The Complete Guide to Hazing & Fraternity Abuse Lawsuits for Midlothian, Texas Families

If Your Child Was Hazed at a Texas University, You’re Not Alone

For parents in Midlothian, Midlothian families in Ellis County, and throughout North Texas, the nightmare often begins with a late-night phone call. Your student at the University of Texas, Texas A&M, or another campus sounds different—exhausted, secretive, maybe injured. They talk about “mandatory” events that keep them up until 3 AM, or they show you unexplained bruises. They’re carrying a strange bag everywhere or suddenly have extreme anxiety about group chats. You wonder: Is this normal college stress, or is something dangerous happening?

Right now, in Texas, we’re fighting one of the most serious hazing cases in the country. In late 2025, we filed a $10 million hazing and abuse lawsuit on behalf of Leonel Bermudez against the University of Houston, the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter, its national headquarters, and 13 fraternity leaders. Bermudez, a UH student, suffered rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure after being forced through brutal workouts, humiliated with a “pledge fanny pack” containing condoms and sex toys, sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding,” and made to consume milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting. He was hospitalized for four days with brown urine and faces ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage. The chapter has been shut down, and UH called the conduct “deeply disturbing.”

This isn’t an isolated incident. It’s proof of what Texas families are up against. If you’re in Midlothian, Waxahachie, Ennis, or anywhere in Ellis County or the Dallas-Fort Worth metro, this guide is for you. We’ll explain what hazing really looks like in 2025, Texas hazing laws, where Midlothian families send their children to college, the Greek organizations operating in our region, and what legal options exist when institutions fail to protect students.

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, 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 Texas Parents Need to Recognize

Hazing isn’t just “boys will be boys” or harmless tradition. In 2025, it’s a sophisticated system of control that uses digital tools, psychological manipulation, and calculated risk-taking. For Midlothian families, understanding what hazing truly looks like is the first step in protecting your children.

The Modern Definition of Hazing

Hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, 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: If someone makes your child 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. Location doesn’t matter—it can happen at a fraternity house, off-campus apartment, retreat, or even online. “Consent” is not a defense when there’s peer pressure and power imbalance.

Five Categories of Modern Hazing

1. Digital & Psychological Control

24/7 group chat monitoring: Pledges required to respond instantly to messages at all hours
Location tracking: Forced to share live location via Find My Friends or Snapchat Maps
Social media policing: Controlling what pledges can post; requiring embarrassing content
Sleep deprivation: Late-night “meetings,” 3 AM wake-up calls, multi-day events with minimal sleep
Verbal abuse and isolation: Yelling, threats, cutting off contact with non-members

2. Alcohol and Substance Hazing

Forced or coerced drinking games (“lineups,” “Bible study,” Big/Little nights)
Chugging challenges requiring rapid consumption
Pressure to consume unknown or mixed substances
The deadliest pattern: Stone Foltz (Pi Kappa Alpha), Max Gruver (Phi Delta Theta), Andrew Coffey (Pi Kappa Phi) all died from this exact script

3. Physical Abuse & “Training”

Paddling and beatings (still occurring despite national prohibitions)
Extreme calisthenics: hundreds of push-ups, wall sits until collapse, “smokings”
Rhabdomyolysis risk: What happened to Leonel Bermudez at UH—severe muscle breakdown from overexertion
Exposure to extreme conditions: left outside in cold/heat, locked in rooms

4. Sexualized & Humiliating Rituals

Forced nudity or partial nudity
Simulated sexual acts, “roasted pig” positions, degrading costumes
Acts with racial, sexist, or homophobic overtones
Public shaming on social media or in meetings

5. Servitude & Exploitation

Acting as designated drivers at all hours
Cleaning rooms, doing laundry, running errands for older members
Financial exploitation: forced purchases, “fines,” excessive dues
Academic interference: mandatory events during exams, all-night “study sessions”

Where Hazing Happens in Texas

Midlothian families should know hazing extends beyond stereotypes:

Fraternities and Sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural groups)
Corps of Cadets / ROTC at Texas A&M and other military programs
Athletic Teams: football, basketball, baseball, cheer, swimming
Spirit & Tradition Groups: Texas Cowboys, Aggie Bonfire (historically), Absolute Texxas at UT
Marching Bands & Performance Groups
Academic & Service Organizations

The common thread: social status, tradition, and secrecy keep these practices alive even when everyone “knows” hazing is illegal.

Texas Hazing Law: What Midlothian Families Need to Know

Texas has specific anti-hazing laws, but understanding how they work in practice is crucial for Ellis County families considering legal action.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Two Different Paths

Criminal Cases (Brought by the State)

Aim: Punishment (jail, fines, probation)
Typical charges: hazing, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, battery, manslaughter in fatal cases
Prosecutors: District Attorney’s office where incident occurred
Your role: Victim/witness, not in control of the case

Civil Cases (Brought by Victims/Families)

Aim: Compensation and accountability
Claims: negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision, emotional distress
You control: When to file, whether to settle, overall strategy
Evidence standard: “Preponderance of the evidence” (more likely than not), not “beyond reasonable doubt”

Both can run simultaneously, and you don’t need a criminal conviction to pursue civil justice. In fact, the civil discovery process often uncovers evidence that criminal investigators miss.

Texas Education Code Chapter 37: The Specifics

§ 37.151 Definition: Hazing means intentional, knowing, or reckless acts that endanger mental or physical health for purposes of initiation/affiliation.

§ 37.152 Penalties:

Class B Misdemeanor: Hazing without serious injury (up to 180 days jail, $2,000 fine)
Class A Misdemeanor: Hazing causing injury requiring medical treatment
State Jail Felony: Hazing causing serious bodily injury or death
Also criminal: failing to report hazing, retaliating against reporters

§ 37.153 Organizational Liability:

Organizations can be fined up to $10,000 per violation
Universities can revoke recognition and ban organizations

§ 37.155 Critical Provision: “Consent is not a defense.” Even if your child “agreed,” it’s still hazing under Texas law.

§ 37.156 University Requirements:

Provide hazing prevention education
Publish annual reports of hazing violations (UT Austin does this at hazing.utexas.edu)
Maintain transparent disciplinary records

Federal Laws That Apply in Texas Cases

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024)

Requires colleges receiving federal aid to report hazing incidents transparently
Strengthens hazing education and prevention
Phased implementation through 2026

Title IX

Triggers when hazing involves sexual harassment, assault, or gender-based hostility
Creates additional reporting and response obligations for universities

Clery Act

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

Who Can Be Liable in a Texas Hazing Lawsuit?

Individual Students

Those who planned, supplied alcohol, carried out acts, or helped cover up

Local Chapter/Organization

The fraternity/sorority itself (if incorporated)
Officers and “pledge educators” acting in official capacity

National Fraternity/Sorority Headquarters

Organizations that set policies, receive dues, and supervise chapters
Liability hinges on what they knew or should have known from prior incidents

University or Governing Board

The school or regents under negligence or civil-rights theories
Key questions: prior warnings, policy enforcement, deliberate indifference

Third Parties

Landlords/owners of houses or event spaces
Bars or alcohol providers (under Texas dram shop laws)
Security companies or event organizers

Every case is fact-specific, but experienced hazing attorneys know how to identify all potentially liable parties.

National Hazing Cases: Patterns That Repeat in Texas

The tragedies at other universities aren’t just news stories—they’re blueprints for what Texas families face and precedents for holding organizations accountable.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021)

20-year-old pledge forced to consume entire bottle of alcohol during “Big/Little” night
Died from alcohol poisoning
$10 million settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, ~$3M from BGSU)
Chapter president ordered to pay $6.5 million personally

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)

Pledge forced to participate in “Bible study” drinking game
Wrong answers = forced drinking
Died from alcohol toxicity (BAC 0.495%)
Louisiana enacted Max Gruver Act (felony hazing statute)

Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (2017)

“Big Brother Night” event with handles of hard liquor
Pledge died from acute alcohol poisoning
FSU temporarily suspended all Greek life

Timothy Piazza – Penn State, Beta Theta Pi (2017)

Bid-acceptance night with extreme drinking
Falls captured on fraternity security cameras
Brothers delayed calling for help
Pennsylvania enacted Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law
One of largest hazing prosecutions in U.S. history

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013)

Pledge blindfolded, weighted with backpack, repeatedly tackled during “glass ceiling” ritual
Died from traumatic brain injury
Fraternity members delayed calling 911
National fraternity convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter
Pi Delta Psi banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years

Danny Santulli – University of Missouri, Phi Gamma Delta (2021)

18-year-old pledge forced to consume excessive alcohol during “pledge dad reveal”
Suffered severe, permanent brain damage (cannot walk, talk, or see; requires 24/7 care)
Family settled with 22 defendants, including fraternity
Multi-million-dollar confidential settlements

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Northwestern University Football (2023-2025)

Former players alleged sexualized, racist hazing within program
Multiple lawsuits against university and staff
Head coach Pat Fitzgerald fired, settled wrongful-termination suit confidentially
Demonstrates hazing extends beyond Greek life to major athletic programs

What These Cases Mean for Midlothian Families

Common threads that repeat in Texas:

Forced drinking scripts identical to national patterns
Humiliation, violence, delayed medical care, cover-ups
Reforms and multi-million-dollar settlements only after tragedy and litigation
The same national organizations operating at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor have these exact histories

Texas Universities: Where Midlothian Families Send Their Children

Midlothian students attend universities across Texas, but several are particularly relevant to Ellis County families. We’ll focus on those with significant Greek life and hazing histories.

University of Texas at Arlington (Most Local to Midlothian)

5.1.1 Campus & Connection to Midlothian
UT Arlington is just 35 miles from Midlothian, making it one of the most accessible universities for Ellis County students. With over 45,000 students, it’s the largest university in North Texas and has growing Greek life. Midlothian families often choose UTA for its engineering, nursing, and business programs, plus the convenience of proximity.

5.1.2 Hazing Policy & Reporting
UTA prohibits hazing both on and off-campus through its Student Conduct Code. Reporting channels include:

Dean of Students Office
UTA Police Department
Online reporting forms
Office of Community Standards

5.1.3 Documented Incidents

Sigma Chi Chapter Suspension (2020): Pledge hospitalized with alcohol poisoning from hazing; chapter suspended through 2021
Multiple Greek organizations on disciplinary probation for alcohol violations and conduct issues
UTA maintains less public hazing data than UT Austin, but internal records show recurring issues

5.1.4 How a UTA Hazing Case Proceeds

Jurisdiction: Tarrant County courts (Fort Worth)
Police involvement: UTA PD and/or Arlington PD depending on location
Common defendants: Individual members, local chapters, national organizations, property owners
For Midlothian families: Your case would likely be heard in Fort Worth, just 45 minutes from home

5.1.5 What UTA Students & Midlothian Parents Should Do

Document everything immediately (UTA cases move quickly through conduct system)
Request prior disciplinary records for the organization involved
Understand that UTA, as part of the UT System, has sovereign immunity arguments but can still be held accountable
Contact an attorney familiar with Tarrant County courts and UT System procedures

Texas A&M University (Major Destination for Ellis County Students)

5.2.1 Campus & Culture
Many Midlothian students choose Texas A&M for its tradition, engineering programs, and Corps of Cadets. The 2.5-hour drive is manageable for families, and Aggie connections run deep in Ellis County.

5.2.2 Corps of Cadets Culture

Tradition-heavy, military-style environment with reported discipline issues
Unique hazing risks in military-style organizations
2023 Lawsuit: Cadet alleged degrading hazing including simulated sexual acts and being bound between beds in a “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth; sought over $1 million

5.2.3 Greek Life Incidents

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (2021): Two pledges alleged forced strenuous activity; substances including industrial-strength cleaner poured on them, causing severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries; pledges sued for $1 million
Multiple fraternities on disciplinary probation for alcohol and hazing violations
2023 Rhabdomyolysis Case: Kappa Sigma allegations of extreme physical hazing resulting in muscle breakdown injury

5.2.4 How TAMU Cases Proceed

Jurisdiction: Brazos County courts (College Station)
Unique aspects: Both Corps and Greek life systems with different oversight
Sovereign immunity considerations for public university
For Midlothian families: You may need to travel to Bryan/College Station for proceedings, but we handle much remotely

University of Texas at Austin

5.3.1 Campus & Midlothian Connection
UT Austin attracts top Ellis County students, particularly for business, engineering, and honors programs. The 3-hour drive creates different family dynamics than closer schools.

5.3.2 UT’s Public Hazing Transparency
UT maintains one of Texas’ most transparent hazing databases at hazing.utexas.edu. Recent entries include:

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics; found to be hazing; chapter probation
Sigma Alpha Epsilon (2024): Australian exchange student alleged assault at party; injuries included dislocated leg, broken ligaments, fractured tibia, broken nose; sued for over $1 million
Texas Wranglers & Other Spirit Groups: Multiple sanctions for forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing

5.3.3 How UT Cases Proceed

Jurisdiction: Travis County courts (Austin)
Advantage: Public hazing records provide powerful pattern evidence
UT’s size and resources mean aggressive defense from university counsel
For Midlothian families: The distance requires strategic planning, but evidence collection can begin immediately

Southern Methodist University

5.3.1 Private University Considerations
SMU’s private status affects transparency and legal strategies. The university maintains hazing policies but discloses less publicly than UT.

5.3.2 Documented Incidents

Kappa Alpha Order (2017): New members reportedly paddled, forced to drink alcohol, deprived of sleep; chapter suspended until 2021
Regular disciplinary actions against Greek organizations for alcohol and conduct violations

5.3.3 How SMU Cases Differ

No sovereign immunity (private institution)
Different insurance structures and coverage
May involve Dallas County courts
For Midlothian families: SMU’s wealth means well-resourced defense, but also deeper insurance pockets

Other Texas Universities Relevant to Midlothian

Baylor University

Religious identity affects campus culture and legal strategies
Baseball Hazing (2020): 14 players suspended following hazing investigation
Ongoing scrutiny following football scandal

Texas Tech University

Significant Greek life in Lubbock
Multiple hazing incidents resulting in chapter suspensions
3.5 hours from Midlothian but still within our Texas service area

University of North Texas

Growing Greek community in Denton
Closer alternative to UT Austin for some Ellis County students
Hazing incidents documented through conduct system

The Greek Ecosystem Around Midlothian & Ellis County

Understanding the organizations behind campus letters is crucial. Midlothian sits in the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metro, which contains over 510 Greek-related organizations according to our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine data.

Public Records: Fraternities, Sororities & Greek Organizations Connected to Midlothian Families

Why this matters: If your child was hazed, these organizations—their legal entities, insurance policies, and national connections—may hold responsibility. We maintain this directory so families never start from zero.

DFW Metro Area Organizations (Sample from 510+)

From IRS B83 filings and Cause IQ metro data:

Beta Upsilon Chi Fraternity
- EIN: 74-2911848
- 12650 N Beach St #30, Suite 114, Fort Worth, TX 76244
- IRS B83 filing, Cause IQ DFW listing
Texas Kappa Sigma Educational Foundation Inc
- EIN: 74-1380362
- PO Box 470061, Fort Worth, TX 76147-0061
- IRS B83 filing, educational foundation
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity – Arlington-Grand Prairie Alumni Chapter
- EIN: 23-2452759
- PO Box 542901, Grand Prairie, TX 75054-2901
- IRS B83 filing, alumni chapter serving DFW
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc – Phi Psi Zeta Chapter
- EIN: 61-1562040
- PO Box 292013, Lewisville, TX 75029-2013
- IRS B83 filing, graduate chapter
Delta Kappa Epsilon – Tau Gamma House Corporation
- Addison, TX (housing corporation)
- Cause IQ DFW listing
Kappa Delta Sorority – Gamma Beta Chapter
- Denton, TX (Texas Woman’s University chapter)
- Cause IQ DFW listing
Frisco TX Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Inc
- EIN: 92-0575785
- 5729 Lebanon Rd Ste 144597, Frisco, TX 75034-7260
- IRS B83 filing
Arlington-Grand Prairie Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi
- EIN: 23-2452759
- PO Box 542901, Grand Prairie, TX 75054-2901
- IRS B83 filing

Texas-Wide Organizations Present at Major Universities

Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity (Involved in UH case)
- National headquarters in Charlotte, NC
- Multiple Texas chapters including UH Beta Nu (now closed)
- Prior history: Andrew Coffey death at FSU
Sigma Alpha Epsilon
- Multiple Texas chapters at UT, Texas A&M, others
- National pattern: chemical burns at Texas A&M, assault at UT, traumatic brain injury case at Alabama
- Known for aggressive defense strategies
Pi Kappa Alpha
- Chapters at UT, Texas A&M, Texas Tech, others
- National pattern: Stone Foltz death at BGSU ($10M settlement), David Bogenberger death at NIU ($14M settlement)
- Repeating “Big/Little” alcohol hazing script
Phi Delta Theta
- Texas chapters including at UT and Texas A&M
- National pattern: Max Gruver death at LSU (led to felony hazing law)
- Known drinking game traditions

Why National Histories Matter for Midlothian Cases

When a Texas chapter repeats the same script that got another chapter shut down or sued in another state, that shows foreseeability—the national organization knew or should have known this could happen.

Example: If a Pi Kappa Alpha chapter at UT Austin runs a “Big/Little” drinking night similar to Stone Foltz’s fatal night at BGSU, the national organization can’t claim “we didn’t know this could happen.” They’ve already paid $7 million in a settlement for exactly that script.

Legal Strategy Implications:

Pattern evidence supports negligence claims
Prior incidents show national had notice of risks
Inadequate enforcement of anti-hazing policies becomes evidence
Punitive damages more likely when organizations repeat known dangerous conduct

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Strategy & Damages

For Midlothian families, understanding how hazing cases are built can mean the difference between accountability and cover-up.

Evidence That Wins Cases (Start Collecting NOW)

Digital Communications (Most Critical)

GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage group chats: Screenshot entire threads with timestamps
Social media: Instagram DMs, Snapchat messages, TikTok comments, Facebook Messenger
Fraternity-specific apps: Many nationals have their own communication platforms
Deleted messages: Digital forensics can often recover them—don’t assume they’re gone

Photos & Videos

Injuries: Photograph immediately and daily as they evolve
Events: Any media from the hazing (often surprisingly shared by participants)
Locations: House exteriors, room interiors, identifying landmarks
Scale reference: Include ruler or common object in injury photos

Medical Documentation

ER/hospital records: Specifically mention hazing to providers
Lab results: Blood alcohol, toxicology, kidney/liver function (critical for rhabdomyolysis cases)
Psychological evaluations: PTSD, depression, anxiety diagnoses
Future care plans: For permanent injuries like brain damage

Internal Organization Documents

Pledge manuals, rituals, “tradition” documents
Emails/texts from officers about events
National policies and training materials (obtained through discovery)

University Records

Prior conduct files for the organization
Incident reports to campus police
Clery Act reports and annual disclosures
Internal emails among administrators (obtained via public records requests or discovery)

Witness Information

Other pledges, members, roommates
RAs, hall mates who observed changes
Former members who quit or were expelled

Damages: What Texas Families Can Recover

Economic Damages (Quantifiable)

Medical expenses: Past and future care, including lifelong needs for catastrophic injuries
Lost income/earning capacity: Missed semesters, delayed career entry, reduced lifetime earnings for permanent disabilities
Educational costs: Tuition for interrupted education, lost scholarships
Therapy & counseling: Often needed for years after trauma

Non-Economic Damages

Physical pain and suffering: From injuries, medical procedures
Emotional distress: PTSD, depression, anxiety, humiliation
Loss of enjoyment of life: Can’t participate in activities they loved
Reputational harm: Social stigma, difficulty transferring schools

Wrongful Death Damages (When hazing causes death)

Funeral and burial costs
Loss of financial support and companionship
Parents’ and siblings’ grief and emotional suffering
Loss of guidance for younger siblings

Punitive Damages (When defendants’ conduct is especially reckless)

To punish particularly cruel or deliberate conduct
To deter future hazing
Available in Texas for gross negligence or intentional acts

Settlement vs. Trial Reality

Most Cases Settle Confidentially

Protects victim privacy
Avoids years of litigation stress
Provides compensation sooner
But: Terms often include non-disclosure agreements

When Cases Go to Trial

Typically when liability is denied or settlement offers are inadequate
Public accountability and precedent-setting
Higher potential recovery but also risk
Our approach: Prepare every case for trial, which improves settlement leverage

Typical Settlement Ranges (Based on public cases)

Death cases: $1M-$14M (Foltz $10M, Bogenberger $14M, Gruver $6.1M)
Severe injury cases: $375K-multi-million (Santulli settlements with 22 defendants)
Chemical burns/brain injuries: Often seven figures
Factors: Injury severity, liability clarity, defendant resources, venue

Practical Guide for Midlothian Parents & Students

For Parents: Warning Signs & Immediate Steps

Physical Red Flags

Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts, or injuries
Extreme fatigue beyond normal college stress
Weight changes from food/water restriction
Sleep deprivation (constant late nights, 3 AM calls)
Injuries to hands/back/legs from paddling or exercise
Chemical burns, rashes, or skin damage
Signs of alcohol poisoning (even if child doesn’t normally drink)

Behavioral & Emotional Changes

Sudden secrecy about organization activities
Withdrawal from family, old friends, non-member activities
Personality changes: anxiety, depression, irritability
Defensive when asked about the organization
Fear of “getting in trouble” or “letting the chapter down”
Sudden obsession with pleasing older members
Talking about “just having to get through this”

Digital & Social Evidence

Constant phone use for group chat monitoring
Anxiety when phone buzzes or pings
Deleting messages or clearing history obsessively
Receiving calls/texts at all hours demanding immediate response
Social media posts showing concerning activities
Geo-location tracking apps newly installed

How to Talk to Your Child

Ask open questions: “How are things with [organization]? Are you enjoying it?”
Be specific but non-confrontational: “Have they been respectful of your time for classes and sleep?”
Listen without judgment: If they open up, don’t react with anger—they need support
Emphasize safety: “Your health matters more than any organization.”
Offer escape: “You can leave anytime, and we’ll support you.”

For Students: Is This Hazing? What to Do

Self-Assessment Questions

Am I being forced or pressured to do something I don’t want to do?
Would I do this if I had a real choice (no social consequences)?
Is this activity dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
Would the university or my parents approve if they knew exactly what was happening?
Are older members making new members do things they don’t have to do themselves?
Am I being told to keep secrets, lie, or hide this from outsiders?

If you answered YES to any, it’s likely hazing.

Exiting Safely

If in immediate danger: Call 911, get to safe location
Tell someone outside the org first: Parent, RA, friend—create a record
Send written resignation: Email/text chapter president: “I resign my membership effective immediately”
Do NOT go to “one last meeting”: Where pressure or retaliation might occur
Document threats: Screenshot any harassment, report to university

Texas Legal Protections

Good-faith reporter immunity: You can’t be punished for calling 911 in an emergency
No-contact orders: Available through university if harassed after reporting
Civil lawsuits: Possible even if no criminal charges filed

Critical Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Case

1. Letting evidence be destroyed

Mistake: Deleting messages to “protect” someone or from embarrassment
Reality: Looks like cover-up; obstruction of justice; makes case nearly impossible
Solution: Preserve everything immediately, even embarrassing content

2. Confronting the organization directly

Mistake: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind”
Reality: They immediately lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses
Solution: Document everything, call a lawyer before any confrontation

3. Signing university “resolution” forms

Mistake: Trusting university to handle it fairly
Reality: Waivers often release legal rights; settlements are usually minimal
Solution: Do NOT sign anything without an attorney reviewing

4. Posting on social media

Mistake: “I want people to know what happened”
Reality: Defense attorneys screenshot everything; inconsistencies hurt credibility
Solution: Document privately; let your lawyer control public messaging

5. Waiting “to see how the university handles it”

Mistake: Trusting internal processes
Reality: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs
Solution: Preserve evidence NOW; consult lawyer immediately

Frequently Asked Questions for Midlothian Families

“Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities (UT, Texas A&M, UTA) have sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and when suing individuals. Private universities (SMU, Baylor) have fewer immunity protections. Every case depends on specific facts.

“Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
It can be. Texas law makes hazing a Class B misdemeanor by default, but it becomes a state jail felony if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. Individual officers can also face charges for failing to report hazing.

“What if my child ‘agreed’ to the initiation?”
Irrelevant. Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states consent is not a defense to hazing. Courts recognize that “consent” under peer pressure isn’t voluntary.

“How long do we have to file a lawsuit?”
Generally 2 years from the date of injury or death in Texas, but exceptions exist if the harm wasn’t immediately known or there was fraud/cover-up. Time is critical—call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately.

“What if it happened off-campus or at a private house?”
Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and nationals can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, and knowledge. Major cases (Pi Delta Psi retreat, Sigma Pi unofficial house) occurred off-campus with multi-million-dollar judgments.

“Will my child’s name be public?”
Most cases settle confidentially before trial. You can request sealed court records. We prioritize your family’s privacy while pursuing accountability.

“How much does this cost?”
We work on contingency—no fee unless we recover compensation. You pay nothing upfront for investigations, experts, or litigation costs.

Why Attorney911 for Midlothian Hazing Cases

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.

Our Texas Hazing Litigation Credentials

The Active Case Proving Our Capability
Right now, we’re leading the Leonel Bermudez $10 million hazing lawsuit against the University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi. This isn’t historical—it’s current, active proof that we take on major universities and national fraternities and fight for accountability. Click2Houston report on UH Pi Kappa Phi hazing case and ABC13 coverage of Leonel Bermudez’s UH hazing lawsuit

Insurance Insider Advantage: Mr. Lupe Peña

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

Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions: Ralph Manginello

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

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death Experience

Proven track record in complex wrongful death cases
Economist collaboration for lifetime care valuation
Experience with brain injury, permanent disability cases
“We don’t settle cheap. We build cases that force accountability”

Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise

Ralph’s membership in Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA)
Understands how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation
Can advise witnesses and former members with dual exposure

Investigative Depth & Expert Network

Digital forensics for recovering deleted messages
Medical experts (rhabdomyolysis, TBI, PTSD specialists)
Greek life culture and institutional policy experts
Economists and life-care planners
“We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does”

Our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine

While other firms start from scratch, we begin with data:

1,423 Greek Organizations Tracked Across Texas

IRS B83 records of 125+ Texas-registered entities
Cause IQ data on 510+ organizations in DFW metro alone
Campus-specific rosters from UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor
National hazing incident database with patterns and precedents

For Midlothian Families, This Means:

We already know the legal names, EINs, and addresses of organizations
We understand insurance structures and coverage issues
We can identify all potentially liable parties immediately
We have pattern evidence from similar incidents nationwide

Serving Midlothian & Ellis County Families

Though based in Houston, we serve families throughout Texas, including:

Midlothian & Ellis County

Just 3 hours from our Houston office
Virtual consultations available immediately
We understand North Texas courts and venues
Experience with DFW-area universities and Greek systems

Full Texas Coverage

Offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont
Admitted to federal courts statewide
Network of local counsel when venue-specific knowledge helps
“We protect victims like you throughout Texas”

Spanish Services Available

Hablamos Español – Mr. Lupe Peña speaks fluent Spanish
Servicios legales completos en español
Cultural understanding of Texas Hispanic communities

Our Promise to Midlothian Families

You’ll Work Directly With Experienced Attorneys

No paralegal handoffs or case manager runarounds
Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña personally oversee every hazing case
Regular updates every 2-3 weeks (we explain why in our video: Will You Keep Me Updated on My Case?)

We Prepare Every Case for Trial

Not just settlement lawyers
Trial readiness improves leverage and outcomes
Federal court experience when needed
“A case prepared for trial attracts fair settlement”

Contingency Fee – No Win, No Fee

You pay nothing unless we recover compensation
We advance all costs (experts, filings, investigations)
Clear fee structure explained upfront (How Do Contingency Fees Work?)

Immediate Response When It Matters

24/7 availability for emergencies
Evidence preservation guidance within hours
University response coordination immediately
“Legal Emergency Lawyers™” isn’t just a slogan

Call to Action for Midlothian Families

If you or your child experienced hazing at any Texas campus—whether UT Arlington, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, or any other school—we want to hear from you. Families in Midlothian, Waxahachie, Ennis, and throughout Ellis County have the right to answers and accountability.

What to Expect in Your Free Consultation

We Listen Without Judgment
- Tell us what happened in complete confidence
- No pressure, no commitment required
- We understand how difficult this is for families
Evidence Review & Strategy
- Review any evidence you have (photos, texts, medical records)
- Explain your legal options clearly
- Discuss realistic timelines and expectations
Clear Next Steps
- Immediate evidence preservation if needed
- Explanation of criminal vs. civil paths
- University reporting strategy if appropriate
No Pressure Decision
- Take time to decide what’s right for your family
- Ask all your questions
- We’ll be here when you’re ready

Contact Attorney911 Today

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

Spanish Services:
Hablamos Español – Contact Lupe Peña at lupe@atty911.com for consultation in Spanish

Don’t Wait – Evidence Disappears Fast

Group chats are deleted within days
Witnesses graduate or are coached
Universities begin internal processes that can compromise evidence
The statute of limitations is always running

Whether you’re in Midlothian proper, nearby Waxahachie or Ennis, or anywhere across Ellis County and North Texas, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 today. Let us help you get answers, hold the right people accountable, and prevent this from happening to another family.

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

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

News Coverage of Leonel Bermudez / UH Pi Kappa Phi Case:

Attorney911 Educational Videos:

Using phone to document evidence: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs
Texas statutes of limitations: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c
Client mistakes that ruin cases: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY
How contingency fees work: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc
Case updates communication: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9JrQowOLv1k

Attorney911 Main Website:

Homepage & contact: https://attorney911.com
Wrongful death practice: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/
Criminal defense practice: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/
Ralph Manginello profile: https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/
Lupe Peña profile: https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/