Texas Hazing Laws: A Comprehensive Guide for Midland County Families

The cold Texas night air, thick with anticipation and the distant echo of muffled cheers, sets a scene familiar to many. A college student from Midland County, away at one of our state’s esteemed universities, might find themselves in an off-campus fraternity house or secluded team gathering, surrounded by new “friends.” The initiation ritual starts. What begins as a test of loyalty quickly escalates into something darker: forced consumption of alcohol until consciousness blurs, physical challenges that push bodies beyond their limits, or degrading acts designed to break spirits. Someone falls, vomits, or collapses, but no one wants to call 911—fear that “the chapter will get shut down” or “we’ll all get in trouble” hangs heavy in the air. The student, caught between a desperate need to belong and a primal instinct for self-preservation, feels trapped.

This scenario is not a distant memory; it is a recurring nightmare playing out on campuses throughout Texas, affecting students and families from every corner of our state, including right here in Midland County. The pressure to conform, the desire for acceptance, and the misguided notion of tradition too often lead to dangerous, life-altering, and even fatal consequences.

This comprehensive guide is designed for families in Midland County and across Texas who need to understand the complex landscape of hazing. We explore what hazing genuinely looks like in 2025, moving beyond outdated stereotypes to confront its modern, often insidious forms. We delve into the Texas and federal legal frameworks that govern hazing, outlining the rights of victims and the responsibilities of institutions. From there, we examine major national hazing cases, drawing crucial lessons that resonate with Texas families. We provide specific insights into hazing incidents and institutional responses at our state’s key universities: the University of Houston (UH), Texas A&M University, the University of Texas at Austin (UT), Southern Methodist University (SMU), and Baylor University. Finally, we detail the legal options available to victims and their families in Midland County and across Texas, offering practical guidance on building a case and seeking accountability.

This article offers general information and is not specific legal advice. The Manginello Law Firm is dedicated to evaluating individual cases based on their unique facts and serving families throughout Texas, including those from Midland County.

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.” Prioritize their health and safety above all else.
• Preserve evidence BEFORE it’s deleted:
  • Screenshot group chats, texts, and direct messages immediately.
  • Photograph injuries from multiple angles and over multiple days.
  • Save any physical items, such as damaged clothing, receipts for forced purchases, or objects used in hazing (e.g., paddles or props).
• Write down everything while memory is fresh: who was involved, what happened, when and where it took place.
• Do NOT:
  • Confront the fraternity, sorority, or organization directly.
  • Sign anything from the university or an insurance company without legal advice.
  • Post details on public social media, as this can compromise a future legal case.
  • Let your child delete messages or attempt to “clean up” any evidence.

Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours: Evidence disappears fast due to deleted group chats, destroyed property, and coached witnesses. Universities also 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 Midland County families, understanding modern hazing means shedding old stereotypes. Hazing is no longer merely “a few silly pranks” or “just part of joining.” Today, it is a complex, often clandestine process designed to break down individuals, instill unwavering loyalty through shared trauma, and enforce a strict hierarchy. What sets it apart is the element of coercion—even if a student outwardly “agrees” to participate, the power differential, peer pressure, and fear of exclusion often negate any true consent. If you or your child feels unsafe, humiliated, or pressured, and especially if activities are hidden from parents or university officials, it is likely hazing.

The definition of hazing is quite broad: any forced, coerced, or strongly pressured action tied to joining, keeping membership, or gaining status in a group, where the behavior endangers physical or mental health, humiliates, or exploits. Emphasizing that “I agreed to it” does not automatically make it safe or legal when there is peer pressure and power imbalance is crucial.

Main Categories of Hazing: Beyond the Obvious

Hazing tactics have evolved, becoming more sophisticated and harder to detect. They can be broadly categorized as follows:

• Alcohol and Substance Hazing: This remains one of the most dangerous forms. It includes forced or coerced drinking of excessive amounts of alcohol, often during “chugging challenges,” “lineups,” or drinking games designed for rapid consumption. It can also involve pressure to consume unknown or mixed substances, putting students at severe risk of overdose or poisoning.
• Physical Hazing: This category involves any activity that causes physical discomfort or injury. Examples include paddling and beatings; extreme calisthenics, “workouts,” or “smokings” far beyond normal athletic conditioning; sleep deprivation; forced food or water deprivation; and exposure to extreme environmental conditions like cold or heat, or other dangerous surroundings.
• Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing: This deeply degrading form includes forced nudity or partial nudity, simulated sexual acts (such as “roasted pig” positions), and wearing humiliating costumes. It can also involve acts with racial or sexist overtones, the use of slurs, or forced role-playing that demeans individuals based on their identity.
• Psychological Hazing: Often overlooked but profoundly damaging, psychological hazing involves sustained verbal abuse, threats, and social isolation. It can manifest as mental manipulation, forced confessions, public shaming (both in person and online), and intense intimidation tactics.
• Digital/Online Hazing: This modern form utilizes technology to exert control and inflict humiliation. It includes group chat dares, “challenges,” and public shaming via platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, and Discord. There is also dangerous pressure to create or share compromising images or videos, which can have long-lasting consequences for a student’s reputation and mental health.

Where Hazing Actually Happens: A Broader Scope

Hazing is not confined to stereotypical “frat boys” or Greek life. It permeates various student organizations across all types of campuses, including those where Midland County students pursue their education. Identifying these varied environments is essential for prevention and intervention:

• Fraternities and Sororities: This includes Interfraternity Council (IFC), Panhellenic, National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), and multicultural Greek organizations.
• Corps of Cadets / ROTC / Military-Style Groups: These groups, especially prominent at institutions like Texas A&M, can have deeply entrenched traditions that sometimes cross into hazing.
• Spirit Squads and Tradition Clubs: Groups like the Texas Cowboys at UT Austin, or various cheer and dance teams, have faced allegations of hazing.
• Athletic Teams: From football and basketball to baseball, cheerleading, and even club sports, instances of hazing are unfortunately common.
• Marching Bands and Performance Groups: Even seemingly innocuous groups can have initiation rituals that escalate into hazing.
• Other Student Organizations: Many service, cultural, and academic organizations, aiming to foster “bonding,” can inadvertently create environments ripe for hazing.

The common threads linking these diverse groups are social status, tradition, and secrecy mandates. These factors allow hazing practices to persist, often in plain sight, even when everyone “knows” that hazing is illegal and explicitly prohibited by university policies.

Law & Liability Framework (Texas + Federal)

For families in Midland County dealing with alleged hazing, understanding the legal landscape is crucial. Texas has specific laws designed to combat hazing, and federal regulations also play a role, particularly regarding institutional responsibility.

Texas Hazing Law Basics (Education Code)

Texas has clear statutory provisions on hazing, primarily outlined in the Texas Education Code. This legal framework defines hazing broadly, covering a wide range of harmful activities.

Texas Education Code § 37.151 defines hazing as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, 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.

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 is hazing under Texas law. The law applies whether the hazing happens on or off campus, and it covers both mental and physical harm. Crucially, intent is not necessarily malicious; “reckless” behavior—meaning the person knew the risk and did it anyway—is enough. The victim’s “consent” is explicitly not a defense against hazing charges.

Under Texas Education Code § 37.152, there are criminal penalties for hazing:

• Class B Misdemeanor: Hazing that doesn’t cause serious injury (up to 180 days in jail, fine up to $2,000).
• Class A Misdemeanor: If hazing causes injury that requires medical treatment.
• State Jail Felony: If hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. This is a critical distinction that elevates the severity of the crime significantly.

Additionally, under Texas Education Code § 37.152, failing to report hazing (if you are a member or officer and knew about it) is a misdemeanor, as is retaliating against someone who reports hazing.

§ 37.154 provides Immunity for Good-Faith Reporting: A person who, in good faith, reports a hazing incident to university or law enforcement is immune from civil or criminal liability that might otherwise result from the report. This provision encourages students and organization members to come forward without fear of self-incrimination, and many university policies and Texas law extend amnesty for those who call 911 in a medical emergency, even if underage drinking or hazing was involved.

Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that consent is not a defense to prosecution for hazing. Even if the victim said “yes” or “I want to do this,” it’s still a crime if it meets the hazing definition. This directly refutes one of the most common defenses: “they agreed to it.”

Finally, under § 37.156, Texas colleges and universities must provide hazing prevention education, publish their hazing policies, and maintain and publish annual reports of hazing violations and disciplinary actions. This public record, as exemplified by UT Austin’s hazing.utexas.edu, provides transparency and can be crucial for families seeking to understand an organization’s history.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding the Differences

When hazing occurs, there are typically two distinct legal avenues for justice:

• Criminal Cases: These are initiated by the state (prosecutor) with the goal of punishing wrongdoers through incarceration, fines, or probation. In hazing contexts, criminal charges can range from basic hazing offenses to furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, battery, or even manslaughter in fatal cases. The focus is on establishing guilt beyond a reasonable doubt and enforcing state laws.
• Civil Cases: These are brought by victims or their surviving families against the individuals and institutions responsible for the harm. The primary aim is to secure monetary compensation for damages suffered and to hold parties accountable. Civil claims often involve allegations of negligence, gross negligence, wrongful death, negligent hiring or supervision, premises liability, and intentional infliction of emotional distress. The burden of proof in civil cases is lower than in criminal cases, and a criminal conviction is not a prerequisite for pursuing a civil lawsuit. Both types of cases can proceed simultaneously.

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

Beyond state law, federal regulations also impose responsibilities on colleges and universities, adding another layer of accountability:

• Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This significant piece of legislation mandates that colleges and universities receiving federal aid must be more transparent about hazing incidents. It requires them to publish data on hazing violations, strengthen education and prevention programs, and maintain public records—with full implementation expected by 2026. This act aims to create greater accountability and information sharing across campuses.
• Title IX / Clery Act: When hazing involves elements of sexual harassment, sexual assault, or gender-based discrimination, it triggers a university’s obligations under Title IX. Similarly, the Clery Act requires institutions to report certain crimes and publish safety statistics. Hazing incidents frequently overlap with these categories, particularly when there are assaults, alcohol or drug-related offenses, or other violent acts. These federal mandates can provide victims with additional avenues for redress and ensure institutions respond appropriately.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit?

Civil hazing lawsuits can involve multiple defendants, each with varying degrees of responsibility. A thorough investigation is required to identify all potentially liable parties and ensure comprehensive accountability:

• Individual Students: Those who actively planned, enforced, or carried out the hazing acts, supplied the alcohol, or participated in cover-ups can be held personally liable.
• Local Chapter/Organization: The specific fraternity, sorority, club, or team itself can be sued, especially if it operates as a legal entity. Officers or “pledge educators” who directly supervised or encouraged the hazing can be key targets.
• National Fraternity/Sorority: The national headquarters, which typically sets policies, collects dues, and is responsible for supervising its chapters, can be held liable. Liability often relies on proving what the national organization knew or should have known about a chapter’s hazing history or propensity for such acts.
• University or Governing Board: While public universities (like UH, Texas A&M, UT) may have some sovereign immunity, exceptions exist for gross negligence, willful misconduct, or certain federal violations like Title IX. Private universities (like SMU and Baylor) generally have fewer immunity protections. Universities can be held responsible for negligent supervision, failure to enforce policies, or deliberate indifference to known hazing.
• Third Parties: This can include landlords or owners of properties where hazing occurred, bars or alcohol vendors (under dram shop laws if they served underage or obviously intoxicated individuals), and even security companies or event organizers who failed in their duty to ensure safety.

It is important to remember that every case is fact-specific, and the involvement of each party will depend on the unique circumstances and evidence.

National Hazing Case Patterns (Anchor Stories)

The tragic pattern of hazing incidents across the nation offers critical insights into liability and the severe consequences that can arise. These anchor stories, which have garnered national attention, illustrate the various forms hazing can take, the institutional failures that often contribute to harm, and the significant legal actions that follow. For Midland County families, these cases underscore the urgent need for vigilance and decisive action when hazing is suspected, as similar patterns can unfold at any Texas university.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

Forced alcohol consumption remains the leading cause of hazing fatalities and severe injuries. These cases highlight a dangerous script that repeats itself across different campuses and organizations.

• Timothy Piazza – Penn State University, Beta Theta Pi (2017): Timothy Piazza, a 19-year-old pledge, died from traumatic brain injuries after a “bid acceptance” night involving extreme alcohol consumption. Security cameras captured him falling repeatedly, yet fraternity members delayed calling for help for nearly 12 hours. The aftermath led to numerous criminal charges against fraternity members, substantial civil litigation, and the creation of Pennsylvania’s stringent Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law. This case tragically exposed how extreme intoxication, a dangerous delay in calling 911, and a pervasive culture of silence can converge with devastating legal consequences.
• Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (2017): Andrew Coffey, a pledge, died from acute alcohol poisoning during “Big Brother Night,” a ritual where pledges were given handles of hard liquor to consume. This tragic event led to multiple criminal prosecutions against fraternity members and prompted Florida State University to temporarily suspend all Greek life, leading to significant policy overhauls. Coffey’s death, like many others, underscored how formulaic “tradition” drinking nights are a recurring script for disaster.
• Maxwell “Max” Gruver – Louisiana State University, Phi Delta Theta (2017): Max Gruver, an 18-year-old pledge, died from severe alcohol toxicity after being forced to participate in a “Bible study” drinking game. Pledges who answered questions incorrectly were compelled to drink large amounts of liquor. His death resulted in multiple criminal charges, including a conviction for negligent homicide. Louisiana subsequently enacted the Max Gruver Act, a felony hazing statute, demonstrating how legislative change often follows public outrage and clear proof of hazing’s lethal nature. The family later settled for a confidential amount, and a $6.1 million verdict was awarded against an individual and an insurer.
• Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021): Stone Foltz, a 20-year-old pledge, was forced to consume an entire bottle of whiskey during a “Big/Little” initiation night, subsequently dying from alcohol poisoning. The incident resulted in multiple criminal convictions for fraternity members. In the civil realm, Bowling Green State University, a public institution, agreed to a nearly $3 million settlement with the family, with additional significant settlements reached with Pi Kappa Alpha national fraternity. This case highlighted that universities, along with Greek organizations, face substantial financial and reputational consequences when hazing tragedies occur.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Beyond alcohol, physical and ritualized hazing can also lead to severe injury and death, often in attempts to maintain secrecy or exert dominance.

• Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013): Michael Deng, a pledge, died from a traumatic brain injury sustained during a brutal blindfolded “glass ceiling” ritual at a fraternity retreat in Pennsylvania’s Pocono Mountains. Members repeatedly tackled him while he was weighed down with a heavy backpack. Help was deliberately delayed. This case resulted in multiple members being convicted of various charges, and the national fraternity itself was criminally convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter—a rare instance of organizational criminal liability. Pi Delta Psi was banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years. Deng’s story is a stark reminder that off-campus “retreats” are often chosen precisely to conceal dangerous hazing and that national organizations are liable even for events far from campus.

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Hazing is not exclusive to Greek life; it is a pervasive issue in athletic programs, where physical and psychological abuse can be normalized under the guise of “team building.”

• Northwestern University Football (2023–2025): This scandal involved multiple former football players alleging widespread sexualized and racist hazing within the program over many years. The allegations included forced sexual acts, racial discrimination, and physical abuse. The fallout included the firing of long-time head coach Pat Fitzgerald, numerous lawsuits against the university and coaching staff, and a subsequent confidential settlement for Fitzgerald’s wrongful-termination claim. This case powerfully illustrated that hazing extends far beyond Greek life, reaching even prominent athletic programs, and raised critical questions about institutional oversight and accountability.

What These Cases Mean for Texas Families

These national tragedies share chillingly common threads: forced intoxication, verbal degradation, physical violence, dangerous rituals, delayed or intentionally denied medical care, and systematic cover-ups. The pattern reveals that while legislative reforms and multi-million-dollar settlements often follow only after a tragedy and subsequent litigation, the foreseeability of these events means that institutions and organizations could—and should—have acted sooner.

For families in Midland County with students at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, or Baylor, these national lessons are profoundly relevant. They highlight the urgent need for legal advocacy, as our state’s universities and their associated organizations are operating within a legal landscape shaped by these powerful precedents. Protecting your child often means being prepared to fight for accountability.

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

For families in Midland County, understanding the specific environments and hazing histories at Texas’ major universities is crucial. While Midland County itself is not home to one of these large universities, many students from our area attend them. Our firm, from our Houston offices, serves families across Texas, including Midland County, providing experienced legal counsel regardless of the specific campus where hazing occurs. This section dives into the unique cultures, policies, and past hazing incidents at five key Texas institutions.

5.1 University of Houston (UH)

The University of Houston, a large urban campus in the heart of our state’s largest city, blends a significant commuter population with a growing residential student body. Its Greek life is active and diverse, encompassing traditional IFC and Panhellenic chapters, along with vibrant NPHC and multicultural Greek organizations, cultural clubs, and numerous sports teams.

5.1.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels at UH

UH maintains a clear stance against hazing, prohibiting it both on and off campus. Their policy specifically bans activities that include forced consumption of alcohol, food, or drugs, sleep deprivation, physical mistreatment, and any acts designed to cause mental distress for initiation purposes. Students and families can report hazing through the Dean of Students office, the Office of Student Conduct, or the University of Houston Police Department (UHPD). While UH endeavors to maintain transparency, like many universities, publicly available detailed disciplinary records can sometimes be limited.

5.1.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses at UH

UH has experienced its share of hazing allegations and disciplinary actions:

• In 2016, a particularly severe incident involving a Pi Kappa Alpha chapter saw pledges allegedly deprived of sufficient food, water, and sleep during an extended event. One student reportedly suffered a lacerated spleen after being violently slammed onto a table or similar surface. The chapter faced misdemeanor hazing charges and was ultimately suspended by the university.
• Other disciplinary actions involving UH fraternities have cited behaviors “likely to produce mental or physical discomfort,” alongside violations related to alcohol misuse and other policy infractions, leading to various degrees of suspension or probation.

These incidents highlight UH’s willingness to suspend chapters, but also the persistent challenge of enforcing anti-hazing policies effectively.

5.1.4 How a UH Hazing Case Might Proceed for Midland County Families

For families from Midland County, a hazing case originating at UH would involve law enforcement agencies such as the UHPD and potentially the Houston Police Department, depending on the exact location of the incident. Civil suits would typically be filed in courts with jurisdiction over Houston and Harris County. Potential defendants could include the individual students involved, the local chapter, the national fraternity or sorority, and under certain circumstances, the university itself, along with any relevant property owners. Our firm’s deep roots in the Houston legal community provide immediate logistical advantages in navigating such cases.

5.1.5 What UH Students & Parents from Midland County Should Do

• Report hazing immediately to the UH Dean of Students, UHPD, or utilize online reporting forms, even if your student needs to de-pledge first.
• Document any prior complaints or known past incidents involving the organization, as this information can be critical in demonstrating a pattern of behavior.
• If you suspect hazing, talking to a lawyer experienced in Houston-based hazing cases can help uncover prior discipline and internal university files that might otherwise remain hidden.

5.2 Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University in College Station holds a unique position in Texas higher education, known for its deep-seated traditions, strong alumni network, and the highly visible Corps of Cadets. This military-style environment, alongside a robust Greek system and numerous other student organizations, contributes to a culture that reveres tradition—a factor that can sometimes be exploited in hazing incidents. Families from Midland County often send their children to Texas A&M, drawn by its reputation and values.

5.2.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot at Texas A&M

Texas A&M’s identity is heavily influenced by the Corps of Cadets, a commissioning program that fosters a distinct military discipline and tradition. This blends with a thriving Greek life—comprising IFC, Panhellenic, MGC, and NPHC chapters—and a multitude of other student groups. The emphasis on “Aggie Spirit” and shared experiences, while often positive, can sometimes create an environment where certain “traditions” are pushed too far.

5.2.2 Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels at Texas A&M

Texas A&M explicitly prohibits hazing, outlining its definition and consequences in its Student Rules. Hazing is strictly forbidden for any recognized student organization, including the Corps of Cadets. Reporting channels are available through the Student Conduct Office, the Dean of Students, and the Texas A&M University Police Department (UPD). The university also provides an online reporting form and an anonymous tip line.

5.2.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses at Texas A&M

Texas A&M has faced significant hazing challenges, both within its Greek system and the Corps of Cadets:

• In 2021, a severe incident involving the Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) fraternity drew national attention. Two pledges alleged they were subjected to strenuous physical activity and then had substances, including industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit, poured on them. This resulted in severe chemical burns requiring emergency skin graft surgeries. The pledges subsequently filed a $1 million lawsuit against the fraternity, which was suspended for two years by the university.
• A lawsuit filed in 2023 against the university and several individuals detailed disturbing allegations of hazing within the Corps of Cadets. A cadet claimed he was subjected to degrading hazing, including simulated sexual acts and being bound between beds in a “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth. The cadet sought over $1 million in damages. While the university stated it handled the matter under its internal rules, the case underscored that hazing is not confined to Greek life and can manifest in any tradition-heavy organization.

These incidents highlight the university’s ongoing efforts to address hazing, but also the deep-seated challenges in changing entrenched cultural practices.

5.2.4 How a Texas A&M Hazing Case Might Proceed for Midland County Families

For families from Midland County, a hazing case at Texas A&M would involve the Texas A&M UPD or Bryan/College Station local police. Civil lawsuits would be filed in Brazos County courts. Potential defendants are broad, encompassing individuals, local chapters, national fraternities (if applicable), and potentially the university and property owners. Navigating these cases requires familiarity with both the university’s unique culture and its legal defense strategies.

5.2.5 What Texas A&M Students & Parents from Midland County Should Do

• Familiarize yourself with the Texas A&M Student Rules regarding hazing and the university’s reporting processes.
• If you suspect hazing, document everything with screenshots of group chats, photos of injuries, and accounts of what happened.
• Understand that while university investigations are crucial, independent legal counsel can provide broader protection and pursue all avenues for accountability.

5.3 University of Texas at Austin (UT)

The University of Texas at Austin is the state’s flagship institution, a sprawling campus with a vibrant social scene, highly competitive academics, and a major Greek system. Students from Midland County often aspire to or attend UT, making its hazing climate highly relevant to our community.

5.3.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot at UT Austin

UT Austin is a dynamic and expansive university with a diverse student body and a robust Greek life. Its numerous fraternities and sororities, along with nationally competitive athletic programs and numerous student organizations, contribute to a lively campus environment. The university’s strong emphasis on school spirit and tradition means that many student activities, if not properly supervised, can sometimes become breeding grounds for hazing.

5.3.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels at UT Austin

The University of Texas at Austin has a comprehensive anti-hazing policy that applies to all student organizations. It explicitly prohibits any intentional, knowing, or reckless act that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of initiation, affiliation, or membership. UT is notably transparent, maintaining a public Hazing Violations webpage (hazing.utexas.edu) that lists organizations, dates of incidents, the nature of the conduct, and the disciplinary sanctions imposed. Students and parents can report hazing through the Dean of Students, the Student Conduct and Academic Integrity office, or the University of Texas Police Department (UTPD).

5.3.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses at UT Austin

UT Austin’s public hazing log provides valuable insights into the types of incidents occurring:

• In 2023, the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity was sanctioned after new members were directed to consume large quantities of milk and perform strenuous calisthenics, actions deemed hazing. The chapter was placed on probation and required to implement new hazing-prevention education.
• Other well-known groups, such as the Texas Wranglers (a spirit organization), and various other fraternities and sororities, have been sanctioned for forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing, sleep deprivation, and other punishment-based practices.
• Additionally, in January 2024, a highly publicized lawsuit was filed against the Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) chapter at UT Austin by an Australian exchange student. The student alleged he was brutally assaulted by fraternity members at a party, sustaining severe injuries including a dislocated leg, broken ligaments, fractured tibia, and a broken nose. This chapter was already under suspension for prior hazing and safety violations at the time of the alleged assault, highlighting a pattern of misconduct.

The transparency provided by UT’s public log, while commendable, also underscores the persistent challenge of eradicating hazing despite clear policies and sanctions.

5.3.4 How a UT Austin Hazing Case Might Proceed for Midland County Families

For Midland County families, a hazing case at UT Austin would likely involve investigations by UTPD or the Austin Police Department. Civil lawsuits would typically fall under the jurisdiction of Travis County courts. The public record of prior violations on UT’s website can be a powerful tool for civil suits, demonstrating a pattern of misconduct and the university’s knowledge of potential risks.

5.3.5 What UT Austin Students & Parents from Midland County Should Do

• Regularly check UT’s official Hazing Violations webpage (hazing.utexas.edu) for recent incidents impacting the health and safety of their students.
• Utilize UTPD, the Dean of Students office, or the university’s anonymous reporting options if hazing is suspected.
• Document any incidents with evidence such as screenshots, photos, and detailed written accounts, as these can be crucial for an effective legal claim.

5.4 Southern Methodist University (SMU)

Southern Methodist University is a private institution located in Dallas, well-known for its beautiful campus, rigorous academics, and affluent student body. SMU has a prominent Greek life system and numerous student organizations where traditions, if not properly managed, can sometimes lead to hazing. Many students from Midland County attend SMU.

5.4.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot at SMU

SMU’s campus is characterized by a strong sense of community and active student engagement. Its Greek life is a central component of student social life, with a large percentage of students participating in Panhellenic, IFC, NPHC, and multicultural Greek councils. The university also hosts a wide array of clubs and organizations, all of which are subject to SMU’s anti-hazing policies.

5.4.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels at SMU

SMU maintains a strict anti-hazing policy that applies to all student organizations, on or off campus. As a private institution, SMU’s policies align with Texas state law, prohibiting any act that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for initiation or membership purposes. Students and parents can report hazing through the Office of Student Life, the Dean of Students, or the SMU Police Department. The university also offers various anonymous reporting options, including the Real Response system.

5.4.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses at SMU

SMU has encountered hazing incidents within its Greek system:

• In 2017, the Kappa Alpha Order fraternity was suspended following credible reports of hazing. New members were allegedly paddled, forced to consume alcohol, and deprived of sleep. The chapter faced university suspension and was restricted from recruiting new members for an extended period.
• While private universities like SMU often have more discretion in publicizing disciplinary actions compared to public institutions, these incidents demonstrate that hazing is a recurring concern that SMU actively addresses through sanctions and prevention efforts.

These cases underscore that even in affluent, private university settings, hazing traditions can persist and lead to significant consequences for students and organizations.

5.4.4 How an SMU Hazing Case Might Proceed for Midland County Families

For Midland County families, a hazing case at SMU would involve the SMU Police Department and potentially the Dallas Police Department. Civil lawsuits would be filed in Dallas County courts. As a private institution, SMU generally has fewer immunity protections than public universities, which can sometimes simplify the legal process for victims. However, private institutions often fight aggressively to protect their reputation, so experienced legal counsel is essential.

5.4.5 What SMU Students & Parents from Midland County Should Do

• Familiarize yourselves with SMU’s Student Code of Conduct and its specific anti-hazing policies, and make use of the anonymous reporting options if needed.
• Remember that SMU prioritizes the safety and well-being of its students, making it important to report any concerns promptly to the Office of Student Life or SMU PD.
• Keep detailed records of any suspected hazing, including communications, photos, and notes on incidents, to aid in potential investigations.

5.5 Baylor University

Baylor University, a private Baptist university in Waco, holds a distinct identity marked by its religious affiliation and deep traditions. The university’s history includes significant scrutiny over its handling of abuse allegations, particularly in its athletic department, which provides important context for understanding its approach to hazing. Students from Midland County often choose Baylor for its academic programs and faith-based community.

5.5.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot at Baylor

Baylor’s campus life is shaped by its Christian mission, which influences student conduct and campus policies. It boasts an active Greek life, including Panhellenic, IFC, NPHC, and multicultural chapters, alongside numerous faith-based and academic organizations. The emphasis on community and tradition, while a cornerstone of Baylor, can also, without rigorous oversight, lead to situations where hazing goes unrecognized or unaddressed.

5.4.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels at Baylor

Baylor University has a strict anti-hazing policy that applies to all student groups. Its policy unequivocally prohibits hazing, defining it in line with Texas state law, encompassing any act that endangers physical or mental health for initiation purposes. Students and parents can report hazing through the Department of Student Conduct, the Dean of Students office, or the Baylor University Police Department (BUPD). Baylor also emphasizes its “Care Team” for reporting student welfare concerns, including hazing.

5.4.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses at Baylor

Baylor has faced challenges related to hazing allegations, particularly in its athletic programs:

• In 2020, the Baylor baseball team faced a hazing investigation that led to the suspension of 14 players. The suspensions were staggered throughout the early season, impacting team performance. This incident highlighted that hazing issues can arise even in high-profile athletic programs and are not confined to Greek organizations.
• These incidents must be understood within the broader context of Baylor’s past institutional challenges regarding student safety and oversight, particularly the significant sexual assault scandal that led to changes in leadership and policy. This history means that Baylor, institutionally, should be acutely aware of the dangers of fostering environments where abuse or misconduct can thrive.

Baylor’s response to hazing, therefore, carries additional weight given its prior scrutiny over institutional oversight and student well-being.

5.4.4 How a Baylor Hazing Case Might Proceed for Midland County Families

For Midland County families, a hazing case at Baylor would involve the BUPD and potentially the Waco Police Department. Civil lawsuits would typically be filed in McLennan County courts. Baylor’s status as a private university means it does not benefit from sovereign immunity, making it a more direct target for accountability in civil suits. However, its significant resources and experienced legal teams require equally robust representation for victims.

5.4.5 What Baylor Students & Parents from Midland County Should Do

• Be aware of Baylor’s specific anti-hazing policies and its reporting mechanisms.
• Given Baylor’s history, document any unusual or concerning behavior thoroughly, and do not hesitate to contact BUPD or the Department of Student Conduct.
• Parents should engage directly with the university if they suspect hazing, requesting clear and documented responses to their concerns.

Fraternities & Sororities: Campus-Specific + National Histories

Understanding hazing requires looking beyond isolated incidents to the systemic issues embedded in certain organizations. For Midland County families, it’s vital to recognize that fraternities and sororities active at Texas universities are rarely stand-alone entities; they are local chapters of larger national organizations, many of which have extensive, well-documented histories of hazing.

Why National Histories Matter

The national headquarters of fraternities and sororities often develop extensive anti-hazing manuals and risk management policies. They implement these, not out of altruism, but because they have faced—and lost—numerous lawsuits stemming from hazing deaths and catastrophic injuries at their chapters across the country. They are aware of the patterns: the forced drinking nights, the ritualistic paddlings, the humiliating “traditions.”

When a Texas chapter of a national organization repeats the same dangerous script that led to another chapter being shut down, fined, or sued in another state, this creates a critical legal link. This pattern of behavior is crucial evidence that the national organization had foreseeability—they knew, or should have known, that these activities posed a significant risk. This knowledge directly supports arguments for negligence or even punitive damages against the national entities, not just the local chapter or individual members.

Organization Mapping: Connecting Local Chapters to National Patterns

While it’s impossible to list every single chapter and incident, certain national fraternities and sororities have accumulated a significant history of hazing allegations and incidents that are highly relevant to students and families across Texas, including those from Midland County. Here, we highlight a few prominent examples:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / Pike): This fraternity is present at UH and UT Austin. Nationally, Pi Kappa Alpha has been involved in several severe hazing incidents. The death of Stone Foltz at Bowling Green State University (2021), where he died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink a bottle of whiskey, led to a $10 million settlement and multiple criminal convictions. Another case, involving David Bogenberger at Northern Illinois University (2012), resulted in a $14 million settlement after he died from alcohol poisoning. These incidents show a recurring pattern of severe alcohol hazing.
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / SAE): Present at UH, Texas A&M, and UT Austin. SAE has confronted multiple hazing-related deaths and severe injuries nationwide. At the University of Alabama (2023), a pledge allegedly suffered a traumatic brain injury during a hazing ritual. Closer to home, a Texas A&M chapter (2021) faced a $1 million lawsuit after pledges alleged substances including industrial-strength cleaner were poured on them, causing severe chemical burns requiring skin grafts. The University of Texas at Austin (2024) chapter was sued for over $1 million after an exchange student alleged physical assault. This consistent pattern of severe injury and assault highlights a systemic issue within the organization.
• Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ): Found at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor. This fraternity was at the center of the tragic death of Maxwell “Max” Gruver at Louisiana State University (2017), where he died from alcohol toxicity during a forced drinking game. This incident led to the enactment of the felony hazing statute, the Max Gruver Act, in Louisiana, and a significant civil settlement.
• Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ): Present at UH, Texas A&M, and UT Austin. The death of Andrew Coffey at Florida State University (2017) from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” event (where pledges were given handles of hard liquor) stands as a stark warning. This case led to criminal prosecutions and a temporary suspension of all Greek life at FSU.
• Beta Theta Pi (ΒΘΠ): Found at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor. The high-profile death of Timothy Piazza at Penn State University (2017) from traumatic brain injuries after extreme alcohol consumption and a significant delay in seeking medical help, placed this fraternity under intense scrutiny. It resulted in numerous criminal charges and major civil litigation.
• Kappa Sigma (ΚΣ): Found at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and Baylor. This fraternity has also been linked to severe hazing incidents, including a significant $12.6 million jury verdict in Florida after the drowning death of Chad Meredith at the University of Miami (2001) resulting from hazing-related drinking. More recently, allegations of severe injuries (rhabdomyolysis) due to extreme physical hazing at Texas A&M (2023) are under litigation.
• Sigma Chi (ΣΧ): Present at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and Baylor. Nationally, this fraternity has faced serious hazing allegations, including a recent case at the College of Charleston (2024) where a family received more than $10 million in damages for severe physical and psychological hazing. This demonstrates that juries are willing to award substantial damages for lasting harm caused by hazing.

These examples underscore that hazing is often a problem of pattern, not just isolated events. The identical or similar dangerous “traditions” that cause harm in one chapter often appear in others, indicating a failure of national organizations to effectively control or eliminate these behaviors.

Tie Back to Legal Strategy

The documented history of hazing within national organizations and their chapters on Texas campuses is crucial for legal strategy. When a chapter at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, or Baylor repeats patterns of hazing seen elsewhere, it strengthens the argument for foreseeability. It suggests that the national organization, and potentially the university, had prior knowledge of the risks but failed to take adequate preventative measures.

This pattern evidence is vital in several ways:

• Establishing Negligence: It can demonstrate that the national organization and/or the university were negligent in their duty to supervise, respond to, or prevent hazing.
• Supporting Punitive Damages: In cases where there is evidence of extreme recklessness, gross negligence, or a deliberate disregard for student safety, prior incidents can bolster arguments for punitive damages, which are designed to punish wrongdoers and deter future misconduct.
• Insurance Coverage Disputes: Armed with this history, experienced hazing lawyers can more effectively challenge insurance companies that attempt to deny coverage for hazing incidents by claiming they were “unforeseeable” or “intentional acts” outside policy scope.
• Settlement Leverage: A strong case built on pattern evidence significantly increases the victim’s leverage in settlement negotiations, often leading to more favorable outcomes.

By connecting specific Texas incidents to this broader national context, we can build more powerful, compelling cases for accountability and justice for families in Midland County and throughout the state.

Building a Case: Evidence, Damages, Strategy

For families in Midland County facing the aftermath of hazing, understanding how a legal case is built against powerful institutions is essential. The process is meticulous, requiring the collection of diverse evidence and a nuanced understanding of damages and legal strategy.

Evidence: The Foundation of a Hazing Case

Modern hazing cases are often won or lost based on the quality and comprehensiveness of the evidence. Evidence often disappears quickly, making rapid action critical.

• Digital Communications: These are often the most crucial piece of modern hazing cases. This includes messages from GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Slack, and even internal fraternity/sorority apps. Instagram direct messages, Snapchat, and TikTok comments also play a role. Evidence includes both live messages and successfully recovered deleted messages, revealing planning, intent, knowledge, who was involved, and what was said before, during, and after an incident. Screenshots, with timestamps and participant names clearly visible, are vital. Attorney911’s video on using your phone to document evidence (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs) explains best practices for preserving screenshots and photos.
• Photos & Videos: This category encompasses content filmed by members during hazing events (even if they seem “fun” or are captioned as jokes), footage shared in group chats or posted on social media platforms, and external security camera or doorbell footage from houses and venues where hazing occurred. Visual evidence of injuries, humiliating acts, forced drinking, or the environment itself can be incredibly powerful.
• Internal Organization Documents: These can include pledge manuals, initiation scripts, lists of “ritual traditions,” and emails or texts from officers discussing activities for “pledges” or new members. Policies and training materials from national organizations are also key, often highlighting a disconnect between stated rules and real-world chapter behavior.
• University Records: Through discovery or public records requests, we can uncover a university’s prior conduct files, records of probation or suspensions for the organization, warning letters, and incident reports filed with campus police or student conduct offices. Publicly available Clery Act reports and similar disclosures can also reveal patterns of misconduct.
• Medical and Psychological Records: These document the full extent of a victim’s physical and emotional harm. This includes emergency room reports, ambulance records, hospitalization notes, surgery and rehabilitation records, and toxicology reports. Crucially, psychological evaluations for conditions like PTSD, depression, anxiety, or suicidality are essential for documenting emotional distress and its long-term impact.
• Witness Testimony: Eyewitness accounts are invaluable. This includes statements from other pledges, current members, roommates, Resident Advisors (RAs), coaches, trainers, and other bystanders. Furthermore, former members who quit or were expelled can often provide critical insights into an organization’s hazing culture.

Damages: Recovering What Was Lost

Hazing can cause profound and lasting harm. A civil lawsuit seeks to recover damages that compensate victims and their families for these losses. Understanding the types of damages available is crucial for Midland County families.

• Medical Bills & Future Care: This covers all past and anticipated medical expenses. It includes immediate care (ER visits, ambulance transport, ICU stays), surgeries, ongoing treatments, physical therapy, medications, and mental health counseling. For catastrophic injuries like brain damage or organ damage, it can include the significant costs of long-term care and specialized life care plans.
• Lost Earnings / Educational Impact: Hazing can disrupt a student’s academic progress, leading to missed semesters, loss of scholarships, and delayed graduation. This can result in a direct loss of income if they enter the workforce later, or a diminished earning capacity if injuries lead to permanent disabilities that affect their career trajectory.
• Non-Economic Damages: These compensate for subjective but very real harms, including physical pain and suffering, intense emotional distress, trauma, and humiliation. They also cover the loss of enjoyment of life, as victims may no longer be able to participate in activities they once loved, or may suffer from damaged relationships.
• Wrongful Death Damages (for Families): In the most tragic cases, when hazing leads to death, surviving family members (parents, children, spouse) can recover for funeral and burial costs, the loss of financial support the deceased would have provided, and, critically, the profound loss of companionship, love, and emotional support. The emotional suffering of family members is also compensable. Attorney911 has extensive wrongful death experience (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/), having recovered millions for families in catastrophic cases.

It’s important to remember that describing these as types of damages is not a promise or guarantee of specific dollar amounts. The value of each case depends on its unique facts and the severity of the harm.

Role of Different Defendants and Insurance Coverage

Hazing cases often involve multiple defendants, each with their own legal counsel and insurance. Navigating this complex web requires experienced legal counsel.

National fraternities, sororities, and universities often carry substantial insurance policies designed to cover legal liabilities. However, insurance companies commonly attempt to deny coverage for hazing, arguing that such acts are “intentional” or “criminal” and therefore excluded from their policies.

Experienced hazing lawyers at our firm understand how to:

• Identify all potential sources of coverage: This includes local chapter policies, national organization policies, university umbrella policies, and even homeowners’ policies of individual members.
• Challenge exclusions: We argue that even if an act was intentional, the failure to supervise by the national organization or university was a negligent act, which can be covered.
• Force insurers to fulfill their obligations: We pursue claims of “bad faith” if an insurer wrongfully denies coverage, compelling them to defend their policyholders and potentially cover damages.

Lupe Peña’s background as a former insurance defense attorney (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/) is particularly crucial for navigating these intricate insurance coverage disputes, leveraging her insider knowledge of how these companies value claims and formulate defenses. This depth of understanding ensures that all available resources are brought to bear for our clients.

Practical Guides & FAQs

For Midland County families, students, and even former organization members, immediate, practical guidance is often needed. We offer clear, actionable advice to help navigate the complex, often frightening, landscape of hazing.

8.1 For Parents: Recognizing & Responding to Hazing

Parents are often the first line of defense. Knowing what to look for and how to react can make all the difference.

• Warning Signs of Hazing:
  • Unexplained Injuries: Bruises, burns, cuts, or repeated “accidents” that don’t add up.
  • Sudden Exhaustion: Extreme fatigue or sleep deprivation, constant late nights, or being woken up at odd hours.
  • Drastic Mood Changes: Uncharacteristic anxiety, depression, irritability, or withdrawal from family and old friends.
  • Secrecy: Your child becomes uncharacteristically secretive about organization activities, saying, “I can’t talk about it.”
  • Constant Phone Use & Fear of Missing Out: Obsessively checking group chats and being afraid to miss “mandatory” messages or events.
  • Appearance Changes: Sudden weight loss or gain, poor hygiene, or wearing bizarre clothing.
• How to Talk to Your Child: Approach them with empathy and support, not judgment. Ask open-ended questions like, “How are things really going with the fraternity/sorority?” or “Is there anything you’re being asked to do that makes you uncomfortable?” Emphasize that their safety and well-being are your top priorities, and you will support them no matter what.
• If Your Child is Hurt: Get immediate medical attention, even if they insist they’re “fine.” Document everything: take photos of any injuries, save screenshots of texts or group chats they show you, and write down everything they tell you, including names, dates, and locations.
• Dealing with the University: Document every communication you have with university administrators. Specifically ask about any prior incidents involving the same organization and what the school did in response. Universities sometimes minimize incidents, so retaining your own legal counsel is critical.
• When to Talk to a Lawyer: If your child has suffered significant physical or psychological harm, or if you feel the university or organization is minimizing or hiding what happened, it’s time to consult with an experienced hazing lawyer.

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

If you are a student or new member in Midland County or on a Texas campus, you need to understand that your safety and well-being come first.

• Is This Hazing or Just Tradition? Ask yourself: Am I being forced or pressured to do something I don’t want to do? Is this activity dangerous, degrading, or illegal? Would my parents or the university approve if they knew? If older members are making new members do things they themselves don’t have to do, or if you’re told to keep secrets—it is almost certainly hazing.
• Why “Consent” Isn’t the End of the Story: In Texas, consent is explicitly not a defense to hazing. The law recognizes that in environments with power imbalances, immense peer pressure, and fear of exclusion or retaliation, true voluntary consent is often impossible.
• Exiting and Reporting Safely: You have the legal right to leave any organization at any time. If you feel unsafe, get to a safe location (dorm, friend’s place, public area) and then inform your new member educator or chapter president in writing (email or text). For reporting, utilize campus channels (Dean of Students, Title IX Coordinator, campus police), or the National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE.
• Good-Faith Reporting and Amnesty: Many universities and Texas law (Texas Education Code § 37.154) offer protections for students who report hazing or call for help in a medical emergency, even if underage drinking or other rule violations were involved. Your safety takes precedence.

8.3 For Former Members / Witnesses

If you were once involved in hazing but now regret it and want to help, your testimony and evidence can be crucial. We understand the guilt and fear you might feel.

• Your Testimony Prevents Harm: Your unique perspective and evidence may prevent future tragedies and save lives.
• Seeking Legal Counsel: Consider obtaining your own legal advice to understand your rights and potential liabilities, especially if you actively participated. Lawyers can help navigate your role as a witness or advise on potential criminal and civil exposure.
• Path to Accountability: Cooperating with an investigation can be an important step toward accountability for those truly responsible and can help you make peace with past actions.

8.4 Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Hazing Case

For Midland County families, these are common pitfalls that can severely harm a hazing case:

1. Letting your child delete messages or “clean up” evidence: This can look like a cover-up, makes a strong case nearly impossible to build, and can even have legal repercussions. Preserve everything immediately.
2. Confronting the fraternity/sorority directly: This alerts the organization, allowing them to destroy evidence, coach witnesses, and prepare defenses. Document, then call a lawyer.
3. Signing university “release” or “resolution” forms without legal review: You might inadvertently waive your right to sue or settle for far less than your case is worth. Never sign anything without an attorney.
4. Posting details on social media before talking to a lawyer: Defense attorneys screenshot everything posted publicly, and inconsistencies can damage credibility. Document privately.
5. Letting your child go back to “one last meeting”: This can expose them to intimidation, pressure, or statements that damage their legal position. All communication should go through your lawyer once legal action is considered.
6. Waiting “to see how the university handles it”: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, and statutes of limitations can expire. The university’s process is not the same as legal accountability. Preserve evidence and consult a lawyer immediately.
7. Talking to insurance adjusters without a lawyer: Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. Recorded statements can be used against you. Refer all insurance contact to your attorney. 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 specific circumstances. Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT) have some sovereign immunity, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, willful misconduct, or certain federal violations like Title IX. Private universities (SMU, Baylor) have fewer immunity protections. Every case is fact-specific; contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a case-specific analysis.
• “Is hazing a felony in Texas?” It can be. While basic hazing is a Class B misdemeanor, it becomes a state jail felony if it causes serious bodily injury or death. Individual officers can also face misdemeanor charges for failing to report hazing.
• “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 in coercive environments, true voluntary consent is often absent.
• “How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?” Generally, 2 years from the date of injury or death in Texas. However, the “discovery rule” can extend this if the harm or its cause wasn’t immediately known. Fraudulent concealment or if the victim was a minor can also toll (pause) the statute. Time is critical—evidence disappears rapidly. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately. 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 can still be held liable based on their sponsorship, control, knowledge of activities, and the foreseeability of the harm. Many major hazing cases resulting in multi-million-dollar judgments have occurred off-campus.
• “Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?” The majority of hazing cases settle confidentially before trial. While some high-profile cases do go public, we prioritize your family’s privacy and can often work to seal court records and ensure confidential settlement terms while still pursuing full accountability.

About The Manginello Law Firm + Call to Action

When your family faces a hazing case, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how powerful institutions fight back—and how to win anyway. At The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, operating as Attorney911, the Legal Emergency Lawyers™, we bring a unique combination of inside knowledge, complex litigation experience, and unwavering dedication to every case.

We understand that hazing at Texas universities affects families in Midland County and across the region, regardless of where their children attend school. From our Houston office and additional locations in Austin and Beaumont, we serve families throughout Texas, including Midland County and surrounding areas.

Our strength in hazing cases comes from key differentiators:

• Insurance Insider Advantage: Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, spent years as an insurance defense attorney for a national firm (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/). She knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies value (and undervalue) hazing claims. She understands their delay tactics, coverage exclusion arguments, and settlement strategies because she used to run that playbook. This insight is invaluable in securing the full compensation our clients deserve.
• Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions: Ralph Manginello, our managing partner, was one of the few Texas attorneys involved in the BP Texas City explosion litigation, a monumental case against a corporate giant. This federal court experience and proven track record means our firm is not intimidated by national fraternities, universities, or their well-funded defense teams. We’ve taken on billion-dollar corporations and won. Ralph Manginello’s complete credentials and case history are detailed at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/.
• Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death and Catastrophic Injury Experience: We have a proven track record in complex wrongful death cases, collaborating with economists to meticulously value loss of life and future earning potential. Our experience includes obtaining multi-million dollar settlements for families in catastrophic injury cases, where we fight for the comprehensive valuation of lifetime care needs for brain injury or permanent disability victims. We don’t settle cheap; we build cases that force accountability.
• Dual Civil & Criminal Hazing Expertise: Ralph’s membership in the prestigious Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) underscores our deep understanding of how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation. When hazing results in criminal charges, Attorney911’s criminal defense experience (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/) means we can advise witnesses and former members with dual exposure, offering a comprehensive legal strategy.
• Investigative Depth: We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does. We utilize a network of medical experts, digital forensics specialists, economists, and psychologists. We are experts at obtaining hidden evidence, including deleted group chats and social media content, and we use our experience to subpoena national fraternity records and uncover university files through thorough discovery and public records requests.

We recognize that stepping forward after a hazing incident 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 approach every case with empathy and a relentless commitment to victim advocacy—not bravado or quick settlements, but through thorough investigation and real accountability. We know how powerful institutions like fraternities, sororities, Corps programs, and athletic departments operate behind closed doors, and we know how to investigate that hidden world.

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

Contact The Manginello Law Firm for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. We’ll listen to what happened, explain your legal options, and help you decide on the best path forward.

What to expect in your free consultation:

• We’ll listen to your story without judgment.
• We’ll review any evidence you have, such as photos, texts, or medical records.
• We’ll explain your legal options, whether that’s a criminal report, a civil lawsuit, both, or neither.
• We’ll discuss realistic timelines and what to expect from the legal process.
• We’ll answer your questions about costs. We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning 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’s no pressure to hire us on the spot; take the time you need to decide.
• Everything you tell us is confidential.

Call us 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

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

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

Legal Disclaimer

This article is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC.

Hazing laws, university policies, and legal precedents can change. The information in this guide is current as of late 2025 but may not reflect the most recent developments. Every hazing case is unique, and outcomes depend on the specific facts, evidence, applicable law, and many other factors.

If you or your child has been affected by hazing, we strongly encourage you to consult with a qualified Texas attorney who can review your specific situation, explain your legal rights, and advise you on the best course of action for your family.

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC / Attorney911
Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas
Call: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct: (713) 528-9070 | Cell: (713) 443-4781
Website: https://attorney911.com
Email: ralph@atty911.com