A Comprehensive Guide to Hazing Lawsuits & Accountability in Texas: A Resource for City of Scotland Families

If Your Child Was Hazed, You’re Not Alone – We Can Help

For families in City of Scotland, Archer County, the thought that your child could be seriously injured while seeking brotherhood or sisterhood at a Texas university is a parent’s worst nightmare. It’s late on a Thursday night, and your son, a freshman at a major Texas university, texts that he has “mandatory study hours” at the fraternity house. Hours pass. His messages become sparse, then stop entirely. When he finally stumbles home at dawn, he’s covered in bruises, reeks of alcohol, and can barely walk. He murmurs something about “tradition” and “earning his letters” before collapsing into bed. You’re left staring at his battered body, wondering what was done to him and who is responsible.

This is not a hypothetical scenario. This exact pattern of abuse, coercion, and institutional failure unfolds every semester on Texas campuses. Right now, as you read this, our firm is actively litigating one of the most serious hazing cases in recent Texas history. We represent Leonel Bermudez, a University of Houston student who suffered rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown) and acute kidney failure after enduring extreme physical and psychological hazing as a pledge of the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter. His urine turned brown. He was hospitalized for four days. The chapter has been shut down, and we have filed a $10 million lawsuit against the university, the fraternity’s national headquarters, and individual members.

This guide exists because families in City of Scotland and across Texas deserve to understand the reality of modern hazing, their legal rights, and how to fight for accountability when institutions fail to protect their children. Whether your child attends a university hours away or closer to home, the legal principles and patterns we expose here apply directly to your family’s situation.

Immediate Help for Hazing Emergencies

If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

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

In the first 48 hours:

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

Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours:

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

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like

For families in City of Scotland who may be unfamiliar with the evolution of Greek life and campus traditions, understanding what constitutes hazing today is critical. Hazing is no longer just about silly pranks or harmless initiation rituals. It has evolved into systematic abuse that endangers lives while becoming more sophisticated at avoiding detection.

A Clear, Modern Definition of Hazing

In plain terms, 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. The critical legal distinction—especially for City of Scotland families to understand—is that “I agreed to it” or “I wanted to fit in” does not make it safe or legal when there is an inherent power imbalance between established members and new pledges.

Main Categories of Hazing

Alcohol and Substance Hazing
This remains the most common and deadly form. It includes forced or coerced drinking during “Big/Little” nights, “bid acceptance” parties, or drinking games like “Bible study” where incorrect answers mean consuming more alcohol. In the Bermudez case at UH, pledges were forced to consume milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting, then immediately forced to run sprints.

Physical Hazing
This includes paddling, beatings, and extreme physical exercise disguised as “workouts” or “conditioning.” In the UH Pi Kappa Phi case, Bermudez was forced through 100+ push-ups and 500 squats in a single session. Other physical hazing includes sleep deprivation, food/water restriction, and exposure to extreme elements—like being forced to lie in vomit-soaked grass or stand outside in cold weather wearing only underwear.

Psychological and Humiliating Hazing
This involves systematic degradation designed to break down a pledge’s sense of self. Tactics include forced nudity, simulated sexual acts, racial or sexist role-playing, public shaming, and social isolation. The “pledge fanny pack” rule in the UH case—requiring pledges to carry condoms, sex toys, and other humiliating items 24/7—is a textbook example.

Digital/Online Hazing
The newest frontier involves 24/7 control via group chats (GroupMe, WhatsApp, Discord), forced social media challenges, location tracking via apps, and public humiliation on platforms like TikTok or Instagram. Pledges are often required to respond to messages immediately at all hours, creating constant anxiety and sleep disruption.

Where Hazing Actually Happens

While fraternities and sororities receive the most attention, hazing occurs across campus organizations:

• Fraternities and Sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural councils)
• Corps of Cadets / ROTC / Military-Style Groups (particularly relevant at Texas A&M)
• Athletic Teams (football, basketball, baseball, cheer)
• Spirit and Tradition Groups (like the Texas Cowboys at UT)
• Marching Bands and Performance Groups
• Some Academic, Service, and Cultural Organizations

The common threads are social status, tradition, and secrecy. These practices persist because older members who endured them believe new members should too, creating a cycle of abuse that organizations often protect to maintain their reputation.

Law & Liability Framework: Texas Statutes and Federal Overlay

For City of Scotland families navigating a hazing crisis, understanding the legal landscape is essential. Texas has specific laws, but federal statutes also come into play, especially when dealing with universities that receive federal funding.

Texas Hazing Law Basics: Education Code Chapter 37

Texas law defines hazing broadly as 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 City of Scotland Families:

• Location Doesn’t Matter: Hazing can occur on-campus, at an off-campus house, a remote retreat, or anywhere else. The Pi Kappa Phi hazing at UH occurred at the chapter house, a Culmore Drive residence, and Yellowstone Boulevard Park—all locations are covered under Texas law.
• “Reckless” is Enough: The law doesn’t require malicious intent. If someone should have known their actions could cause harm, that’s sufficient.
• Consent is NOT a Defense: Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that the victim’s consent is irrelevant. This directly counters the common defense of “they wanted to do it.”

Criminal Penalties in Texas:

• 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: Individuals can also face separate charges for assault, furnishing alcohol to minors, or manslaughter in fatal cases

Organizational Liability: Fraternities, sororities, and other organizations can be fined up to $10,000 per violation and lose university recognition.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding the Difference

Criminal Cases

• Brought by the state (district attorney)
• Aim: Punishment (jail, fines, probation)
• Burden of proof: “Beyond a reasonable doubt”
• Outcomes affect individual defendants’ criminal records

Civil Cases

• Brought by victims or their families
• Aim: Compensation for damages and accountability
• Burden of proof: “Preponderance of the evidence” (more likely than not)
• Can proceed regardless of criminal case outcome

Both can run simultaneously. The lack of criminal charges doesn’t prevent a civil lawsuit, and a criminal conviction isn’t required to win civil compensation.

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

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024)
This federal law requires colleges receiving federal aid to:

• Report hazing incidents more transparently
• Strengthen hazing education and prevention programs
• Maintain public hazing data (phased in by 2026)
  For City of Scotland families, this means increased transparency from universities in the coming years.

Title IX & Clery Act
When hazing involves sexual harassment, assault, or gender-based hostility, Title IX obligations are triggered. The Clery Act requires reporting certain campus crimes. These federal frameworks provide additional avenues for accountability when institutions fail to respond appropriately.

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit?

1. Individual Students
The members who planned, executed, or covered up the hazing. In the UH case, 13 individual fraternity leaders and members are named as defendants.

2. The Local Chapter
If incorporated as a legal entity, the chapter itself can be sued. Many chapters have housing corporations or alumni associations that hold assets.

3. The National Fraternity/Sorority
Headquarters that set policies, collect dues, and supervise chapters. Their liability hinges on what they knew or should have known from prior incidents at other chapters. Pi Kappa Phi’s national headquarters is a defendant in the Bermudez case.

4. The University or Governing Board
Schools may be liable for negligence, inadequate supervision, or deliberate indifference to known risks. The University of Houston and UH System Board of Regents are named defendants.

5. Third Parties
Property owners, alcohol providers (under dram shop laws), security companies, or event organizers who contributed to the dangerous environment.

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

National Hazing Case Patterns: The Scripts That Keep Repeating

The tragic cases that make national headlines are not isolated incidents. They follow predictable patterns that repeat across campuses and organizations. For City of Scotland families, understanding these patterns reveals how preventable these tragedies are—and why institutions must be held accountable.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021)
A 20-year-old pledge was forced to consume an entire bottle of alcohol during a “Big/Little” night. He died from alcohol poisoning. The family reached a $10 million settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, ~$3M from BGSU). Multiple fraternity members were convicted of hazing-related charges.

Timothy Piazza – Penn State University, Beta Theta Pi (2017)
Pledge night involved extreme alcohol consumption. Piazza suffered traumatic brain injuries from falls captured on chapter security cameras. Members delayed calling for help for hours. Eighteen fraternity members faced over 1,000 criminal counts. The case led to Pennsylvania’s Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law.

Max Gruver – Louisiana State University, Phi Delta Theta (2017)
Pledge forced to participate in a “Bible study” drinking game where incorrect answers meant drinking. He died with a 0.495% BAC. The case led to Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act, making hazing a felony. Multiple members were convicted, and the family secured confidential settlements.

Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (2017)
Pledge died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” where pledges were given handles of hard liquor. Pi Kappa Phi—the same national organization involved in the UH case—faced criminal charges and civil litigation. FSU temporarily suspended all Greek life.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013)
Pledge was blindfolded, weighted with a heavy backpack, and repeatedly tackled during a “glass ceiling” ritual at a remote retreat. He died from traumatic brain injuries, and help was delayed. The national fraternity was convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter—a landmark case showing organizational criminal liability. Pi Delta Psi was banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years.

Danny Santulli – University of Missouri, Phi Gamma Delta (2021)
An 18-year-old pledge was forced to consume excessive alcohol during a “pledge dad reveal” night. He suffered severe, permanent brain damage—he cannot walk, talk, or see and requires 24/7 care. The family settled with 22 defendants for confidential multi-million-dollar amounts.

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Northwestern University Football (2023–2025)
Former players alleged widespread sexualized and racist hazing within the football program over multiple years. Multiple lawsuits were filed against the university and staff. Head coach Pat Fitzgerald was fired and later reached a confidential settlement with the university. This case demonstrates that hazing extends far beyond Greek life into major athletic programs.

What These Cases Mean for City of Scotland Families

The common threads in these national cases—forced drinking, humiliation, violence, delayed medical care, institutional cover-ups—are exactly what we see in Texas cases. These precedents create legal frameworks that City of Scotland families can rely on when pursuing accountability. The multi-million-dollar settlements and verdicts show that juries take hazing seriously and will hold powerful institutions responsible.

Texas Focus: Where City of Scotland Families Send Their Children

City of Scotland families have deep connections to Texas higher education. Whether your child attends a university closer to home or at one of the major hubs across the state, understanding the specific hazing landscape at each campus is crucial. Here, we focus on the five universities most relevant to Texas families, with particular attention to patterns that affect students from Archer County and surrounding regions.

University of Houston (UH): The Flagship Case in Our Own Backyard

Campus & Culture Snapshot
UH is a large urban research university with a significant commuter population but growing residential life. Its Greek system includes Interfraternity Council (IFC), Panhellenic, National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), and Multicultural Greek Council organizations. For families in City of Scotland, UH represents both geographic proximity and a sobering case study in institutional failure.

The Leonel Bermudez / Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu Case
This is not a historical footnote—it’s our firm’s active, ongoing litigation that exemplifies everything wrong with hazing culture and institutional response:

• The Hazing: Bermudez endured forced dress codes, overnight chauffeuring duties, humiliating “pledge fanny packs,” and extreme physical abuse including sprints, bear crawls, and being sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding.”
• The Medical Catastrophe: After being forced through 100+ push-ups and 500 squats on November 3, 2025, Bermudez developed rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure. His urine turned brown, he couldn’t stand without help, and he was hospitalized for four days with critically high creatine kinase levels.
• The Institutional Response: Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters suspended the chapter on November 6, 2025. Chapter members voted to surrender their charter on November 14, 2025. UH called the conduct “deeply disturbing” and promised disciplinary measures and cooperation with law enforcement.
• The Lawsuit: We filed a $10 million lawsuit against UH, the UH System Board of Regents, Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters, the Beta Nu housing corporation, and 13 individual fraternity leaders/members.

UH’s Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels
UH prohibits hazing on or off campus and provides reporting through the Dean of Students Office, Campus Safety, and online forms. However, as the Bermudez case shows, policies alone don’t prevent abuse—aggressive enforcement and genuine institutional commitment do.

How a UH Hazing Case Might Proceed for a City of Scotland Family

• Jurisdiction: Cases may involve UHPD, Houston Police Department, or Harris County Sheriff’s Office depending on location
• Civil Venue: Lawsuits typically filed in Harris County courts
• Travel Considerations: Our Houston office provides convenient access for City of Scotland families needing in-person consultations

What UH Students & City of Scotland Parents Should Do

• Report immediately to UH Dean of Students AND local law enforcement
• Preserve all digital evidence (GroupMe chats are critical in UH cases)
• Seek medical attention even for seemingly minor injuries—rhabdomyolysis symptoms can be delayed
• Contact our firm for immediate guidance on dealing with UH administration

Texas A&M University: Corps Culture and Greek Life Intersection

Campus & Culture Snapshot
Texas A&M’s unique culture combines strong Greek life with the storied Corps of Cadets tradition. For City of Scotland families with Aggie traditions, understanding both environments is essential, as hazing occurs in each.

Documented Incidents & Responses

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (2021)
Two pledges alleged they were forced through strenuous activity and had substances including industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit poured on them, causing severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries. The pledges sued for $1 million, and the fraternity was suspended for two years.

Corps of Cadets “Roasted Pig” Lawsuit (2023)
A cadet alleged degrading hazing including being bound between beds in a “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth and enduring simulated sexual acts. He sought over $1 million in damages. Texas A&M stated it handled the matter under its rules, highlighting the sometimes-insular nature of Corps discipline.

Texas A&M’s Hazing Framework
The university addresses hazing through Student Conduct procedures and separate Corps regulations. This dual system can create confusion about reporting paths and accountability standards.

What City of Scotland Families with Aggie Connections Should Know

• The Corps has its own investigative processes that may conflict with university-wide policies
• Greek life at A&M follows national patterns seen elsewhere
• Evidence preservation is critical—Corps traditions often involve physical evidence
• Our firm understands both the Greek and Corps environments at A&M

University of Texas at Austin: Transparency and Repeated Violations

Campus & Culture Snapshot
UT Austin boasts one of the most transparent hazing disclosure systems among Texas universities, maintaining a public hazing violations page. For City of Scotland families, this transparency is valuable but also reveals disturbing patterns of repeat offenses.

Public Hazing Violations Examples

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023)
New members were directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics. The chapter was placed on probation and required to implement new hazing-prevention education. Notably, Pi Kappa Alpha has a national history of fatal hazing incidents.

Texas Wranglers & Spirit Organizations
Multiple spirit groups have faced sanctions for forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing, and punishment-based practices. These cases show hazing extends beyond Greek letters to prestigious campus organizations.

UT’s Reporting and Accountability System

• Public violation listings at hazing.utexas.edu
• Multiple reporting channels including anonymous options
• Generally more transparent than peer institutions

How City of Scotland Families Should Approach UT Cases

• Check the public violations page for prior incidents involving the same organization
• Utilize UT’s relatively robust reporting systems
• Understand that even with transparency, violations continue—meaning policies need stronger enforcement
• Our firm regularly works with UT’s public records in building pattern evidence for cases

Southern Methodist University (SMU): Private University Challenges

Campus & Culture Snapshot
SMU’s private university status, affluent student body, and strong Greek presence create a unique environment. For City of Scotland families, the private university context affects everything from transparency to legal strategies.

Documented Incidents

Kappa Alpha Order Incident (2017)
New members reported being paddled, forced to drink alcohol, and deprived of sleep. The chapter was suspended and faced recruiting restrictions until 2021.

SMU’s Hazing Prevention Approach
SMU utilizes anonymous reporting systems like Real Response and emphasizes education. However, as a private institution, it has fewer public disclosure requirements than public universities.

Considerations for City of Scotland Families

• Private universities often have more flexibility in internal discipline but less transparency
• Insurance coverage and liability structures may differ from public institutions
• Social and financial pressures can influence institutional responses
• Our firm has experience navigating private university legal defenses and insurance strategies

Baylor University: Religious Identity and Institutional Scandal History

Campus & Culture Snapshot
Baylor’s religious identity and history with major athletic scandals create a complex backdrop for hazing issues. For City of Scotland families in faith communities, understanding how Baylor’s religious mission intersects with accountability is important.

Documented Incidents

Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020)
Fourteen players were suspended following a hazing investigation, with staggered suspensions affecting the early season. The incident highlighted that hazing persists even in monitored athletic programs.

Baylor’s Institutional Context
Following major Title IX scandals, Baylor has overhauled policies and reporting systems. However, the cultural residue affects how new allegations are perceived and handled.

Guidance for City of Scotland Families

• Baylor’s religious mission can influence internal disciplinary approaches
• The university’s scandal history means they may be particularly sensitive to negative publicity
• Athletic program hazing requires different evidence collection strategies
• Our firm understands how to navigate faith-based institutional defenses while aggressively advocating for victims

Fraternities & Sororities: National Histories That Predict Local Behavior

For City of Scotland families, understanding that local chapter misconduct doesn’t occur in a vacuum is crucial. National organizations have histories—patterns of abuse that repeat across campuses. When a Texas chapter engages in the same dangerous behaviors that caused deaths or severe injuries elsewhere, that pattern evidence becomes powerful legal leverage.

Why National Histories Matter in Your Case

National fraternity and sorority headquarters are not passive entities. They:

• Collect dues from local chapters
• Provide (or fail to provide) risk management training
• Maintain records of prior incidents across their network
• Set policies meant to prevent exactly the behaviors that cause harm

When they know—or should know—that certain “traditions” are dangerous yet fail to intervene aggressively, they share liability. This is why we subpoena national organizations’ internal records in every serious hazing case.

Organization-Specific Patterns Relevant to Texas Families

Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ)

• National Pattern: Multiple alcohol poisoning deaths including Stone Foltz (BGSU, $10M settlement) and David Bogenberger (NIU, $14M settlement)
• Texas Presence: Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor
• Legal Significance: When a Texas Pike chapter engages in forced drinking rituals, their national’s knowledge of prior deaths supports negligence claims

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ)

• National Pattern: Multiple hazing-related deaths nationwide; traumatic brain injury lawsuit at University of Alabama; chemical burns case at Texas A&M
• Texas Presence: Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin
• Legal Significance: SAE eliminated the traditional pledge process nationally in 2014 after multiple deaths—any post-2014 hazing shows policy enforcement failure

Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ)

• National Pattern: Andrew Coffey alcohol poisoning death at Florida State University
• Texas Presence: Chapter at UH (Beta Nu now closed due to Bermudez case)
• Legal Significance: Our active litigation proves this national organization’s continued failure to prevent known dangerous patterns

Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ)

• National Pattern: Max Gruver alcohol poisoning death at LSU leading to Louisiana’s felony hazing law
• Texas Presence: Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, Baylor
• Legal Significance: The “Bible study” drinking game that killed Gruver is a known script that should have been eradicated

Kappa Alpha Order (ΚΑ)

• National Pattern: Multiple hazing suspensions including SMU chapter incident
• Texas Presence: Chapters at Texas A&M, SMU
• Legal Significance: Physical paddling and alcohol hazing continue despite national awareness of risks

How Pattern Evidence Strengthens Your Case

In court, we demonstrate:

1. Foreseeability: The national organization knew this type of conduct could cause injury or death
2. Inadequate Response: Their policies, training, or enforcement were insufficient to prevent recurrence
3. Profit Over Safety: They continued collecting dues and supporting chapters despite known risks

For City of Scotland families, this means your child’s suffering wasn’t an isolated “mistake”—it was a predictable outcome of institutional failures. That reality influences settlement valuations, jury perceptions, and ultimately, the accountability we can achieve.

Building a Case: Evidence, Damages, and Legal Strategy

When City of Scotland families come to us after a hazing incident, they’re often overwhelmed, angry, and unsure where to turn. Understanding how a hazing case is built—from initial evidence collection to final resolution—provides clarity during a confusing time. Here’s what we do for every family we represent.

Critical Evidence Categories

1. Digital Communications

• Group Chats: GroupMe, WhatsApp, Discord, Slack, fraternity-specific apps
• Text Messages & DMs: iPhone/SMS, Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook Messenger
• Social Media Posts: TikTok challenges, Instagram stories, Facebook events
• Recovery Capability: Even deleted messages can often be recovered through digital forensics or cloud backups

2. Photos & Videos

• Event Documentation: Content filmed by participants during hazing
• Injury Documentation: Photos of bruises, burns, or other injuries over time
• Location Evidence: Images of where hazing occurred (houses, parks, retreat centers)
• Security Footage: Ring doorbells, house cameras, venue surveillance

3. Internal Organization Documents

• Pledge manuals, initiation scripts, “tradition” documents
• Emails between chapter officers about events
• National fraternity policies and training materials
• Risk management files showing prior incidents

4. University Records

• Prior conduct violations for the same organization
• Campus police incident reports
• Dean of Students communications
• Clery Act reports and annual security disclosures

5. Medical & Psychological Records

• Emergency room reports and hospitalization records
• Toxicology and lab results (critical for alcohol/drug cases)
• Surgery notes and rehabilitation plans
• Psychological evaluations for PTSD, depression, anxiety

6. Witness Testimony

• Other pledges who experienced the same hazing
• Former members who quit or were expelled
• Roommates, RAs, or friends who observed changes
• Bystanders who witnessed events

Damages: What Your Family Can Recover

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Financial Losses)

• Medical Expenses: Past and future ER care, hospitalization, surgery, therapy, medications
• Lost Income: Wages lost during recovery (for students or parents who miss work)
• Educational Impact: Tuition for semesters missed or withdrawn, lost scholarships
• Future Earning Capacity: Reduced lifetime earnings if injuries cause permanent disability

Non-Economic Damages (Subjective but Real Harm)

• Physical Pain & Suffering: From injuries and treatment
• Emotional Distress: PTSD, depression, anxiety, humiliation, trauma
• Loss of Enjoyment: Can no longer participate in activities they loved
• Damage to Relationships: Strained friendships, family stress

Wrongful Death Damages (For Families Who Lose a Child)

• Funeral & Burial Costs
• Loss of Companionship & Support
• Parents’ and Siblings’ Emotional Suffering
• Lost Financial Contributions the child would have made over a lifetime

Punitive Damages (When Conduct is Especially Bad)

• Designed to punish reckless or intentional misconduct
• Available when defendants show “conscious indifference” to known risks
• Often involved when organizations ignore prior warnings or attempt cover-ups

The Role of Insurance Coverage

Universities and national fraternities carry insurance policies that may provide coverage for hazing claims. However, insurers often argue:

• Hazing is an “intentional act” excluded from coverage
• Certain defendants aren’t covered under the policy
• The location or circumstances fall outside policy terms

Our insider knowledge—Mr. Lupe Peña spent years as an insurance defense attorney—gives us unique advantage in these fights. We know how insurers value claims, create reserves, and employ delay tactics. We identify all potential coverage sources and navigate exclusion arguments to maximize recovery for our clients.

Settlement vs. Trial: What to Expect

Most Cases Settle
Confidential settlements are common in hazing cases because:

• Defendants want to avoid negative publicity
• Trials are expensive and unpredictable
• Families often prefer privacy during recovery

When Trials Happen
We prepare every case as if it will go to trial because:

• Trial readiness improves settlement leverage
• Some defendants only make fair offers when facing a trial date
• Public trials can drive systemic change

The Reality for City of Scotland Families
Your case timeline might look like:

1. Months 1-3: Evidence collection, medical treatment, initial demands
2. Months 4-12: Negotiations, discovery, depositions
3. Months 12-24: Mediation, settlement discussions, trial preparation
4. If no settlement: Trial typically within 2-3 years of filing

Practical Guides & FAQs for City of Scotland Families

For Parents: Recognizing and Responding

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Being Hazed

• Unexplained bruises, burns, or injuries with inconsistent explanations
• Extreme fatigue or sleep deprivation beyond normal college stress
• Sudden secrecy about organization activities (“I can’t talk about it”)
• Personality changes: anxiety, depression, withdrawal, defensiveness
• Constant phone monitoring for group chat messages
• Financial strain from unexplained expenses or “fines”
• Academic decline from missing classes for “mandatory” events

How to Talk to Your Child

• Ask open questions: “How are things going with [organization]?”
• Express concern without judgment: “I’m worried about how tired you seem.”
• Emphasize safety: “Nothing is more important than your health.”
• Avoid ultimatums initially: “You can always come home, no questions asked.”

If Your Child Is Hurt

1. Medical First: Get immediate medical attention, even for “minor” injuries
2. Document Everything: Photograph injuries, screenshot texts, write down what they say
3. Preserve Evidence: Save clothing, receipts, any physical objects involved
4. Contact Authorities: Report to campus police AND local law enforcement
5. Call Us: 1-888-ATTY-911 before talking to university administrators or insurance adjusters

Dealing with the University

• Document every communication (take notes during calls, save all emails)
• Ask specific questions: “Has this organization had prior hazing violations?”
• Don’t accept vague promises: “What specific steps will you take by when?”
• Remember: The university’s interests may conflict with your child’s wellbeing

For Students: Your Rights and Safety

Is This Hazing? Quick Self-Assessment

• Are you being pressured to do something dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
• Would you do this if you could truly say “no” without consequences?
• Are older members making you do things they don’t have to do?
• Are you told to keep secrets from parents, RAs, or university staff?
• Does the activity interfere with your academics, health, or values?

If You Answered YES: It’s probably hazing, regardless of what it’s called.

How to Exit Safely

• Tell Someone First: Confide in a parent, RA, or trusted friend off-campus
• Formal Resignation: Email the chapter president: “I resign my membership effective immediately.”
• Avoid “One Last Meeting”: Don’t attend any exit meetings where you might be pressured or threatened
• Document Retaliation: Save any threatening messages if they occur
• Seek Support: University counseling centers can help with the emotional impact

Your Legal Rights in Texas

• You cannot be punished for calling 911 in a medical emergency (good-faith reporter immunity)
• Hazing is a crime—you are the victim, not the perpetrator
• You can request no-contact orders through the university if harassed
• Civil lawsuits can proceed even if no criminal charges are filed

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

1. Deleting Evidence

• What families think: “I don’t want them to get in more trouble”
• Why it’s wrong: Looks like a cover-up; may be obstruction of justice; makes your case impossible
• What to do instead: Preserve everything—embarrassing content proves coercion

2. Confronting the Organization Directly

• What families think: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind”
• Why it’s wrong: They immediately lawyer up, destroy evidence, and prepare defenses
• What to do instead: Document everything, then call us before any confrontation

3. Signing University “Resolution” Forms

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

4. Posting on Social Media

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

5. 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, statutes of limitations run
• What to do instead: Preserve evidence NOW; consult a lawyer immediately; university process ≠ real accountability

6. 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 offers
• What to do instead: Politely decline: “My attorney will contact you”

Frequently Asked Questions

“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 protections. Every case depends on specific facts—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.

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

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. From our Houston office, we serve families throughout Texas, including City of Scotland and surrounding Archer County communities. Here’s what makes us different:

Our Unique Qualifications for Hazing Litigation

Insurance Insider Advantage – 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. This insider knowledge is invaluable when fighting organizations with unlimited legal budgets.

Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions – Ralph Manginello’s Experience
Ralph Manginello is one of the few Texas attorneys involved in BP Texas City explosion litigation—taking on a billion-dollar corporation with deep pockets and aggressive defense teams. That same capability applies directly to hazing cases where we face:

• National fraternities with hundred-million-dollar budgets
• University systems with sovereign immunity defenses
• Defense firms that specialize in protecting institutional clients

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death & Catastrophic Injury Experience
We have recovered millions for families in complex wrongful death cases. We understand how to:

• Work with economists to value young lives cut short
• Calculate lifetime care needs for brain injuries or permanent disabilities
• Present damages in ways that resonate with judges and juries

Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise
Ralph’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) means we understand both sides of hazing cases. We can:

• Advise on criminal exposure for witnesses or former members
• Navigate how criminal charges interact with civil litigation
• Protect your rights when dealing with law enforcement

Investigative Depth & Expert Network
We deploy resources typically reserved for the most serious cases:

• Digital Forensics Experts: Recover deleted messages and social media evidence
• Medical Specialists: Document rhabdomyolysis, TBI, PTSD, and other hazing injuries
• Greek Life Culture Experts: Explain power dynamics and coercion patterns
• Economists & Life Care Planners: Calculate full lifetime impact of injuries

How We Approach City of Scotland Cases

Geographic Understanding
We know that City of Scotland families may have children at:

• Nearby Regional Campuses: Midwestern State University (Wichita Falls), University of North Texas (Denton)
• Major Texas Hubs: University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, Texas Tech
• Private Institutions: SMU, Baylor, TCU

Logistical Realities
We make the legal process accessible for City of Scotland families:

• Initial consultations by phone or video conference
• Travel to you when necessary for evidence collection or meetings
• Understanding of local court jurisdictions and procedures
• Coordination with local counsel if needed for venue-specific issues

Cultural Sensitivity
We understand Texas values, family dynamics, and the particular concerns of rural and suburban families dealing with urban campus environments. We respect your family’s privacy while aggressively pursuing accountability.

What to Expect When You Contact Us

Your Free, Confidential Consultation

1. We Listen: You tell us what happened without judgment or interruption
2. Evidence Review: We examine any photos, messages, or documents you have
3. Legal Options Explained: We outline criminal reporting, civil lawsuits, or other paths
4. Realistic Assessment: We discuss likely timelines, challenges, and potential outcomes
5. No Pressure: Take time to decide—we never pressure immediate retention

If You Hire Us

1. Immediate Evidence Preservation: We send preservation letters and begin digital collection
2. Comprehensive Investigation: We identify all potentially liable parties
3. Strategic Planning: We develop a case strategy tailored to your goals
4. Regular Communication: We update you at least every 2-3 weeks
5. Aggressive Advocacy: We fight for maximum accountability and compensation

Our Fee Structure: No Cost Unless We Win

We work on a contingency fee basis for hazing cases:

• No upfront costs for our services
• No hourly bills that create financial stress
• We only get paid if we recover money for you
• If we don’t win, you owe us nothing for our fees

This model ensures access to justice for families who couldn’t otherwise afford to take on wealthy fraternities and universities.

Call to Action: Your Next Step Toward Accountability

If you or your child experienced hazing at any Texas campus—whether hours from City of Scotland or closer to home—we want to hear from you. Families in City of Scotland and throughout Archer County have the right to answers, accountability, and compensation when institutions fail to protect their children.

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 on the best path forward for your family.

What You Can Expect in Your Free Consultation:

• We listen to your story without judgment
• 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

Spanish-Language Services:

• Hablamos Español—Contact Lupe Peña at lupe@atty911.com for consultation in Spanish
• Servicios legales en español disponibles

Clarification of Expectations:

Reading this article does not create an attorney–client relationship. Every case is unique, and we cannot guarantee specific outcomes. An experienced attorney can review your specific facts, explain your rights under Texas law, and help you understand your options.

Whether you’re in City of Scotland or anywhere across Texas, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone. The institutions responsible for your child’s safety failed them. Now it’s time to hold them accountable.

Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’re here to help, and we’re ready to fight for your family.

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

News Coverage of the Leonel Bermudez / UH Pi Kappa Phi Hazing Lawsuit:

1. Click2Houston (KPRC 2) – “‘Urine was brown’: Pledge sues over severe hazing at University of Houston’s shut down Pi Kappa Phi fraternity”

   • https://www.click2houston.com/news/local/2025/11/21/only-on-2-lawsuit-alleges-severe-hazing-at-university-of-houstons-pi-kappa-phi-chapter-fraternity/

2. ABC13 Eyewitness News (KTRK) – “Waterboarding, forced eating, physical punishment: Lawsuit alleges abuse faced by injured pledge at UH’s Pi Kappa Phi fraternity”

   • https://abc13.com/post/waterboarding-forced-eating-physical-punishment-lawsuit-alleges-abuse-faced-injured-pledge-uhs-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity/18186418/

Attorney911 Educational YouTube Videos:
3. “📱 Can You Use Your Cellphone to Document a Legal Case? | Attorney911 Explains”

• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs

1. “Is There a Statute of Limitations on My Case? | Attorney911 with Injury Lawyer Ralph Manginello”

   • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c

2. “Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Injury Case | Attorney911 with Ralph Manginello”

   • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY

3. “📢 How Do Contingency Fees Work? Injury Lawyer Explains!”

   • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

Attorney911 Main Website & Contact:
7. Attorney911 – Main Website & Contact

• https://attorney911.com

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