The Complete Guide to Fraternity & Sorority Hazing in Texas: A Resource for Sandy Oaks Families

If you are a parent in Sandy Oaks, Texas, your worst nightmare might be receiving a call that your child has been hospitalized after a fraternity or sorority event. Perhaps your student at the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), Texas A&M University, or any other Texas campus has come home with unexplained injuries, erratic behavior, or a sudden desire to quit an organization they were once excited to join.

Right now, in our own state, we are fighting one of the most serious hazing cases in the country. We represent Leonel Bermudez, a University of Houston student who suffered rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure after alleged hazing by the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter. His urine turned brown. He was hospitalized for four days. The chapter has been shut down, and a $10 million lawsuit is proceeding. This is not abstract—this is happening right now in Texas, to a family not unlike yours.

This comprehensive guide is written specifically for parents and families in Sandy Oaks, Bexar County, and across Texas who need to understand the reality of modern hazing, the legal framework that governs it, and what recourse exists when traditions turn traumatic.

If This Just Happened: Immediate Steps for Sandy Oaks Families

IF YOUR CHILD IS IN DANGER RIGHT NOW:

Call 911 for medical emergencies
Then call us immediately: 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 used in hazing)
Write down everything while memory is fresh (who, what, when, where)
DO NOT:
- Confront the fraternity/sorority directly
- 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

For Sandy Oaks families unfamiliar with modern Greek life dynamics, hazing has evolved far beyond stereotypical “pranks.” Today’s hazing is often systematic, digitally coordinated, and psychologically sophisticated.

A Modern Definition of Hazing

Hazing is 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. Critically, “I agreed to it” does not automatically make it safe or legal when there is peer pressure and power imbalance.

The Three Tiers of Modern Hazing

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

Constant “on-call” status via group chats (GroupMe, WhatsApp)
Forced servitude (cleaning, errands, chauffeuring at all hours)
Social isolation from non-members
Mandatory attendance that interferes with academics
“Optional” events that are socially mandatory

Tier 2: Harassment Hazing

Sleep deprivation (late-night meetings, 3 AM wake-up calls)
Verbal abuse and humiliation sessions
Forced consumption of unpleasant substances (spoiled food, excessive milk, hot sauce)
Extreme calisthenics framed as “conditioning”
Public humiliation via social media or group gatherings

Tier 3: Violent/Dangerous Hazing

Forced alcohol consumption (chugging, funneling, “Big/Little” drinking games)
Physical beatings or paddling
Sexualized hazing (forced nudity, simulated acts)
Dangerous physical “tests” (blindfolded tackles, extreme exposure)
Restraint or kidnapping scenarios

The Digital Transformation of Hazing

Sandy Oaks parents might not recognize that much of today’s hazing occurs through smartphones:

24/7 group chat monitoring with instant response demands
Location sharing requirements (Find My Friends, Life360)
Social media humiliation (forced TikTok challenges, Instagram dares)
Digital “evidence” creation that becomes leverage
Rapid evidence destruction when investigations begin

The Leonel Bermudez case at UH exemplifies this evolution. According to media reports, pledges carried “pledge fanny packs” 24/7 containing condoms, sex toys, and nicotine devices. They faced forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting, followed by immediate sprints. The abuse was coordinated and systematic.

Texas Law & Liability Framework: What Sandy Oaks Families Need to Know

Under Texas law—which governs cases involving Sandy Oaks families—hazing is taken seriously, but the legal landscape requires navigation.

Texas Education Code Chapter 37 (The Hazing Statute)

§37.151 Definition: Hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, directed against a student that:

Endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student, AND
Occurs for the purpose of pledging, initiation, affiliation, holding office, or maintaining membership

Key Provisions for Sandy Oaks Families:

§37.152 Criminal Penalties:

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

§37.155 Critical Protection: Consent is not a defense to hazing. Even if your child “agreed,” the law recognizes power imbalances and coercion.

§37.154 Good-Faith Reporting: Those who report hazing in good faith receive immunity from civil or criminal liability that might otherwise result.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding the Difference

Criminal Cases (The State vs. Individuals):

Brought by prosecutors (Harris County, Bexar County, Travis County, etc.)
Aim: Punishment (jail, fines, probation)
Common charges: hazing, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, manslaughter in fatal cases
Example: In the UH Pi Kappa Phi case, criminal referrals were promised by the university

Civil Cases (Your Family vs. Responsible Parties):

Brought by victims or surviving families
Aim: Compensation and accountability
Focus: negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision, premises liability, emotional distress
Critical: A criminal conviction is NOT required to pursue a civil case

Federal Law Overlay

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024):

Requires colleges receiving federal aid to publicly report hazing incidents
Mandates hazing prevention programs
Phased implementation through 2026

Title IX & Clery Act:

When hazing involves sexual harassment or assault, Title IX obligations trigger
Clery Act requires reporting of certain crimes occurring on or near campus
These federal frameworks provide additional accountability avenues

Who Can Be Liable in a Texas Hazing Case?

Individual Students: Those who planned, executed, or covered up hazing
Local Chapter: The fraternity/sorority entity itself (if incorporated)
National Organization: Headquarters that set policies, receive dues, and supervise
University/College: For negligence in supervision or deliberate indifference
Property Owners: Landlords of off-campus houses or event spaces
Alcohol Providers: Under Texas dram shop laws in certain circumstances

National Hazing Case Patterns: Precedents That Matter for Texas Families

The hazing incidents at Texas schools don’t occur in a vacuum. National patterns established in other states create legal precedents and demonstrate foreseeability.

The Alcohol Poisoning Pattern

Timothy Piazza – Penn State, Beta Theta Pi (2017): Bid-acceptance event with forced drinking, delayed medical response, fatal falls captured on security cameras. Result: Dozens of criminal charges, civil litigation, Pennsylvania’s Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law.

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017): “Bible study” drinking game where incorrect answers mandated drinking. Fatal alcohol toxicity (BAC 0.495%). Result: Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act (felony hazing statute), chapter closure.

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021): Forced to drink nearly a full bottle of whiskey during “Big/Little” night. Result: $10 million settlement ($7M from national Pike, ~$3M from BGSU), multiple criminal convictions.

Why This Matters for Sandy Oaks Families: The same organizations involved in these fatal cases—Pi Kappa Alpha, Beta Theta Pi, Phi Delta Theta—have chapters at Texas schools. The “Big/Little” drinking night that killed Stone Foltz is the same template used in many Texas chapters.

The Physical Hazing Pattern

Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013): Blindfolded, weighted tackle during “glass ceiling” ritual at off-campus retreat. Fatal traumatic brain injury. Result: National fraternity criminally convicted, banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years.

Danny Santulli – University of Missouri, Phi Gamma Delta (2021): Forced drinking during “pledge dad reveal” caused severe, permanent brain damage. Result: Settlements with 22 defendants, chapter closure, ongoing 24/7 care required.

Why This Matters for Sandy Oaks Families: Off-campus retreats and “tradition” rituals occur at Texas schools too. The physical risk is identical.

The Institutional Cover-Up Pattern

Northwestern University Football (2023-2025): Systemic sexualized, racist hazing within athletic program. Result: Multiple lawsuits, head coach fired, confidential settlements, program cultural reckoning.

Why This Matters for Sandy Oaks Families: Universities often prioritize reputation over student safety. The same institutional dynamics exist at Texas schools.

Texas University Focus: Where Sandy Oaks Families Send Their Kids

Sandy Oaks families have educational connections throughout Texas. Whether your child attends a local San Antonio campus, commutes to Austin, or lives at a residential college elsewhere in the state, understanding campus-specific dynamics is crucial.

University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) – Your Local Campus

For Sandy Oaks families, UTSA represents the most immediate local concern. Located just miles from Sandy Oaks in Bexar County, UTSA hosts active Greek life with unique considerations.

UTSA Greek Life Snapshot:

Growing Greek community with national and local organizations
Mix of commuter and residential student involvement
Active fraternities and sororities across multiple councils

UTSA Hazing Policy & Reporting:
Like all Texas public universities, UTSA prohibits hazing under Education Code Chapter 37. Reporting channels include:

UTSA Dean of Students Office
UTSA Police Department
Anonymous reporting systems
Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards

Recent UTSA Disciplinary Context:
While specific hazing incidents may not be publicly detailed in real-time, UTSA maintains disciplinary records that can be crucial in litigation. The university’s location in Bexar County means any legal proceedings would involve local courts familiar to Sandy Oaks families.

What Sandy Oaks Parents Should Know About UTSA:

Proximity: Incidents at UTSA directly affect our community
Jurisdiction: Bexar County courts and law enforcement handle cases
Local Knowledge: We understand UTSA’s specific Greek life dynamics
Commuter Reality: Hazing may occur in off-campus apartments near UTSA or throughout San Antonio

Other Major Texas Universities Sandy Oaks Families Attend

Texas A&M University: Many Sandy Oaks students join the Corps of Cadets or Greek life at A&M. Notable incidents include Sigma Alpha Epsilon chemical burns case (pledges covered in industrial cleaner requiring skin grafts) and Corps hazing allegations involving simulated sexual acts and restraint.

University of Texas at Austin: UT’s public hazing violations log shows repeated issues with organizations like Pi Kappa Alpha (forced milk consumption and calisthenics) and spirit groups. Their transparency provides valuable pattern evidence for lawsuits.

University of Houston: The ongoing Leonel Bermudez Pi Kappa Phi case demonstrates severe, systematic hazing at our state’s largest urban university. The chapter’s closure and $10M lawsuit show institutional accountability is possible.

Baylor University: Following earlier athletic scandals, Baylor faces ongoing scrutiny of group behaviors. Baseball team hazing suspensions in 2020 revealed systemic issues in athletic programs.

Texas State University: Located in nearby San Marcos, Texas State’s Greek life has faced disciplinary actions for alcohol-related hazing and endangerment.

The Sandy Oaks Connection: Campus Proximity Matters

For Bexar County Families:

UTSA: Local jurisdiction, immediate community impact
Texas A&M-San Antonio: Growing campus with Greek life development
Our Lady of the Lake University: Local private university with student organizations
St. Mary’s University: San Antonio campus with Greek systems

Statewide Educational Pathways:
Sandy Oaks families typically send students to:

Local/Regional Options: UTSA, Texas A&M-San Antonio, community colleges
Flagship Universities: UT Austin, Texas A&M College Station
Private Institutions: Baylor, SMU, Trinity University
Specialized Programs: Texas Tech, University of North Texas

Each pathway carries different Greek life risks and institutional responses.

Fraternities & Sororities: Campus-Specific Rosters and National Histories

The organizations at Texas schools aren’t isolated entities—they’re chapters of national organizations with documented hazing histories. This connection creates legal liability.

Why National Histories Matter Legally

When a Texas chapter repeats behavior that caused deaths or injuries at other chapters, that establishes foreseeability. National headquarters cannot claim “we didn’t know this could happen” when their own history shows exactly what happens.

Organizations Present at Texas Schools with National Hazing Histories

Pi Kappa Alpha (“Pike”):

National History: Stone Foltz fatal alcohol hazing (BGSU, $10M settlement), multiple other deaths
Texas Presence: Chapters at UTSA, UT Austin, Texas A&M, Texas Tech, others
Legal Significance: Pattern of “Big/Little” drinking nights creates foreseeability

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE):

National History: Multiple hazing deaths, traumatic brain injury lawsuit (Alabama), chemical burns case (Texas A&M)
Texas Presence: Nearly every major Texas campus
Legal Significance: Documented chemical hazing at Texas A&M shows Texas-specific pattern

Pi Kappa Phi:

National History: Andrew Coffey fatal alcohol hazing (FSU), Leonel Bermudez case (UH)
Texas Presence: UH (now closed), other Texas campuses
Legal Significance: Active Texas litigation establishes current danger

Phi Delta Theta:

National History: Max Gruver fatal hazing (LSU, led to Louisiana felony law)
Texas Presence: Multiple Texas campuses
Legal Significance: “Bible study” drinking game pattern established

Sigma Chi:

National History: $10M+ settlement (College of Charleston), alcohol poisoning cases
Texas Presence: UT Austin, Texas A&M, Texas Tech, others
Legal Significance: Major settlement establishes case value precedent

The Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine: Our Investigative Advantage

At The Manginello Law Firm, we maintain a comprehensive database of Texas Greek organizations drawn from public records. This isn’t theoretical—we track the actual entities that may carry insurance and liability.

Texas Public Records Directory: Organizations Serving Sandy Oaks Families

Bexar County & San Antonio Metro Entities (from IRS B83 Filings):

Sigma Phi Lambda Inc, EIN 823971493, Corinth TX 76210 (Alpha Sigma Chapter)
Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity Inc, EIN 815229133, San Antonio TX 78228 (Iota Beta Chapter)
UTSA Sigma Chi, EIN 842643090, San Antonio TX 78258
Phi Delta Theta Fraternity, EIN 900927378, San Antonio TX 78249 (Texas Xi)
Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, EIN 521850764, San Antonio TX 78249 (Texas Lambda Chapter)
Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity Inc, EIN 831418972, Corpus Christi TX 78412 (Iota Phi Chapter)

Statewide Greek Organization Backbone (Sample):

Kappa Sigma – Mu Camma Chapter Inc, EIN 133048786, College Station TX 77845
Pi Kappa Phi Delta Omega Chapter Building Corporation, EIN 371768785, Missouri City TX 77459
Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation Inc, EIN 462267515, Frisco TX 75035
Sigma Chi Fraternity Epsilon Xi Chapter, EIN 746084905, Houston TX 77204

Cause IQ Metro Data for San Antonio Region:
The San Antonio metro area hosts numerous Greek organizations including:

Xi Omicron Iota House Association (Trinity University)
Alpha Lambda Chapter of Sigma Chi (Trinity University)
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority – San Antonio Alumnae Chapter
Kappa Alpha Psi – San Antonio Alumni Chapter

Why This Directory Matters for Sandy Oaks Families:
When hazing occurs, multiple entities may share liability:

Undergraduate Chapter (the students themselves)
House Corporation (property-owning entity, often with separate insurance)
Alumni Corporation (may control funds and oversight)
National Headquarters (sets policies, receives dues)
Educational Foundation (may hold assets)

Our pre-existing knowledge of these entities means we don’t start from scratch when investigating your case. We already know the organizational landscape.

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Damages, and Strategy

When hazing causes injury or death, building a successful case requires systematic investigation, understanding of damages, and strategic positioning.

Critical Evidence Categories

1. Digital Communications (Most Important in 2025):

GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage group chats
Discord servers, Slack workspaces, fraternity-specific apps
Instagram DMs, Snapchat messages, TikTok communications
Recovery of deleted messages via digital forensics

2. Photo & Video Evidence:

Social media posts/stories showing events
Videos shared in group chats
Security/doorbell camera footage
Injury documentation (time-stamped photos)

3. Organizational Documents:

Pledge manuals, “tradition” binders
Meeting minutes, financial records
National policy manuals and training materials
Correspondence with national headquarters

4. University Records (Obtained via Discovery):

Prior conduct violations for same organization
Incident reports, Clery Act reports
Internal emails about the organization
Disciplinary proceedings and outcomes

5. Medical Documentation:

Emergency room records and hospitalizations
Toxicology reports, lab results (like CK levels in rhabdomyolysis)
Psychological evaluations (PTSD, depression, anxiety)
Future care plans and cost projections

6. Witness Testimony:

Other pledges and new members
Former members who quit
Roommates, RAs, bystanders
University staff and advisors

Damages: What Families Can Recover

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Losses):

Medical expenses (past and future)
Lost educational costs (withdrawal, transfer expenses)
Lost earning capacity (if injuries affect career trajectory)
Therapy and counseling costs

Non-Economic Damages (Subjective but Real Harm):

Physical pain and suffering
Emotional distress, trauma, humiliation
Loss of enjoyment of life
Damage to reputation and relationships

Wrongful Death Damages (When Applicable):

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

Punitive Damages (When Conduct is Egregious):

Available when defendants show reckless indifference
Designed to punish and deter future conduct
Higher potential in cases with cover-ups or prior warnings

The Insurance Coverage Battle

Fraternity and university insurance companies employ specific tactics to minimize payouts:

Common Insurance Defense Strategies:

“Intentional Acts” Exclusion: Arguing hazing is intentional and thus excluded
“Rogue Chapter” Defense: Claiming national didn’t know or approve
Coverage Limit Arguments: Minimizing policy applicability
Delay Tactics: Dragging out proceedings to pressure families

Our Counter-Strategy (Informed by Insider Knowledge):
Mr. Lupe Peña, our associate attorney, spent years as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm. He knows precisely how these companies:

Set reserves and value claims
Use Independent Medical Examinations (IMEs) to reduce settlements
Deploy delay and attrition tactics
Fight coverage under various exclusions

This insider knowledge is invaluable when negotiating with fraternity and university insurers.

Practical Guides & FAQs for Sandy Oaks Families

For Parents: Warning Signs and Action Steps

Red Flags Your Child May Be Being Hazed:

Unexplained injuries or repeated “accidents”
Extreme exhaustion or sleep deprivation
Sudden weight loss/gain or eating pattern changes
Withdrawal from family and non-Greek friends
Constant phone anxiety (responding to group chats)
Financial strain (unexplained expenses, “fines”)
Personality changes (anxiety, depression, irritability)
Secretive behavior about organization activities

How to Talk to Your Child:

Choose the right time: Private, calm, no distractions
Use open questions: “How are things with your organization?” not “Are they hazing you?”
Express concern, not accusation: “I’ve noticed you seem exhausted lately…”
Emphasize safety over status: “Your health matters more than any group.”
Offer unconditional support: “You can always come home, no questions asked.”

If You Discover Hazing: Immediate Actions:

Prioritize medical care: Even if injuries seem minor
Document everything: Photos, notes, screenshots
Preserve evidence: Don’t let them delete messages
Contact an attorney BEFORE reporting to university
Avoid social media posts about the incident

For Students: Rights and Resources

Is This Hazing? A Self-Check:

Would I do this if I had a real choice (no social consequences)?
Is this activity dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
Would my parents/university approve if they knew?
Am I being told to keep secrets?
Are older members making me do things they don’t do?

Your Legal Rights in Texas:

Good Faith Reporting Protection: You cannot be punished for calling 911 or reporting hazing in good faith
Consent is Not a Defense: Even if you “agreed,” it’s still hazing
Right to Leave: You can quit any organization at any time
Protection from Retaliation: Harassment after reporting is illegal

Safe Exit Strategies:

Tell someone outside the org first (parent, RA, friend)
Send written notice (email/text) to chapter leadership
Do NOT attend “one last meeting” where pressure may occur
Document any retaliation immediately
Seek university support (Dean of Students, counseling center)

For Witnesses/Former Members: Coming Forward

If you participated in or witnessed hazing and now regret it:

Your testimony can prevent future harm
Cooperation often leads to better outcomes than silence
You may need your own legal counsel
Coming forward can be part of personal accountability

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

MISTAKE #1: Deleting Evidence

What happens: “I don’t want this embarrassing stuff on my phone”
Why it’s fatal: Looks like cover-up, destroys crucial evidence
Correct approach: Preserve EVERYTHING, even if embarrassing

MISTAKE #2: Confronting the Organization Directly

What happens: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind”
Why it’s fatal: They lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses
Correct approach: Document silently, let your attorney handle communication

MISTAKE #3: Signing University “Resolution” Forms

What happens: University pressures quick “internal resolution”
Why it’s fatal: You may waive legal rights for minimal compensation
Correct approach: NEVER sign anything without attorney review

MISTAKE #4: Posting on Social Media

What happens: “People need to know what they did”
Why it’s fatal: Defense attorneys screenshot everything; inconsistencies hurt credibility
Correct approach: Document privately, let your attorney control messaging

MISTAKE #5: Waiting for University Investigation

What happens: “Let’s see how the school handles it first”
Why it’s fatal: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs
Correct approach: Preserve evidence NOW, consult attorney immediately

Frequently Asked Questions

“Can we sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
Yes, under specific circumstances. Public universities have some sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and when suing individuals personally. Private universities (like Trinity in San Antonio) have fewer immunity protections. Every case requires individual analysis.

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

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

“How long do we have to file a lawsuit?”
Generally 2 years from the date of injury or death in Texas, but exceptions exist (discovery rule, tolling for minors, fraudulent concealment). Time is critical—call us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911.

“What if it happened off-campus at a private house?”
Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and nationals can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, and foreseeability. The Pi Delta Psi case (fatal retreat) established this precedent.

“Will this be public, or can we keep it confidential?”
Most hazing cases settle confidentially before trial. We prioritize your family’s privacy while pursuing accountability.

About The Manginello Law Firm / Attorney911: Why Texas Families Choose Us

When your Sandy Oaks 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.

Our Unique Qualifications for Hazing Cases

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

Value (and undervalue) hazing claims
Use delay tactics and coverage exclusion arguments
Deploy Independent Medical Examinations (IMEs) to reduce settlements
Negotiate from positions of strength
Translation: We know their playbook because we used to run it.

Complex Institutional Litigation Experience (Ralph Manginello):

BP Texas City Explosion Litigation: One of few Texas firms involved against billion-dollar defendants
Federal Court Admitted: U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
HCCLA Membership: Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association signals elite criminal defense capability
25+ Years Experience: Practicing since 1998, founded firm in 2001
Translation: We’re not intimidated by national fraternities or universities with unlimited legal budgets.

Multi-Million Dollar Results Experience:

Wrongful death settlements requiring economist collaboration
Catastrophic injury cases with lifetime care planning
Experience valuing complex damages (lost earning capacity, future medical needs)
Translation: We don’t settle cheap. We build cases that force real accountability.

Dual Civil/Criminal Hazing Understanding:

Ralph’s HCCLA membership means we understand criminal hazing charges
We can advise on how criminal and civil cases interact
Experience representing witnesses with dual exposure
Translation: We see the whole legal chessboard, not just one piece.

Spanish Language Services:
Mr. Peña speaks fluent Spanish. Servicios legales en español disponibles para familias hispanas.

Our Investigative Depth in Texas Greek Life

Beyond the Leonel Bermudez case we’re actively litigating, we maintain what we call the Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine—a comprehensive database of:

125+ Texas-registered Greek organizations (IRS B83 entities with EINs, addresses)
96 Texas university campuses and their Greek presences
1,423 Greek organizations tracked across 25 Texas metros
Organization hierarchies (undergrad chapters, house corporations, alumni groups, national entities)

This means when you come to us with a hazing case, we don’t start from zero. We already understand:

Which entities might carry insurance
How national and local organizations connect
Prior incidents at the same chapter or national
The specific organizational landscape of your child’s school

The Attorney911 Difference: Immediate, Aggressive, Professional

Our brand promise—”Legal Emergency Lawyers™”—reflects our approach: When crisis strikes, you need immediate help, aggressive protection, and professional guidance.

For Sandy Oaks Families, This Means:

Local Understanding: We know Texas courts, Texas universities, Texas Greek life
Immediate Response: 24/7 availability when crisis strikes
Strategic Aggressiveness: We fight institutions that prioritize reputation over safety
Professional Compassion: We guide families through trauma with expertise and empathy

Your Next Step: Confidential Consultation

If hazing has impacted your Sandy Oaks family, we want to help. Whether your child attends UTSA, Texas A&M, UT Austin, or any other Texas campus, you have rights and options.

What to Expect in Your Free Consultation

We Listen: You tell your story without judgment or interruption
We Review: We examine any evidence you’ve preserved (photos, texts, medical records)
We Explain: We outline your legal options clearly:
- Criminal reporting considerations
- Civil lawsuit possibilities
- University disciplinary processes
- Insurance claim pathways
We Answer: Your questions about:
- Timeline expectations
- Cost structure (contingency fee—we don’t get paid unless we win)
- Privacy concerns
- Realistic outcomes
No Pressure: Take time to decide. We never push immediate decisions.

Contact Us Today

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC / Attorney911
Legal Emergency Lawyers™

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
Spanish Services: Lupe Peña – lupe@atty911.com

Serving Sandy Oaks Families Throughout Texas:
From our Houston, Austin, and Beaumont offices, we serve families across Texas, including Sandy Oaks, Bexar County, San Antonio, and all communities affected by campus hazing.

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

Attorney911 Main Website & Contact:
https://attorney911.com

Educational YouTube Videos:

Using Your Phone to Document Evidence: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs
Texas Statutes of Limitations: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c
Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Case: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY
How Contingency Fees Work: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

UH Pi Kappa Phi Case Media Coverage:

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