If you’re reading this, your family may be facing one of the most terrifying moments of your life. Your child was supposed to make friends at college, to explore new subjects, and to grow into the person they were meant to be. Instead, they were tortured. They were abused. They were hazed. We know the fear, the anger, and the profound sense of betrayal you must be grappling with. We’re here to help families in Smyth County, Virginia, fight back against the institutions that allowed this nightmare to unfold.

We are Attorney911, and our firm is built on aggressive representation of hazing victims, a data-driven litigation strategy, and an unwavering commitment to holding every responsible entity accountable for hazing injuries and deaths. We are not just a law firm that occasionally handles hazing cases; we are actively fighting this battle right now in court, and we bring that same relentless dedication to every family we represent, including those in Smyth County.

The Landmark Case in Houston: A Warning for Smyth County, Virginia

Just weeks ago, in November 2025, our firm filed a $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi, the University of Houston, and 13 individual fraternity members. This is the case of Leonel Bermudez, a young man who was not even enrolled at the University of Houston yet. He was a “ghost rush,” planning to transfer for the upcoming semester, a prospective member who just wanted to belong. Instead, he was subjected to weeks of horrific abuse that landed him in the hospital with acute kidney failure.

This case is not an isolated incident happening far away. Pi Kappa Phi, like many national fraternities, has over 150 chapters across America, including at universities that students from Smyth County, Virginia, attend or might consider. The same “traditions” that hospitalized Leonel Bermudez are happening at fraternities and sororities nationwide. The same negligence that allowed this to occur at the University of Houston—a public university that owned the very house where much of the hazing took place—exists at institutions of higher learning near Smyth County and throughout Virginia.

Leonel’s story is a stark warning, one every parent in Smyth County needs to hear:

On September 16, 2025, Leonel Bermudez accepted a bid to join Pi Kappa Phi. What followed was an agonizing period of systematic hazing. He was waterboarded with a garden hose, forced to eat until he vomited, and then made to continue exercising in his own vomit. He was hog-tied. He endured extreme physical punishments, including over 100 push-ups and 500 squats, forced to continue until he collapsed, unable to stand without help. He was struck with wooden paddles. He was psychologically tortured, humiliated, and sleep-deprived.

When Leonel finally made it home on November 3, he could barely move. As Ralph Manginello, our managing partner, told ABC13, “When he finally made it home, he crawled up the stairs and went to bed. The next day, he was really sore and couldn’t really move. The next day was worse, and the next day, his mom rushed him to the hospital, and he had some kidney failure.” Leonel was passing brown urine, a classic sign of rhabdomyolysis, a severe muscle breakdown that can lead to kidney failure. He spent three nights and four days in the hospital, fighting for his life.

This is what hazing looks like today. This is what these organizations are doing to our children. And this is exactly the kind of fight Attorney911 takes on. Within weeks of the hazing being reported, the Pi Kappa Phi chapter at the University of Houston was suspended, the members voted to surrender their charter, and the chapter was permanently closed. Criminal referrals were initiated. And we filed a $10 million lawsuit, targeting not just the individual perpetrators, but the University of Houston, the national fraternity, and even the housing corporation.

As our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, eloquently stated to ABC13, “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.”

Your child’s safety is non-negotiable. If you are a parent in Smyth County whose child has been subjected to this kind of abuse, we offer the same aggressive, data-driven, and relentless pursuit of justice for your family.

What Hazing Really Looks Like: Beyond the Stereotypes and into the Reality

Many families in Smyth County might think of hazing as harmless pranks or a bit of rough bonding that all new members go through. The truth, as Leonel Bermudez’s case tragically illustrates, is far more sinister. Hazing today is often physical abuse, psychological torture, sexual humiliation, and reckless endangerment that can lead to severe injury, permanent damage, and even death. It is not about building character; it is about breaking down an individual’s will and replacing it with absolute subservience.

Here’s what modern hazing, including the horrors Leonel Bermudez endured, truly entails:

1. Physical Abuse and Extreme Exertion:
This goes far beyond a few push-ups. Pledges are often forced to engage in relentless physical activity until collapse. Leonel was made to perform over 100 push-ups and 500 squats, along with “high-volume suicides,” bear crawls, wheelbarrows, “save-you-brother” drills, two-mile warmups, and repeated 100-yard crawls. This forced exertion, coupled with being struck with wooden paddles, led to his muscles breaking down, causing rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure. Other forms include beatings, branding, or exposure to dangerous conditions. Another pledge in Leonel’s group even lost consciousness during these forced workouts.

2. Forced Consumption:
This is perhaps one of the most common and deadliest forms of hazing. Leonel was forced to consume large amounts of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until he vomited. Then, in a truly degrading act, he was made to continue running sprints in his own vomit-soaked grass. In other incidents nationwide, pledges have died from forced ingestion of alcohol, non-food substances, or extreme amounts of liquid that lead to water intoxication.

3. Psychological Torture and Humiliation:
The mental scars of hazing can be as deep, if not deeper, than the physical ones. Leonel was subjected to tactics designed to degrade and humiliate. He was forced to carry a fanny pack containing “objects of a sexual nature” at all times. He was stripped down to his underwear in cold weather. Another pledge was hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour. These acts are designed to break an individual’s spirit and instill fear, leaving lasting psychological trauma, including PTSD, anxiety, and depression.

4. Sleep Deprivation:
Pledges are often intentionally deprived of sleep, forced to attend late-night events, or made to perform tasks like driving active members during early morning hours, as Leonel was. This exhaustion compromises judgment, weakens physical and mental resistance, and makes individuals more susceptible to control and further abuse. The lack of sleep can also contribute to serious accidents and health issues.

5. Simulated Drowning (Waterboarding):
This is perhaps the most shocking and reprehensible act detailed in Leonel’s lawsuit. Pi Kappa Phi members subjected him to “simulated waterboarding with a garden hose.” As Houston Public Media rightly pointed out, “Waterboarding, which simulates drowning, is a form of torture.” The United States government itself considers waterboarding torture when inflicted upon enemy combatants. That such a heinous act was perpetrated against a young man seeking camaraderie is unspeakable.

6. Coercion and Threats:
Hazing activities are rarely “voluntary” in any true sense. Pledges are often threatened with physical punishment, social ostracization, or expulsion from the organization if they don’t comply. Leonel was told he would be immediately expelled from the fraternity if he stopped exercising during his punishment. This environment of fear and intimidation creates a powerful coercive force, making genuine consent impossible.

This is not the bonding experience parents in Smyth County envision when their children join collegiate organizations. This is systematic abuse. It is a betrayal of trust by institutions that are supposed to educate and protect students. If your child has experienced any of these horrifying acts, know that you are not alone, and we are ready to fight for them.

Who Is Responsible: Holding Every Enabler Accountable in Smyth County Hazing Cases

When hazing occurs, it’s rarely just one person or one group at fault. It’s often a web of negligence and culpability, ranging from the individuals perpetrating the abuse to the sprawling national organizations and the universities themselves. Our firm’s approach, proven in the Bermudez case, is to cast a wide net, identifying and targeting every single entity responsible. For families in Smyth County, this means we will pursue maximum accountability from all liable parties.

Here are the diverse entities we hold responsible in hazing litigation:

1. Individual Perpetrators:
The students who actively participate in or orchestrate hazing rituals are directly liable for their actions. In the Bermudez lawsuit, we named the fraternity president, the pledgemaster, and other current members. This extends to former members who may host hazing activities off-campus, as happened in Leonel’s case where hazing took place at a former member’s residence, leading us to name even his spouse for premises liability. These individuals can be held personally accountable for assault, battery, intentional infliction of emotional distress, and egregious negligence. The $6.5 million judgment against a single fraternity president in the Stone Foltz case proves that individual perpetrators cannot hide behind their organization’s shield.

2. Local Chapters and Housing Corporations:
The local chapter itself, as an organized entity, is responsible for the conduct of its members and for any policies or practices that promote hazing. This includes the Beta Nu Chapter of Pi Kappa Phi in Leonel’s case. Often, local chapters operate through separate “housing corporations” that own or lease the fraternity house. These housing corporations are also liable if hazing occurs on their premises, or if they fail to adequately maintain a safe environment. We actively track these entities; for instance, we know there’s a Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation Inc with EIN 462267515 located in Frisco, Texas, which corresponds to the same entity behind the UH chapter we sued. For Smyth County hazing victims, we know how to identify and pursue these local organizational defendants.

3. National Fraternities and Sororities:
These are often the “deep pockets” in hazing litigation. National organizations like Pi Kappa Phi (which has over 150 chapters) have a responsibility to supervise their local chapters, enforce anti-hazing policies, and ensure a safe environment for new members. In Leonel’s case, we alleged that the national organization failed to enforce anti-hazing rules despite knowledge of “a hazing crisis” and an undeniable history of past incidents (Andrew Coffey’s death in 2017). Pi Kappa Phi’s swift closure of the UH chapter just days before our lawsuit filed is a clear admission of liability – they knew what was coming. National organizations often have substantial assets and comprehensive liability insurance policies that can provide significant compensation to victims and their families in Smyth County.

4. Colleges and Universities:
Universities have an overarching duty to protect their students, foster a safe campus environment, and oversee student organizations, including Greek life. The University of Houston was named as a defendant in Leonel’s case because they owned the fraternity house where much of the hazing took place, failed to prevent the abuse despite having the power to regulate, and possessed a documented history of prior hazing incidents on their campus (a 2017 case where a student was hospitalized from hazing at a different fraternity).

For Smyth County families, universities like Emory & Henry College, Wytheville Community College, and others across Southwest Virginia that host Greek life or student organizations have a similar duty. Their negligence can take many forms:

• Failure to supervise: Not adequately monitoring Greek life activities.
• Failure to enforce policies: Having anti-hazing rules but not acting on violations.
• Institutional knowledge: Knowing about past hazing incidents but failing to prevent future ones.
• Premises liability: If hazing occurs on university-owned or controlled property.

As Ralph Manginello has pointed out, universities have “deep pockets” in terms of endowments, state funding, and liability insurance. They often prioritize their reputation, but we force them to prioritize student safety.

5. Alumni Advisors and Boards:
Many chapters have alumni advisory boards or individual advisors who are meant to provide guidance and oversight. If these individuals were aware of hazing or should have been aware and failed to intervene, they can also be held liable for their negligence. These are often professionals with a duty of care to the student members.

6. Insurance Carriers:
Behind every major organization and often even individuals, there are insurance policies. These can include national fraternity liability insurance, university general liability policies, housing corporation policies, and even homeowners’ or renters’ insurance for individuals. As former insurance defense attorneys, both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña possess invaluable insider knowledge of how these carriers work, how they value claims, and the tactics they use to minimize payouts. We leverage this insight to dismantle their defenses and maximize recovery for our clients.

In Smyth County, if your child has been hazed, the responsible parties are not simply “the bad apples” within a chapter. We meticulously uncover all layers of responsibility, ensuring that every individual, every local and national organization, and every educational institution that played a role in the abuse is held fully accountable.

What These Cases Win: How Multi-Million Dollar Settlements Offer Justice for Smyth County Families

When a child is seriously injured or killed by hazing, no amount of money can truly compensate for the profound loss and trauma. However, civil litigation provides a critical path to justice. It forces accountability from powerful institutions, covers devastating financial burdens, and sends a powerful message that this conduct will not be tolerated. For families in Smyth County, understanding the substantial settlements and verdicts achieved in similar cases across the nation can provide a glimmer of hope during an unimaginably dark time.

Our $10 million lawsuit in the Leonel Bermudez case is not an arbitrary number; it aligns directly with the precedent established in other major hazing cases that have reshaped the landscape of collegiate Greek life. These multi-million dollar outcomes prove that juries and courts recognize the severe costs of hazing.

Here are some of the landmark cases that demonstrate the potential for substantial recovery in hazing litigation:

1. Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University / Pi Kappa Alpha (2021-2024): Total $10.1 Million+
Stone Foltz died in March 2021 after being forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol during a Pi Kappa Alpha initiation ritual at Bowling Green State University. His family received over $10.1 million in combined settlements and judgments. This included $2.9 million from Bowling Green State University and $7.2 million from the national Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity and other individuals. In December 2024, a jury ordered Daylen Dunson, the former chapter president, to personally pay an additional $6.5 million in damages. This case sets a direct precedent for our $10 million demand in the Bermudez case, demonstrating that substantial awards are granted even when the victim is not from a specific “deep pocket” university. It also proves that individual perpetrators face serious personal financial consequences.

2. Maxwell Gruver – Louisiana State University / Phi Delta Theta (2017): $6.1 Million Verdict
Max Gruver, an 18-year-old freshman, died in September 2017 from acute alcohol poisoning with a BAC of 0.495 during a Phi Delta Theta “Bible Study” hazing event at LSU. Pledges were forced to drink heavily if they answered questions incorrectly. A jury awarded his family $6.1 million in a civil trial. This verdict was crucial because it proved that juries are willing to award multi-million dollar judgments for hazing deaths, sending a powerful message to fraternities nationwide. The case also led to the passage of the “Max Gruver Act,” making hazing a felony in Louisiana.

3. Timothy Piazza – Penn State University / Beta Theta Pi (2017): $110 Million+ (Estimated)
Timothy Piazza, 19, died in February 2017 after a brutal Beta Theta Pi hazing ritual at Penn State. He was forced to “the gauntlet,” consuming 18 drinks in 82 minutes, leading to severe intoxication. He fell down a flight of stairs, suffering a traumatic brain injury and internal bleeding. Fraternity members waited 12 hours before calling 911. Security cameras captured the entire horrifying sequence. The family’s confidential settlement is estimated to be well over $110 million, making it one of the largest hazing payouts in history. The case led to the “Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law” in Pennsylvania, imposing felony charges for hazing. This monumental recovery demonstrates what is possible when egregious conduct is exposed with undeniable evidence.

4. Adam Oakes – Virginia Commonwealth University / Delta Chi (2021-2024): $4 Million+ Settlement
In February 2021, Adam Oakes, 19, died from alcohol poisoning during a Delta Chi hazing ritual at VCU. His family, who initially sought $28 million, reached a settlement for over $4 million in October 2024. This recent case further emphasizes the significant recoveries achievable in hazing cases and reinforces that such incidents are not unique to specific regions or universities. Families in Smyth County should note that even in their own state, hazing has led to tragedy and substantial legal compensation.

5. Other Significant Recoveries:

• Andrew Coffey (Florida State University / Pi Kappa Phi, 2017): Died from alcohol poisoning during hazing. Lawsuit led to confidential settlement. This is particularly significant for Leonel Bermudez’s case as it involves the same national fraternity, Pi Kappa Phi. This prior death demonstrates Pi Kappa Phi National had clear notice of deadly hazing within its chapters years before Leonel’s hospitalization.
• University of Houston / Pi Kappa Alpha (2017): A previous incident at UH where a student suffered a lacerated spleen from hazing led to a $1 million lawsuit, demonstrating that even non-fatal injuries can result in significant recoveries and that the University of Houston had prior knowledge of hazing problems on its campus.

What Does This Mean for Smyth County Families?

These cases show that when hazing leads to serious injury or death:

• Universities are held accountable: They often pay multi-million dollar settlements for their role in failing to supervise and protect students.
• National fraternities and sororities are held accountable: They pay for their systemic failures in oversight, often reaching into the tens of millions.
• Individual perpetrators face consequences: They can be held personally liable for millions, forever altering their financial and professional futures.
• Damages are comprehensive: Recoveries include medical expenses, lost academic and career potential, and substantial compensation for pain, suffering, mental anguish, and loss of life.
• Punitive damages are a powerful tool: Juries can award millions more to punish egregious behavior and deter future hazing.

If your child in Smyth County has been victimized by hazing, you can expect us to pursue every avenue for compensation and accountability, leveraging these precedents to demand the full justice your family deserves. The sheer scale of these payouts sends an undeniable message to every fraternity, every university in Virginia, and every individual involved: Hazing costs millions, lives, and reputations, and we are ready to make them pay.

Texas Law Protects You: Understanding the Legal Framework for Hazing Victims in Smyth County and Beyond

While Smyth County, Virginia has its own specific laws, understanding the foundational legal principles, such as those in Texas, illuminates the powerful tools available to hazing victims and their families across the nation. States like Virginia often have similar anti-hazing statutes, and common law claims like negligence apply regardless of location. Moreover, our federal court authority and dual-state bar licenses make us uniquely positioned to litigate hazing cases anywhere in the United States, bringing the aggression and expertise honed in Texas to your local community.

Key Legal Principles Applicable to Smyth County Hazing Cases:

1. Hazing is a Crime:
Most states, including Texas and Virginia, have anti-hazing laws that make hazing a criminal offense.

• Texas Education Code § 37.151 defines hazing broadly to include any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, that endangers a student’s mental or physical health for membership purposes. It encompasses physical brutality, sleep deprivation, exposure, forced calisthenics (like Leonel’s 500 squats that led to kidney failure), forced consumption (like the milk and hot dogs Leonel was made to eat), and any activity that violates the Penal Code.
• In Leonel Bermudez’s case, the waterboarding, physical beatings with wooden paddles, forced eating, and extreme exercise clearly meet multiple definitions of hazing under Texas law, making it a criminal act. Those involved could face up to a year in jail for causing serious bodily injuries. Universities and individuals in Smyth County who engage in similar acts face equivalent criminal penalties under Virginia law.

2. Consent Is NOT a Defense:
This is perhaps the most critical legal point in hazing cases. Organizations and individuals frequently argue that victims “consented” to participate, or “knew what they were getting into.”

• Texas Education Code § 37.154 explicitly states: “It is not a defense to prosecution… that the person against whom the hazing was directed consented to or acquiesced in the hazing activity.”
• This means that no matter how much a student might appear to agree, under the law, they cannot legally consent to being hazed. The psychological pressure, fear of ostracism, and desire to belong negate true consent. This legal principle is enshrined in anti-hazing laws nationwide, including Virginia’s. Any attempt by a fraternity or university in Smyth County to use consent as a defense will fail.

3. Organizational Liability:
Entities beyond the individual perpetrators are legally responsible.

• Local Chapters: Under Texas law, an organization commits an offense if it condones or encourages hazing, or if its members commit hazing. This direct liability means the local Pi Kappa Phi chapter was clearly responsible.
• National Organizations: National fraternities and sororities have a legal duty to supervise their local chapters and enforce anti-hazing policies. When they fail, especially after previous incidents like Andrew Coffey’s death, they are liable for negligent supervision and institutional negligence.
• Universities: Educational institutions have a duty of care to protect their students. In many cases, universities have policies, codes of conduct, and oversight responsibilities that, if breached, make them liable. This is particularly true if they own the property where hazing occurs, like the University of Houston did. Smyth County universities like Emory & Henry College or other Virginia institutions will be held to the same standard.

4. Civil Liability Theories — How Funds Are Recovered:
Beyond criminal prosecution, civil lawsuits allow victims to seek financial compensation. Our firm extensively utilizes these legal theories:

• Negligence: The core of most personal injury claims. We establish that the defendants (individuals, chapters, nationals, university) owed a duty of care to the victim, breached that duty by allowing or participating in hazing, which directly caused injuries, resulting in damages.
• Premises Liability: If hazing occurs on property owned or controlled by the university or housing corporation, they can be liable for failing to maintain safe premises or allowing dangerous conditions (the hazing itself) to exist. The fact that the University of Houston owned the Pi Kappa Phi house where Leonel was tormented is a critical aspect of our claim.
• Negligent Supervision: This applies when institutions (national fraternities, universities) fail in their duty to adequately oversee their chapters or students, leading to foreseeable harm.
• Assault and Battery: Direct claims against individuals who inflict physical harm, like the wooden paddles or waterboarding.
• Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress (IIED): When the conduct is extreme and outrageous, and causes severe emotional suffering, a claim for IIED can be pursued. The torture Leonel endured, both physical and psychological, unequivocally falls under this category.

5. Statutory Reporting Requirements:
In Texas, universities are legally required to report hazing incidents to the state. Failure to do so is a criminal offense. Similar reporting mechanisms exist in Virginia and across the country. Such requirements create a paper trail and demonstrate a university’s awareness of hazing, further bolstering claims of negligence if they fail to act.

For Smyth County families, these laws empower you. They strip away the excuses, penetrate the institutional defenses, and create a clear path toward holding every responsible party accountable. The trauma your child experienced is recognized by law, and you have strong legal grounds to pursue justice. We are experts in navigating these complex legal frameworks to ensure your rights are protected and your voice is heard.

Why Attorney911: Your Fierce Advocates in Smyth County and Beyond

Choosing the right legal representation after a hazing incident is one of the most critical decisions a family in Smyth County will make. You need more than just a lawyer; you need a team that understands the unique complexities of hazing litigation, possesses an aggressive courtroom presence, and is deeply committed to achieving justice for victims. At Attorney911, we embody these qualities, and our ongoing $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston serves as tangible proof of our dedication and capabilities.

Here’s why families in Smyth County facing the nightmare of hazing choose Attorney911:

1. We Are Battling Hazing RIGHT NOW:
Our commitment to fighting hazing is not theoretical. We are currently embroiled in a high-stakes, multi-million dollar lawsuit against a national fraternity and a major university. This active litigation means we are on the cutting edge of hazing law, constantly refining strategies, and intimately familiar with the tactics used by powerful defendants. When you hire us, you’re not just getting lawyers who can handle hazing cases; you’re getting lawyers who are handling them, with tenacity and vigor, and we’ll apply that same force for your child in Smyth County.

2. Decades of Battle-Tested Courtroom Experience:
Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, brings over 25 years of courtroom experience. He has tried hundreds of cases, securing multi-million dollar outcomes for clients against formidable opponents. This includes involvement in the multi-billion dollar mass tort litigation against BP following the Texas City refinery explosion, demonstrating his capacity to take on massive corporate defendants—the same kind of power we confront when facing national fraternities and universities. This depth of experience means we are never intimidated by large institutions or their legal teams, ensuring that Smyth County families have a fearless advocate.

3. Insider Knowledge of the Defense’s Playbook:
Both Ralph Manginello and our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, are former insurance defense attorneys. This is a strategic advantage designed to benefit you. They have spent years working for the insurance companies and large corporations that now stand opposite us in court. They know exactly how the defense strategizes, what tactics they employ to minimize payouts, and where their vulnerabilities lie. Mr. Peña, having worked for a national defense firm like Litchfield Cavo LLP, understands the intricate valuation methods and delay tactics used by insurance giants. This insider perspective is invaluable, allowing us to anticipate the opposition’s moves and counter them effectively, maximizing your potential recovery in Smyth County.

4. Nationally Empowered Legal Reach:
While our headquarters is in Houston, Texas, our reach extends far beyond state lines.

• Federal Court Admissions: We are admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, and have experience at the U.S. Second Circuit Court of Appeals. This federal authority means we can pursue hazing cases in federal jurisdiction, a critical advantage when dealing with national fraternities and multi-state university systems.
• Dual-State Bar Licenses: Ralph Manginello is licensed in both Texas AND New York. This dual licensure provides a strategic edge, particularly when navigating cases against national fraternity organizations that may be headquartered in New York or have significant operations there.
• Willingness to Travel: We routinely travel for depositions, client meetings, and trials wherever justice demands. For Smyth County families, this means you get access to our specialized expertise without being limited by geography. We will come to you.
• Remote Consultations: We offer video consultations, making it easy for Smyth County families to connect with us from the comfort and privacy of their homes, initiating your legal journey immediately.

5. Specialized Hazing Litigation Expertise:
We don’t just handle general personal injury; we have a focused expertise in hazing. Our experience includes:

• Rhabdomyolysis injury litigation: Directly applicable to Leonel Bermudez’s case.
• Kappa Sigma fraternity litigation and other Greek life organizational cases.
• University accountability cases: Holding institutions like the University of Houston responsible.
• Wrongful death from hazing: Compassionate yet aggressive representation for the most tragic outcomes.

6. Comprehensive Client Support and Communication:
We understand that navigating a lawsuit, especially a hazing case, is incredibly stressful. Our firm is founded on the principle of providing immediate, aggressive, and professional help. We offer:

• 24/7 Free Consultations: Call us anytime at 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate assistance. From Smyth County, your legal emergency is our priority.
• Contingency Fees: You pay absolutely nothing upfront. We only get paid if and when we win your case. This removes the financial burden and allows any family in Smyth County to pursue justice, regardless of their financial situation.
• Bilingual Staff: We have fluent Spanish-speaking staff (Se habla español), ensuring that Hispanic families in Smyth County and across the nation receive comprehensive, culturally relevant support without language barriers.
• “They Treat You Like Family”: Our testimonials consistently highlight our empathetic, communicative approach. “You are FAMILY to them and they protect and fight for you as such,” as one client put it.

7. Proven Track Record of Results and Public Accountability:
From securing multi-million dollar settlements to successfully dismissing criminal charges by exposing flawed evidence, our history speaks for itself. We are not afraid of cameras; we understand the power of media to drive accountability. Our work in the Bermudez case, covered by ABC13, KHOU 11, the Houston Chronicle, and Houston Public Media, demonstrates our ability to leverage public awareness to shame negligent institutions into action.

If your child in Smyth County has been victimized by hazing, you need a firm that is not just knowledgeable, but deeply passionate about this fight. We see your child as a person, not a case number, and we will bring our full arsenal of experience, data, and relentless advocacy to secure the justice they deserve.

What To Do Right Now: Actionable Steps for Smyth County Families After Hazing Trauma

Discovering that your child has been subjected to hazing can be a disorienting and terrifying experience. In those critical moments, knowing precisely what to do can make all the difference in protecting their rights and building a strong legal case. The institutions responsible for your child’s trauma are already mobilizing their extensive resources to evade accountability. You need to act swiftly and strategically. For families in Smyth County, Virginia, here’s clear, actionable guidance:

STEP 1: Prioritize Immediate Safety and Medical Care.

• Remove Your Child from the Situation: If your child is still involved in hazing activities, get them out immediately. Their physical and psychological safety is paramount.
• Seek Medical Attention IMMEDIATELY: This is non-negotiable, even if injuries seem minor or your child insists they are “fine.” As we saw with Leonel Bermudez, seemingly minor discomfort can mask life-threatening conditions like rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure. Adrenaline can mask pain, delaying proper diagnosis. A medical professional can assess injuries, provide treatment, and, crucially, create official medical records.
  • Go to the emergency room, or to a doctor right away in Smyth County.
  • Document EVERYTHING the medical staff says and does.
  • Ensure all symptoms, no matter how small, are recorded in their medical chart. Any delay in treatment will be used by the defense to argue your child wasn’t seriously hurt.

STEP 2: Preserve All Evidence. Every Piece Matters.

• Take Photos and Videos: Use your smartphone to document everything.
  • Injuries: Take clear photos of any bruises, cuts, burns, swelling, or other physical marks. Document these injuries immediately and continue to photograph them as they heal, showing their progression.
  • Location: If safely possible, photograph the places where hazing occurred – the fraternity house (especially if owned by a university near Smyth County), specific rooms, outdoor spaces, or other venues.
  • Physical Objects: Capture images of any items used in hazing (e.g., paddles, fanny packs like Leonel was forced to wear, alcohol bottles, soiled clothing).
• Save ALL Communications:
  • Text Messages: Preserve every text, including group chats (GroupMe, WhatsApp), directly related to the hazing. These are often smoking guns, showing instructions, threats, and discussions about activities.
  • Social Media: Screenshot any relevant posts, DMs, or messages from platforms like Snapchat, Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok. This includes posts from other members that might corroborate your child’s story.
  • Emails: Save any emails related to the organization or hazing activities.
• Identify Witnesses: Write down the names and contact information of anyone who may have witnessed the hazing, including other pledges, fraternity members, or bystanders. Their testimony can be invaluable.
• Collect Documents: Save any “pledge manuals,” schedules, rules, or agreements given to your child by the organization.

CRITICAL WARNINGS:

• DO NOT Delete ANYTHING: Deleting messages or posts can be considered destruction of evidence, severely damaging your case.
• DO NOT Post on Social Media About the Incident: Anything your child (or you) posts can and will be used against them by the defense. Stay silent online throughout the entire legal process.
• DO NOT Talk to the Fraternity, University, or Their Lawyers: They are not on your side. Their goal is to protect their institution, not your child. Any statements given without legal counsel can be twisted and used against you. This includes signing any documents or agreements the organization or university presents to you.

STEP 3: Contact Attorney911 Immediately for a FREE Consultation.

• Call Our Legal Emergency Hotline: 1-888-ATTY-911. We are available 24/7. Time is of the essence.
• Email Us: Send a message to ralph@atty911.com.
• Why Prompt Action is Crucial:
  • Statute of Limitations: In Virginia, you typically have two years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. Federal civil rights claims sometimes have different deadlines. Missing this deadline means losing your right to sue forever.
  • Evidence Disappears: The longer you wait, the more likely physical evidence will be cleaned up, electronic communications will be deleted, and witness memories will fade.
  • Organizations Mobilize: Universities and fraternities immediately begin damage control and legal strategizing. You need your legal team activated just as quickly.

STEP 4: Document Financial and Academic Impact.

• Medical Bills: Keep meticulous records of all medical bills, receipts for prescriptions, therapy sessions, and any other healthcare-related expenses.
• Lost Wages/Opportunities: If your child missed work, internships, or academic opportunities due to hazing injuries or trauma, document the lost income.
• Academic Impact: Note any decline in grades, missed classes, or changes in enrollment status. These can be critical damages.

STEP 5: Understand Your Rights.

• Consent is NOT a Defense: Remember, both Texas and Virginia law affirm that a student cannot legally consent to hazing. Any arguments to the contrary by the defendants are baseless.
• You Are Not Alone: The courage of victims like Leonel Bermudez and the success of cases like Stone Foltz prove that institutions can be held accountable.

We understand that reaching out for help takes immense courage. But delaying action can irrevocably harm your child’s case. Let us be your first call. We will come to Smyth County, Virginia, for necessary meetings, depositions, and trials, and we are ready to take on the powerful institutions that harmed your child. The consultation is free, confidential, and could be the first step toward getting justice.

Contact Us: Your Legal Emergency Hotline in Smyth County, Virginia

If you’re a family in Smyth County, Virginia, grappling with the devastating impact of hazing, you don’t have to face this battle alone. The clock is ticking, and every moment counts. The same institutions that failed to protect your child are already working to protect themselves. You need immediate, aggressive, and expert legal help.

We are Attorney911, and we are prepared to bring the full weight of our experience, our data-driven strategies, and our relentless advocacy to your case in Smyth County, just as we are doing in our $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston.

Smyth County Families: Your Legal Emergency Hotline is Open 24/7.

📞 CALL NOW FOR A FREE, CONFIDENTIAL CONSULTATION:

1-888-ATTY-911

Email Us Anytime:
ralph@atty911.com

Visit Our Website for More Information:
attorney911.com

Why Contacting Attorney911 Is Your Critical Next Step:

• No Upfront Costs: We operate on a contingency fee basis. This means families in Smyth County pay absolutely nothing unless—and until—we win your case. There is no financial barrier to seeking justice.
• Immediate Expertise on Your Side: Our team, led by Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, is already embroiled in multi-million dollar hazing litigation. We bring unparalleled, active experience to your case. We know the ins and outs, the defense tactics, and the best path to maximum compensation.
• Nationwide Reach, Local Commitment: Although headquartered in Houston, our seasoned attorneys are admitted to federal courts and licensed in multiple states (Texas and New York), giving us the authority to represent hazing victims anywhere in the U.S., including Smyth County, Virginia. We conduct remote consultations and are fully prepared to travel to Smyth County for depositions, meetings, and trials as needed.
• Insider Advantage: Both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña are former insurance defense attorneys. They know exactly how universities, national fraternities, and their insurance companies will attempt to deny, delay, and devalue your claim. They use this insider knowledge to dismantle the defense and fight for every dollar your family deserves.
• Comprehensive Support: We understand the trauma you’re experiencing. Our team is empathetic, professional, and dedicated to protecting your family. We offer bilingual services (Se habla español) to ensure effective communication and support for all families in Smyth County.
• Time is of the Essence: Critical evidence disappears quickly, witnesses’ memories fade, and legal deadlines approach. Contacting us immediately allows us to preserve crucial evidence (texts, photos, videos) and build the strongest possible case for your child.

To Other Victims of the UH Pi Kappa Phi Hazing:

We know Leonel Bermudez was not the only one. Other pledges suffered similar abuses, one even losing consciousness. If you or someone you know was victimized by the Pi Kappa Phi hazing at the University of Houston, or by any hazing incident, please contact us. There is strength in numbers, and every person who comes forward helps us build an even more powerful case to ensure no one else suffers this trauma. Let’s unite to bring every responsible party to justice.

Your child’s future, and the futures of countless other students, depend on accountability. Let Attorney911 be your fierce advocate.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 today. Your battle for justice begins now.