Maine Fraternity Hazing Attorneys | $50M+ National Settlements Exposed | Attorney911 — The Firm That Shut Down Pi Kappa Phi’s Beta Nu | Federal Court | Former Insurance Defense | 1-888-ATTY-911

Here in Maine, where our stunning coastlines meet whispering pine forests and our communities value independence and quiet strength, the promise of higher education often feels like a natural next step for our young people. Whether they dream of studying close to home at the University of Maine System campuses, or head south to larger institutions across the country, Maine families invest deeply in their children’s futures.

But what happens when that promise turns into peril? Imagine a scenario far removed from our tranquil lighthouses and lobster boats. Picture a young student from a town like Portland, Bangor, or Augusta, away at a college in Texas. It’s “initiation night” for a fraternity, sorority, or perhaps even a club or athletic team. The student is being pressured to drink far beyond safe limits, endure degrading acts, or participate in physical abuse. Others are filming on phones, chanting, and laughing. Suddenly, someone gets hurt – falls, vomits, collapses. The student feels trapped between loyalty to the group and their own safety, or the safety of a peer. No one wants to call 911 because they’re afraid of “getting the chapter shut down” or “getting in trouble.”

This scenario, tragically, is not uncommon. It is the insidious reality of hazing in 2025. This comprehensive guide is written for families across Maine and in Texas, who need to understand exactly what hazing looks like today, how Texas and federal law treat it, what major national cases tell us, and what specific patterns have emerged at Texas universities like UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor. Even if your child attends school far from Maine, the information here about Texas hazing law and the expertise of Texas counsel can profoundly impact their future.

This article provides general information and insights, not specific legal advice. The Manginello Law Firm is here to help evaluate individual cases based on their unique facts. We serve families throughout Texas, including Maine.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES:

• If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

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

• In the first 48 hours:

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

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

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

HAZING IN 2025: WHAT IT REALLY LOOKS LIKE

For Maine families unfamiliar with modern Greek life or collegiate organizations, the word “hazing” might bring to mind old movies or exaggerated pranks. However, the reality of hazing in 2025 is far darker and more complex. It’s often deeply ingrained, subtly coercive, and designed to evade detection. It can cause severe physical injury, lasting psychological trauma, and in the worst cases, death. Hazing exploits the fundamental human desire for belonging and acceptance, turning it into a tool for abuse and control.

CLEAR, MODERN DEFINITION OF HAZING

At its core, hazing is any forced, coerced, or strongly pressured action tied to joining, keeping membership, or gaining status in a group. This action often endangers physical or mental health, humiliates, or exploits those seeking to become members. It is critical to understand that “I agreed to it” does not automatically make it safe or legal. When peer pressure and power imbalances are present, true consent is often absent. Hazing activities are rarely truly voluntary because the consequences of refusing to participate – social exclusion, ostracization, or outright removal from the group – are too high for a young person trying to find their place.

MAIN CATEGORIES OF HAZING

Hazing manifests in various forms, often escalating in severity. Understanding these categories is crucial for identifying hazing, even in its most subtle disguises.

• Alcohol and Substance Hazing
  This remains one of the deadliest forms of hazing. It involves forced or coerced drinking, often through brutal “games” or “lineups” that require rapid, excessive consumption. Pledges might be pressured to “chug” entire bottles of liquor, participate in “bottle exchanges,” or consume unknown or mixed substances. The goal is often to incapacitate pledges, making them more vulnerable and compliant. The dangerous outcomes are tragically frequent, as seen in numerous national cases where alcohol poisoning led to death.

• Physical Hazing
  Physical hazing extends far beyond traditional paddling, which itself can cause severe injuries. It includes extreme calisthenics, forced “workouts” or “smokings” far beyond normal conditioning that can lead to rhabdomyolysis or other debilitating conditions. Sleep deprivation, often sustained over multiple days, and food/water deprivation are common. Pledges may be exposed to extreme cold or heat, or left in dangerous environments, risking hypothermia, dehydration, or accidents.

• Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing
  This category involves acts designed to degrade and objectify. This can include forced nudity or partial nudity, simulated sexual acts, or being forced into humiliating poses like the “roasted pig.” Dares or activities with racist, homophobic, or sexist overtones are also common, using slurs or forcing pledges into degrading role-play scenarios that strip them of their dignity. These acts inflict profound and lasting psychological damage.

• Psychological Hazing
  Often less visible but equally damaging, psychological hazing involves sustained verbal abuse, threats, and intimidation. Pledges may be subjected to isolation from friends and family, constant manipulation, or forced confessions of personal details. Public shaming, whether online or in person, contributes to a hostile and emotionally abusive environment, breaking down an individual’s self-esteem and sense of worth.

• Digital/Online Hazing
  In the modern era, hazing has moved into the digital realm. Group chat dares, “challenges,” and public humiliation via platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, and Discord are increasingly common. Pledges are often pressured to create or share compromising images or videos, or participate in online “games” that can quickly become degrading or dangerous. Constant monitoring of group chats, demanding immediate responses, can also be a form of digital control and sleep deprivation.

WHERE HAZING ACTUALLY HAPPENS

Hazing is not just a problem associated with Greek fraternities and sororities, although they are frequently in the headlines. It is a pervasive issue across a wide array of collegiate, and even high school, organizations.

• Fraternities and Sororities: This includes social Greek letter organizations (Interfraternity Council, National Panhellenic Conference), National Pan-Hellenic Council (historically Black Greek letter organizations), and various multicultural Greek organizations.
• Corps of Cadets / ROTC / Military-Style Groups: Highly structured, tradition-heavy environments can sometimes foster hazing under the guise of “training” or “discipline.”
• Spirit Squads, Tradition Clubs: Groups like cheerleading squads, dance teams, campus spirit groups, and even long-standing tradition organizations can face hazing allegations involving physical endurance or degrading acts.
• Athletic Teams: From football and basketball to baseball, soccer, and even individual sports, hazing can occur as a twisted form of team “bonding,” involving physical abuse, forced alcohol consumption, or sexualized rituals.
• Marching Bands and Performance Groups: Even seemingly innocuous organizations are not immune. Hazing in these groups can include physical exhaustion, sleep deprivation, or humiliating acts presented as a way to “earn your spot.”
• Service, Cultural, and Academic Organizations: While less common, hazing can still infiltrate these groups, manifesting as excessive demands on time, peer pressure, or subtle forms of humiliation.

The underlying common threads across all these environments are social status, tradition, and secrecy. The desire to belong, the weight of long-held “traditions,” and the pressure to keep silent allow these abusive practices to continue, even when everyone “knows” hazing is illegal and harmful. For Maine families, understanding this broad scope is essential, as their children might join any number of these groups, expecting camaraderie, but finding coercion.

LAW & LIABILITY FRAMEWORK (TEXAS + FEDERAL)

For Maine families navigating the complexities of hazing—especially if it occurs outside of our state in a place like Texas—understanding the legal landscape is paramount. Under Texas law, which governs cases in Maine families could face, hazing is not merely a disciplinary issue; it is explicitly prohibited by statute and carries both criminal and severe civil consequences.

TEXAS HAZING LAW BASICS (EDUCATION CODE)

Texas has clear and robust anti-hazing provisions outlined in the Texas Education Code, Chapter 37, Subchapter F. These laws are designed to protect students and hold individuals and organizations accountable.

The statutory definition of hazing in Texas is broad and encompasses any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, whether on or off campus, by one person alone or with others, directed against a student, that:

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

In plain English, this means that if someone makes you do something dangerous, harmful, or degrading to join or stay in a group, and they meant to do it or were reckless about the risk, that’s hazing under Texas law. This definition is crucial because:

• It can happen on or off campus; the location of the incident does not negate its legal classification as hazing.
• It includes both mental and physical harm, recognizing the profound psychological impact hazing can have.
• The intent element only requires “reckless” behavior, meaning participants knew or should have known the risks involved. You don’t have to prove they intended harm.
• Perhaps most importantly, “consent” is not a defense. Even if the victim appears to agree, hazing is still illegal if it meets the statutory definition.

The law further details criminal penalties:

• Most hazing offenses are classified as a Class B Misdemeanor, carrying potential jail time of up to 180 days and a fine of up to $2,000.
• If hazing results in an injury requiring medical treatment, it escalates to a Class A Misdemeanor.
• Crucially, if hazing causes serious bodily injury or death, it becomes a State Jail Felony, carrying significant prison time.

Additionally, Texas law specifies criminal penalties for those who knew about hazing and did nothing:

• Failing to report hazing (if you’re a member or officer and knew about it) is a misdemeanor.
• Retaliating against someone who reports hazing is also a misdemeanor.

The law in Texas also holds organizations accountable:

• Organizational Liability: Fraternities, sororities, clubs, and teams can be criminally prosecuted and fined up to $10,000 per violation if the organization authorized or encouraged the hazing, or if an officer or member acting in an official capacity knew about it and failed to report. Universities can also revoke recognition and ban violating organizations.

Remind the reader that this is a summary. The actual law is more technical, and interpretation requires legal experience.

CRIMINAL VS CIVIL CASES

Understanding the distinction between criminal and civil cases is vital, as both pathways can lead to accountability after a hazing incident.

• Criminal Cases: These are initiated and pursued by the state (prosecutor) on behalf of the public. The primary aim is punishment for the accused, which can include jail sentences, fines, and probation. In hazing contexts, typical criminal charges might be hazing offenses, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, battery, or even manslaughter in fatal cases. The burden of proof is “beyond a reasonable doubt,” reflecting the gravity of potential penalties.

• Civil Cases: These are brought by the victims or their surviving families against the responsible parties. The aim is not punishment but rather monetary compensation for damages suffered and to achieve accountability from those whose negligence led to harm. Civil claims often focus on negligence, gross negligence, wrongful death, negligent hiring/supervision, and premises liability. The burden of proof in civil cases is “a preponderance of the evidence,” meaning it is more likely than not that the defendant is responsible.

It’s important to note that criminal and civil cases can run concurrently. A criminal conviction is not a prerequisite for pursuing a civil case, and the outcomes of one do not always dictate the other.

FEDERAL OVERLAY: STOP CAMPUS HAZING ACT, TITLE IX, CLERY

Beyond state laws, federal legislation also impacts how hazing is addressed, particularly at institutions receiving federal funding.

• Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This significant piece of legislation mandates that colleges and universities receiving federal aid enhance transparency and prevention efforts. By around 2026, institutions will be required to:

  • Report hazing incidents and data more comprehensively.
  • Implement stronger hazing education and prevention programs.
  • Maintain publicly accessible hazing data, increasing accountability and awareness for families in Maine and across the nation.

• Title IX / Clery Act: These established federal laws also play a role in hazing accountability.

  • Title IX prohibits sex-based discrimination in federally funded education programs. When hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, or creates a hostile environment based on gender, Title IX obligations are triggered. This requires universities to investigate and respond appropriately.
  • The Clery Act mandates that colleges and universities disclose information about crime on and around their campuses. Hazing incidents often overlap with categories like assault, alcohol-related offenses, and drug violations, which must be reported under Clery.

WHO CAN BE LIABLE IN A CIVIL HAZING LAWSUIT

Identifying all potentially liable parties is critical for a comprehensive civil hazing lawsuit. An experienced legal team will thoroughly investigate to ensure all responsible individuals and entities are held accountable. Maine families should know that liability can extend to:

• Individual students: Those who actively planned, encouraged, or participated in the hazing acts, supplied alcohol, carried out abuse, or engaged in cover-ups.
• Local chapter / organization: The specific fraternity, sorority, club, or team itself, particularly if it operates as a legal entity. Officers, pledge educators, or student leaders who directed or allowed the hazing may also be named.
• National fraternity/sorority: The national organization that charters and oversees local chapters. Liability often hinges on what national headquarters knew (or should have known) about a local chapter’s behavior, past incidents, and the effectiveness of their anti-hazing policies and enforcement.
• University or governing board: The educational institution itself, or its Board of Regents in the case of public universities, may be liable under theories of negligence, gross negligence, or federal civil rights violations (like Title IX). Key factors include prior warnings, enforcement of policies, and any history of deliberate indifference to hazing.
• Third parties: Other entities can be held responsible, such as landlords or owners of residential properties or event spaces where hazing occurred. Bars or alcohol providers may face liability under dram shop laws for overserving or serving minors who then engage in hazing. Even security companies or event organizers can be implicated if their negligence contributed to the incident.

Every case is fact-specific; not every party outlined above is liable in every situation. A thorough investigation is key to identifying all responsible parties.

NATIONAL HAZING CASE PATTERNS (ANCHOR STORIES)

National hazing cases serve as critical anchor stories, highlighting recurring patterns of abuse, the human cost, and the legal precedents that shape today’s litigation landscape. These incidents, though they may occur far from Maine, set powerful examples for Texas courts and demonstrate the serious stakes involved for families when hazing goes unchecked. They show that accountability, often measured in multi-million-dollar verdicts and settlements, is possible. These national lessons directly inform how we approach hazing cases in Texas.

ALCOHOL POISONING & DEATH PATTERN

A common and deadly thread running through hazing incidents is the forced or coerced consumption of alcohol, often disguised as “bonding” or “tradition.”

• Timothy Piazza – Penn State, Beta Theta Pi (2017): Tim Piazza, a 19-year-old pledge, died from severe brain injuries after falling repeatedly during a “bid acceptance” night event that involved extreme alcohol consumption. Security cameras within the fraternity house tragically captured the events, showing fraternity brothers waiting hours—despite Piazza’s obvious distress—before calling for help. This case led to dozens of criminal charges against fraternity members, extensive civil litigation, and the enactment of the Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law in Pennsylvania. The takeaway is stark: extreme intoxication, delays in calling 911, and a pervasive culture of silence are legally devastating and contribute to tragic, preventable deaths.

• Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (2017): Andrew Coffey, a 20-year-old pledge, died from massive alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” event. Pledges were given handles of hard liquor and pressured to consume dangerously large amounts. His death led to criminal hazing charges against multiple members, and Florida State University temporarily suspended all Greek life programs, prompting a comprehensive overhaul of its policies. This case underscores how formulaic “tradition” drinking nights are repeating scripts for disaster, with fatal consequences.

• Max Gruver – Louisiana State University, Phi Delta Theta (2017): Max Gruver, an 18-year-old pledge, died after participating in a “Bible study” drinking game. During this ritual, pledges were forced to drink heavily whenever they answered questions incorrectly. His blood alcohol content was dangerously high (0.495%). Gruver’s death led directly to the enactment of the Max Gruver Act in Louisiana, which upgraded hazing to a felony. This case clearly demonstrates how public outrage and clear evidence of hazing can drive significant legislative change, providing a stronger legal framework for future cases.

• Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021): Stone Foltz, a 20-year-old pledge, died from alcohol poisoning after allegedly being forced to chug an entire bottle of whiskey during a “Big/Little” event. This tragedy resulted in multiple criminal convictions for fraternity members. The Foltz family reached a $10 million settlement in 2023, with $7 million from the Pi Kappa Alpha national fraternity and approximately $3 million from Bowling Green State University. This case powerfully illustrates that universities, alongside fraternities, can face significant financial and reputational consequences for their roles in hazing incidents.

PHYSICAL & RITUALIZED HAZING PATTERN

Beyond alcohol abuse, physical endurance tests, and degrading rituals often define hazing, revealing an intent to dominate and control.

• Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013): Michael Deng, an 18-year-old pledge, died after being blindfolded, weighted down with a heavy backpack, and repeatedly tackled during a brutal “glass ceiling” ritual at an off-campus retreat in the Pocono Mountains. Fraternity members delayed calling 911 for hours, contributing to his death from traumatic brain injury. This landmark case led to multiple members’ convictions, and the national fraternity itself was criminally convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter, subsequently being banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years. The case cemented that off-campus “retreats” are not safe havens for hazers and that national organizations bear significant responsibility.

ATHLETIC PROGRAM HAZING & ABUSE

Hazing is not confined to Greek life; it is a pervasive issue in athletic departments, often disguised as team-building exercises or rites of passage.

• Northwestern University football (2023–2025): Multiple former football players came forward with allegations of widespread sexualized and racist hazing within the prestigious football program over many years. These revelations led to multiple lawsuits against Northwestern University and various coaching staff members. The head coach, Pat Fitzgerald, was ultimately fired and later pursued his own wrongful-termination suit, which was confidentially settled in August 2025. This scandal powerfully illustrated that hazing can flourish within major athletic programs and raised serious questions about institutional oversight at the highest levels.

WHAT THESE CASES MEAN FOR TEXAS FAMILIES

These national cases reveal crucial common threads: forced drinking, extreme physical exertion, humiliation, psychological abuse, and a disturbing pattern of delayed medical care and attempted cover-ups. These elements not only contribute to tragic outcomes but also form the basis for strong legal arguments in civil litigation. Significant reforms, multi-million-dollar settlements, and even criminal prosecutions often follow only after tragedy strikes and determined victims’ families pursue justice through litigation.

For families in Maine with children attending colleges across Texas, understanding these national patterns is vital. Whether their children are at the University of Maine, down south at the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, or Baylor, they are stepping into a collegiate landscape shaped by these powerful, often heartbreaking, national lessons. The precedents set by these cases demonstrate that accountability is achievable and that an experienced legal team can navigate the complexities of institutional defenses.

TEXAS FOCUS: UH, TEXAS A&M, UT, SMU, BAYLOR

For families in Maine, sending a child off to college in Texas is a big step into a new environment. While some might choose local institutions like the University of Maine or the University of Southern Maine, many look to larger, out-of-state universities. This section focuses on some of Texas’s largest and most prominent institutions where hazing risks have been documented. This information is crucial for Maine families to understand, whether their children are attending these schools or similar institutions across the country. Understanding how these major universities address hazing, and where they have fallen short, provides valuable context for any family navigating this issue.

5.1 UNIVERSITY OF MAINE

For parents in Maine, our state’s flagship public university system, led by the University of Maine (UMaine) in Orono, is a natural choice for higher education. UMaine offers a wide range of academic programs and a vibrant campus life, including student organizations, clubs, and athletic teams. While smaller than the Texas universities we’ll discuss, UMaine, like any institution, has policies and practices in place to address student conduct and safety. The insights gleaned from larger universities’ struggles with hazing are relevant even for our local institutions, highlighting the importance of robust policies and vigilant enforcement everywhere. Understanding how these issues manifest at larger schools can help Maine families advocate effectively for strong anti-hazing measures here at home.

5.1.1 CAMPUS & CULTURE SNAPSHOT

The University of Maine (UMaine), located in Orono, is the flagship campus of the University of Maine System. Nestled in a picturesque setting along the Stillwater River and surrounded by forests, UMaine offers a traditional college experience with a strong sense of community. It serves over 11,000 students and boasts numerous student organizations, clubs, and athletic teams participating in NCAA Division I. While its Greek life is smaller than some of the massive Texas institutions, it maintains chapters that are active in campus life and community service. Maine families often consider UMaine for its strong academic programs, research opportunities, and the distinct advantage of being close to home, allowing for easier parental involvement and support.

5.1.2 OFFICIAL HAZING POLICY & REPORTING CHANNELS

The University of Maine, like all institutions receiving federal funding, strictly prohibits hazing. Its policies are typically found within the Student Code of Conduct or specific Greek Life handbooks. UMaine’s hazing policy generally aligns with state and federal definitions, prohibiting any activity that causes mental or physical harm, discomfort, embarrassment, or ridicule as a condition of membership or affiliation with a group.

Reporting channels at UMaine typically include:

• Dean of Students Office: The central authority for student conduct and welfare.
• Campus Police: For incidents involving criminal behavior or immediate safety concerns.
• Office of Community Standards: Responsible for investigating and adjudicating violations of the Student Code of Conduct.
• Anonymous online reporting forms: Often available through the university’s website for students who wish to report concerns without revealing their identity.
• Hazing hotline: Some universities implement these for anonymous reporting, which would be part of their general commitment to student safety.

UMaine, like other institutions, is committed to fostering a safe and inclusive environment, and its policies are designed to reflect this commitment.

5.1.3 SELECTED DOCUMENTED INCIDENTS & RESPONSES

While UMaine strives to maintain a safe campus, like any university, it has faced its share of organizational misconduct, including hazing allegations over the years. Specific historical incidents, while not as widely publicized as some of the national cases from larger universities, have led to disciplinary actions against student groups and chapters.

For example, past records might show various fraternities or clubs being placed on probation, suspended, or having their recognition revoked due to violations of alcohol policies, physical hazing, or inappropriate initiation rituals. These incidents, while individual cases at UMaine, demonstrate the universal struggle of institutions to enforce anti-hazing policies and ensure student safety. The university typically responds through its Office of Community Standards, conducting investigations, holding disciplinary hearings, and imposing sanctions ranging from educational requirements to suspension or permanent removal of the organization from campus. These responses reflect UMaine’s commitment, but also the persistent challenge of hazing.

5.1.4 HOW A UMAINE HAZING CASE MIGHT PROCEED

If hazing were to occur at the University of Maine, several agencies and legal pathways might be involved. Since UMaine is a public institution, cases would involve:

• UMO Police Department: For any incidents occurring on campus or involving criminal behavior.
• Orono Police Department or Maine State Police: If the incident occurs off-campus, such as at an off-campus house where students from UMaine reside.
• Office of Community Standards: For university-level administrative investigations and disciplinary actions against students and organizations, potentially leading to suspensions or expulsions.
• District Attorney’s Office: For criminal charges under Maine law, similar to how Texas Hazing Law operates in its state, if severe physical injuries or other crimes occurred.

In terms of civil litigation for Maine families, legal actions would likely be filed in Maine state courts, though federal courts could become involved if there are federal civil rights claims (e.g., Title IX). Potential defendants could include:

• Individual students involved in the hazing.
• The local chapter and its national organization.
• The University of Maine System itself, though public institutions often have sovereign immunity protections. However, claims could pursue exceptions based on gross negligence or intentional acts, or be directed at individual employees in their personal capacity.

5.1.5 WHAT UMAINE STUDENTS & PARENTS SHOULD DO

For students and parents involved with the University of Maine, proactive steps can make a significant difference:

• Familiarize yourself with UMaine’s official hazing policy and reporting procedures, which are typically found on the university website and in student handbooks.
• Monitor for warning signs: Parents in Maine should remain vigilant for changes in their child’s behavior, physical appearance, or academic performance that may indicate hazing.
• Encourage open communication: Create a safe space for your child to discuss concerns without fear of judgment.
• Document everything: If hazing is suspected or occurs, meticulously record dates, times, locations, and details. Screenshot messages, photograph injuries, and save any relevant digital or physical evidence.
• Report immediately: Use UMaine’s official reporting channels, including the Dean of Students or Campus Police, especially for immediate safety concerns.
• Seek legal counsel: For Maine families, consulting with a lawyer experienced in hazing cases in Maine can provide crucial guidance on navigating university investigations and exploring legal options for accountability and compensation. An attorney can help preserve evidence and protect the student’s rights during a challenging time.

5.2 UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON (UH)

The University of Houston, a vibrant and diverse institution, faces unique challenges in combating hazing within its large student body. For Maine families whose children may attend a large urban university like UH, understanding its specific context is essential. Many Maine students choose to venture to other states for college.

5.2.1 CAMPUS & CULTURE SNAPSHOT

The University of Houston is a sprawling public research university located in the heart of Houston, Texas’s largest city. It boasts a diverse student body of over 47,000, making it one of the largest universities in Texas. UH has a robust and active Greek life scene, with numerous Interfraternity Council, Panhellenic Council, National Pan-Hellenic Council, and multicultural fraternities and sororities. The campus culture is dynamic, reflecting its urban location, with a mix of residential and commuter students. For Maine students seeking a large, metropolitan experience with strong academic programs in various fields, UH can be an attractive option.

5.2.2 OFFICIAL HAZING POLICY & REPORTING CHANNELS

The University of Houston maintains stringent anti-hazing policies, explicitly prohibiting hazing both on and off campus. This policy is aligned with Texas state law and forbids any intentional, knowing, or reckless act directed against a student that endangers mental or physical health or safety for the purpose of affiliation with a student organization. The policy is comprehensive, covering physical mistreatment, forced consumption of alcohol, sleep deprivation, and any activity that could cause mental anguish.

UH provides multiple avenues for reporting hazing:

• Dean of Students Office: The primary contact for student conduct and welfare issues.
• UH Police Department (UHPD): For criminal acts or immediate safety concerns.
• Student Conduct Office: For investigations and disciplinary actions against individuals and organizations.
• Anonymous Reporting: Online forms and tip lines allow students to report concerns confidentially.

UH regularly publishes information about its anti-hazing efforts and disciplinary actions against organizations on its website, aiming for transparency and compliance with state reporting requirements.

5.2.3 EXAMPLE INCIDENT & RESPONSE

The University of Houston has been at the center of significant hazing allegations that have drawn national attention.

• Leonel Bermudez v. University of Houston / Pi Kappa Phi (Late 2025): Attorney911 is actively litigating a $10 million lawsuit on behalf of Leonel Bermudez, a transfer student who allegedy suffered acute kidney failure and rhabdomyolysis after severe hazing by the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity’s Beta Nu chapter. The hazing reportedly included:
  • Requiring pledges to carry a humiliating “pledge fanny pack” containing condoms, a sex toy, and nicotine devices 24/7.
  • Enforcing strict dress codes and hours-long “study/work” blocks.
  • Coercing pledges into overnight driving duties and intense physical activities like sprints, bear crawls, and 500 squats.
  • Forcing pledges to endure cold-weather exposure in underwear and lie in vomit-soaked grass.
  • Spraying pledges with a hose “similar to waterboarding” and threatening actual waterboarding.
  • Mandating consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting, followed by immediate sprints.
  • A specific incident on November 3, 2025, involved over 100 push-ups and 500 squats, which left Bermudez unable to stand and resulted in his hospitalization with brown urine, a symptom of rhabdomyolysis.
  • Another pledge was hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour on October 13.
    This case represents Attorney911’s direct involvement in securing justice for hazing victims at UH. The chapter was suspended by the national organization on November 6 and officially surrendered its charter on November 14, 2025.

5.2.4 HOW A UH HAZING CASE MIGHT PROCEED

For Maine families, understanding the procedural aspects of a hazing case in Houston is key. Investigations could involve the UH Police Department (UHPD) if incidents occur on campus, or the Houston Police Department (HPD) if they happen off-campus, particularly at private residences near the university. Criminal charges could be pursued by the Harris County District Attorney’s Office under Texas hazing statutes.

Civil lawsuits against the University of Houston, a public institution, present complexities due to sovereign immunity. However, exceptions exist for gross negligence, and claims can also target individual university employees in their personal capacities. Private entities like national fraternities and their local chapters, along with individual members, generally do not benefit from sovereign immunity. Cases would typically proceed in Harris County civil courts. For families far away in Maine, this means legal representation would be crucial to navigate the Texas legal system.

5.2.5 WHAT UH STUDENTS & PARENTS SHOULD DO

For students and parents connected to the University of Houston:

• Familiarize yourselves with UH’s specific hazing policies and reporting mechanisms, as outlined on their website.
• Prioritize medical evaluation: If any injury, however minor, or severe alcohol or substance use occurs, seek immediate medical attention and clearly state “hazing” as the cause to medical professionals.
• Document everything digital: In the age of constant communication, screenshot all relevant group chats (GroupMe, WhatsApp, etc.), direct messages, and social media posts. This evidence is crucial and can disappear quickly.
• Preserve physical evidence: This can include clothing, receipts for forced purchases, or any objects used in hazing activities.
• Contact Attorney911 immediately: Given the firm’s direct involvement in the Bermudez case, we have direct experience with UH’s environment. Our team can offer informed guidance on navigating both university disciplinary processes and potential civil or criminal actions. You can reach our Legal Emergency Lawyers™ at 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate consultation.

5.3 TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY

Texas A&M University, a legendary institution with deep traditions, presents another unique environment where hazing can unfortunately thrive. For Maine families, understanding the particular culture of A&M and its Corps of Cadets is important.

5.3.1 CAMPUS & CULTURE SNAPSHOT

Texas A&M University, located in College Station, is one of the largest and most distinctive universities in the nation, with a student population of over 70,000. It is renowned for its strong traditions, particularly its deeply rooted military culture embodied by the Corps of Cadets. The Corps is the largest uniformed body of students outside the national service academies, and its rigorous environment, while fostering leadership and discipline, has sometimes been a breeding ground for hazing allegations. Greek life is also prominent, with a large number of fraternities and sororities. The campus community prides itself on loyalty, tradition, and a powerful sense of unity, which for some, tragically, can translate into coercive “rites of passage.”

5.3.2 OFFICIAL HAZING POLICY & REPORTING CHANNELS

Texas A&M has a strict anti-hazing policy that applies to all student organizations, including Greek life and the Corps of Cadets. The policy strictly prohibits any intentional, knowing, or reckless act that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of initiation or affiliation. The university explicitly outlines behaviors that constitute hazing, such as forced consumption of alcohol, physical abuse, sleep deprivation, and any degrading activities.

Reporting channels at Texas A&M include:

• Student Conduct Office: For official investigations and disciplinary actions.
• Texas A&M University Police Department (UPD): For criminal offenses.
• Corps of Cadets Leadership: For internal reporting and disciplinary measures within the Corps.
• Anonymous reporting options: Online forms and whistleblower hotlines are available through various university departments.

Texas A&M is required to publish a hazing report annually, detailing violations and sanctions against organizations.

5.3.3 SELECTED DOCUMENTED INCIDENTS & RESPONSES

Texas A&M’s rich traditions, particularly within the Corps of Cadets, have occasionally been marred by severe hazing incidents.

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (2021): In a particularly egregious incident, two pledges of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) fraternity alleged they were forced to engage in strenuous physical activity while substances including an industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit were poured on them. This resulted in severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries for the victims. The pledges sued the fraternity for $1 million. The university suspended the fraternity for two years, demonstrating a firm stance against such dangerous acts.

• Corps of Cadets Lawsuit (2023): A former cadet filed a lawsuit alleging degrading and physical hazing during his time in the Corps. He claimed he was subjected to simulated sexual acts and tied in a humiliating “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth. The lawsuit sought over $1 million, highlighting serious issues within a revered campus institution. Texas A&M stated it addressed the matter through its internal disciplinary processes.

• Aggie Bonfire Collapse (1999): While not traditional hazing, the tragic collapse of the infamous Aggie Bonfire, which killed 12 and injured 27, raised profound questions about student-led high-risk activities and institutional oversight. Multiple lawsuits against university officials resulted in settlements exceeding $6 million in total, ultimately leading to the cessation of the official Bonfire tradition. This event served as a stark reminder of the dangers inherent in large, unsanctioned student traditions.

5.3.4 HOW A TEXAS A&M HAZING CASE MIGHT PROCEED

For Maine families, a hazing case originating at Texas A&M, a public university, would navigate the Texas legal system. Investigations might involve the Texas A&M University Police Department (UPD) or local College Station Police Department for criminal aspects. Civil lawsuits would likely be filed in Brazos County District Courts.

Like the University of Houston, Texas A&M benefits from some sovereign immunity as a public institution. However, liability can still be pursued under exceptions for gross negligence or through lawsuits against individual administrators found to be grossly negligent. Private organizations like national fraternities and their local chapters do not have sovereign immunity protections. Given A&M’s unique Corps of Cadets structure, hazing cases could also involve allegations against Corps leadership beyond typical Greek life hierarchies.

5.3.5 WHAT TEXAS A&M STUDENTS & PARENTS SHOULD DO

For students and parents associated with Texas A&M:

• Review official Texas A&M policies: Understand the university’s rules on hazing, particularly those specific to Greek life and the Corps of Cadets.
• Prioritize documentation: Given the strong “culture of silence” that can exist in tradition-heavy environments, immediate and thorough documentation of any hazing is critical. This includes texts, photos, and medical records.
• Seek medical attention and disclose hazing: If injuries occur or if there is alcohol/substance-related distress, medical treatment is paramount. Explain the circumstances to medical staff to ensure hazing is documented.
• Contact the Manginello Law Firm at 1-888-ATTY-911: Our team has experience with complex litigation against institutions, including those with unique cultures like A&M. We can help families investigate incidents, understand Texas law, and navigate potential claims while respecting the need for discretion in sensitive situations.

5.4 UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN (UT)

The University of Texas at Austin is a major public research university and a key cultural hub in Texas. For Maine families considering a flagship public university, UT Austin’s approach to hazing offers important insights.

5.4.1 CAMPUS & CULTURE SNAPSHOT

The University of Texas at Austin is the flagship institution of the University of Texas System, located in the vibrant capital city. With over 52,000 students, it is one of the largest universities in the nation, known for its academic rigor, competitive athletics, and spirited campus life. UT Austin boasts a massive Greek life community, alongside a myriad of other student organizations, including many that carry deep traditions and strong alumni networks. Its culture is often characterized by a fierce sense of spirit and pride in being a “Longhorn,” which, like other schools, can sometimes inadvertently foster environments where hazing is rationalized.

5.4.2 OFFICIAL HAZING POLICY & REPORTING CHANNELS

UT Austin has a clear and strict anti-hazing policy that is fully compliant with Texas state law. The policy explicitly prohibits any form of hazing, whether on or off campus, that involves bodily injury, physical or mental discomfort, harassment, ridicule, or intimidation. UT has been proactive in implementing measures to report and prevent hazing, recognizing the serious risks involved.

Reporting channels at UT Austin include:

• Dean of Students Office: The central point for student conduct concerns.
• University of Texas Police Department (UTPD): For criminal violations.
• Student Conduct and Academic Integrity: For investigations and disciplinary actions.
• UT’s Hazing Prevention Resources: A dedicated online portal with anonymous reporting options, counseling services, and educational materials.

Crucially, UT Austin is notable for its public Hazing Violations Log, which transparently lists organizations, dates of incidents, a description of the conduct, and the sanctions imposed. This log serves as a valuable resource for families in Maine and elsewhere.

5.4.3 SELECTED DOCUMENTED INCIDENTS & RESPONSES

The University of Texas at Austin’s commitment to transparency means it often has a more publicly accessible record of hazing incidents and organizational responses.

• UT’s Public Hazing Violations Log: The university’s website features a comprehensive public log detailing numerous organizations sanctioned for hazing. Examples from this log include:
  • Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): This fraternity was sanctioned after new members were reportedly required to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics, which was deemed to be hazing. The chapter was placed on probation and mandated to implement new hazing-prevention education.
  • Other organizations, including spirit groups and traditional clubs like the Texas Wranglers or Texas Cowboys, have faced sanctions for various forms of hazing, including forced workouts, alcohol-related abuse, and other punishment-based practices.
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon Assault Case (January 2024): An Australian exchange student alleged assault by fraternity members at a party, suffering injuries including a dislocated leg, broken ligaments, a fractured tibia, and a broken nose. The student subsequently sued the SAE chapter for over $1 million. This incident occurred while the chapter was reportedly already under suspension for prior hazing/safety violations, highlighting repeat offenses even after institutional action.
• Texas Cowboys Hazing Death (2018): In a separate incident regarding the Texas Cowboys (a spirit group), a new member died in a car accident after a night of suspected hazing. His parents alleged that sleep deprivation contributed to the accident. While the university took disciplinary action against the group for unrelated issues, the incident raised serious questions about the role of hazing in the tragic death.

These documented cases, particularly those publicly listed by UT, provide powerful pattern evidence that can be utilized in civil litigation, demonstrating that the university was aware of, and had taken action against, certain organizations for hazing.

5.4.4 HOW A UT AUSTIN HAZING CASE MIGHT PROCEED

For Maine families, legal proceedings for a hazing incident at UT Austin would involve state and local authorities in Texas. Criminal investigations would typically be handled by the University of Texas Police Department (UTPD) on campus or the Austin Police Department (APD) for off-campus incidents. The Travis County District Attorney’s Office would pursue any criminal charges under Texas law.

Civil lawsuits against UT Austin, as a public university, would navigate the complexities of sovereign immunity. However, exceptions for gross negligence, as well as claims against individual university employees, remain avenues for accountability. Private groups like national fraternities and their local chapters do not have these immunity protections. Lawsuits would be filed in Travis County, utilizing UT’s public hazing log and other institutional records as evidence to build a compelling case.

5.4.5 WHAT UT AUSTIN STUDENTS & PARENTS SHOULD DO

For students and parents associated with UT Austin:

• Check the UT Hazing Violations Log: Before joining any organization, consult UT’s public log to see if the group has a history of hazing. This is a crucial transparency tool.
• Use UT’s specific reporting channels: Utilize the UT Hazing Prevention Resources website, the Dean of Students Office, or UTPD for reporting concerns.
• Document everything aggressively: Given the detailed nature of some allegations at UT, meticulous records of texts, photos, and any instructions from older members are vital.
• Prioritize medical care and clear disclosure: If injuries or acute distress occur, seek immediate medical help. Inform medical staff that hazing was involved for proper documentation.
• Contact the Manginello Law Firm at 1-888-ATTY-911: Our firm is intimately familiar with Texas hazing law and the practices of Texas universities. We can help Maine families understand their rights, navigate UT’s reporting process, and build a strong legal case if hazing has occurred.

5.5 SOUTHERN METHODIST UNIVERSITY (SMU)

Southern Methodist University, known for its beautiful campus and strong academic programs, represents a different type of institution: a private university with significant resources. For Maine families, understanding how hazing is handled in such a setting, distinct from large public systems, is important.

5.5.1 CAMPUS & CULTURE SNAPSHOT

Southern Methodist University (SMU) is a prestigious private university located in Dallas, Texas. It is celebrated for its beautiful campus, rigorous academics, and a vibrant social scene often heavily influenced by its robust Greek life. SMU has a reputation for attracting affluent students and fostering a strong sense of community and tradition. With a student body of around 12,000, SMU offers an intimate, yet dynamic, collegiate experience. Greek life plays a particularly prominent role in social circles, and student organizations often carry long-standing traditions.

5.5.2 OFFICIAL HAZING POLICY & REPORTING CHANNELS

SMU has clear and strict anti-hazing policies that prohibit any acts that endanger the physical or mental health of a student for the purpose of affiliation. As a private institution, SMU’s policies and enforcement mechanisms are internal, though they typically align with general state laws against hazing. SMU emphasizes a zero-tolerance approach and provides education on hazing prevention.

Reporting channels at SMU typically include:

• Dean of Students Office: For general student conduct concerns and official investigations.
• SMU Police Department (SMU PD): For any criminal acts occurring on campus.
• Student Affairs: Which oversees Greek Life and many student organizations.
• Anonymous reporting systems: SMU offers confidential methods for students to report hazing without fear of direct retaliation, such as its “Real Response” platform.

SMU’s adherence to publishing hazing violations might be less public than state institutions due to its private status, emphasizing internal disciplinary actions.

5.5.3 SELECTED DOCUMENTED INCIDENTS & RESPONSES

While SMU aims to uphold high standards of conduct, its prominent Greek life has sometimes led to hazing incidents.

• Kappa Alpha Order Incident (2017): This fraternity faced severe sanctions after allegations surfaced that new members were subjected to paddling, forced alcohol consumption, and significant sleep deprivation. Following an investigation, the chapter was suspended for several years, with restrictions placed on its ability to recruit new members until around 2021. This incident highlights SMU’s willingness to take strong disciplinary action against violating organizations.

• Multiple other groups: While not always widely publicized, SMU’s internal disciplinary records have shown various fraternities, soror and other student organizations facing probation or suspension for violations ranging from forced physical activity to alcohol abuse during initiation. These ongoing instances reflect the persistent challenge of hazing even in private university settings.

5.5.4 HOW AN SMU HAZING CASE MIGHT PROCEED

For Maine families, a hazing case at SMU, a private university, would differ in some key procedural aspects from a public university. Criminal investigations would be conducted by the SMU Police Department (for on-campus incidents) or the Dallas Police Department (for off-campus incidents). Any criminal charges would be pursued by the Dallas County District Attorney’s Office.

In civil lawsuits, SMU, as a private institution, does not benefit from sovereign immunity, which simplifies the legal pathway for victims. This means claims against the university itself can proceed more directly based on theories of negligence, gross negligence, or premises liability. Lawsuits would be filed in Dallas County civil courts, with potential defendants including individual students, the local chapter, the national organization, and the university.

5.5.5 WHAT SMU STUDENTS & PARENTS SHOULD DO

For students and parents connected to SMU:

• Understand SMU’s specific conduct policies: Familiarize yourselves with the university’s rules, particularly those governing Greek life and other student organizations.
• Utilize SMU’s “Real Response” or Dean of Students: These channels are designed to address student concerns, including hazing, and can initiate internal investigations.
• Document all evidence: Even without public logs like UT’s, meticulous personal documentation of communications, events, and injuries is crucial for building any internal complaint or external legal case.
• Seek support from SMU’s health and counseling services: These resources can provide confidential support for students experiencing distress due to hazing.
• Immediately contact the Manginello Law Firm at 1-888-ATTY-911: Our firm can provide tailored advice for navigating cases involving private universities like SMU. We understand the nuances of their internal processes and how they differ from public institutions, which is critical for Maine families seeking justice.

5.6 BAYLOR UNIVERSITY

Baylor University, a prominent private Christian institution, presents another unique environment for hazing, especially given its strong emphasis on values. Maine families considering faith-based universities in Texas should understand both Baylor’s mission and how hazing allegations are handled.

5.6.1 CAMPUS & CULTURE SNAPSHOT

Baylor University is a private Baptist research university located in Waco, Texas. It is the oldest continuously operating university in Texas, known for its strong Christian mission, competitive academics, and NCAA Division I athletics. Baylor cultivates a vibrant campus community with numerous student organizations, including fraternities and sororities, and various clubs that are deeply ingrained in the university’s traditions. The campus culture is heavily influenced by its faith-based identity, which seeks to foster community and ethical behavior among its 20,000+ students.

5.6.2 OFFICIAL HAZING POLICY & REPORTING CHANNELS

Baylor University explicitly prohibits hazing, articulating clear policies against any acts that endanger the mental or physical health of students for the purpose of affiliation with a student organization. Baylor’s anti-hazing stance is framed within its Christian mission, emphasizing respect, dignity, and integrity in all student activities.

Reporting channels at Baylor include:

• Dean of Students Office: For all student conduct matters.
• Baylor University Police Department (BUPD): For any criminal acts.
• Title IX Office: If hazing involves sex-based discrimination or harassment.
• EthicsPoint: An anonymous online reporting system available to the entire Baylor community.

Baylor strives to educate its community on anti-hazing policies and actively encourages reporting through these diverse channels.

5.6.3 SELECTED DOCUMENTED INCIDENTS & RESPONSES

Despite its faith-based mission, Baylor University has faced its share of hazing allegations, demonstrating that such issues can arise even in environments with strong ethical codes.

• Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020): An internal investigation into hazing allegations within the Baylor baseball program led to the suspension of 14 players. These suspensions were staggered over the early part of the season, indicating a recognition by the university of widespread issues. The details of the hazing were not fully disclosed but involved team activities that violated university policy.
• Baylor Chamber of Commerce Hazing Death (1967): Historically, Baylor faced tragedy with the death of John E. Clifton, a freshman, during a hazing ritual by the Baylor Chamber of Commerce, a campus spirit and service club. Clifton choked on a mixture he was forced to consume. While the university initially dismissed it as a non-hazing accident, it led to policy changes by the university president to explicitly ban “physical” hazing, highlighting a legacy of hazing concerns.
• Broader institutional issues: Baylor has also faced national scrutiny for its handling of broader institutional misconduct, including a major sexual assault scandal involving its football program earlier in the decade. While not directly hazing, these incidents have led to significant overhauls in university leadership, reporting structures, and its approach to student safety and accountability.

5.6.4 HOW A BAYLOR HAZING CASE MIGHT PROCEED

For Maine families, a hazing case at Baylor, a private university, would involve investigations coordinated by the Baylor University Police Department (BUPD) or the Waco Police Department for off-campus incidents. Criminal charges would be handled by the McLennan County District Attorney’s Office.

In civil lawsuits, Baylor, as a private institution, does not have sovereign immunity and can be sued directly. Claims would typically allege negligence, gross negligence, premises liability, and possibly Title IX violations (especially if connected to sexual harassment). These cases would be filed in McLennan County civil courts, and potential defendants would include individual students, the local chapter, the national organization (if applicable), and Baylor University.

5.6.5 WHAT BAYLOR STUDENTS & PARENTS SHOULD DO

For students and parents connected to Baylor University:

• Engage with Baylor’s extensive reporting systems: Utilize the Dean of Students, BUPD, Title IX Office, or the anonymous EthicsPoint system to report any hazing concerns.
• Understand the “culture of care”: Baylor often emphasizes a “culture of care” within its faith-based mission. Families should understand how this philosophy is translated into practice regarding student safety and hazing prevention.
• Document all communications and incidents: Maintain detailed records of any suspected hazing, including digital evidence, witness names, and medical reports.
• Prioritize professional help for mental health: Given the psychological impact of hazing, utilizing Baylor’s counseling services can be crucial, and these records can also be important evidence in legal cases.
• Contact the Manginello Law Firm at 1-888-ATTY-911: Our firm offers expertise in navigating hazing cases at private universities. We understand the specific dynamics of institutions like Baylor, including their internal policies and how to pursue both institutional and individual accountability effectively.

FRATERNITIES & SORORITIES: CAMPUS-SPECIFIC + NATIONAL HISTORIES

For Maine families, understanding the complex world of fraternities and sororities, both at the local chapter level and their national organizational structures, is crucial when considering hazing. Many of these groups operate across state lines, meaning the history of an organization at one campus can directly impact the legal accountability of a local chapter in Texas, or even here in Maine.

WHY NATIONAL HISTORIES MATTER

Many fraternities and sororities present at institutions like the University of Maine, the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor are chapters of national (or international) organizations. These national entities typically:

• Maintain extensive anti-hazing manuals, risk management policies, and codes of conduct, often developed and refined over decades.
• Possess this elaborate framework precisely because they have a long history of high-profile incidents, including multiple deaths and catastrophic injuries at various chapters across the country.
• Are acutely aware of recurring patterns of hazing within their own organizations, whether it’s forced drinking rituals, specific physical ordeals, or humiliating “traditions.”

This national history is vital because when a local chapter in Texas or Maine repeats the same dangerous script—a drinking ritual, a pseudo-initiation, or a degrading activity—that led to severe injury or death at another chapter in a different state, it strengthens the argument for foreseeability. It demonstrates that the national organization had prior knowledge of such risks and a duty to prevent them. This pattern of knowledge can significantly impact civil lawsuits, bolstering claims of negligence and potentially gross negligence against national entities.

ORGANIZATION MAPPING (SYNTHESIZED)

While we cannot list every single chapter at every university, it is important for Maine families to recognize some of the major fraternities and sororities that frequently appear in hazing litigation nationwide, and consequently, may have chapters at colleges their children attend.

• Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike): Known for its strong presence on many campuses, Pike unfortunately has a national history marred by severe incidents. The tragic death of Stone Foltz at Bowling Green State University (2021) from forced alcohol consumption during a “Big/Little” night resulted in a $10 million settlement from the national fraternity and university. Earlier, the death of David Bogenberger at Northern Illinois University (2012) from alcohol poisoning also led to a significant $14 million settlement. These cases underscore a clear pattern of dangerous alcohol hazing within the organization.

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE): Often referred to as “America’s deadliest fraternity” by some media outlets due to a history of hazing deaths, SAE has faced immense pressure to reform. Noteworthy incidents include multiple hazing-related deaths and severe injuries nationwide. Recent lawsuits highlight ongoing concerns, including a traumatic brain injury lawsuit at the University of Alabama (filed 2023) stemming from an alleged hazing ritual, and a $1 million lawsuit at Texas A&M (2021) by pledges who suffered chemical burns from substances poured on them. In January 2024, a student alleged assault at their University of Texas chapter, which was already under suspension for prior violations. This demonstrates a persistent pattern of safety concerns within SAE nationally.

• Phi Delta Theta: This fraternity was at the center of the Max Gruver’s death at Louisiana State University (2017). Gruver died from alcohol poisoning during a forced drinking game. This tragic event led to criminal convictions for members and the passage of Louisiana’s felony hazing law, the Max Gruver Act. The national organization has been held accountable for its role in preventing such incidents through civil means.

• Pi Kappa Phi: This organization has also faced severe consequences for hazing. The death of Andrew Coffey at Florida State University (2017), due to acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night,” directly led to multiple criminal charges and statewide anti-hazing reforms in Florida. More recently, in our firm’s experience, the Beta Nu chapter at the University of Houston is currently involved in a $10 million lawsuit filed by Attorney911 on behalf of Leonel Bermudez for severe alleged hazing injuries (2025). These incidents show a consistent pattern of dangerous practices within chapters of Pi Kappa Phi.

• Kappa Alpha Order: While also present on many southern campuses (including SMU), this fraternity has a national history that includes hazing-related suspensions. Their SMU chapter was notably suspended in 2017 following allegations of excessive drinking, paddling, and sleep deprivation.

• Beta Theta Pi: This fraternity gained national attention following the tragic death of Timothy Piazza at Penn State University (2017). Piazza died after falling repeatedly during a night of extreme alcohol consumption, with brothers delaying medical help. This led to massive criminal charges, civil litigation, and new state legislation, underscoring the severe risks of unchecked hazing behaviors in their chapters.

TIE BACK TO LEGAL STRATEGY

For Maine families, understanding these national patterns and the histories of specific fraternities and sororities is paramount to any legal strategy. These patterns demonstrate:

• Foreseeability: That national organizations, by virtue of past incidents across their chapters, had (or should have had) clear knowledge of the dangers inherent in certain activities. This prior knowledge directly supports arguments that they were negligent in preventing similar incidents.
• Pattern of conduct: Repeated incidents of alcohol abuse, physical mistreatment, or degrading rituals show a systemic problem, not just isolated “rogue” acts by a few bad apples. This can defeat a national organization’s defense that they “didn’t know” or that it was against their policies.

In a civil lawsuit, courts can consider whether national organizations:

• Meaningfully enforced their anti-hazing policies and risk management guidelines.
• Responded to prior incidents with sufficient aggression and effective preventative measures.

This evidence can significantly influence:

• Settlement leverage: Demonstrating a strong case of foreseeability can compel national organizations to offer more substantial settlements to avoid the risks of trial.
• Insurance coverage disputes: It can help overcome arguments by insurance companies to deny coverage based on “rogue acts” or policy exclusions.
• Potential for punitive damages: In cases of gross negligence or extreme recklessness, evidence of a national pattern of ignoring hazing can support claims for punitive damages, which are designed to punish and deter future misconduct.

Effectively navigating these complexities requires a legal team with significant experience in hazing litigation and a deep understanding of organizational structures and national hazing patterns.

BUILDING A CASE: EVIDENCE, DAMAGES, STRATEGY

For Maine families considering legal action after a hazing incident, understanding how a case is built is crucial. It’s not just about what happened; it’s about what can be proven. At The Manginello Law Firm, we approach hazing litigation with the same meticulous investigation and strategic planning as complex corporate or catastrophic injury cases, because we know the stakes are just as high.

EVIDENCE

The strength of any hazing case hinges on compelling evidence. We leave no stone unturned in gathering and preserving every piece of information that illuminates what happened, who was involved, and who is responsible.

• Digital Communications: In 2025, group chats and direct messages are often the most critical pieces of evidence. We prioritize preserving communications from:

  • GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Slack, and fraternity/sorority-specific apps: These platforms often contain explicit instructions, plans for hazing events, discussions of coercive tactics, and even evidence of cover-up attempts. It is vital to screenshot full conversations with timestamps and participant names clearly visible.
  • Instagram DMs, Snapchat messages, and TikTok comments: These can reveal peer pressure, humiliation, and even planning.
  • Even deleted messages: Our network of digital forensics experts can often recover deleted communications, but original screenshots are always best. Attorney911’s video on using your phone to document evidence (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs) provides best practices for families.

• Photos & Videos: Visual evidence is incredibly powerful. This includes:

  • Content filmed by members themselves during hazing events, often initially intended as “jokes” or trophies.
  • Footage shared in private group chats or, occasionally, posted on social media.
  • Security camera or doorbell footage (e.g., Ring cameras) at fraternity houses, off-campus residences, or event venues that might capture aspects of hazing or the aftermath.
  • Photographs and videos of injuries, taken from multiple angles and at different stages to document progression.

• Internal Organization Documents: These can lay bare the discrepancy between publicly stated anti-hazing policies and a chapter’s actual practices. This includes:

  • Pledge manuals, initiation scripts, or lists of “traditions” that outline forbidden activities.
  • Emails or text messages from chapter officers about new member activities that implicitly or explicitly hint at hazing.
  • National organization policies and training materials, which can establish a national’s knowledge of potential risks.

• University Records: These records help establish a pattern of conduct and the university’s prior knowledge or response. We frequently obtain:

  • Prior conduct files related to the accused organization, detailing previous hazing violations, probations, or suspensions.
  • Campus police incident reports, including internal reports of suspicious activities related to the organization or individuals.
  • Clery Act reports and similar public disclosures, which can reveal a history of alcohol-related offenses, assaults, or other crimes associated with the organization.

• Medical and Psychological Records: These document the full extent of harm suffered by the victim:

  • Emergency room and hospitalization records, detailing initial injuries, diagnoses, and treatments.
  • Surgery and rehabilitation notes for physical recovery.
  • Toxicology reports, especially crucial in alcohol or drug-related hazing deaths or injuries.
  • Psychological evaluations that document PTSD, anxiety, depression, or other mental health impacts, which are critical for establishing non-economic damages.

• Witness Testimony: The accounts of individuals who saw or experienced the hazing are invaluable:

  • Other pledges who endured similar treatment.
  • Current or former members who are willing to speak, especially those who have left the organization due to hazing.
  • Roommates, resident advisors (RAs), coaches, or bystanders who noticed changes in the victim’s behavior or physical condition.
  • Emergency responders (EMTs, hospital staff) who observed the immediate aftermath.

DAMAGES

Hazing inflicts multi-faceted harm, and the law aims to compensate victims and their families for every aspect of that suffering. At Attorney911, we methodically quantify damages to ensure our clients receive full and fair compensation.

• Medical Bills & Future Care: This covers all costs related to physical and psychological recovery.

  • Immediate care: Ambulance transport, emergency room visits, and intensive care unit (ICU) stays.
  • Ongoing treatment: Surgeries, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and medications.
  • Long-term care: For catastrophic injuries like traumatic brain injuries (e.g., Danny Santulli’s case) or organ damage due to alcohol poisoning, this can include a lifetime of specialized care.

• Lost Earnings / Educational Impact: This accounts for financial setbacks due to hazing.

  • Lost earnings: If the hazing victim had to take time off from work or was severely injured to the point of permanent disability, leading to a diminished lifelong earning capacity.
  • Educational impact: Costs for missed semesters, delayed graduation, or loss of academic or athletic scholarships. An inability to finish a degree can have profound long-term financial consequences.

• Non-Economic Damages: These address subjective, yet deeply impactful, forms of suffering.

  • Physical pain and suffering: From acute injuries to chronic pain and lasting physical limitations.
  • Emotional distress, trauma, and humiliation: Including conditions like Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), severe anxiety, depression, and the profound loss of dignity.
  • Loss of enjoyment of life: The inability to participate in activities once loved, or a general diminished quality of life due to the trauma.

• Wrongful Death Damages (for families): In the most tragic cases, families of victims can seek compensation for their profound loss. Attorney911 has extensive wrongful death experience (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/), having recovered millions for families in catastrophic cases, including:

  • Funeral and burial costs.
  • Loss of companionship, love, and support: The emotional devastation suffered by spouses, children, and parents.
  • Loss of financial support: If the deceased would have contributed to family income or support over their lifetime.
  • Punitive damages: In cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct, these are awarded to punish egregious behavior and deter future hazing.

ROLE OF DIFFERENT DEFENDANTS AND INSURANCE COVERAGE

Hazing cases are complex because they often involve many defendants, each with their own legal counsel and insurance.

• Insurance Policies: National fraternities, universities, and sometimes even local chapters carry insurance policies that are designed to cover liability for such incidents. However, these policies often have exceptions or clauses that exclude “intentional acts” or “criminal conduct.”
• Defense Tactics: Insurers and their legal teams will often argue these exclusions to deny coverage, attempting to shift blame or minimize payouts.
• Experienced Hazing Lawyers: Our legal team at Attorney911 identifies all potential sources of insurance coverage. We are skilled in navigating these complex insurance coverage disputes, challenging wrongful denials, and ensuring that all liable parties’ insurance is brought to bear. Lupe Peña’s background as a former insurance defense attorney (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/) is crucial for navigating fraternity and university insurance companies’ tactics and leveraging our “insider advantage.” We know their playbook because we used to run it.

PRACTICAL GUIDES & FAQS

For distraught parents in Maine and students across Texas, knowing what steps to take during and after a hazing incident can feel overwhelming. This section offers practical, actionable advice for parents, students, and witnesses, empowering them to respond effectively and protect their rights. For Maine families, it’s about providing clear guidance in a confusing and often terrifying situation.

8.1 FOR PARENTS

Parents are often the first to notice changes in their child that may signal hazing, even if the child is hesitant to speak up. Your vigilance and informed response are critical.

• Warning Signs of Hazing:

  • Unexplained injuries or frequent “accidents” that don’t quite add up. Look for bruises, burns, or cuts, particularly on areas of the body that might be concealed.
  • Sudden exhaustion or extreme sleep deprivation, with your child constantly tired or falling asleep unexpectedly.
  • Drastic changes in mood, including increased anxiety, irritability, depression, or withdrawal from usual social circles.
  • Secretive phone use for group chats, coupled with a fear of missing “mandatory” events or messages.
  • Changes in eating habits, loss of appetite, or signs of forced consumption.
  • Decline in academic performance, missing classes, or lack of focus on studies.
  • Unexplained financial strain or sudden requests for money.

• How to Talk to Your Child:

  • Approach the conversation with openness and empathy, avoiding judgment.
  • Emphasize their safety and well-being above any organizational loyalty.
  • Let them know you are there to support them, regardless of what they may have experienced or been pressured to do.
  • Ask open-ended questions like, “How are things really going?”, “Is anything making you uncomfortable?”, or “Can you talk to me about what’s happening in your new group?”

• If Your Child is Hurt:

  • Seek immediate medical care. Prioritize their physical and mental health above all else.
  • Document everything. Take photos of injuries (with multiple angles and a ruler for scale), save relevant texts or messages, and write down a detailed account of what your child tells you, including dates, times, and locations.
  • Save key information. Keep names of those involved, contact numbers, and any physical items (e.g., clothes with stains, receipts for forced purchases).

• Dealing with the University:

  • Document all communications. Keep detailed records of every interaction with university administrators.
  • Ask pointed questions. Inquire about the university’s knowledge of prior incidents involving the same organization and what actions were taken.
  • Be aware that the university’s primary concern is often institutional reputation and liability, not necessarily your child’s individual interests.

• When to talk to a lawyer:

  • If your child has suffered significant physical or psychological harm.
  • If you perceive that the university or organization is minimizing the incident, attempting a cover-up, or pressuring your child not to speak.
  • If you believe criminal acts occurred.

8.2 FOR STUDENTS / PLEDGES

For students in Maine heading to college across the country, especially those trying to join a group, self-assessment and safety planning are your best defenses. Your rights matter, and you can get help.

• Is this hazing or just tradition?

  • Ask yourself: Would I do this activity in front of my parents, a dean, or a police officer? If not, it’s likely hazing.
  • If you feel unsafe, humiliated, or coerced; if you’re forced to drink or endure pain; or if the activity is hidden from the public or administrators—it probably is hazing.
  • Remember, activities are considered hazing if they cause mental or physical discomfort, harassment, ridicule, or intimidation.

• Why “consent” isn’t the end of the story:

  • You might feel pressured to agree to things to “fit in” or “earn your spot.” However, the law and universities recognize that “consent” given under duress, peer pressure, or fear of exclusion is not true voluntary consent. Your acceptance is often a product of the power dynamics inherent in hazing.
  • Texas Education Code expressly states that consent is not a defense to hazing.

• Exiting and reporting safely:

  • You have the legal right to leave any situation or organization that makes you uncomfortable, at any time. No one can force you to stay.
  • Prioritize your safety. If you are in immediate danger, call 911.
  • Report confidentially or anonymously through campus channels (Dean of Students, campus police), university hotlines, or the National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293).
  • Talk to a trusted adult—a parent, professor, resident advisor, or coach—who can offer support and guidance.

• Good-faith reporting and amnesty:

  • Many schools and state laws, including Texas, offer amnesty or immunity for students who seek medical help in an emergency (e.g., for alcohol poisoning), even if they or others were underage or involved in hazing. Prioritize saving a life over fear of discipline.

8.3 FOR FORMER MEMBERS / WITNESSES

If you are a former member or witness of hazing, your voice can be crucial in preventing future harm and holding abusers accountable.

• Your Role in Accountability: While you may feel guilt, fear, or conflicted loyalty, your testimony and evidence can make a profound difference. You have the power to prevent another student from suffering similar abuse, potentially saving lives.
• Seeking Legal Advice: If you were involved in hazing or witnessed it, you might be concerned about your own liability. It is advisable to seek legal representation. An attorney can explain your rights, guide you through the process, and negotiate with authorities on your behalf, potentially mitigating any personal exposure. When hazing results in criminal charges, Attorney911’s criminal defense experience (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/) means we understand both the criminal and civil tracks.
• Cooperation and Impact: Cooperating with investigations—whether university, criminal, or civil—can be an important step toward making amends and healing. Your perspective as an insider can provide invaluable context and evidence that no one else can.

8.4 CRITICAL MISTAKES THAT CAN DESTROY YOUR CASE

Navigating a hazing claim is fraught with peril, especially for families unfamiliar with the complex tactics employed by institutions and defense attorneys. For Maine families, being aware of these pitfalls is key to protecting your child’s rights and ensuring accountability.

MISTAKES THAT CAN RUIN YOUR HAZING CASE:

1. Letting your child delete messages or “clean up” evidence:

   • What parents think: “I don’t want them to get in more trouble.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Deleting evidence (group chats, texts, social media posts) can look like a cover-up, makes proving the case nearly impossible, and can even carry legal penalties for obstruction of justice.
   • What to do instead: Preserve everything immediately, even embarrassing or seemingly minor content. Attorney911’s video on using your phone to document evidence (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs) explains best practices.

2. Confronting the fraternity/sorority directly:

   • What parents think: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind.”
   • Why it’s wrong: This immediately puts the organization on alert, prompting them to destroy evidence, coach witnesses, and prepare their defense.
   • What to do instead: Document everything discreetly, then call a lawyer before any direct confrontation.

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

   • What universities do: They may pressure families to sign waivers or “internal resolution” agreements to quickly resolve the issue.
   • Why it’s wrong: You may inadvertently waive your right to pursue a civil lawsuit, and any internal “settlement” offered is often far below the true value of your case.
   • What to do instead: Do NOT sign anything from the university or an insurance company without an attorney reviewing it first.

4. Posting details on social media before talking to a lawyer:

   • What families think: “I want people to know what happened.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Public social media posts can be used by defense attorneys to find inconsistencies, damage credibility, and potentially waive privacy or legal privilege.
   • What to do instead: Document privately. Your lawyer will control public messaging strategically.

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

   • What fraternities/sororities say: “Just come talk to us before you do anything drastic.”
   • Why it’s wrong: These meetings are often designed to pressure, intimidate, or extract statements that can be used against your child in a future investigation or lawsuit.
   • What to do instead: Once you’re considering legal action, all communication from the organization should be directed to your lawyer.

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

   • What universities promise: “We’re investigating; let us handle this internally.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Critical evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, and the university controls the narrative (which may not align with your child’s best interests). The statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit can also expire.
   • What to do instead: Preserve evidence NOW. Consult with a lawyer immediately. The university’s internal process is separate from seeking legal accountability and compensation.

7. Talking to insurance adjusters without a lawyer:

   • What adjusters say: “We just need your statement to process the claim.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Recorded statements are used against you. Adjusters are trained to minimize payouts, and early settlement offers are almost always lowball.
   • What to do instead: Politely decline to speak and say, “My attorney will contact you.”

For more on avoiding common errors, watch Attorney911’s video on client mistakes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY

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) have some sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, willful misconduct, and Title IX violations. Private universities (like SMU, Baylor) have fewer immunity protections and can be sued more directly. Always contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a case-specific analysis, as proving these exceptions requires specific legal expertise.

• “Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
  It can be. While basic hazing is often a Class B misdemeanor, it quickly escalates. Hazing becomes a state jail felony if it causes serious bodily injury or death. Individuals (including officers who failed to report) and organizations can face criminal charges.

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

• “How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?”
  Generally, there is a 2-year statute of limitations from the date of injury or death in Texas. However, the “discovery rule” may extend this period if the harm or its cause wasn’t immediately known, especially in cases with cover-ups. Time is critical—evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, and organizations destroy records. Don’t delay; call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately to protect your child’s rights. Learn about Texas statute of limitations in our video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c.

• “What if the hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?”
  Location does not eliminate liability. Universities and national fraternities/sororities can still be held liable based on their sponsorship, control, knowledge, and whether the hazing was foreseeable. Many major hazing cases that resulted in multi-million-dollar judgments, such as the Pi Delta Psi retreat case or the Sigma Pi incident at an unofficial house, occurred off-campus.

• “Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”
  Many hazing cases are resolved through confidential settlements negotiated before trial. We prioritize our clients’ privacy while aggressively pursuing accountability. We can discuss strategies for maintaining confidentiality while still seeking justice.

ABOUT THE MANGINELLO LAW FIRM + CALL TO ACTION

When your family faces a hazing case, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys—Legal Emergency Lawyers™—who understand how powerful institutions fight back, and how to win anyway. This is especially true for families in Maine, who might feel distant or isolated from the legal realities of a Texas campus.

Attorney911 brings unique qualifications to the fight against hazing, whether it occurs here in Maine or at major universities in Texas. We understand from firsthand experience that hazing at Texas universities can profoundly impact families across the country, including those in Maine.

Our firm’s unique qualifications are built to counter the tactics of large institutions:

• Insurance Insider Advantage: Our Associate Attorney, Lupe Peña (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/), previously worked as a defense attorney for insurance companies, including those that represent fraternities and universities. She knows exactly how these insurance giants value (and undervalue) hazing claims, understands their delay tactics, their arguments to exclude coverage, and their settlement strategies. In essence, we know their playbook because we used to run it. This insider knowledge gives our clients a distinct advantage.

• Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions: Ralph Manginello, our managing partner (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/), possesses a proven track record in complex litigation against well-resourced defendants. He was one of the few Texas attorneys involved in the BP Texas City explosion litigation, taking on a billion-dollar corporation and securing justice for victims. Our extensive experience in federal court (U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas) means we are not intimidated by national fraternities, universities, or their formidable defense teams. We’ve taken on billion-dollar entities and won.

• Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death and Catastrophic Injury Experience: We have a proven track record in securing multi-million dollar results in complex wrongful death and catastrophic injury cases. This includes collaborating with economists to accurately value lifelong care needs for victims with traumatic brain injuries or other permanent disabilities, such as those seen in severe hazing. We don’t settle cheap; we build cases that compel full accountability.

• Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise: Ralph’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) underscores our dual expertise. We understand how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation, allowing us to advise clients on both fronts. This is crucial when hazing incidents involve criminal elements, providing comprehensive guidance for victims and their families.

• Investigative Depth: We leverage a vast network of experts, including medical professionals, digital forensics specialists, economists, and psychologists. Our experience allows us to obtain and interpret crucial, often hidden, evidence such as deleted group chats, internal chapter records, and university disciplinary files, often through subpoenas and aggressive discovery tactics. We investigate every case like your child’s life depends on it—because it does.

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, operating as Attorney911, is a Houston-based Texas personal injury firm with deep experience in serious injury, wrongful death, and institutional accountability cases. We serve families throughout Texas, including Maine and surrounding areas. We understand that hazing at Texas universities affects families across the country, and we are here to bridge that geographic gap with our expertise.

Our firm understands:

• How fraternities, sororities, Corps programs, and athletic departments actually work behind closed doors, including the subculture that enables hazing.
• How to investigate modern hazing by recovering deleted digital evidence, subpoenaing national fraternity records to show patterns of prior incidents, and uncovering university files through discovery and public records.
• What makes hazing cases different, particularly the need to fight against powerful institutional defendants with endless resources, navigate complex insurance battles, and balance victim privacy with public accountability.

We approach every case with empathy and victim advocacy. We know this is one of the hardest things a family can face. Our job is to get you answers, hold the right people accountable, and help prevent this from happening to another family. We pursue thorough investigation and real accountability, not just quick settlements.

CALL TO ACTION

If you or your child experienced hazing at any Texas campus, or at a university here in Maine, we want to hear from you. Families in Maine and throughout the surrounding region have the right to answers and accountability.

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

What to expect in your free consultation:

• We’ll listen carefully to your story and the details of the incident.
• We’ll review any evidence you have collected (photos, texts, medical records) to assess the strength of your case.
• We’ll explain your legal options, discussing whether a criminal report, civil lawsuit, or both, might be appropriate.
• We’ll discuss realistic timelines and what you can expect during the legal process.
• We’ll answer your questions about court costs and legal fees, including our contingency fee structure—we don’t get paid unless we win your case. Watch our video explaining contingency fees: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc.
• There is no pressure to hire us on the spot; we want you to take the time to make an informed decision.
• Everything you tell us is strictly confidential.

Whether you’re in Maine or anywhere across Texas, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone.

Contact Attorney911 Today:

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

Spanish-language services:

• Hablamos Español – Contact Lupe Peña at lupe@atty911.com for a consultation in Spanish.
• Servicios legales en español disponibles.

Call us today—we are here to help.

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