Hazing Lawsuits in Texas: A Comprehensive Guide for Robinson Families

If Your Child Was Hazed at Baylor or Any Texas University, You’re Not Alone

Imagine this scenario, familiar to countless Robinson parents: Your son or daughter excitedly begins their first semester at Baylor University, just minutes from our community here in Robinson. They join what appears to be a respected organization—a fraternity, sorority, Corps program, or athletic team. At first, everything seems normal. Then you notice subtle changes: late-night texts demanding immediate responses, unexplained exhaustion, mysterious injuries explained away as “workout accidents,” a new secrecy about their activities. Your once-open child now dodges questions, seems constantly anxious, and has grades suddenly slipping.

Then comes the phone call no parent wants: your child is in the emergency room at Baylor Scott & White Hillcrest Medical Center, suffering from alcohol poisoning, severe muscle breakdown, or traumatic injuries. When you ask what happened, you’re met with vague answers and pressure to “not make a big deal about it.” The organization circles the wagons. The university offers platitudes about “investigating.” And you’re left wondering: What really happened to my child? Who’s responsible? And what legal rights do we have here in McLennan County?

This Is Happening Right Now in Texas—Including at Schools Robinson Families Attend

Right now, in Harris County, our firm is fighting one of the most serious hazing cases in Texas history. We represent Leonel Bermudez, a University of Houston student who suffered rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure after enduring brutal hazing as a Pi Kappa Phi pledge. According to detailed media reports, Bermudez was forced through extreme physical abuse including 100+ push-ups and 500 squats, subjected to simulated waterboarding with a hose, made to lie in vomit-soaked grass, and forced to consume milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting. He developed severe muscle breakdown, passed brown urine, and required four days of hospitalization with critically elevated creatine kinase levels indicating acute kidney injury.

This isn’t an isolated incident. It’s part of a pattern that affects families across Texas—including right here in Robinson and throughout McLennan County. As Robinson parents, you deserve to know the truth about what can happen at Texas universities, who’s responsible when hazing causes injury or death, and what legal options exist to protect your child and hold the right parties accountable.

What This Guide Offers Robinson Families

This comprehensive guide is specifically written for Robinson parents and families whose children have been hazed or injured in connection with fraternities, sororities, Corps programs, athletics, or other campus organizations. We’ll cover:

What modern hazing really looks like in 2025—beyond the stereotypes
Texas hazing laws and how they protect Robinson families
National hazing cases that set legal precedents applicable in Texas courts
Texas universities where Robinson students attend, with particular focus on Baylor University right here in McLennan County
How fraternity and sorority national histories create legal liability
Building a strong hazing case with evidence that stands up in court
Practical steps for Robinson parents and students facing hazing right now
Why Attorney911 brings unique Texas expertise to hazing cases affecting Robinson families

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR ROBINSON HAZING EMERGENCIES

If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

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

In the first 48 hours:

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

Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours:

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

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like for Robinson Families

A Modern Definition That Every Robinson Parent Should Understand

Hazing isn’t just “boys being boys” or “harmless tradition.” Under Texas law and in modern campus culture, hazing means any forced, coerced, or strongly pressured action tied to joining, keeping membership, or gaining status in a group, where the behavior endangers physical or mental health, humiliates, or exploits.

For Robinson families, it’s crucial to understand: “I agreed to it” or “everyone does it” does not make hazing legal or safe when there’s peer pressure, power imbalance, and fear of exclusion. Your child’s apparent “consent” doesn’t eliminate legal liability—Texas law specifically states consent is not a defense to hazing charges.

Five Main Categories of Hazing Affecting Texas Students

1. Alcohol and Substance Hazing (Most Common and Deadly)

Forced or coerced drinking games (“lineups,” “family tree,” “Big/Little nights”)
Chugging challenges with hard liquor
Pressure to consume unknown or mixed substances
Robinson connection: Students from our community at Baylor and other Texas schools face these exact scenarios during “bid acceptance” events and initiation weeks

2. Physical Hazing (Often Disguised as “Conditioning”)

Paddling and beatings (still occurring despite national prohibitions)
Extreme calisthenics called “smokings” or “workouts” beyond safe limits
Sleep deprivation through all-night meetings or tasks
Food/water restriction or forced consumption of unpleasant substances
Real example from our UH case: Leonel Bermudez endured 100+ push-ups, 500 squats, cold-weather exposure in underwear, and forced consumption of milk/hot dogs/peppercorns until vomiting

3. Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing

Forced nudity or partial nudity
Simulated sexual acts, degrading costumes, inappropriate touching
Acts with racial, sexist, or homophobic overtones
Public shaming on social media or in group settings

4. Psychological Hazing

Verbal abuse, threats, isolation from non-members
Manipulation through fear of expulsion from the group
“Roasts” or interrogation sessions designed to break down pledges
Forced confessions or compromising revelations

5. Digital/Online Hazing (The New Frontier)

Group chat dares and “challenges” on GroupMe, WhatsApp, Discord
Public humiliation via Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok
Pressure to create or share compromising images/videos
24/7 availability demands with instant response requirements
Critical for evidence: These digital trails often provide the strongest proof of hazing

Where Hazing Actually Happens at Texas Schools

While fraternities receive the most attention, hazing occurs across campus organizations that Robinson students join:

Fraternities and Sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural)
Corps of Cadets / ROTC / Military-Style Groups (Particularly at Texas A&M)
Athletic Teams (Football, basketball, baseball, cheer, swimming)
Spirit Squads and Tradition Clubs
Marching Bands and Performance Groups
Some Service, Cultural, and Academic Organizations

The common threads: social status, tradition, secrecy, and power imbalance keep these practices alive even when everyone “knows” hazing is illegal. For Robinson parents, understanding this broad landscape is crucial because your child might be hazed in an organization you’d never suspect.

Texas Law & Liability Framework: What Robinson Families Need to Know

Texas Hazing Law Basics: Education Code Chapter 37

Texas has specific anti-hazing provisions in the Education Code that protect students from Robinson and across the state. Here’s what you need to know in plain English:

Definition (Texas Education Code § 37.151):
Hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, by one person alone or with others, directed against a student, that:

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

Key points for Robinson families:

Can happen on or off campus—location doesn’t matter
Can be mental or physical harm
Intent: Doesn’t have to be malicious; “reckless” is enough (knew the risk and did it anyway)
“Consent is not a defense” (Texas Education Code § 37.155): Even if your child agreed, it’s still hazing if it meets the definition

Criminal Penalties (Texas Education Code § 37.152):

Class B Misdemeanor: Hazing that doesn’t cause serious injury (up to 180 days jail, fine up to $2,000)
Class A Misdemeanor: If hazing causes injury requiring medical treatment
State Jail Felony: If hazing causes serious bodily injury or death

Also criminal under Texas law:

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

Organizational Liability (Texas Education Code § 37.153):
Fraternities, sororities, clubs, and other organizations can be criminally prosecuted if:

The organization authorized or encouraged the hazing, OR
An officer or member acting in official capacity knew about hazing and failed to report it

Penalties for organizations:

Fine up to $10,000 per violation
University can revoke recognition and ban the org from campus

Immunity for Good-Faith Reporting (Texas Education Code § 37.154):
A person who in good faith reports a hazing incident to university or law enforcement is immune from civil or criminal liability that might otherwise result from the report. This is crucial for Robinson students who fear getting in trouble for reporting.

Criminal vs Civil Cases: Understanding the Difference

Criminal Cases:

Brought by the state (McLennan County District Attorney, local police)
Aim: punishment (jail, fines, probation)
Typical hazing-related criminal charges:
- Hazing offenses (misdemeanor or felony depending on injury)
- Furnishing alcohol to minors
- Assault, battery, or even manslaughter in fatal cases

Civil Cases:

Brought by victims or surviving families (like Robinson parents)
Aim: monetary compensation and accountability
Focus on:
- Negligence and gross negligence
- Wrongful death
- Negligent hiring/supervision by nationals or universities
- Premises liability
- Intentional infliction of emotional distress

Critical distinction: Both types can run side-by-side, and a criminal conviction is not required to pursue a civil case. Many Robinson families pursue civil cases even when criminal charges aren’t filed, because the burden of proof is different (preponderance of evidence vs beyond reasonable doubt).

Federal Overlay: Laws That Apply to Texas Cases

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024):

Requires colleges that receive federal aid (including all Texas public universities) to:
- Report hazing incidents more transparently
- Strengthen hazing education and prevention
- Maintain public hazing data (phased in by around 2026)

Title IX:
When hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, or gender-based hostility, Title IX obligations can be triggered. This gives Robinson families additional legal avenues against universities that fail to respond appropriately.

Clery Act:
Requires reporting certain crimes and maintaining safety statistics; hazing incidents often overlap with these categories when there are assaults or alcohol/drug crimes.

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit

Understanding potential defendants is crucial for Robinson families considering legal action:

1. Individual Students:

Those who planned, supplied alcohol, carried out the acts, or helped cover them up
In our UH Pi Kappa Phi case, 13 individual fraternity leaders/members are named as defendants

2. Local Chapter / Organization:

The fraternity/sorority or club itself (if it’s a legal entity)
Chapter officers acting in official capacity

3. National Fraternity/Sorority Headquarters:

Organizations that set policies, receive dues, and supervise chapters
Liability can hinge on what they knew or should have known from prior incidents
In our UH case, Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters is a defendant

4. University or Governing Board:

Schools may be sued under negligence or civil-rights theories
Key questions: prior warnings, policy enforcement, deliberate indifference
In our UH case, both University of Houston and UH System Board of Regents are defendants

5. Housing Corporations and Alumni Organizations:

Entities that own or control chapter houses
Provide funding and oversight to chapters

6. Third Parties:

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

Every case is fact-specific; experienced hazing attorneys investigate all potential sources of liability to ensure Robinson families recover fully.

National Hazing Case Patterns: Legal Precedents That Protect Robinson Families

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

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

Bid-acceptance event with forced heavy drinking
Severe falls captured on chapter cameras; hours delayed before medical help
Dozens of criminal charges against fraternity members
Takeaway for Robinson families: Extreme intoxication plus delay in calling 911 creates devastating legal liability

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017):

“Bible study” drinking game; forced to drink when answering questions incorrectly
Died from alcohol toxicity (BAC 0.495%)
Result: Louisiana enacted Max Gruver Act (felony hazing statute)
Takeaway: Legislative change often follows public outrage and clear proof of hazing

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

Pledge forced to consume entire bottle of alcohol
Died from alcohol poisoning
Settlement: $10 million total ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, ~$3M from BGSU)
Additional outcome: Former chapter president ordered to pay $6.5 million personally
Takeaway: Both organizations AND individuals face massive liability

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

Big/little event; pledge given handle of liquor; drank to dangerous levels; died
FSU temporarily suspended all Greek life
Takeaway: The same national fraternity (Pi Kappa Phi) involved in our UH case has this fatal history

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

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

Pledge subjected to violent blindfolded “glass ceiling” ritual at retreat
Suffered fatal head injuries; help was delayed
Result: Multiple members convicted; national fraternity convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter; fraternity banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years
Takeaway: Off-campus “retreats” can be as dangerous as parties, and national orgs face serious sanctions

Severe Injury (Non-Fatal) Pattern

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

18-year-old pledge forced to consume excessive alcohol during “pledge dad reveal”
Suffered severe, permanent brain damage (cannot walk, talk, or see; requires 24/7 care)
Settlement: Family settled with 22 defendants, including fraternity; multi-million-dollar total
Takeaway: Catastrophic non-fatal injuries create lifetime care needs and corresponding liability

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Northwestern University football (2023–2025):

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

What These Cases Mean for Robinson Families

Common threads in all successful hazing cases:

Forced drinking, humiliation, violence, delayed medical care, cover-ups
Multi-million-dollar settlements follow tragedy and litigation
Both individuals AND organizations face liability
National patterns matter—courts consider what the organization knew from prior incidents

Robinson families facing hazing at Baylor, Texas A&M, UT, UH, or SMU are not alone and operate in a legal landscape shaped by these national precedents.

Texas Focus: Universities Where Robinson Families Send Their Children

Baylor University: Right Here in McLennan County

5.1.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot: Robinson’s Neighbor Campus
Baylor University stands just minutes from Robinson in Waco, making it the most immediate concern for McLennan County families. As Texas’ oldest continually operating university and the world’s largest Baptist university, Baylor presents a unique environment where religious identity intersects with traditional campus culture. The university hosts active Greek life, athletic programs, and numerous student organizations that Robinson students join.

5.1.2 Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels
Baylor’s hazing policy states: “Hazing is strictly prohibited… whether on or off campus.” The university prohibits activities that “endanger the mental or physical health or safety of a student” for purposes of initiation or affiliation. Reporting channels include:

Dean of Students Office
Baylor Police Department
Online reporting forms
Student Conduct Administration

5.1.3 Documented Incidents & Baylor’s History

Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020): 14 players suspended following hazing investigation; suspensions staggered over early season
Broader Context: Baylor’s history includes high-profile sexual assault scandals that revealed institutional failure patterns
Current Status: Like many private religious universities, Baylor balances public relations with accountability, sometimes favoring internal resolution over transparency

5.1.4 How a Baylor Hazing Case Might Proceed

Jurisdiction: Cases would typically be filed in McLennan County courts where Robinson families reside
Potential Defendants: Individual students, Baylor chapters, national organizations (Beta Theta Pi, Kappa Sigma, Phi Delta Theta, Pi Kappa Alpha, Sigma Chi are all present at Baylor), Baylor University itself
Legal Venues: State district courts in Waco, potentially federal court if federal claims (Title IX) are included

5.1.5 What Baylor Students & Robinson Parents Should Do

Immediate Reporting: Contact Baylor PD (254-710-2222) and Dean of Students
Evidence Preservation: Baylor’s religious context can increase pressure to handle matters “internally”—resist this without legal advice
Medical Care: Baylor Scott & White Hillcrest is the primary medical facility; ensure hazing is documented in medical records
Legal Consultation: Private universities like Baylor have fewer sovereign immunity protections than public schools, potentially creating stronger legal claims

Texas A&M University: Corps Culture and Greek Life

5.2.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot
While College Station is further from Robinson, many McLennan County students attend Texas A&M for its engineering, agricultural, and Corps of Cadets programs. The Corps culture presents unique hazing risks alongside traditional Greek life.

5.2.2 Documented Incidents

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (2021): Pledges allegedly covered in substances including industrial-strength cleaner, causing severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries; fraternity suspended; lawsuits filed
Corps of Cadets Lawsuit (2023): Cadet alleged degrading hazing including simulated sexual acts and being bound between beds in “roasted pig” pose with apple in mouth; sought over $1 million
Multiple Other Incidents: Various fraternities disciplined for alcohol hazing, physical abuse

5.2.3 Legal Considerations for Robinson Families

Texas A&M’s status as a public university triggers sovereign immunity considerations
Corps cases involve additional military-style chain-of-command issues
College Station/Brazos County jurisdiction for local cases

University of Texas at Austin: Transparency and Tradition

5.3.1 Unique Feature: Public Hazing Violations Log
UT Austin maintains one of Texas’ most transparent hazing reporting systems at hazing.utexas.edu, listing organizations, dates, conduct, and sanctions. This public record becomes powerful evidence in civil cases.

5.3.2 Documented Incidents from Public Log

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics; found to be hazing; chapter probation
Texas Wranglers: Multiple sanctions for forced workouts, alcohol hazing
Various Fraternities: Repeated violations showing pattern issues

5.3.3 Legal Advantages for Robinson Families

Public violation records create strong “notice” evidence against organizations
Travis County courts have experience with hazing cases
UT’s size and resources mean well-funded defense—requiring equally resourced plaintiff representation

Southern Methodist University: Private School Dynamics

5.4.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot
SMU’s affluent Dallas campus hosts active Greek life with particular social pressures. Private university status affects transparency and legal strategies.

5.4.2 Documented Incidents

Kappa Alpha Order (2017): New members reportedly paddled, forced to drink alcohol, deprived of sleep; chapter suspended
Various Other Cases: SMU’s internal discipline records are less public than UT’s

5.4.3 Legal Considerations

No sovereign immunity as private university
Dallas County venue for lawsuits
Often significant insurance coverage through private institutions

University of Houston: Our Current Active Case

5.5.1 The Leonel Bermudez Pi Kappa Phi Case
As detailed throughout this guide, our firm currently represents Leonel Bermudez in a $10 million hazing lawsuit against:

University of Houston
UH System Board of Regents
Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters
Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu housing corporation
13 individual fraternity leaders/members

5.5.2 What This Means for Robinson Families
This active litigation demonstrates:

Real-time hazing still occurs at major Texas universities
Comprehensive defendant targeting (individuals + organizations + university)
Serious injuries (rhabdomyolysis, kidney failure) from physical hazing
Our firm’s current capacity and experience in major Texas hazing litigation

The Texas Greek Ecosystem: Organizations Behind the Letters

Why National Histories Matter for Robinson Families

When your child joins a fraternity or sorority at Baylor or any Texas university, they’re not just joining a local club—they’re affiliating with a national organization with its own history, policies, and litigation track record. These national histories create legal liabilities that can help Robinson families recover when hazing occurs.

National Organizations Present at Texas Universities

Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / “Pike”) – National Hazing History:

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University (2021): $10 million settlement
David Bogenberger – Northern Illinois University (2012): $14 million settlement
Multiple Texas Chapters: Sanctioned at UT, present at Baylor, A&M, UH
Legal Significance: National organization had clear notice of fatal alcohol hazing risks

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / “SAE”) – National Hazing History:

Traumatic Brain Injury Case – University of Alabama (2023 lawsuit)
Chemical Burns Case – Texas A&M (2021): $1 million lawsuit, chemical burns requiring skin grafts
Assault Case – UT Austin (2024): Exchange student injured, over $1 million lawsuit
Multiple Texas Chapters: Present at all major Texas universities

Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ) – National Hazing History:

Andrew Coffey – Florida State University (2017): Fatal alcohol poisoning
Leonel Bermudez – University of Houston (2025): Our active $10 million lawsuit
Pattern: National organization with multiple fatal/serious injury cases

Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ) – National Hazing History:

Max Gruver – LSU (2017): Fatal alcohol poisoning, Louisiana’s “Max Gruver Act”
Multiple other alcohol hazing incidents nationwide

Phi Gamma Delta (ΦΓΔ / “FIJI”) – National Hazing History:

Danny Santulli – University of Missouri (2021): Permanent brain damage, multi-defendant settlement
Multiple chapters nationwide with alcohol hazing incidents

How National Histories Create Legal Liability

In civil hazing lawsuits, we use national histories to prove:

Foreseeability: The national organization knew or should have known this type of hazing could occur
Inadequate Prevention: Despite knowledge, they failed to implement effective prevention
Pattern and Practice: This wasn’t an isolated “rogue chapter” but part of organizational culture
Punitive Damages Basis: Reckless disregard for known dangers

For Robinson families, this means even if the hazing occurred at Baylor, we can leverage what that national organization knew from incidents at LSU, FSU, Bowling Green, etc.

The Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine: Data-Driven Accountability

Our firm maintains a comprehensive database of Texas Greek organizations compiled from public records. This includes:

IRS B83 Texas-Registered Greek Organizations (125+ entities):

House corporations, alumni chapters, honor societies with EINs and addresses
Examples relevant to Robinson/Baylor area:
- Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, EIN 364091267, Waco, TX 76710 (IRS B83 filing)
- Zeta Phi Beta Sorority – Nu Iota Chapter Baylor University, EIN 521346485, Waco, TX 76703 (IRS B83 filing)
- Texas Rho Chapter of Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity, EIN 741942292, Waco, TX 76706 (IRS B83 filing)
- Phi Gamma Delta – Tau Deuteron Chapter, Waco, TX (Baylor University chapter)
- Kappa Kappa Gamma – Baylor House Board, Waco, TX

Cause IQ Metro Data for Waco Metro (27 Greek organizations):

Phi Gamma Delta – Tau Deuteron Chapter (Baylor)
Kappa Kappa Gamma – Baylor House Board
Delta Delta Delta – Baylor Chapter
Baylor Panhellenic Alumnae Association
And 23 additional Greek organizations in the Waco area

Why This Data Matters for Robinson Families:
When hazing occurs, we don’t start from zero. We already know the legal entities, EINs, addresses, and organizational structures behind Baylor’s Greek system. This allows rapid investigation and comprehensive defendant identification.

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

Critical Evidence Categories

1. Digital Communications (Most Important Evidence)

Group chats: GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, fraternity apps
Social media: Instagram DMs, Snapchat messages, TikTok comments, Facebook posts
Recovered data: Digital forensics can often recover deleted messages
Our UH case example: Group chats showed planning of hazing events, assignments of “fanny packs” with degrading contents

2. Photos & Videos

Content filmed by members during hazing events
Footage shared in group chats or posted on social media
Security camera or doorbell footage at houses and venues
Medical documentation of injuries

3. Internal Organization Documents

Pledge manuals, initiation scripts, “tradition” documents
Emails/texts from officers about hazing activities
National policies and training materials showing what should have been prevented

4. University Records

Prior conduct files, probation/suspension letters
Incident reports to campus police or student conduct

Public hazing violation logs (like UT’s)

Clery Act reports and safety statistics

5. Medical & Psychological Records

Emergency room and hospitalization records
Surgery and rehabilitation notes
Toxicology reports (blood alcohol levels)
Psychological evaluations (PTSD, depression, anxiety diagnoses)

6. Witness Testimony

Other pledges who experienced the same hazing
Roommates, RAs, coaches, trainers who observed changes
Former members who quit or were expelled
Medical providers who treated injuries

Damages: What Robinson Families Can Recover

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Losses):

Medical bills: ER care, hospitalization, surgeries, medications, future treatment
Lost educational costs: Tuition for semesters missed, lost scholarships
Future earnings loss: Reduced earning capacity from permanent injuries
Example from our UH case: Leonel Bermudez faces ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage requiring lifelong monitoring

Non-Economic Damages (Subjective but Real Harm):

Physical pain and suffering from injuries
Emotional distress: PTSD, depression, anxiety, humiliation
Loss of enjoyment of life: Can’t participate in activities they previously enjoyed
Damaged relationships and social isolation

Wrongful Death Damages (If Tragedy Occurs):

Funeral and burial expenses
Loss of financial support your child would have provided
Loss of love, companionship, guidance for parents and siblings
Emotional suffering of family members

Punitive Damages (When Defendants’ Conduct is Especially Bad):

To punish reckless or intentional misconduct
To deter future hazing
Available when defendants knew of dangers and acted with gross negligence

Case Strategy: Why Experience Matters

Insurance Coverage Battles:

Fraternity and university insurers often argue hazing is “intentional” and therefore excluded
Our insider knowledge (Lupe Peña’s insurance defense background) helps navigate these arguments
We identify all potential coverage sources: chapter policies, national policies, university policies, individual homeowners policies

Defendant Identification:

Not just the individuals directly involved
National headquarters that failed to supervise
Housing corporations that owned the facilities
Alumni advisors who should have prevented hazing
Universities that knew or should have known

Timing and Evidence Preservation:

Statute of limitations: Generally 2 years in Texas, but complex rules apply
Evidence disappears fast: Messages deleted, witnesses coached, physical evidence destroyed
Early intervention is critical: We send preservation letters, secure evidence, identify witnesses before memories fade

Practical Guides & FAQs for Robinson Parents and Students

For Parents: Warning Signs and Action Steps

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Being Hazed:

Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts, or injuries
Extreme fatigue beyond normal college stress
Sleep deprivation (late-night calls, 3 AM “meetings”)
Sudden secrecy about organization activities
Personality changes: anxiety, depression, irritability
Financial red flags: unexpected large expenses, requests for money
Academic decline: dropping grades, missed classes
Constant phone use for group chat monitoring

How to Talk to Your Child About Hazing:

Ask open questions: “How are things going with [organization]? Are they respectful of your time?”
Express concern without judgment: “I’ve noticed you seem exhausted lately. Is everything okay?”
Emphasize safety over status: “Your health matters more than any organization.”
Assure support: “No matter what’s happening, we’re here for you.”

If Your Child Is Injured:

Medical care first: Even if they resist, get proper medical evaluation
Document everything: Photos of injuries, screenshots of messages, notes of what they tell you
Preserve physical evidence: Clothing, receipts, objects used in hazing
Contact an attorney before talking to university officials or insurance companies

For Students: Recognizing and Responding to Hazing

Is This Hazing? Self-Assessment Questions:

Am I being forced or pressured to do something I don’t want to do?
Would I do this if there were no social consequences for refusing?
Is this activity dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
Would the university or my parents approve if they knew exactly what was happening?
Am I being told to keep secrets, lie, or hide this from others?

If You Answered YES: It’s likely hazing, and you have legal rights.

How to Exit Safely:

In immediate danger: Call 911, then campus police
To quit/de-pledge: Tell someone outside the org first, then send written resignation
Do NOT go to “one last meeting” where pressure or retaliation might occur
Document any threats or harassment for protective orders if needed

Protections for Reporting:

Texas law provides immunity for good-faith reporting
Many schools have amnesty policies for reporting emergencies
You can report anonymously through campus hotlines or the National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Hazing Case

1. Letting Evidence Be Destroyed

Mistake: “I don’t want them to get in more trouble” so you allow message deletion
Reality: Looks like cover-up; obstruction of justice; case becomes nearly impossible
Correct action: Preserve everything immediately, even embarrassing content

2. Confronting the Organization Directly

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

3. Signing University “Resolution” Forms

Mistake: Trusting university to handle it “internally”
Reality: You may waive legal rights; settlements are often far below case value
Correct action: Do NOT sign anything without attorney review

4. Posting on Social Media

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

5. Waiting “To See How the University Handles It”

Mistake: Trusting university investigation timelines
Reality: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs
Correct action: Preserve evidence NOW; consult lawyer immediately

Frequently Asked Questions for Robinson Families

“Can we 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. Private universities (Baylor, SMU) have fewer immunity protections. Every case is fact-specific—contact us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for case analysis.

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

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

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

“What if hazing happened off-campus?”
Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and nationals can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, knowledge, and foreseeability. Many major hazing cases occurred off-campus and still resulted in multi-million-dollar judgments.

“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.

Why Attorney911 for Robinson Hazing Cases

Texas-Based Hazing Specialists with National Capability

When your family faces a hazing crisis, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how powerful institutions fight back—and how to win anyway. At Attorney911, we bring unique qualifications specifically for hazing cases affecting Robinson families.

Our Competitive Advantages 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
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”
- Set reserves and negotiate settlements
“We know their playbook because we used to run it.”

Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions (Ralph Manginello):

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

Active Texas Hazing Litigation (Right Now):

We currently represent Leonel Bermudez in the $10 million UH Pi Kappa Phi case
This isn’t theoretical—we’re actively litigating major Texas hazing cases
We understand current defense tactics and judicial attitudes in Texas courts

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death Experience:

Proven track record in complex wrongful death cases
Experience working with economists to value lifetime care needs
Understanding of brain injury, permanent disability, and catastrophic injury cases
“We don’t settle cheap. We build cases that force accountability.”

Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise:

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

Investigative Depth and Resources:

Network of experts: medical specialists, digital forensics, psychologists, economists
Experience obtaining hidden evidence through discovery
Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine with database of 1,423 Greek organizations across Texas
“We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does.”

Specifically for Robinson and McLennan County Families

While based in Houston, we serve families throughout Texas, including Robinson and all of McLennan County. We understand:

The specific dynamics at Baylor University, just minutes from Robinson
McLennan County courts and procedures
Local medical facilities like Baylor Scott & White Hillcrest
The community values and pressures Robinson families face

Spanish-Language Services Available

Hablamos Español – Mr. Lupe Peña speaks fluent Spanish and can consult with Spanish-speaking families directly. Contact him at lupe@atty911.com for consultation in Spanish.

Call to Action: Your Next Steps as a Robinson Family

If Hazing Has Affected Your Family

We know this is one of the hardest things a family can face. The confusion, fear, anger, and desire to protect your child can feel overwhelming. But you don’t have to navigate this alone.

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

What to Expect in Your Free Consultation

We’ll listen without judgment to your story and concerns
Review any evidence you have (photos, texts, medical records)
Explain your legal options: criminal report, civil lawsuit, both, or neither
Discuss realistic timelines and what to expect
Answer your questions about costs (contingency fee—we don’t get paid unless we win)
No pressure to hire us on the spot—take time to decide
Everything you tell us is confidential

Contact Information

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) or lupe@atty911.com (Lupe Peña)

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

Serving Robinson and All of Texas

Whether you’re in Robinson, Waco, Houston, College Station, Austin, Dallas, or anywhere in Texas, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone. The same national fraternities, the same insurance companies, the same institutional cover-up tactics exist everywhere. We have the experience, resources, and determination to help your family get answers, accountability, and justice.

Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’re here to help Robinson families through these difficult times.

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