek Life Incidents:

Sigma Alpha Epsilon lawsuit: Pledges allegedly covered in industrial-strength cleaner causing chemical burns requiring skin grafts
Multiple fraternities on disciplinary probation
Active IFC and Panhellenic systems with varying oversight

What Lewisville A&M Families Should Know:

Corps and Greek life represent dual risks
University’s “Aggie honor” culture can discourage reporting
Documentation is crucial: photos of injuries, saved communications
Early legal consultation can navigate both university conduct process and civil options

University of Texas at Austin: Transparency and Patterns

UT’s Public Hazing Violations Log:
One of Texas’ most transparent systems at hazing.utexas.edu shows:

Recent Examples:

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics → probation + education requirement
Multiple spirit organizations sanctioned for forced workouts, alcohol hazing
Sigma Alpha Epsilon incident (2024): Australian exchange student assaulted at party, alleging dislocated leg, broken ligaments, fractured tibia → chapter already under suspension

Why This Matters for Lewisville Families:

Public records help establish pattern knowledge in lawsuits
Repeated violations by same organizations show systemic issues
Transparency doesn’t equal prevention—incidents continue despite reporting

Southern Methodist University & Baylor University: Private School Realities

SMU Considerations:

Affluent student body, strong Greek presence
Kappa Alpha Order incident (2017): Paddling, forced drinking, sleep deprivation → multi-year suspension
Private university status means less public transparency

Baylor Context:

Religious identity, history of scrutiny over football/Title IX issues
Baseball hazing (2020): 14 players suspended following investigation
“Zero tolerance” statements vs. recurring misconduct patterns

For Lewisville Families at Private Universities:

Don’t assume religious affiliation prevents hazing
Internal processes may prioritize institutional protection
Legal counsel can compel discovery even without public records

National Fraternity & Sorority Histories: Patterns That Repeat in Texas

Why National Histories Matter to Lewisville Families

When your child joins a chapter at UNT or any Texas campus, they’re joining an organization with national history. That history creates foreseeability—if a national has seen deaths or severe injuries from certain activities at other chapters, they should know those activities are dangerous. This legal concept strengthens cases for Lewisville victims.

High-Risk Organizations with Texas Presence

Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) – Pattern of Alcohol Deaths:

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State (2021): Forced to drink entire bottle of alcohol, died → $10M settlement ($7M national + $3M university)
David Bogenberger – Northern Illinois (2012): Alcohol poisoning death → $14M settlement
Texas chapters: Multiple incidents including 2016 UH case with lacerated spleen

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) – Chemical Burns & Assaults:

Texas A&M lawsuit: Chemical burns from industrial cleaner → $1M lawsuit
UT Austin incident (2024): Exchange student assault with multiple fractures
National pattern: Multiple chapter suspensions for hazing violations

Pi Kappa Phi – Our Current UH Case:

Andrew Coffey – Florida State (2017): Big/Little night drinking death
Leonel Bermudez – UH (2025): Rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure from physical hazing
National has seen this script before but local chapter repeated it

Additional Organizations with Documented Histories:

Beta Theta Pi: Timothy Piazza death at Penn State (2017) leading to Pennsylvania’s “Piazza Law”
Phi Delta Theta: Max Gruver death at LSU (2017) leading to Louisiana felony hazing statute
Phi Gamma Delta: Danny Santulli catastrophic brain injury at Missouri (2021), $ multi-million settlements

What This Means for Lewisville Litigation

When we represent Lewisville families, we use national pattern evidence to show:

Foreseeability: The national organization knew or should have known the risks
Inadequate prevention: Policies existed but weren’t meaningfully enforced
Pattern and practice: Same dangerous activities recur across chapters
Punitive damage potential: Repeated disregard for student safety

This isn’t about branding all Greek life as dangerous—it’s about holding specific organizations accountable when they fail to learn from their own history.

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Strategy, and Recovery

Critical Evidence Categories for Lewisville Cases

1. Digital Communications (Most Important):

GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage threads: Screenshot entire conversations with timestamps
Instagram/Snapchat/TikTok: Stories, DMs, comments showing planning or aftermath
Deleted message recovery: Digital forensics can often retrieve “disappearing” content
Location data: GPS histories, Find My Friends sharing, geotagged posts

2. Photo & Video Evidence:

Injuries: Multiple angles, include object for scale, document progression over days
Locations: Houses, rooms, venues where hazing occurred
Events: Videos of activities (if safely obtained)
Our video on using phones to document evidence: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs

3. Medical Documentation:

ER records: Must specifically mention “hazing” or describe circumstances
Follow-up care: Specialist visits, therapy sessions
Psychological evaluation: PTSD, depression, anxiety diagnoses
Toxicological reports: Blood alcohol levels, drug screens

4. University & Organizational Records:

Prior conduct violations (obtained via discovery or public records requests)
Internal emails about the organization
National fraternity risk management files
Insurance policies and coverage documents

5. Witness Information:

Other pledges (often most reluctant but most knowledgeable)
Roommates, friends who observed changes
Former members who left due to concerns
Emergency responders, medical personnel

Damages: What Lewisville Families Can Recover

Economic Damages (Quantifiable):

Medical expenses: Past bills + future care projections
Lost educational costs: Tuition for disrupted semesters, lost scholarships
Earning capacity reduction: For permanent injuries affecting career prospects
Therapy and counseling: Often needed for years post-trauma

Non-Economic Damages:

Physical pain and suffering
Emotional distress, trauma, humiliation
Loss of enjoyment of life
Damage to family relationships

Wrongful Death Damages (When Applicable):

Funeral and burial costs
Loss of financial support
Loss of companionship, love, guidance
Parents’ and siblings’ emotional suffering

Punitive Damages (When Conduct Warrants):

For especially reckless, willful, or malicious behavior
To punish defendants and deter future conduct
Often available when organizations ignore prior warnings

The Insurance Coverage Battle

Fraternities, sororities, and universities carry insurance—but insurers often fight hazing claims. Our insurance insider advantage (from Mr. Lupe Peña’s defense background) is critical here. Insurers typically argue:

Intentional act exclusion: “Hazing was intentional, so coverage doesn’t apply”
Criminal act exclusion: “Hazing is a crime, so no coverage”
Policy limits arguments: Trying to minimize payout amounts

We counter with:

Negligent supervision claims: Even if hazing was intentional, failure to supervise was negligent
Multiple policy strategy: Identifying all potential coverage sources
Bad faith litigation: When insurers unreasonably deny valid claims

For Lewisville families, this means our experience with insurance tactics directly impacts recovery amounts and timing.

Practical Guidance for Lewisville Parents, Students & Witnesses

For Parents: Warning Signs and Response Protocol

Physical Warning Signs:

Unexplained bruises, burns, or injuries with inconsistent explanations
Extreme fatigue beyond normal college stress
Weight changes from food/water restriction
Injuries to hands/back from paddling or forced exercise
Chemical burns or skin damage
Signs of alcohol poisoning (even if child doesn’t normally drink)

Behavioral & Emotional Changes:

Sudden secrecy about organization activities
Withdrawal from family, old friends, non-group activities
Personality shifts: anxiety, depression, irritability
Defensiveness when asked about the group
Constant phone monitoring for group messages
Talking about “just getting through” initiation

Academic & Financial Red Flags:

Grades dropping abruptly
Missing classes or assignments for “mandatory” events
Unexpected expenses: forced purchases, excessive “dues”
Overdrafts or credit card debt without clear explanation

48-Hour Action Plan for Lewisville Parents:

HOUR 1–6 (IMMEDIATE CRISIS):

Medical attention: ER if injured/intoxicated
Safety: Remove from dangerous situation
Evidence: Screenshot messages, photograph injuries
Documentation: Write down everything while fresh
Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate guidance

HOUR 6–24 (EVIDENCE PRESERVATION):

Digital preservation: Help child save ALL communications
Physical evidence: Secure clothing, receipts, objects
Medical records: Request copies of all ER/hospital documents
Witness list: Names and contact info for others involved
University communication: Note all contact but don’t respond yet

HOUR 24–48 (STRATEGIC DECISIONS):

Legal consultation: Speak with experienced hazing attorney
Reporting decisions: With counsel, decide on police/university reporting
University response: Refer all communications to your attorney
Insurance contact: Do NOT speak to adjusters without counsel
Evidence backup: Upload everything to secure cloud storage

For Students: Self-Protection and Safe Exit

Is This Hazing? Assessment Questions:

Am I being forced or pressured to do something unsafe?
Would I do this if there were no social consequences?
Is this activity illegal or dangerous?
Would my parents/university approve if they knew details?
Am I being told to keep secrets or lie?

If You’re in Immediate Danger:

Call 911 or campus police
Get to safe location (dorm, friend’s place, public area)
Good-faith reporter protections apply in Texas—you won’t get in trouble for seeking help

Safe Exit Strategies:

Tell someone outside the group first (parent, RA, trusted friend)
Send written resignation to chapter president: “I resign effective immediately”
Do NOT attend “one last meeting”—this is often manipulation
Document any retaliation (threats, harassment, property damage)
If fearing retaliation, report to Dean of Students AND local police

Evidence Collection for Students:

Screenshot EVERYTHING: group chats, DMs, social media
Voice record meetings (Texas is one-party consent state)
Photograph injuries immediately and over several days
Save clothing, objects, receipts from hazing events
Never delete evidence, even if embarrassed

Critical Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Case

1. Deleting Evidence: “Cleaning up” messages looks like cover-up and destroys your case. Preserve everything.
2. Confronting the Organization: Direct confrontation triggers evidence destruction and witness coaching. Let your attorney handle communication.
3. Signing University Agreements: Universities often pressure early settlements far below case value. Never sign without legal review.
4. Social Media Posts: Defense attorneys monitor everything. Inconsistencies hurt credibility. Keep details private.
5. Waiting for University Investigation: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statutes run. Act immediately.
6. Talking to Insurance Adjusters: Recorded statements get used against you. Politely decline: “My attorney will contact you.”
7. Letting Your Child Return: “One last meeting” often involves pressure or intimidation. Once legal action is considered, all communication goes through counsel.

Watch our video on client mistakes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY

Frequently Asked Questions for Lewisville Families

“Can we sue a Texas university for hazing?”
Yes, under specific circumstances. Public universities (UNT, UT, A&M) have sovereign immunity limitations but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and individual employee lawsuits. Private universities (SMU, Baylor) have fewer immunity protections. Every case is fact-specific—contact us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for case analysis.

“Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
It can be. Default is Class B misdemeanor, but becomes state jail felony if causing serious bodily injury or death. Individual officers can also face charges for failing to report hazing.

“What if my child ‘agreed’ to the initiation?”
Consent is not a defense under Texas Education Code § 37.155. Courts recognize that “consent” under peer pressure and power imbalance isn’t truly voluntary.

“How long do we have to file a lawsuit?”
Generally 2 years from injury date in Texas, but discovery rule may extend if harm/cause wasn’t immediately known. In cover-up cases, statute may be tolled. Time is critical—evidence disappears quickly.

“What if hazing happened off-campus?”
Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and nationals can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, knowledge, and foreseeability. Most major hazing cases occurred off-campus.

“Will this be confidential?”
Most cases settle confidentially before trial. We prioritize family privacy while pursuing accountability. You can request sealed court records and confidential settlements.

“What about criminal charges?”
We can advise on criminal process while pursuing civil case. Many families pursue both tracks simultaneously for comprehensive accountability.

Learn about Texas statutes of limitations: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c

Why Attorney911 for Lewisville Hazing Cases

Our Texas Hazing Litigation Advantage

When Lewisville families face hazing trauma, they need more than a general personal injury lawyer. They need attorneys who understand how universities, national fraternities, and insurance companies fight—and how to win anyway. Here’s why Attorney911 brings unique value to Denton County families:

Insurance Insider Knowledge (Mr. Lupe Peña):

Former insurance defense attorney at national firm
Knows exactly how fraternity/university insurers value (and undervalue) claims
Understands their delay tactics, coverage arguments, and settlement strategies
“We know their playbook because we used to run it.”

Complex Institutional Litigation Experience:

BP Texas City explosion litigation: One of few Texas firms involved against billion-dollar defendant
Federal court experience (U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas)
Not intimidated by national fraternities or university legal teams
“We’ve taken on massive corporations and won.”

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death Results:

Proven track record in catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases
Economist collaboration for accurate lifetime damage calculations
Experience with life care planning for permanent injuries
“We don’t settle cheap. We build cases that force accountability.”

Criminal + Civil Dual Capability:

Ralph Manginello’s HCCLA membership (elite criminal defense credential)
Understands how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation
Can advise witnesses and former members with dual exposure
“We see the whole legal picture, not just one side.”

Investigative Depth & Resources:

Network of experts: medical, digital forensics, psychologists, economists
Experience obtaining hidden evidence: deleted messages, internal files
Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine: Proprietary database of 1,423 Greek organizations across Texas
“We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does.”

Our Connection to Lewisville and Denton County

While based in Houston, we serve families throughout Texas, including Lewisville, Flower Mound, Highland Village, and across Denton County. We understand:

The educational pathways from Lewisville ISD to UNT, TWU, and beyond
The community dynamics affecting local families
The jurisdictional considerations for cases involving Denton County courts
The importance of Spanish-language services for our diverse community (Se habla Español)

Our work on the UH Pi Kappa Phi case demonstrates our commitment to Texas hazing accountability. As attorney Lupe Peña stated: “If this prevents harm to another person… Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.”

Your Next Steps: Free Consultation for Lewisville Families

What to Expect When You Contact Us

Confidential, No-Obligation Consultation:

We listen to your story without judgment
Review any evidence you’ve preserved (photos, texts, medical records)
Explain your legal options clearly
Discuss realistic timelines and expectations
Answer questions about costs (contingency fee—we don’t get paid unless we win)
No pressure to hire us immediately—take time to decide with your family

Our Investigation Process:

Evidence preservation: Immediate steps to secure digital and physical evidence
Defendant identification: Using our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine to map all potentially liable parties
Insurance coverage analysis: Identifying all potential insurance policies
Expert consultation: Engaging medical, psychological, and economic experts as needed
Strategic planning: Civil lawsuit, criminal reporting, university process, or combination

We Handle the Burden So You Can Focus on Healing:

All communication with universities, fraternities, and insurers
Evidence collection and organization
Expert coordination and deposition preparation
Settlement negotiations or trial preparation
Regular updates every 2-3 weeks so you’re never in the dark

Contact Attorney911 Today

For Lewisville Families and Throughout Texas:

Call: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct: (713) 528-9070
24/7 Availability: We understand hazing emergencies don’t keep business hours

Spanish Language Services:
Hablamos Español
Contact Mr. Lupe Peña directly at lupe@atty911.com

Online Resources:
Website: https://attorney911.com
Attorney Profiles:

Ralph Manginello: https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/
Lupe Peña: https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/

Learn About Contingency Fees:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

Final Message to Lewisville Families

Hazing shatters trust—institutions that should protect students instead enable their harm. The trauma affects not just victims but entire families. You didn’t cause this, and you don’t have to navigate it alone.

Whether your child attends UNT just minutes away, A&M a few hours south, or any Texas campus, Texas law provides rights and remedies. The university may promise “internal investigation,” the fraternity may claim “rogue members,” and insurance companies will minimize what happened. But with experienced counsel, accountability is possible.

The Leonel Bermudez case shows that even against powerful institutions, justice can be pursued. For your family, the path starts with a phone call. Let us help you understand your options, preserve your rights, and work toward the accountability that can prevent future harm.

From our team at Attorney911 to families in Lewisville and across Texas: We’re here when you need us. Call today.

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

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 specific facts, evidence, applicable law, and many 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 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 | lupe@atty911.com (Spanish services)