Glenrio Hazing Lawyer: Your Complete Guide to Campus Abuse & Legal Rights in New Mexico

If Your Child Was Hazed at College, You’re Not Alone—And You Have Rights

We understand the moment your world changes. The call comes from your child at Eastern New Mexico University, or maybe from a friend at New Mexico State University. The voice is shaky, the story is confusing, and the details are alarming. Physical exhaustion, forced drinking, humiliating rituals. As parents in Glenrio, Quay County, your first instinct is protection, but the path forward feels overwhelming. You’re dealing with powerful institutions—universities, national fraternities, entrenched traditions—while trying to help your child heal.

Right now, in Texas, we’re representing Leonel Bermudez in one of the most serious hazing cases in the country. This isn’t a historical example—it’s our current fight. In late 2025, we filed a $10 million hazing and abuse lawsuit against the University of Houston, the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity’s Beta Nu chapter, its national headquarters, and 13 fraternity leaders. The allegations are severe: a “pledge fanny pack” with degrading contents, forced consumption of milk and hot dogs until vomiting, being sprayed with a hose “similar to waterboarding,” and extreme workouts that caused Bermudez to develop rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure. He passed brown urine, was hospitalized for four days, and faces ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage.

This case matters to you, even in Glenrio, because it proves what we do every day. We take on national fraternities and universities when they fail to protect students. We’re already in the fight, and we bring that same commitment to families across New Mexico.

Immediate Help for Hazing Emergencies

If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

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

In the first 48 hours:

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

Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours:

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

What Hazing Really Looks Like in Glenrio & Across New Mexico

Hazing has evolved. It’s not just about paddling at fraternity houses—it’s a complex system of coercion that happens in sororities, athletic teams, spirit groups, and even academic organizations at New Mexico universities. For families in Glenrio sending children to Eastern New Mexico University, New Mexico State University, University of New Mexico, or schools nationwide, understanding modern hazing is the first step toward protection.

The Three Tiers of Modern Hazing

Tier 1: Subtle Hazing (Often Dismissed as “Tradition”)

• Digital control: 24/7 group chat monitoring, required immediate responses
• Servitude duties: Acting as designated drivers at all hours, cleaning rooms for older members
• Social isolation: Cutting off contact with non-members, requiring permission for social activities
• Mandatory attendance: Late-night meetings during exams, events that interfere with academics

Tier 2: Harassment Hazing (Creates Hostile Environments)

• Sleep deprivation: Wake-up calls at 3 AM, multi-day events with minimal sleep
• Food/water manipulation: Forced consumption of unpleasant substances, meal restrictions
• Extreme physical activity: “Smokings” with hundreds of push-ups, wall sits until collapse
• Public humiliation: Embarrassing acts in public, “roasting” sessions, degrading costumes

Tier 3: Violent Hazing (High Potential for Injury or Death)

• Forced alcohol consumption: Chugging contests, drinking games with wrong-answer penalties
• Physical beatings: Paddling, punching, kicking—even at New Mexico schools
• Dangerous “tests”: Blindfolded tackles, forced fights, swimming while intoxicated
• Sexualized hazing: Forced nudity, simulated sexual acts, sexual assault
• Chemical exposure: Industrial cleaners, raw eggs, and other substances causing burns

Where Glenrio Families Encounter Hazing

At New Mexico Universities:

• Eastern New Mexico University (Portales): Greek life, athletic teams, campus organizations
• New Mexico State University (Las Cruces): Major Greek system, Corps of Cadets, sports teams
• University of New Mexico (Albuquerque): Large Greek community, spirit groups, academic clubs
• New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology (Socorro): Smaller but active organizational life

Beyond Greek Life:

• Athletic teams at all levels
• Marching bands and performance groups
• ROTC and military-style organizations
• Service clubs and honor societies
• Even some academic and professional groups

National Organizations in New Mexico:
The same national fraternities and sororities that operate at Texas schools—Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Pi Kappa Alpha, and others—also have chapters at New Mexico universities. Their national hazing histories travel with them.

Hazing Law in New Mexico: What Glenrio Families Need to Know

Hazing laws vary by state, and understanding New Mexico’s framework is crucial for families in Quay County. While we’re Texas-based attorneys, we regularly handle cases involving New Mexico students and work with local counsel when appropriate.

New Mexico Hazing Statutes

New Mexico has specific anti-hazing legislation. Under NMSA 1978, § 30-3A-1 through § 30-3A-4:

• Criminal Hazing Definition: “Any willful act by one person alone or acting with others, directed against a student, that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of initiation or admission into any student organization.”
• Penalties: Hazing is a petty misdemeanor, but becomes a misdemeanor if serious bodily harm occurs
• Organizational Liability: Organizations that knowingly permit hazing can face fines up to $5,000
• Consent Defense: Not valid—victim’s consent does not excuse hazing

Federal Laws That Apply in New Mexico

Title IX of the Education Amendments (1972):

• Requires schools receiving federal funding to address sex discrimination
• Applies when hazing involves sexual harassment or gender-based hostility
• Schools must investigate and take prompt, effective action

The Clery Act:

• Requires colleges to report campus crime statistics
• Certain hazing incidents may require reporting
• Provides students and families with campus safety information

The Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024):

• Requires public reporting of hazing incidents by 2026
• Strengthens prevention education requirements
• Increases transparency for families

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding the Difference

Criminal Cases:

• Brought by the state (district attorney)
• Focus on punishment: fines, probation, possible jail time
• Charges may include: hazing, assault, battery, furnishing alcohol to minors
• In fatal cases: involuntary manslaughter or negligent homicide

Civil Cases:

• Brought by victims or their families
• Focus on compensation and accountability
• Types of claims: negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision, emotional distress
• No criminal conviction required to file civil suit

Many hazing cases involve both tracks simultaneously. A student can cooperate with criminal prosecutors while also pursuing civil compensation for injuries.

National Hazing Cases: Patterns That Affect Glenrio Families

The same patterns we see in Texas cases appear nationwide, including at New Mexico universities. These cases matter because they show how courts view hazing and what families can expect when pursuing justice.

Alcohol Poisoning Deaths: The Most Common Pattern

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

• What happened: 20-year-old pledge forced to drink entire bottle of alcohol during “Big/Little” night
• Medical outcome: Died from alcohol poisoning
• Legal outcome: Multiple criminal convictions; $10 million settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, ~$3M from university)
• Glenrio relevance: Shows national fraternities can be held accountable even when local chapters claim “rogue” behavior

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)

• What happened: “Bible study” drinking game where wrong answers required drinking
• Medical outcome: Died from alcohol toxicity (BAC 0.495%)
• Legal outcome: Louisiana enacted Max Gruver Act making hazing a felony
• Glenrio relevance: Legislative change often follows tragedy—families can drive reform

Physical and Ritualized Hazing

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

• What happened: Blindfolded, weighted down, repeatedly tackled during “glass ceiling” ritual
• Medical outcome: Fatal traumatic brain injury; delayed medical care
• Legal outcome: National fraternity convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter
• Glenrio relevance: Off-campus retreats don’t eliminate liability—national organizations remain responsible

Athletic Program Hazing

Northwestern University Football (2023–2025)

• What happened: Allegations of sexualized, racist hazing within football program
• Legal outcome: Multiple lawsuits, head coach fired, confidential settlements
• Glenrio relevance: Hazing extends beyond Greek life to athletic programs with significant institutional pressure to protect reputations

What These Cases Mean for New Mexico Families

1. Patterns repeat: The same fraternities, same rituals, same risks appear at schools nationwide
2. National organizations know the risks: They have anti-hazing policies because they’ve faced litigation before
3. Universities often prioritize reputation: Internal investigations may minimize harm to protect the institution
4. Families can achieve accountability: Through litigation, families have obtained multi-million dollar settlements and driven policy changes

Hazing at New Mexico Universities: What Glenrio Parents Should Know

Glenrio families often send children to universities throughout New Mexico and neighboring states. Understanding the landscape at these schools helps you recognize risks and respond effectively.

Eastern New Mexico University (Portales)

For Glenrio families: Just 100 miles from Glenrio, many Quay County students attend ENMU. Its smaller size doesn’t eliminate hazing risks.

Campus Profile:

• Public university with active Greek life
• Multiple fraternities and sororities on campus
• Athletic programs with potential hazing risks

Hazing Prevention Resources:

• Office of Student Affairs handles conduct complaints
• Anonymous reporting systems available
• Published anti-hazing policies in student handbook

What ENMU Parents Should Know:

• Document everything—small campuses can have tight-knit cultures that resist “outsider” complaints
• Regional hospitals (including in Clovis and Portales) may treat hazing injuries
• Local law enforcement (Roosevelt County Sheriff, Portales PD) may have jurisdiction

New Mexico State University (Las Cruces)

Campus Profile:

• Larger Greek system with national fraternity/sorority chapters
• Corps of Cadets program with military-style traditions
• Athletic teams at NCAA Division I level

Documented Issues:

• Past hazing incidents in Greek organizations
• Corps of Cadets facing scrutiny for tradition-based abuses
• Athletic program compliance with NCAA anti-hazing rules

Legal Landscape:

• Doña Ana County courts handle local cases
• NMSU Police Department investigates campus incidents
• University may assert sovereign immunity as public institution

University of New Mexico (Albuquerque)

Campus Profile:

• Largest Greek system in New Mexico
• Multiple NCAA Division I athletic teams
• Urban campus with off-campus housing concerns

Transparency Considerations:

• Varies in public reporting of hazing violations
• UNM Police Department handles campus investigations
• Bernalillo County District Attorney prosecutes criminal cases

Universities Outside New Mexico

Many Glenrio students attend schools in Texas, Arizona, Colorado, and beyond. The national fraternities and sororities at these schools have the same hazing histories. Wherever your child attends, the legal principles remain similar, though state laws vary.

Fraternities & Sororities: National Histories That Matter to Glenrio Families

When a New Mexico chapter of a national fraternity engages in hazing, that national organization’s history becomes relevant. Courts consider whether nationals knew or should have known about risks based on patterns at other chapters.

National Organizations with Documented Hazing Histories

Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / Pike)

• Stone Foltz (BGSU, 2021): $10 million settlement after alcohol poisoning death
• National pattern: Multiple chapters suspended nationwide for hazing violations
• New Mexico presence: Chapters at multiple state universities

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / SAE)

• University of Alabama (2023): Traumatic brain injury lawsuit
• Texas A&M (2021): Chemical burns requiring skin grafts
• National pattern: Multiple deaths and injuries leading to elimination of traditional pledge process
• New Mexico presence: Active chapters in state

Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ)

• Max Gruver (LSU, 2017): Hazing death led to Louisiana felony hazing law
• National response: Implemented alcohol-free housing policies

Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ)

• Andrew Coffey (FSU, 2017): Alcohol poisoning death during “Big Brother Night”
• Leonel Bermudez (UH, 2025): Our current case involving rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure
• National pattern: Similar forced drinking rituals across chapters

Why National Histories Matter in Your Case

1. Foreseeability: If a national organization had prior incidents, they should have taken steps to prevent repeats
2. Negligent supervision: Nationals may be liable if they failed to monitor or properly train chapters
3. Punitive damages: Knowledge of prior harm can support claims for punishment beyond compensation
4. Insurance coverage: National organizations often have deeper insurance pockets than local chapters

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Strategy, and What Glenrio Families Can Expect

When hazing causes serious injury, families need more than university disciplinary proceedings. They need comprehensive legal strategy that addresses medical needs, holds responsible parties accountable, and secures compensation for long-term impacts.

Critical Evidence in Modern Hazing Cases

Digital Evidence (Most Important Category):

• Group chats: GroupMe, WhatsApp, Signal, Discord messages showing planning, instructions, admissions
• Social media: Instagram stories, Snapchat, TikTok videos of events
• Text messages: Direct communications between members
• Deleted content: Digital forensics can often recover “permanently” deleted messages

Physical Evidence:

• Photographs of injuries (immediate and progressive)
• Medical records showing treatment for hazing-related conditions
• Objects used in hazing (paddles, alcohol bottles, props)
• Clothing with stains or damage from events

Institutional Records:

• University conduct files on the organization
• National fraternity/sorority risk management documents
• Prior complaints or incidents involving same group
• Training materials and policy manuals

Witness Testimony:

• Other pledges who experienced similar treatment
• Former members who left due to hazing
• Roommates, friends, or bystanders who observed events
• Medical providers who treated injuries

Damages: What Families Can Recover

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Losses):

• Medical expenses: Emergency care, hospitalization, surgery, rehabilitation, ongoing treatment
• Future medical needs: Long-term therapy, medications, assistive devices
• Lost educational opportunity: Tuition for interrupted semesters, lost scholarships
• Diminished earning capacity: Reduced future income potential due to permanent injuries

Non-Economic Damages (Subjective but Real Harm):

• Physical pain and suffering: From injuries sustained
• Emotional distress: PTSD, anxiety, depression, humiliation
• Loss of enjoyment: Can’t participate in activities they once loved
• Reputational harm: Social stigma and educational disruption

Wrongful Death Damages (When Tragedy Strikes):

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of financial support from deceased
• Loss of companionship, love, and guidance
• Grief and emotional suffering of family members

The Legal Process: What to Expect

1. Initial Consultation: We listen to your story, review evidence, explain options
2. Investigation Phase: Preserving evidence, identifying witnesses, researching organizational histories
3. Pre-litigation: Demand letters, negotiations with universities and insurers
4. Litigation (if necessary): Filing lawsuit, discovery process, depositions, expert testimony
5. Resolution: Settlement negotiations or trial verdict
6. Post-resolution: Ensuring compliance, monitoring recovery, closure

Practical Guides for Glenrio Families: Parents, Students, and Witnesses

For Parents: Recognizing and Responding to Hazing

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Hazed:

• Unexplained injuries, bruises, or burns
• Extreme fatigue beyond normal college stress
• Sudden personality changes: anxiety, depression, withdrawal
• Secretive behavior about organizational activities
• Constant phone use for group chat monitoring
• Financial strain from unexpected “dues” or purchases
• Academic decline due to missed classes or exhaustion

How to Talk to Your Child:

• Choose a calm, private setting
• Use open-ended questions: “How are things with [organization]?”
• Avoid judgmental language that might make them defensive
• Emphasize safety over loyalty: “Your health matters more than any group”
• Listen without interrupting—let them share at their own pace

If You Suspect Hazing:

1. Document everything your child tells you (dates, times, details)
2. Preserve evidence they show you (screenshot, don’t just look)
3. Seek medical evaluation even for “minor” injuries
4. Consult an attorney before contacting the university or organization
5. Support your child’s decisions about reporting or withdrawing

For Students: Is This Hazing? What Are Your Rights?

Self-Assessment Questions:

• Do I feel pressured or coerced to participate?
• Would I do this if there were no social consequences for refusing?
• Is this activity dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
• Would I want my family or university administrators to know exactly what’s happening?
• Am I being told to keep secrets or lie about activities?

Your Legal Rights in New Mexico:

• You cannot consent to hazing: Under NMSA § 30-3A-4, consent is not a defense
• Good faith reporting protection: Those who report hazing in good faith may have immunity
• Medical amnesty: Many universities protect those who seek help in alcohol emergencies
• Right to leave: You can resign from any organization at any time without penalty

How to Exit Safely:

• Tell someone outside the organization first (parent, trusted friend, RA)
• Send written resignation to chapter president (email provides documentation)
• Avoid “exit meetings” where pressure or retaliation might occur
• Report any threats or harassment to campus authorities immediately
• Consider requesting a no-contact order if you fear retaliation

For Witnesses and Former Members

If you participated in or witnessed hazing and now want to come forward:

Understanding Your Position:

• You may feel guilt, fear, or conflict about loyalty
• Your testimony could prevent future harm to others
• You may need your own legal counsel to understand potential exposure
• Cooperation can sometimes lead to more favorable outcomes

How to Cooperate Responsibly:

• Consult with an attorney before making statements
• Preserve any evidence you have (photos, messages, documents)
• Be honest and consistent in your accounts
• Understand that coming forward may mean difficult conversations

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Hazing Case

MISTAKE #1: Deleting Evidence

• What families think: “We don’t want this embarrassing content saved”
• Why it’s wrong: Looks like cover-up, can be obstruction of justice, makes case impossible to prove
• Better approach: Preserve EVERYTHING immediately, even embarrassing content

MISTAKE #2: Confronting the Organization Directly

• What families think: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind”
• Why it’s wrong: They immediately lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses
• Better approach: Document everything, then call a lawyer before any contact

MISTAKE #3: Signing University “Resolution” Forms

• What universities do: Pressure families to sign waivers or internal agreements
• Why it’s wrong: You may waive your right to sue; settlements are often far below true value
• Better approach: Do NOT sign anything without attorney review

MISTAKE #4: Posting on Social Media

• What families think: “I want people to know what happened”
• Why it’s wrong: Defense attorneys screenshot everything; inconsistencies hurt credibility
• Better approach: Document privately; let your lawyer control public messaging

MISTAKE #5: Waiting for University Investigation

• What universities promise: “We’re investigating; let us handle this internally”
• Why it’s wrong: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs
• Better approach: Preserve evidence NOW; consult lawyer immediately

MISTAKE #6: Talking to Insurance Adjusters

• What adjusters say: “We just need your statement to process the claim”
• Why it’s wrong: Recorded statements are used against you; settlements are lowball
• Better approach: “My attorney will contact you”

Why Attorney911 for Hazing Cases: Texas-Based, Nationally Relevant Expertise

When your family faces a hazing crisis, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how universities and national fraternities operate, how they defend these cases, and how to build compelling claims that force accountability.

Our Unique Qualifications for Hazing Cases

Insurance Insider Knowledge (Lupe Peña – Former Defense Attorney)
Mr. Peña spent years as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm. He knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies:

• Value and undervalue hazing claims
• Use delay tactics to pressure families
• Argue coverage exclusions for “intentional acts”
• This insider knowledge is invaluable when negotiating settlements or preparing for trial.

Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions
We’ve taken on billion-dollar defendants before. Our involvement in the BP Texas City explosion litigation proved our capability against well-funded institutional opponents. Universities and national fraternities have deep pockets and experienced defense teams—we’re not intimidated because we’ve faced similar challenges before.

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death Experience
We have a proven track record in catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases. We work with economists, life care planners, and vocational experts to fully value the impact of serious injuries. We don’t settle cheap—we build cases that reflect the true, lifelong consequences of hazing injuries.

Dual Civil/Criminal Hazing Capability
Ralph Manginello’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) signals elite criminal defense capability. This matters when:

• Hazing involves potential criminal charges
• Witnesses or former members need advice about their exposure
• Navigating the intersection of criminal and civil proceedings

Investigative Depth and Expert Network
We maintain what we call our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine—a comprehensive database tracking Greek organizations across Texas. While focused on Texas, this investigative approach shows our commitment to thorough preparation. For New Mexico cases, we:

• Work with digital forensics experts to recover deleted messages
• Consult medical specialists familiar with hazing injuries (rhabdomyolysis, TBI, PTSD)
• Research national fraternity/sorority histories showing patterns
• Identify all potentially liable parties (nationals, housing corporations, alumni groups)

How We Help New Mexico Families from Our Texas Offices

Our Geographic Positioning:
We’re Texas-based with offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, but we serve families nationwide through:

• Direct representation for cases with Texas connections (Texas-based nationals, insurance, etc.)
• Co-counsel arrangements with local New Mexico attorneys when appropriate
• Consultation and case evaluation for families anywhere in the U.S.

Why This Works for Glenrio Families:
The same national fraternities that operate in Texas also have chapters at New Mexico universities. Their insurance companies, defense strategies, and institutional playbooks are identical. Our experience against these organizations in Texas translates directly to helping New Mexico families.

Spanish Language Services:
Mr. Peña speaks fluent Spanish and can consult directly with Spanish-speaking families throughout New Mexico. Se habla Español.

Your Next Steps: Free Consultation for Glenrio Families

If hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to navigate this alone. Whether your child attends Eastern New Mexico University, New Mexico State, or any college nationwide, we can help you understand your options and rights.

What to Expect in Your Free Consultation

We’ll Listen Without Judgment
Tell us what happened in your own words. We understand this is difficult, and we provide a safe, confidential space to share your story.

Review Your Evidence
Bring whatever you have: photos, messages, medical records, or just your recollection. We’ll help you understand what evidence matters and how to preserve it.

Explain Your Legal Options
We’ll outline potential paths forward:

• Criminal reporting options
• Civil lawsuit possibilities
• University disciplinary processes
• Or no action at all

Discuss Realistic Expectations
We believe in honest conversations about:

• Likely timelines
• Potential challenges
• Realistic outcomes
• Costs and fees (we work on contingency—no fee unless we recover)

No Pressure to Hire
Take time to think, talk with your family, and decide what’s right for you. Our goal is to provide information, not pressure.

How to Contact Us

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: Contact Lupe Peña directly at lupe@atty911.com for consultation in Spanish.

Serving Glenrio and All of New Mexico:
While our offices are in Texas, we regularly handle cases involving New Mexico students and work with local counsel when needed. Distance doesn’t prevent us from providing comprehensive legal support for your family.

Frequently Asked Questions for Glenrio Families

Q: Can we sue a university in New Mexico for hazing?
A: Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities may have some sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist for gross negligence and certain claims. Private universities have fewer immunity barriers. Every case depends on specific facts—contact us for case-specific analysis.

Q: Is hazing a felony in New Mexico?
A: Under NMSA § 30-3A-3, hazing that causes great bodily harm or death is a misdemeanor. Other states have stronger felony provisions, which is why working with attorneys familiar with multi-state strategies can be beneficial.

Q: What if the hazing happened off-campus at a private house?
A: Location doesn’t automatically eliminate liability. Universities and national organizations can still be responsible based on sponsorship, control, and knowledge. Many major hazing cases involved off-campus locations.

Q: How long do we have to file a lawsuit?
A: In New Mexico, personal injury claims generally have a three-year statute of limitations, but this can vary based on specific circumstances. Time is critical—evidence disappears, witnesses forget, and organizations destroy records.

Q: Will our case be confidential?
A: Most hazing cases settle confidentially before trial. We prioritize your family’s privacy while pursuing accountability. You can request sealed court records and confidential settlement terms.

Q: What if our child “agreed” to participate?
A: Under New Mexico law § 30-3A-4, consent is not a defense to hazing. Courts recognize that “consent” under peer pressure and power imbalance isn’t truly voluntary.

Q: Can you help if our child attends school out of state?
A: Yes. We handle cases nationwide through co-counsel arrangements with local attorneys. The same national organizations operate everywhere, and our experience against them translates across state lines.

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 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 (Ralph Manginello), lupe@atty911.com (Lupe Peña)

For Glenrio Families: Whether you’re right here in Quay County or anywhere in New Mexico, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone. Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. We’re here to help you find answers, secure accountability, and protect your child’s future.