The Complete Guide to Fraternity & Sorority Hazing Lawsuits for Pearland Families: Your Rights, Texas Laws, and University Accountability

If Your Child Was Hazed at a Texas University, Here’s What You Need to Know Right Now

We understand the fear that grips a Pearland parent when that phone call comes—the one where your child’s voice sounds different, where they describe “tradition” that doesn’t feel right, or worse, when you’re rushing to a Houston-area hospital because something went terribly wrong during a pledge event. That nightmare became reality for one Houston family in late 2025, and it’s happening right now at universities where Pearland students attend.

Right here in our community, we’re actively fighting one of the most serious hazing cases in Texas. We represent Leonel Bermudez, a University of Houston student who suffered catastrophic injuries during his fall 2025 pledge period with the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity’s Beta Nu chapter. What started as typical “new member education” escalated into forced humiliation, extreme physical abuse, and medical catastrophe. Bermudez carried a degrading “pledge fanny pack” 24/7, endured hours-long workouts at Yellowstone Boulevard Park, was sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding,” and was forced to consume milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting. The physical toll culminated in a November 3 workout where he was forced through 100+ push-ups and 500 squats under threat of expulsion. Days later, he was hospitalized for four days with rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown) and acute kidney failure—his urine was brown, he couldn’t stand without help, and he now faces ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage.

This isn’t a story from another state or a different era. This is happening right now at the University of Houston, involving students from our community, and it resulted in a $10 million hazing and abuse lawsuit filed in Harris County. The Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter has been shut down, but the institutional failures that allowed this to happen—at UH, within the national fraternity, and among 13 named fraternity leaders—are exactly what Pearland families need to understand to protect their own children.

What This Guide Offers Pearland Families

If you’re a parent in Pearland, Friendswood, Alvin, or anywhere in the Greater Houston area, this comprehensive guide provides what you desperately need when facing a hazing crisis:

What hazing really looks like in 2025—not the stereotypes, but the digital coercion, psychological pressure, and dangerous “traditions” happening right now at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, and other Texas campuses where Pearland students enroll
Texas hazing laws explained in plain English—your rights, the criminal vs. civil processes, and how consent isn’t a defense
University-specific realities—what’s happening on campuses where Pearland families send their children, documented incidents, and how these institutions respond
Practical, immediate steps—what to do in the first 48 hours, how to preserve evidence, and how to navigate university systems
Legal pathways to accountability—how experienced hazing attorneys investigate, build cases, and hold national fraternities, local chapters, and universities responsible

This is general educational information, not specific legal advice. Every case depends on its unique facts. But understanding these patterns, laws, and realities can help you make informed decisions during one of the most stressful experiences a family can face.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR PEARLAND FAMILIES FACING A HAZING CRISIS

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

CONTACT AN EXPERIENCED HAZING ATTORNEY WITHIN 24–48 HOURS:

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

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

For Pearland families whose children are the first in their family to attend college or who didn’t experience Greek life themselves, understanding modern hazing requires moving beyond stereotypes. What happens in fraternity houses, sorority retreats, Corps barracks, and athletic team initiations in 2025 is often more psychologically sophisticated, digitally documented, and dangerously normalized than parents imagine.

The Modern Definition: Coercion Disguised as Tradition

Hazing isn’t just “boys being boys” or “harmless pranks.” Under Texas law and in reality, hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act—on or off campus—directed against a student for purposes of pledging, initiation, affiliation, holding office, or maintaining membership that endangers mental or physical health or safety. The key elements Pearland parents should understand:

It’s not about intent to harm—recklessness (knowing the risk and doing it anyway) is enough
Location doesn’t matter—off-campus houses, Airbnbs, retreat centers all count
“Consent” is irrelevant—Texas law explicitly states consent isn’t a defense when power imbalance and coercion exist
It’s not just physical—severe psychological harm, humiliation, and digital abuse qualify

The Four Categories of Modern Hazing Pearland Families Should Recognize

1. Alcohol and Substance Hazing: The Most Deadly Pattern

This remains the leading cause of hazing deaths nationwide and at Texas universities. Pearland parents might hear their children describe:

“Big/Little” or “Family Tree” nights where new members are given handles of liquor to consume
Lineup drinking games where pledges stand in rows and drink simultaneously
“Bible study” or trivia games where wrong answers mean forced drinking
Coerced consumption of unknown substances—pills, drugs mixed into drinks
What makes this particularly dangerous at Texas schools like UH and Texas A&M is the combination of excessive alcohol with extreme physical exertion—exactly what happened to Leonel Bermudez at UH, leading to rhabdomyolysis.

2. Physical Hazing: Beyond “Tough Love”

This isn’t ordinary team conditioning. At Texas universities, we’ve seen:

“Smokings” or extreme calisthenics—hundreds of push-ups, wall sits until collapse, sprints until vomiting
Paddling and beatings—particularly in NPHC (Divine Nine) traditions, though officially prohibited by nationals
Sleep and food deprivation—multi-day events with minimal rest, food restriction as punishment
Exposure elements—forced to stay outside in extreme Texas weather, lying in vomit or filth
Chemical exposure—at Texas A&M, Sigma Alpha Epsilon pledges suffered chemical burns from industrial cleaner

3. Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing: The Hidden Trauma

What Pearland parents might not hear about but happens at Texas schools:

Forced nudity or partial nudity during initiations
Simulated sexual acts—”elephant walks,” “roasted pig” positions (documented in Texas A&M Corps cases)
Degrading costumes and roles—the “pledge fanny pack” at UH containing condoms and sex toys
Racist, sexist, or homophobic elements—forced use of slurs, stereotype role-play

4. Digital Hazing: The 24/7 Pressure Cooker

This is where hazing has evolved most dramatically, and Pearland students are especially vulnerable:

Group chat control—pledges required to respond instantly to messages at all hours
Social media humiliation—forced to post embarrassing content on Instagram, TikTok
Location tracking—required to share location via Find My Friends or Snapchat Maps
Digital “tasks” and dares—performing stunts on video, sending compromising images
Evidence destruction instructions—immediate deletion of messages after reading

Where Hazing Happens at Texas Universities

Pearland families often associate hazing only with fraternities, but the reality at Texas campuses is broader:

Fraternities and Sororities (All Councils):
- IFC Fraternities (Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Phi Delta Theta, etc.)
- Panhellenic Sororities (increasingly documented in “mental hazing” cases)
- NPHC (Divine Nine) Organizations
- Multicultural Greek Council Groups
Corps of Cadets and Military Programs:
- Texas A&M Corps of Cadets (documented lawsuits including “roasted pig” binding)
- ROTC units at various Texas campuses
Athletic Teams:
- Football, basketball, baseball programs
- Cheer and spirit squads
- Marching bands and performance groups
“Spirit” and Tradition Organizations:
- Texas Cowboys at UT Austin
- Similar groups at other campuses
Academic and Honor Societies: Even these groups aren’t immune

The throughline across all these contexts: social status, tradition, secrecy, and power imbalance keep these practices alive despite everyone “knowing” hazing is illegal. What Pearland parents need to understand is that their child’s desire to belong—to finally fit in at a big Texas university—makes them vulnerable to coercion that would be unthinkable in any other context.

Texas Hazing Law: What Pearland Families Need to Know

When hazing happens to your child at a Texas university, understanding the legal landscape isn’t just helpful—it’s critical for protecting their rights and holding responsible parties accountable. Texas has specific hazing laws, but they operate within a broader framework of civil liability, federal regulations, and institutional policies.

Texas Education Code Chapter 37: The Criminal Framework

Texas law defines hazing broadly and takes it seriously. Here’s what Pearland parents should know:

What Constitutes Hazing Under Texas Law

According to Texas Education Code § 37.151, hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, directed against a student for purposes of initiation, affiliation, holding office, or maintaining membership in any organization that:

Endangers mental or physical health or safety
Involves forced consumption of alcohol, drugs, food, or other substances
Involves physical brutality or excessive physical activity
Involves sleep deprivation, exposure to elements, confinement, or other substantially offensive treatment

Key points for Pearland families:

“Reckless” is enough—they don’t need to have intended harm
Location doesn’t matter—off-campus houses, Airbnbs, retreats all count
“Consent is not a defense”—Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states this
Good faith reporting is protected—those who report or seek medical help have immunity

Criminal Penalties: What Perpetrators Face

Class B Misdemeanor: Basic hazing (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
Additional charges: Often include furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, manslaughter in fatal cases

Organizational Liability

Texas law also allows organizations to be prosecuted if they authorized or encouraged hazing or if officers knew and failed to report it. Penalties include fines up to $10,000 and university expulsion of the organization.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding the Difference

Pearland families often confuse these two tracks. Here’s the distinction:

CRIMINAL CASES:

Brought by: The State of Texas (prosecutor)
Goal: Punishment (jail, fines, probation)
Burden of proof: Beyond a reasonable doubt
Typical charges: Hazing, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, manslaughter
Your role: Victim/witness, not in control of the case

CIVIL LAWSUITS:

Brought by: Victims or families (you)
Goal: Compensation and accountability
Burden of proof: Preponderance of evidence (more likely than not)
Typical claims: Negligence, gross negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision
Your role: Plaintiff, with control through your attorney

Critical insight for Pearland families: These tracks can proceed simultaneously, and you don’t need a criminal conviction to pursue a civil case. In fact, the civil discovery process often uncovers evidence that strengthens criminal prosecutions.

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

Texas law operates alongside federal requirements that affect how universities respond:

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024):

Requires colleges receiving federal aid to report hazing incidents transparently
Strengthens hazing education and prevention programs
Mandates public hazing data reporting (phased in by 2026)
Impact for Pearland families: More transparency from universities about which organizations have violations

Title IX:

When hazing involves sexual harassment or gender-based hostility, Title IX obligations trigger
Universities must investigate promptly and protect victims from retaliation
Particular relevance: Sexualized hazing, which is more common than many Pearland parents realize

Clery Act:

Requires reporting certain crimes on campus
Hazing incidents often overlap with reportable crimes (assault, alcohol offenses)
For Pearland families: Check university annual security reports for patterns

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Hazing Lawsuit?

One of the most important realizations for Pearland families is that multiple entities often share responsibility:

1. Individual Students:

Those who planned, executed, or covered up hazing
Often includes pledge educators, chapter officers, active members who participated

2. Local Chapter/Organization:

The fraternity/sorority as an entity (if incorporated)
Housing corporations that own chapter houses

3. National Fraternity/Sorority Headquarters:

Critical defendant with deep pockets and insurance
Liability hinges on what they knew or should have known from prior incidents at other chapters
Pattern evidence is devastating here—showing same organization had similar hazing elsewhere

4. University/Governing Board:

Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT) have some sovereign immunity protections but can be sued under exceptions
Private universities (SMU, Baylor) have fewer immunity hurdles
Liability theories: negligent supervision, premises liability, Title IX violations

5. Third Parties:

Property owners/landlords of off-campus houses
Alcohol providers (dram shop liability)
Security companies or event organizers

6. Alumni Advisors and House Corporations:

Often overlooked but frequently carry insurance
Can exercise control over chapter activities

What Pearland families should understand: Experienced hazing attorneys investigate all potential defendants because insurance coverage, assets, and degrees of responsibility vary significantly.

National Hazing Case Patterns: What They Mean for Pearland Families

The hazing incident your Pearland student experienced didn’t happen in a vacuum. It follows patterns established in notorious cases across the country—patterns that courts recognize and that strengthen legal claims against repeat-offender organizations.

Alcohol Poisoning Deaths: The Most Preventable Tragedy

STONE FOLTZ – BOWLING GREEN STATE UNIVERSITY (2021)

Organization: Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike)
What happened: 20-year-old pledge forced to consume 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 BGSU)
Pearland relevance: Same national fraternity operates chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT, Baylor

MAX GRUVER – LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY (2017)

Organization: Phi Delta Theta
What happened: “Bible study” drinking game where wrong answers meant forced drinking
Medical outcome: Died from alcohol toxicity (BAC 0.495%)
Legal outcome: Max Gruver Act (Louisiana felony hazing law); individual convictions; confidential settlement
Pearland relevance: Same national fraternity at multiple Texas campuses

ANDREW COFFEY – FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY (2017)

Organization: Pi Kappa Phi
What happened: “Big Brother Night” with handles of hard liquor
Medical outcome: Died from acute alcohol poisoning
Legal outcome: Multiple prosecutions; FSU temporarily suspended all Greek life
Pearland relevance: Same national fraternity involved in current UH case—proving pattern

Physical and Ritualized Hazing: Extreme Endurance Tests

CHUN “MICHAEL” DENG – BARUCH COLLEGE (2013)

Organization: Pi Delta Psi
What happened: Blindfolded, weighted with backpack, repeatedly tackled during “glass ceiling” ritual at retreat
Medical outcome: Fatal traumatic brain injury; delayed 911 call
Legal outcome: National fraternity convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter; banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years
Pearland relevance: Shows off-campus retreats don’t eliminate liability; nationals can face criminal charges

DANNY SANTULLI – UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI (2021)

Organization: Phi Gamma Delta (FIJI)
What happened: “Pledge dad reveal” night with extreme drinking
Medical outcome: Severe, permanent brain damage (cannot walk, talk, or see; needs 24/7 care)
Legal outcome: Settlements with 22 defendants; multi-million dollar recoveries
Pearland relevance: Non-fatal catastrophic injuries require lifetime care costing millions

Athletic Program Hazing: Not Just Greek Life

NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY FOOTBALL (2023–2025)

What happened: Former players alleged sexualized, racist hazing within football program
Legal outcome: Multiple lawsuits; head coach fired and settled wrongful-termination confidentially
Pearland relevance: Hazing happens in big-money athletic programs too; universities often prioritize protecting programs over victims

What These National Patterns Mean for Your Pearland Case

Foreseeability: When a national fraternity has history of alcohol deaths at other chapters, they can’t claim “we didn’t know this could happen”
Punitive Damages: Repeated incidents despite “anti-hazing policies” support claims for punishment beyond compensation
Institutional Knowledge: Discovery can obtain national headquarters files showing they knew about similar conduct elsewhere
Settlement Values: These cases establish what serious hazing cases are worth—often millions for deaths, substantial sums for catastrophic injuries

For Pearland families, the takeaway is clear: Your child’s experience isn’t an isolated incident. It’s part of documented patterns that national organizations have failed to eradicate despite repeated tragedies.

Texas University Focus: Where Pearland Students Attend and What’s Happening There

Pearland families send their children to universities across Texas, but several campuses draw significant numbers from our community. Understanding the specific hazing landscape at these schools—including documented incidents, university responses, and Greek life cultures—is essential for prevention and response.

University of Houston: The Campus in Our Backyard

For Pearland Families: UH is just a short drive from our community, making it a natural choice for many local students. Its urban campus hosts active Greek life with particular risk patterns Pearland parents should understand.

Campus Culture and Greek Life Reality

UH’s commuter-school reputation belies an active Greek system with:

17+ IFC fraternities including Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Pi Kappa Alpha
6 Panhellenic sororities
Active NPHC (Divine Nine) and multicultural chapters
Particular concern: Mix of traditional residential Greek life and commuter students seeking belonging

Documented Incidents and University Response

THE LEONEL BERMUDEZ CASE (2025 – ACTIVE LITIGATION)

What happened: Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter hazing involving forced humiliation, extreme physical abuse, alcohol coercion
Medical outcome: Rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney failure, multi-day hospitalization
University response: Called conduct “deeply disturbing,” cooperated with investigation
Fraternity response: Chapter suspended Nov. 6, 2025; charter surrendered Nov. 14, 2025
Legal status: $10 million lawsuit pending in Harris County; Attorney911 represents Bermudez
Pearland relevance: This is happening right now at our local university

PRIOR UH HAZING CASES:

2016 Pi Kappa Alpha incident: Pledge suffered lacerated spleen during multi-day event with sleep/food deprivation
Various alcohol and physical hazing violations resulting in chapter probations and suspensions
Pattern: UH typically suspends chapters after serious incidents but transparency about violations is limited compared to UT Austin

How a UH Hazing Case Proceeds

Jurisdiction: Harris County courts (where Pearland families would file)
Investigating agencies: UHPD and/or Houston Police Department depending on location
Potential defendants: Individuals, local chapter, Pi Kappa Phi national, UH Board of Regents, housing corporations
Unique factors: Urban campus with many off-campus houses; mix of commuter and residential students

What UH Students and Pearland Parents Should Do

Document everything immediately: UH investigations can be slow; evidence preservation is critical
Report through multiple channels: Dean of Students, UHPD, online reporting forms
Understand UH’s process: Less transparent than some schools; may need public records requests
Medical care: UT Health and Houston hospital systems will document emergencies
Legal consideration: Harris County venue means Pearland families work with local courts

Texas A&M University: Tradition, Corps, and Greek Life

For Pearland Families: Many Pearland students choose Texas A&M for its reputation, tradition, and career networks. But its unique Corps of Cadets culture and intense Greek life require particular awareness.

Campus Culture and Risk Factors

Corps of Cadets: Military-style program with documented hazing issues
Strong Greek system: 30+ fraternities and sororities with deep traditions
“Old Army” mentality: Sometimes prioritizes tradition over safety
Particular concerns: Combination of physical hazing in Corps and alcohol hazing in Greek life

Documented Incidents and University Response

SIGMA ALPHA EPSILON CHEMICAL BURNS CASE (2021)

What happened: Pledges allegedly covered in substances including industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs
Medical outcome: Severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries
Legal outcome: Pledges sued for $1 million; chapter suspended
Pearland relevance: Shows extreme physical hazing happens at A&M

CORPS OF CADETS “ROASTED PIG” LAWSUIT (2023)

What happened: Cadet alleged being bound between beds in degrading position with apple in mouth
Legal outcome: Sought over $1 million; A&M stated handled internally
Pearland relevance: Hazing extends beyond Greek life to military programs

RHABDOMYOLYSIS CASES (2023 ONGOING)

What happened: Multiple fraternity hazing incidents involving extreme exercise
Medical outcome: Rhabdomyolysis (same as UH Bermudez case)—severe muscle breakdown risking kidney failure
Pearland relevance: This specific medical emergency is appearing across Texas campuses

Texas A&M’s Hazing Response Framework

Student Conduct Administration: Handles Greek life violations
Corps of Cadets Command: Handles military program incidents
Transparency: Less public reporting than UT; often resolves internally
Pattern: Suspensions common but lasting culture change less evident

What Texas A&M Families from Pearland Should Know

Dual systems: Greek life and Corps operate under different rules
Medical resources: College Station medical facilities familiar with hazing injuries
Legal jurisdiction: Brazos County courts; may involve military justice aspects for Corps
Tradition defense: Expect “this is tradition” arguments from organizations
Intervention points: Aggie Honor System and student conduct processes

University of Texas at Austin: Transparency and Repeated Violations

For Pearland Families: UT Austin draws Pearland students seeking flagship university experience. Its relatively transparent hazing violation reporting provides unique insight into patterns.

Campus Culture and Greek Life

Large Greek system: 60+ fraternities and sororities
Public hazing log: UT publishes violations—unusual transparency
Competitive Greek culture: Status-driven with associated risks
Urban setting: Similar to UH with off-campus housing challenges

Documented Violations from UT’s Public Log

PI KAPPA ALPHA (2023 VIOLATION)

Conduct: New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics
Sanction: Probation, hazing prevention education required
Pattern: Same national fraternity with deadly history elsewhere

TEXAS WRANGLERS (SPIRIT ORGANIZATION)

Multiple violations: Alcohol hazing, forced physical activity
Pattern: Spirit groups replicate Greek hazing behaviors

VARIOUS FRATERNITIES (MULTIPLE YEARS)

Common themes: Alcohol coercion, physical endurance tests, humiliation
Sanction pattern: Probation common, suspension for serious incidents
Pearland insight: Public log shows which organizations have repeat violations

UT’s Hazing Response System

Public violation log: https://deanofstudents.utexas.edu/sfl/hazinglog.php
Student Conduct office: Investigates and sanctions
UTPD involvement: For criminal aspects
Relative strength: Transparency allows pattern recognition

What UT Austin Families from Pearland Should Do

Check the public log: See if your child’s organization has prior violations
Use transparency: Prior violations strengthen negligence claims
Document thoroughly: UT investigations can be comprehensive
Medical care: UT Health services and Austin hospitals document cases
Legal consideration: Travis County venue; Austin has experience with university cases

Southern Methodist University: Private School Challenges

For Pearland Families: SMU attracts Pearland students with its private university experience and strong professional networks. Its affluent Greek culture has particular characteristics.

Campus Culture and Greek Life

Prominent Greek system: Central to social life
Private university status: Less transparency than public schools
Affluent demographic: Different peer pressure dynamics
Dallas location: Off-campus houses in affluent neighborhoods

Documented Incidents

KAPPA ALPHA ORDER INCIDENT (2017)

What happened: New members reportedly paddled, forced to drink, sleep deprived
University response: Chapter suspended until 2021
Pattern: Physical hazing persists despite national “anti-hazing” policies

SMU’S RESPONSE PATTERN

Internal handling: Less public disclosure than public universities
Sanctions: Suspensions and probations
Alumni influence: Sometimes protects organizations from severe consequences

What SMU Families from Pearland Should Understand

Privacy barriers: SMU shares less information publicly
Legal discovery: May need to compel internal documents through litigation
Insurance considerations: Private university different from public immunity issues
Dallas resources: Medical and legal communities experienced with university cases

Baylor University: Religious Identity and Scandal History

For Pearland Families: Baylor’s religious affiliation attracts some Pearland families, but its history with institutional scandal provides important context.

Campus Culture and Challenges

Christian identity: Sometimes creates “we’re different” assumptions
Greek life presence: Active but less dominant than at some schools
Athletic program scandals: History of institutional failure to address abuse
Waco location: Smaller legal and medical community

Documented Incidents

BAYLOR BASEBALL HAZING (2020)

What happened: 14 players suspended following hazing investigation
Response: Staggered suspensions during season
Pattern: Athletic program hazing mirrors Greek patterns

INSTITUTIONAL HISTORY

Sexual assault scandal: Revealed systematic failure to address abuse
Ongoing reforms: May affect hazing response
Pearland consideration: Institutional culture affects how hazing is handled

What Baylor Families from Pearland Should Know

Baylor’s history: Impacts institutional response credibility
Religious context: May affect victim reporting comfort
Waco resources: Smaller legal community but experienced with Baylor cases
Insurance dynamics: Private religious institution has unique aspects

Common Themes Across Texas Campuses for Pearland Families

Alcohol remains central—despite education, forced drinking persists
Physical endurance tests—extreme exercise causing rhabdomyolysis is emerging pattern
Digital hazing evolution—24/7 group chat pressure is now standard
Institutional responses vary—UH, A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor all handle differently
Transparency gaps—even UT’s public log doesn’t show everything
Repeat offender patterns—same national organizations appear repeatedly

For Pearland parents: Your child’s campus isn’t immune. Each has documented incidents, and the patterns transfer across schools through national organizations and peer cultures.

Fraternities and Sororities: National Histories That Matter for Pearland Cases

When your Pearland student is hazed by a fraternity or sorority at a Texas university, you’re not just dealing with a local chapter. You’re confronting a national organization with a documented history—a history that becomes critical evidence in holding them accountable.

Why National Histories Create Legal Liability

National fraternities and sororities aren’t passive letterheads. They:

Collect national dues from chapters
Provide (or fail to provide) risk management training
Maintain insurance policies covering chapters
Have authority to suspend or revoke charters
Receive incident reports from chapters

When a national organization has prior notice of hazing patterns through incidents at other chapters, their failure to prevent similar conduct at a Texas chapter creates legal liability. This is called foreseeability—they knew or should have known this could happen.

Major National Organizations Present at Texas Campuses

PI KAPPA PHI (ΠΚΦ)

Texas chapters: UH (Beta Nu—now closed), Texas A&M, UT Austin, others
National hazing history:
- Andrew Coffey death (FSU 2017): Big Brother night alcohol poisoning
- Multiple other alcohol hazing incidents nationally
Current Pearland relevance: Active lawsuit at UH—Leonel Bermudez case shows pattern continues despite national “awareness”
Legal significance: National headquarters received 2025 reports about UH chapter before suspension

PI KAPPA ALPHA (ΠΚΑ / “PIKE”)

Texas chapters: UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, Baylor, SMU
National hazing history:
- Stone Foltz death (BGSU 2021): $10 million settlement with national
- David Bogenberger death (NIU 2012): $14 million settlement
- Multiple other alcohol hazing deaths
Texas incidents: UH 2016 lacerated spleen case; UT 2023 violation
Pattern: “Big/Little” alcohol hazing repeatedly fatal

SIGMA ALPHA EPSILON (ΣΑΕ)

Texas chapters: UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, others
National hazing history:
- Traumatic brain injury lawsuit (Alabama 2023)
- Multiple hazing-related deaths nationally leading to elimination of pledge program (then reinstated)
Texas incidents: Texas A&M chemical burns case (2021); UT assault case (2024)
Pattern: Physical violence combined with alcohol

PHI DELTA THETA (ΦΔΘ)

Texas chapters: UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin
National hazing history:
- Max Gruver death (LSU 2017): Led to Louisiana felony hazing law
- Multiple alcohol hazing incidents
Pattern: “Bible study” drinking games

KAPPA ALPHA ORDER (ΚΑ)

Texas chapters: Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU
National hazing history: Multiple paddling and physical hazing incidents
Texas incidents: SMU 2017 suspension for paddling and drinking hazing
Pattern: Physical violence tradition

OTHER ORGANIZATIONS WITH PATTERNS:

Sigma Chi: College of Charleston $10M+ settlement (2024)
Phi Gamma Delta (FIJI): Danny Santulli catastrophic brain injury (2021)
Beta Theta Pi: Timothy Piazza death (Penn State 2017)

How National Histories Strengthen Pearland Cases

1. Evidence of Foreseeability

When a national fraternity had alcohol hazing deaths at other chapters, they can’t claim “we didn’t know forced drinking could kill” when it happens at UH or Texas A&M.

2. Punitive Damages Support

Repeated incidents despite “anti-hazing policies” show conscious disregard for safety—supporting punishment beyond compensation.

3. Negligent Supervision Claims

Nationals have duty to supervise chapters. Prior incidents show they knew supervision was inadequate.

4. Insurance Coverage Arguments

Patterns can defeat insurance exclusions for “intentional acts” by showing systemic negligence.

5. Discovery Power

National headquarters files contain incident reports, training materials, internal communications about risks—all obtainable through litigation.

What Pearland Families Should Research About Their Child’s Organization

Google “[fraternity name] hazing death”—see what comes up
Check university violation logs—UT’s is public; others may require requests
Ask about national risk management training—was it substantive or check-box?
Inquire about prior chapter incidents—has this chapter been in trouble before?
See if national has been sued before—court records are public

For example, if your child is pledging Pi Kappa Phi at UH, you should know about:

Andrew Coffey’s 2017 death at FSU
The current active lawsuit at UH
The national organization’s response pattern

This knowledge isn’t academic—it’s critical for understanding the true risk and for building a case if something happens.

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Damages, and Strategy for Pearland Families

When hazing injures your child, understanding how cases are built—what evidence matters, what damages are available, and how strategy develops—helps you make informed decisions during an overwhelming time.

Critical Evidence That Wins Hazing Cases

Evidence disappears quickly in hazing cases. Organizations destroy it, universities minimize it, and memories fade. Here’s what matters most:

Digital Evidence: The 21st-Century Paper Trail

GROUP CHATS (MOST CRITICAL):

Platforms: GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage groups, Discord, Slack
What to preserve: Screenshots showing full threads with timestamps and sender names
Key content: Planning of events, instructions to pledges, discussions of “traditions,” aftermath conversations
Pearland specific: Texas is one-party consent state—recordings you participate in are legal

SOCIAL MEDIA:

Instagram stories showing events
Snapchat content (screenshot before it disappears)
TikTok videos of challenges or dares
Facebook events and discussions
Particular value: Timestamps, location tags, participant identification

TEXTS AND DMs:

Individual messages about activities
Communications with officers about “requirements”
Evidence of coercion or threats

DELETED CONTENT RECOVERY:

Digital forensics can often recover deleted messages
Cloud backups (iCloud, Google) may preserve content
Critical: Don’t reset phones or delete apps before forensic examination

Medical Evidence: Documenting the Harm

IMMEDIATE MEDICAL RECORDS:

ER reports detailing presentation and diagnosis
Hospital admission records
Lab results (blood alcohol, creatinine kinase for rhabdomyolysis, kidney function)
Toxicology reports
Crucial instruction: Tell medical providers “this was hazing” so it’s documented

ONGOING MEDICAL DOCUMENTATION:

Follow-up visits with primary care
Specialist consultations (nephrology for kidney damage, psychiatry for PTSD)
Physical or occupational therapy records
Medication records

PSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATIONS:

PTSD diagnosis carries significant legal weight
Depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation documentation
Therapy notes (though sometimes protected)
Pearland reality: Mental health harm often exceeds physical in long-term impact

Physical and Documentary Evidence

INJURY PHOTOGRAPHY:

Multiple angles with good lighting
Include ruler or coin for scale
Date-stamp if possible
Progression photos over days (bruises evolve)

PHYSICAL ITEMS:

Clothing worn during hazing (don’t wash)
Paddles or other implements
Alcohol containers
“Pledge manuals” or instructions
Receipts for forced purchases

LOCATION EVIDENCE:

Photos of where it happened
Address verification
Property ownership records (often alumni or housing corporations)

Institutional and Witness Evidence

UNIVERSITY RECORDS:

Prior violations by same organization
Incident reports
Disciplinary actions
Emails among administrators
Obtained through: Public records requests, discovery in litigation

NATIONAL FRATERNITY RECORDS:

Prior incident reports from other chapters
Risk management manuals
Insurance policies
Communications with chapter
Obtained through: Discovery once lawsuit filed

WITNESS INFORMATION:

Other pledges’ contact information
Member witnesses
Roommates, friends who observed changes
Emergency responders
Early action critical: Witnesses graduate, transfer, get pressured

Damages: What Can Be Recovered in Hazing Cases

Understanding damage categories helps Pearland families recognize the full scope of harm—physical, financial, emotional—and what compensation might address.

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Financial Losses)

MEDICAL EXPENSES:

Past medical bills (ER, hospital, doctors, medications)
Future medical care (ongoing therapy, potential surgeries)
Catastrophic injury cases: Lifetime care plans costing millions (brain injury, permanent disability)

LOST INCOME AND EARNING CAPACITY:

Current lost wages (yours if missing work, your child’s if employed)
Future earning reduction if injuries affect career prospects
For students: Delayed graduation, lost scholarship value

OTHER ECONOMIC LOSSES:

Property damage (phone, clothing, other items)
Educational costs (transferring schools, additional semesters)
Transportation for medical care

Non-Economic Damages (Compensating Suffering)

PHYSICAL PAIN AND SUFFERING:

Pain from injuries
Ongoing discomfort
Loss of physical abilities

EMOTIONAL DISTRESS:

PTSD diagnosis and treatment
Depression, anxiety, humiliation
Loss of enjoyment of life
Relationship damage

WRONGFUL DEATH DAMAGES (FOR FAMILIES):

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

Punitive Damages (When Available)

Purpose: Punish especially reckless or malicious conduct
When awarded: Defendants knew risks and disregarded them
Texas considerations: Caps may apply but exceptions exist
National pattern cases: Prior incidents support punitive claims

Settlement Values in Hazing Cases: Real-World Context

While every case is unique, knowing national settlement and verdict ranges helps Pearland families understand what serious cases are worth:

FATALITY CASES:

Stone Foltz (Pi Kappa Alpha): $10 million total settlement
David Bogenberger (Pi Kappa Alpha): $14 million settlement
Max Gruver (Phi Delta Theta): $6.1 million verdict plus confidential settlements
Chad Meredith (Kappa Sigma): $12.6 million jury verdict

CATASTROPHIC INJURY (NON-FATAL):

Danny Santulli (Phi Gamma Delta): Multi-million settlements with 22 defendants
Traumatic brain injury cases: Often $5M+ depending on care needs
Rhabdomyolysis with permanent damage: Significant six-figure to low seven-figure

SEVERE INJURY CASES:

Chemical burns requiring grafts: Mid to high six-figures
Sexualized hazing with psychological harm: Varies widely but often substantial
Alcohol poisoning with organ damage: Depends on permanency

Important Pearland context: Texas caps some damages in cases against public universities, but multiple defendants (nationals, individuals, housing corporations) often have insurance covering substantial amounts.

Strategic Considerations for Pearland Families

Timing and Evidence Preservation

First 48 hours critical: Evidence disappears fastest initially
Statute of limitations: Generally 2 years in Texas but consult attorney immediately
University processes: Often run concurrently with legal action

Defendant Identification

Cast wide net initially: Individuals, chapter, national, university, property owners
Insurance coverage investigation: Different defendants have different policies
Texas-specific: Sovereign immunity considerations for public universities

Settlement vs. Trial

Most cases settle: Confidential terms common
Trial readiness drives value: Defendants pay more if you’re prepared to go to court
Public vs. private resolution: Some families want public accountability; others prioritize privacy

Working with University Processes

Dual track common: Legal action alongside university disciplinary process
Be strategic: University investigations can help or hinder legal case
Document everything: University communications become evidence

For Pearland families, the key insight is: Don’t wait. Evidence preservation, witness statements, and medical documentation all degrade with time. Early consultation with experienced hazing counsel protects your rights and positions your family for the best possible outcome.

Practical Guides and FAQs for Pearland Parents, Students, and Witnesses

When hazing touches your family, knowing what to do—and what not to do—can make the difference between achieving accountability and watching the system protect itself. These practical guides address the most common situations Pearland families face.

For Pearland Parents: Recognizing and Responding to Hazing

Warning Signs Your College Student May Be Being Hazed

PHYSICAL SIGNS:

Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts, or injuries with inconsistent explanations
Extreme exhaustion beyond normal college stress
Weight changes (loss from deprivation or stress eating)
Sleep deprivation patterns (up all night, sleeping through day)
Injuries to specific body parts (hands from paddling, legs from excessive exercise)
Chemical burns or unusual rashes
Signs of alcohol poisoning (even if your child doesn’t normally drink)

BEHAVIORAL AND EMOTIONAL CHANGES:

New secrecy about organization activities (“I can’t talk about it”)
Withdrawal from family and non-organization friends
Personality shifts: anxiety, depression, irritability, anger
Defensive responses when asked about the organization
Fear of “letting the chapter down” or “getting brothers in trouble”
Obsession with pleasing older members
Language about “just getting through” initiation

ACADEMIC RED FLAGS:

Grades dropping suddenly
Missing classes or sleeping through them
Skipping assignments for “mandatory” events
Losing scholarships or academic standing

FINANCIAL CHANGES:

Unexpected large expenses (forced purchases, excessive dues)
Buying alcohol or items for older members
Overdrafts, maxed cards, urgent money requests

DIGITAL BEHAVIOR:

Constant phone checking for group chat messages
Anxiety when phone buzzes
Deleting messages or clearing history obsessively
All-hours text demands requiring immediate response
Social media posts showing concerning activities

How to Talk to Your Child About Hazing Concerns

OPENING QUESTIONS (NON-CONFRONTATIONAL):

“How are things going with [organization]? Are you enjoying it?”
“Have they been respectful of your time for classes and sleep?”
“What do new members typically do in your organization?”
“Is there anything that makes you uncomfortable or that you wish you didn’t have to do?”
“Have you seen anyone get hurt, or have you been hurt?”
“Do you feel like you could leave if you wanted to, or would there be consequences?”
“Are they asking you to keep secrets from me or the university?”

IF YOUR CHILD OPENS UP:

Listen without judgment first
Validate their feelings and experience
Emphasize their safety over organizational loyalty
Discuss options together

IF YOUR CHILD SHUTS DOWN:

Don’t force confrontation
Monitor closely and stay available
Consider contacting university resources
Document what you’ve observed

What to Do If You Suspect Hazing

IMMEDIATE SAFETY ACTIONS:

If your child is in immediate danger (intoxicated, injured, threatened): Call 911
Remove them from dangerous situations
Seek medical attention immediately

DOCUMENTATION (BEFORE MEMORY FADES):

Write down dates, times, what your child told you
Screenshot any messages they show you
Photograph visible injuries
Save physical evidence

REPORTING DECISIONS:

Campus authorities: Dean of Students, Office of Student Conduct, campus police
Local police: If crimes occurred (assault, furnishing alcohol to minors)
National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (anonymous, 24/7)
University anonymous reporting systems: Many have online forms

LEGAL CONSULTATION:

Contact experienced hazing attorney early (don’t wait for university process)
We can help preserve evidence before it disappears
Navigate criminal vs. civil decisions
Protect against retaliation

WHAT NOT TO DO:

Don’t confront the organization directly
Don’t sign anything from university or insurance without legal review
Don’t post details on public social media
Don’t let “internal handling” promises delay legal consultation

For Students: Self-Assessment and Safety Planning

Is This Hazing? A Decision Guide

Ask yourself these 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, no fear of being cut)?
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?
Is this “tradition” really about initiation, or is it just entertainment for older members?
Am I being told to keep secrets, lie, or hide this from outsiders?

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

Understanding “Consent” in Hazing Situations

Texas law is clear: consent is not a defense to hazing. Why?

Power imbalance makes true consent impossible
Fear of social exclusion is coercive
Desire for belonging affects judgment
Group pressure overrides individual choice

You are the victim, not a willing participant, even if you said “yes” under pressure.

How to Exit Safely

IF YOU’RE IN IMMEDIATE DANGER:

Call 911 or campus police
Get to a safe location (dorm, friend’s place, public area)
You won’t get in trouble for calling for help—Texas has good-faith reporter protections

IF YOU WANT TO QUIT/DEPLEDGE:

You have the legal right to leave at any time
Tell someone outside the org first (parent, RA, friend)
Send email/text to chapter president: “I resign my membership effective immediately”
Do NOT go to “one last meeting” where pressure or retaliation might occur
If fearing retaliation, report that fear to Dean of Students and campus police

PROTECTING AGAINST RETALIATION:

Document any threats or harassment (screenshots, recordings if legal)
File formal complaint if being stalked or harassed
Seek protective order if necessary
Texas harassment and stalking laws protect you

Evidence Collection for Students

WHILE IT’S HAPPENING OR IMMEDIATELY AFTER:

Screenshot group chats with timestamps and participant names
Record conversations if safe (Texas is one-party consent state)
Photograph injuries immediately and over several days
Save everything digital—don’t delete even if embarrassed
Tell medical providers “I was hazed” so it’s documented
Get witness information—other pledges, bystanders

SPECIFIC TO TEXAS UNIVERSITIES:

University health services can document injuries
Counseling centers can provide mental health documentation
Campus police reports create official record
Student conduct complaints trigger investigations

Where to Report at Texas Universities

ON CAMPUS:

Dean of Students/Student Conduct: Formal reporting triggers investigation
Title IX Coordinator: If hazing involves sexual harassment or assault
Campus Police: For criminal aspects
Counseling Center: Mental health support (confidential)
Trusted Professor/Advisor: Can help navigate systems

OFF CAMPUS:

Local Police: City PD or sheriff for crimes
National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (anonymous)
Experienced Hazing Attorney: Confidential consultation

BE CAUTIOUS WITH:

Fraternity/sorority advisors employed by the org
Greek Life offices that may prioritize system protection
Friends still in the organization (conflicted loyalties)

For Former Members and Witnesses: Navigating Guilt and Responsibility

If you participated in hazing and now regret it, or witnessed it and didn’t intervene, you’re not alone. Many former members struggle with guilt while fearing consequences.

Understanding Your Position

You may have legal exposure but also valuable information
Cooperation can reduce your liability in some circumstances
Your testimony could prevent future harm and save lives
Getting your own attorney is wise before making statements

How Witness Cooperation Works

Attorneys can negotiate limited immunity or non-prosecution agreements
Your honest testimony can be critical for holding leaders accountable
Protections exist: Texas has whistleblower protections in some contexts
Anonymity options: In some cases, witnesses can provide information anonymously

Finding Support and Making Amends

Many universities offer amnesty for those who come forward with information
Counseling can help process guilt and trauma
Some find meaning in advocating for hazing prevention
Legal advice first: Understand your rights before making decisions

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Hazing Case

MISTAKE #1: Letting Your Child Delete Messages or “Clean Up” Evidence

What parents think: “I don’t want them to get in more trouble”
Why it’s wrong: Looks like cover-up; can be obstruction of justice; destroys case
What to do instead: Preserve everything immediately—even embarrassing content is evidence

MISTAKE #2: Confronting the Fraternity/Sorority Directly

What parents think: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind”
Why it’s wrong: They immediately lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses
What to do instead: Document everything, call a lawyer before any confrontation

MISTAKE #3: Signing University “Release” or “Resolution” Forms

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

MISTAKE #4: Posting Details on Social Media Before Talking to a Lawyer

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

MISTAKE #5: Letting Your Child Go Back to “One Last Meeting”

What fraternities say: “Come talk to us before you do anything drastic”
Why it’s wrong: They pressure, intimidate, or extract statements that hurt the case
What to do instead: Once considering legal action, all communication through your lawyer

MISTAKE #6: Waiting “To See How the University Handles It”

What universities promise: “We’re investigating; let us handle this internally”
Why it’s wrong: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs, university controls narrative
What to do instead: Preserve evidence NOW; consult lawyer immediately

MISTAKE #7: Talking to Insurance Adjusters Without a Lawyer

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

Frequently Asked Questions for Pearland Families

“Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT) have sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and when suing individuals in personal capacity. Private universities (SMU, Baylor) have fewer immunity hurdles. Every case is fact-specific—contact us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for case-specific analysis.

“Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
It can be. Texas law classifies hazing as 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.

“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. Courts recognize that “consent” under peer pressure, power imbalance, and fear of exclusion is not true voluntary consent.

“How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?”
Generally 2 years from the date of injury or death in Texas, but the “discovery rule” may extend this if the harm or its cause wasn’t immediately known. In cases involving cover-ups or fraud, the statute may be tolled (paused). Time is critical—evidence disappears, witnesses forget, and organizations destroy records. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately.

“What if the hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?”
Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and national fraternities can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, knowledge, and foreseeability. Many major hazing cases (Pi Delta Psi retreat, Sigma Pi unofficial house) occurred off-campus and still resulted in multi-million-dollar judgments.

“Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”
Most hazing cases settle confidentially before trial. You can request sealed court records and confidential settlement terms. We prioritize your family’s privacy while pursuing accountability.

“How much does it cost to hire a hazing attorney?”
We work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we recover compensation for you. This makes quality legal representation accessible to families who couldn’t otherwise afford to take on wealthy fraternities and universities.

“My child is afraid of retaliation if we report. What protections exist?”
Texas law prohibits retaliation against those who report hazing in good faith. Universities have anti-retaliation policies, and courts can issue protective orders. We help families document and address retaliation if it occurs.

About The Manginello Law Firm: Why Texas Families Choose Us for Hazing Cases

When your family faces the aftermath of hazing, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how fraternities, sororities, and universities fight back—and how to win anyway. From our Houston office, we serve Pearland families and students at universities across Texas, bringing unique qualifications to hazing litigation.

Our Unique Qualifications for Hazing Cases

INSURANCE INSIDER KNOWLEDGE – LUPE PEÑA’S DEFENSE BACKGROUND:
Mr. Lupe Peña spent years as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm, defending the very insurance companies that now represent fraternities and universities. He knows:

How insurance companies value (and undervalue) hazing claims
Their delay tactics and lowball settlement strategies
How they use Independent Medical Exams (IMEs) to minimize injuries
Coverage exclusion arguments they’ll try to use
“We know their playbook because we used to run it.”

COMPLEX INSTITUTIONAL LITIGATION – RALPH MANGINELLO’S EXPERIENCE:
Ralph Manginello is one of the few Texas attorneys involved in BP Texas City explosion litigation, taking on billion-dollar corporations with unlimited legal budgets. This experience translates directly to hazing cases because:

National fraternities and major universities have the same “deep pocket” mentality
They use similar delay, deny, defend tactics
Complex document discovery and expert testimony require federal court experience
“We’ve faced the biggest defendants and won. We’re not intimidated.”

MULTI-MILLION DOLLAR WRONGFUL DEATH AND CATASTROPHIC INJURY RESULTS:

We’ve recovered millions in complex wrongful death cases
Our experience with economists and life care planners ensures proper valuation of lifelong injuries
“We don’t settle cheap. We build cases that force real accountability.”

CRIMINAL + CIVIL HAZING EXPERTISE:

Ralph’s membership in Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) signals elite criminal defense capability
We understand how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation
Can advise witnesses and former members with dual exposure
“We see the whole legal picture, not just one piece.”

INVESTIGATIVE DEPTH:

Network of experts: medical, digital forensics, Greek life culture, economists, psychologists
Experience obtaining hidden evidence: deleted group chats, national fraternity files, university internal reports
“We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does.”

How We Approach Hazing Cases Differently

WE START WITH THE COMPLETE PICTURE:
While others might focus only on the local chapter, we investigate:

National fraternity/sorority history and prior incidents
University knowledge and response patterns
Individual member roles and responsibilities
Insurance coverage across all potential defendants
Housing corporation and alumni advisor involvement

WE PRESERVE EVIDENCE AGGRESSIVELY:
Within the first 48 hours, we work to:

Secure digital evidence before deletion
Document injuries with proper medical evaluation
Identify and interview witnesses before they’re coached
Send preservation letters to all potential defendants

WE UNDERSTAND TEXAS UNIVERSITY SYSTEMS:
Having worked with families from UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, and other Texas campuses, we know:

How each university’s conduct process works
Which administrators to approach (and which to avoid)
How to navigate sovereign immunity issues with public universities
The unique cultures of different Texas campuses

WE PREPARE FOR TRIAL FROM DAY ONE:
Universities and fraternities know which lawyers will actually go to trial. Our trial readiness changes settlement dynamics because:

We develop cases with trial in mind from the beginning
We work with top experts early
We’re admitted to federal courts where many institutional cases end up
“A case prepared for trial gets better settlements.”

Why Pearland Families Choose Attorney911

WE’RE LOCAL BUT STATEWIDE:
Based in Houston, we’re just minutes from Pearland, but we serve families across Texas. We understand:

Harris County courts and procedures
Houston-area medical systems where injured students are treated
The specific dynamics of Greater Houston universities
How to connect Pearland cases to statewide patterns

SPANISH-LANGUAGE SERVICES:
Mr. Peña speaks fluent Spanish, ensuring Hispanic families in Pearland and across Texas can communicate comfortably about sensitive hazing issues.

24/7 AVAILABILITY:
Hazing crises don’t happen on a 9-5 schedule. Our “Legal Emergency Lawyers™” designation means we’re available when you need us most.

NO FEE UNLESS WE WIN:
Contingency fee basis means you pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we recover compensation for your family.

Our Commitment to Pearland Families

We know that when you contact us about hazing, you’re facing one of the most difficult experiences a family can endure. Our commitment is to:

Listen without judgment to your full story
Explain all legal options in plain English
Preserve evidence before it disappears
Investigate thoroughly—leaving no stone unturned
Pursue maximum accountability from all responsible parties
Protect your family’s privacy throughout the process
Help prevent this from happening to another family

Whether your child attends UH just up the road, Texas A&M a few hours away, or any other Texas campus, we bring the same dedication: to get answers, achieve justice, and make campuses safer for all students.

Call to Action: If Hazing Has Impacted Your Pearland Family

You Don’t Have to Face This Alone

If you’re reading this guide because hazing has touched your family—whether your child is currently being hazed, recovering from injuries, or struggling with trauma—please know that you have options and support.

WHAT TO EXPECT IN YOUR FREE CONSULTATION:
When you contact Attorney911, we’ll:

Listen to your story without judgment or interruption
Review any evidence you’ve preserved (photos, texts, medical records)
Explain your legal options clearly: criminal reporting, civil lawsuit, both, or neither
Discuss realistic timelines and what to expect at each stage
Answer your questions about costs (contingency fee—we don’t get paid unless you do)
There’s no pressure to hire us—take time to decide what’s right for your family
Everything you tell us is completely confidential

IMMEDIATE NEXT STEPS FOR PEARLAND FAMILIES:

PRESERVE EVIDENCE RIGHT NOW:
- Screenshot all group chats, texts, social media posts
- Photograph injuries from multiple angles
- Save physical items (don’t wash clothing)
- Write down everything you remember
GET MEDICAL DOCUMENTATION:
- Seek medical evaluation even for “minor” injuries
- Tell providers “this was hazing” for proper documentation
- Follow up with specialists if needed
- Consider psychological evaluation for trauma
CONTACT US FOR GUIDANCE:
- Call 1-888-ATTY-911 any time, day or night
- We’ll help you navigate the critical first steps
- Early legal guidance protects your rights
DOCUMENT UNIVERSITY COMMUNICATIONS:
- Save all emails, letters, and call notes
- Don’t sign anything without legal review
- Be cautious with “internal resolution” promises

Contact The Manginello Law Firm 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 (Ralph Manginello)
SPANISH SERVICES: lupe@atty911.com (Lupe Peña)
OFFICES: Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas

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

Serving Pearland and All Texas Communities

Whether you’re in Pearland proper, nearby Friendswood, Alvin, Manvel, or anywhere in the Greater Houston area, if hazing has impacted your family at any Texas university, we’re here to help. We understand the specific concerns of Pearland families and the universities where your children enroll.

Don’t wait until evidence disappears or the statute of limitations approaches. The sooner we can begin investigating, the stronger your position will be. Call us today for a confidential, no-obligation consultation.

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