Hazing in Texas: A Comprehensive Guide for Todville Families on Rights, Risks, and Legal Accountability

The call comes late, a panicked whisper from your child, a proud student from Todville now away at a Texas university. “Mom, Dad, it was supposed to be a bonding event, but… I think I’m hurt.” Perhaps they were pressured to drink far beyond their limits at an off-campus fraternity house near campus, their friends filming and laughing as they struggled. Maybe it was a “team-building” exercise for a sports team or a “tradition” for a spirit group that turned physically violent or deeply humiliating. Someone eventually falls, vomits, or collapses, but no one wants to call 911 for fear of “getting the chapter shut down” or, worse, “getting in trouble” themselves. Your child is suddenly trapped between a desperate desire for loyalty to a group and their own safety, a world away from the familiar comfort of Todville.

This vivid, deeply troubling scenario is not a distant possibility; it is a reality that too many Texas families face each year. Even in a close-knit community like Todville, with its focus on family values and community spirit, the reach of university life and the risks of hazing can touch homes here as easily as anywhere else in the state. Children from Todville attend universities across Texas – from the bustling campuses of the University of Houston and the University of Texas at Austin, to the traditions of Texas A&M, the private institutions of Southern Methodist University, and the faith-based community of Baylor. When tragedy strikes, Todville families need to understand their rights, the law, and how to seek accountability.

This comprehensive guide is specifically designed for families in Todville and across Texas who are grappling with the harsh realities of hazing. We will explore:

• What hazing genuinely looks like in 2025, moving beyond outdated stereotypes to expose its insidious modern forms.
• The Texas legal framework that governs hazing, including both criminal and civil avenues for justice, and how federal laws also play a role.
• Critical insights from major national hazing cases and how their patterns and precedents apply directly to the experiences of Texas families.
• A deep dive into the hazing landscapes at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor, providing documented incidents and essential guidance.
• How the national histories of fraternities and sororities intersect with local chapter misconduct, fueling liability for powerful organizations.
• The intricate process of building a strong hazing case, from crucial evidence collection to navigating the complexities of damages and legal strategy.
• Practical, actionable guides and frequently asked questions for parents, students, and witnesses seeking to understand or report hazing.

While this article provides general information, we want to be clear that it is not specific legal advice for your unique situation. However, it is an essential starting point for understanding a complex and often devastating issue. The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, known as Attorney911, serves families throughout Texas, including Todville and its surrounding communities. Our mission is to inform and empower you, so you know exactly what steps you can take if hazing impacts your family.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES:

• If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

  • Call 911 for medical emergencies, without hesitation. Their safety is the absolute priority.
  • Then call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911). We provide swift, essential guidance in legal emergencies – that’s why we’re the Legal Emergency Lawyers™.

• In the first 48 hours, every action you take is critical:

  • Get medical attention immediately, even if the student insists they are “fine.” Injuries, especially internal ones or severe intoxication, may not be immediately apparent.
  • Preserve evidence BEFORE it is deleted or disappears:
    • Screenshot group chats, texts, and direct messages (DMs) immediately. These are often the most crucial pieces of evidence.
    • Photograph injuries from multiple angles and at different stages of healing. Use a common item like a coin for scale.
    • Save any physical items that could be evidence, such as damaged clothing, receipts for forced purchases, or objects used in hazing.
  • Write down everything while your memory is fresh: who was involved, what exactly happened, when and where it took place.
  • Do NOT:
    • Directly confront the fraternity, sorority, or organization’s members or leadership. This often prompts them to destroy evidence or coordinate stories.
    • Sign anything from the university or an insurance company without legal review. You could unknowingly waive critical rights.
    • Post details about the incident on public social media. This can compromise your legal position.
    • Let your child delete messages or “clean up” any evidence. This can be viewed as interference.

• Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours:

  • Evidence disappears incredibly fast. Digital communications are deleted, physical evidence is disposed of, and witnesses are coached.
  • Universities and organizations move quickly to control the narrative and minimize their liability.
  • We can help you swiftly take action to preserve crucial evidence and protect your child’s legal rights before it’s too late.
  • Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate consultation.

2. Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like

For families in Todville and across Texas, understanding modern hazing means shedding old preconceptions. Hazing is no longer just “harmless pranks” or “boys being boys.” In 2025, it is a sophisticated, often hidden, and deeply damaging practice that poses significant risks to mental and physical health.

2.1 Clear, Modern Definition of Hazing

At its core, hazing is any intentional, knowing, or reckless act directed against a student for the purpose of pledging, initiation into, affiliation with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization whose members include students, where the act endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student.

It’s crucial to understand that if someone makes you do something dangerous, harmful, or degrading to join or stay in a group, it is hazing. A common misconception is that if the person “agreed to it,” it’s not hazing. However, under the law and for most universities, “consent” does not automatically make it safe or legal when there is inherent peer pressure, coercion, and a power imbalance within the group. The desire to belong, fear of exclusion, and implicit threats can render any “agreement” meaningless.

2.2 Main Categories of Modern Hazing

The tactics of hazing have evolved, becoming more insidious and harder to detect from the outside.

• Alcohol and Substance Hazing: This remains one of the most dangerous forms of hazing and a leading cause of hazing fatalities.

  • Forced or coerced drinking: This often occurs through “lineups,” chugging challenges, or drinking games designed to ensure rapid, excessive alcohol consumption.
  • “Big/Little” reveal nights: Often involve presenting pledges with large quantities of hard liquor, with immense pressure to consume it all.
  • Pressured substance use: Coercion to consume unknown substances, marijuana, or other drugs to “prove loyalty” or fit in.

• Physical Hazing: While sometimes disguised as “team building” or “workouts,” this category involves acts that can lead to severe injury or exhaustion.

  • Paddling and beatings: Deliberate physical assaults using hands, paddles, belts, or other objects.
  • Extreme calisthenics or “smokings”: Forced, prolonged physical exertion (hundreds of push-ups, wall sits until collapse) that exceeds safe limits, often without proper hydration or nutrition.
  • Sleep deprivation: Mandatory late-night “meetings” or activities, sometimes lasting for days, with minimal or no sleep.
  • Food/water deprivation or forced consumption: Restricting access to basic needs, or forcing pledges to eat unusual, spoiled, or excessive amounts of food.
  • Exposure to extreme environments: Leaving pledges in extreme cold or heat, or in unsanitary conditions.

• Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing: These acts deeply violate a person’s dignity and can cause profound psychological trauma.

  • Forced nudity or partial nudity: Often involving public spaces or photographs.
  • Simulated sexual acts: Such as “elephant walks,” “roasted pig” positions, or other degrading simulations.
  • Degrading costumes or behaviors: Forcing pledges to wear embarrassing outfits or perform compromising acts in public.
  • Racist, homophobic, or sexist hazing: Using slurs, stereotypes, or forcing minority members to perform demeaning acts.

• Psychological Hazing: This form of hazing targets a victim’s mental well-being, eroding their self-esteem and creating a climate of fear and control.

  • Verbal abuse: Constant yelling, screaming, insults, and demeaning language designed to break down a person’s spirit.
  • Threats and intimidation: Explicit or implicit threats of physical harm, social exclusion, or academic sabotage.
  • Social isolation: Pressure to cut off contact with non-members, family, or existing friends.
  • Manipulation and coercion: Forcing pledges to confess to things they haven’t done or to lie on behalf of older members.
  • Public shaming: Through social media, in meetings, or in front of the campus community.

• Digital/Online Hazing: The rise of technology has provided new, insidious tools for hazing, making it 24/7 and often harder for outsiders to detect.

  • Group chat monitoring and control: Pledges are often required to respond instantly to messages at all hours, with punishment for slow responses.
  • Digital dares and “challenges”: Forcing pledges to participate in online stunts, TikTok trends, or create embarrassing content.
  • Social media policing: Restricting what pledges can post or requiring them to engage with organizational content, sometimes publicly humiliating those who resist.
  • Geo-tracking: Requiring pledges to share their live location via apps like Find My Friends or Snapchat Maps.
  • Livestreaming/recording: Using phones to capture degrading acts, then sharing them in private group chats or on social media for entertainment.

2.3 Where Hazing Actually Happens

Hazing is often mistakenly associated solely with fraternities. However, its reach is far broader. Hazing occurs in diverse groups across every campus, regardless of the school’s size, status, or location in Texas.

• Fraternities and Sororities: This includes social groups across all councils (Interfraternity Council (IFC), Panhellenic Council (CPC/HPC), National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), and multicultural Greek organizations (MGC/UGC)).
• Corps of Cadets / ROTC / Military-Style Groups: Highly structured organizations where traditions can sometimes cross into coercive and abusive hazing.
• Spirit Squads and Tradition Clubs: Groups like cheerleading teams, dance teams, and historical campus organizations (e.g., UT’s Texas Cowboys-like groups) have faced hazing allegations.
• Athletic Teams: From football and basketball to swimming, baseball, and track and field, hazing has been documented in collegiate sports programs across the nation.
• Marching Bands and Performance Groups: Even seemingly innocuous groups focused on arts and performance can carry out hazing rituals.
• Service, Cultural, and Academic Organizations: Any group requiring initiation or maintaining membership through practices that create an “in-group/out-group” dynamic can be susceptible to hazing.

The prevalence of hazing across such a wide array of student life stems from deeply ingrained cultural factors. Social status, tradition, and intense secrecy are powerful motivators that allow these practices to persist, even when participants “know” that hazing is illegal and dangerous. The desire to belong, the fear of missing out, and the loyalty to a group can create a powerful code of silence, making hazing incredibly difficult to detect and eradicate without decisive action from external sources.

3. Law & Liability Framework (Texas + Federal)

Understanding the legal landscape surrounding hazing is crucial for any Todville family whose child has been impacted. Texas law provides specific protections and avenues for accountability, which can be further bolstered by federal regulations.

3.1 Texas Hazing Law Basics (Education Code)

Texas has clear, strong anti-hazing provisions primarily outlined in the Texas Education Code, Chapter 37, Subchapter F. This serves as a foundational legal shield for students across the state, including those attending universities in Houston, College Station, Austin, Dallas, Waco, or any other Texas city.

As explained in Texas Education Code § 37.151, hazing is broadly defined as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, committed 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, whether it’s inflicting physical injury, extreme fatigue, or psychological distress, AND
• Occurs for the purpose of pledging, initiation into, affiliation with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization whose members include students.

This definition is expansive, covering a wide range of harmful activities. Key aspects to understand include:

• Location Doesn’t Matter: Hazing is prohibited whether it happens on-campus, off-campus, at a private residence, or even at an Airbnb or retreat.
• Mental or Physical Harm: The law protects against both direct physical injury and severe psychological damage.
• Intent to Harm Not Required: The act only needs to be intentional, knowing, or reckless. This means if those involved knew or should have known there was a substantial risk of harm, they can be held accountable, even if they didn’t specifically intend to cause injury.
• “Consent” Is No Defense: Crucially, Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that it is NOT a defense to prosecution for hazing that the person being hazed consented to the activity. Courts understand that true consent is often impossible in power-imbalanced, peer-pressured hazing situations.

Criminal Penalties

Under Texas Education Code § 37.152, hazing carries significant penalties:

• Class B Misdemeanor: The default minimum charge for hazing, punishable by up to 180 days in county jail and/or a fine up to $2,000.
• Class A Misdemeanor: If the hazing causes bodily injury requiring medical attention.
• State Jail Felony: If the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. This can lead to state jail time (up to two years) and/or a fine up to $10,000.

Additionally, failing to report hazing (if you’re a member or officer aware of it) and retaliating against someone who reports hazing are also misdemeanors. These provisions highlight Texas’s commitment to holding not just the perpetrators, but also those who enable or cover up hazing, accountable.

Organizational Liability

Texas Education Code § 37.153 extends accountability beyond individuals. Organizations themselves (fraternities, sororities, teams, clubs) can be held criminally responsible for hazing if:

• The organization authorized or encouraged the hazing, OR
• An officer or member acting in their official capacity knew about the hazing and failed to report it.
  Penalties for organizations can include fines up to $10,000 per violation, and universities can also revoke their recognition or ban them from campus. This is a critical provision, as it means both individuals and the organizational structure can face criminal charges, a direct parallel to the civil liability an experienced attorney would pursue.

Immunity for Good-Faith Reporting

To encourage reporting, Texas Education Code § 37.154 provides protection. A person who in good faith reports a hazing incident to university authorities or law enforcement is generally immune from civil or criminal liability that might otherwise arise from that report. Furthermore, in medical emergencies, many Texas laws and university policies offer amnesty for students who call 911 for help, even if underage drinking or hazing were involved, prioritizing immediate medical attention over fear of punishment.

3.2 Criminal vs. Civil Cases

It’s important for Todville families to understand the two distinct legal pathways:

• Criminal Cases: These are brought by the state (the district attorney or prosecutor) against individuals who allegedly violated criminal hazing laws or other statutes (e.g., assault, manslaughter, illegal alcohol distribution). The goal of a criminal case is punishment of the perpetrator(s), which can include jail time, fines, or probation.
• Civil Cases: These are brought by the victim (or their surviving family) against the individuals and organizations responsible for the hazing. The goal of a civil case is monetary compensation and accountability for the damages suffered by the victim. Civil cases focus on legal theories like negligence, gross negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision, premises liability, and intentional infliction of emotional distress.

Crucially, a criminal conviction is NOT required to pursue a civil case. The standards of proof are different. Even if criminal charges are not filed or do not result in a conviction, a civil case can still succeed in holding individuals, fraternities, national organizations, and universities accountable for their roles through financial judgments. In fact, many hazing injury or death cases that secure multi-million-dollar settlements or verdicts proceed without parallel criminal convictions.

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

While Texas has its own robust hazing laws, federal legislation also plays a significant role in demanding oversight and transparency from universities, which indirectly benefits victims and families.

• Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This landmark federal law is designed to increase transparency and accountability for hazing nationwide. It requires colleges and universities that receive federal funding to:

  • Publicly report hazing incidents at least twice a year, detailing the nature of the incident, the organizations involved, and the sanctions imposed.
  • Establish comprehensive hazing prevention and education programs.
  • Provide an annual report of hazing incidents similar to the mandated Clery Act reports.
    This act is being phased in and will require far greater public data on hazing, making it easier for families in Todville and elsewhere to research a university’s and organization’s history, and strengthening cases against institutions that fail to prevent hazing (fully effective around 2026).

• Title IX: This federal law prohibits sex-based discrimination in education. If hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, or creates a sexually hostile environment (e.g., forced nudity, simulated sexual acts, gender-based humiliation), it triggers the university’s Title IX obligations. This can mean a mandatory investigation and specific procedures for responding to and preventing future incidents.

• Clery Act: The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act requires colleges to report campus crime data, support victims of crime, and publicly outline the policies and procedures they have put in place to improve campus safety. While not exclusively about hazing, many hazing incidents involve crimes (assaults, alcohol violations) that would fall under Clery reporting requirements. This helps create a broader picture of campus safety and oversight.

3.4 Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit

For Todville families seeking accountability, identifying all potentially liable parties is crucial for a successful civil hazing lawsuit. An experienced hazing attorney understands the complex web of responsibility.

• Individual Students: These are the direct perpetrators—the students who planned, supervised, participated in, or carried out the hazing acts. This can include those who coerced participation, supplied alcohol to minors, or engaged in physical assaults.
• Local Chapter/Organization: The specific fraternity, sorority, club, or team itself. If the local chapter operates as a legal entity, or if elected officers (like the president or “pledge educator”) were involved, the chapter and its leadership can be held directly responsible.
• National Fraternity/Sorority: The larger, national (or international) organization can be held liable. This is often based on theories of negligent supervision, vicarious liability, or simply having been aware of a pattern of hazing behavior (through prior incidents at other chapters) and failing to take adequate steps to prevent it. Nationals issue charters, collect dues, and set policies, implying a duty of care.
• University or Governing Board: The educational institution itself, whether public (like UH, Texas A&M, UT) or private (like SMU, Baylor), can be held liable. This usually hinges on proving the university was negligent in its oversight, had prior knowledge of hazing within a specific organization and failed to act, or was deliberately indifferent to an ongoing pattern. Issues like negligent supervision of student organizations, failure to enforce policies, or even a breach of a duty to protect students can apply. For public universities in Texas, sovereign immunity can pose a challenge, though exceptions exist for gross negligence or Title IX violations.
• Third Parties:
  • Landlords/Property Owners: If hazing occurred at an off-campus house or venue, the property owner could be liable if they knew or should have known of dangerous activity and failed to intervene.
  • Alcohol Providers: Bars, stores, or even individuals who unlawfully furnished alcohol to minors that contributed to a hazing incident could face dram shop liability.
  • Security Companies: If hired security neglected their duties, contributing to the incident.

Each hazing case is fact-specific. Not every party listed above will be liable in every situation, but an experienced hazing attorney will meticulously investigate to identify all potential defendants and build the strongest possible case for accountability.

4. National Hazing Case Patterns (Anchor Stories)

When a family in Todville grapples with a hazing tragedy, it can feel incredibly isolating. However, they are not alone. Across the country, similar incidents have devastated families and shaped the legal landscape, providing crucial precedents and demonstrating patterns of institutional failures. These “anchor stories” illustrate the common threads of hazing—forced drinking, humiliation, violence, and, often, delayed medical care and cover-ups—and highlight the need for aggressive legal action.

4.1 Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

The most frequent and deadliest form of hazing involves excessive, forced alcohol consumption. The tragic pattern is grimly familiar across campuses nationwide.

• Timothy Piazza – Penn State, Beta Theta Pi (2017): In one of the most publicized hazing deaths, 19-year-old Timothy Piazza died after plummeting down a flight of stairs during a “bid acceptance” initiation event where pledges were pressured to consume dangerous amounts of alcohol. Fraternity brothers captured his agonizing hours of suffering on security cameras, delaying calling 911 for nearly 12 hours. His death led to dozens of criminal charges against fraternity members, extensive civil litigation, and the landmark Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law in Pennsylvania, making hazing a felony and increasing penalties. For Texas families, this case underscores that extreme intoxication, deliberate delay in seeking medical help, and a pervasive culture of silence are legally devastating and will be rigorously pursued.

• Andrew Coffey – Florida State, Pi Kappa Phi (2017): 20-year-old Andrew Coffey died from acute alcohol poisoning after a “Big Brother Night” at Pi Kappa Phi, where pledges were forced to drink an entire bottle of liquor. This formulaic drinking ritual tragically illustrates how “tradition” is used to justify deadly behavior. His death resulted in multiple criminal hazing charges against fraternity members, a statewide suspension of Greek life at FSU, and renewed calls for anti-hazing reform across Florida. This case exemplifies the fatal consequences of formulaic “tradition” drinking nights that persist despite known dangers.

• Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017): Max Gruver, 18, died after participating in a “Bible study” drinking game where he was forced to consume copious amounts of alcohol. He was required to do calisthenics and drink whenever he answered a question incorrectly or if anyone spoke out of turn. His blood alcohol content was 0.495% at the time of his death. The tragedy mobilized legislative change, leading to the Max Gruver Act in Louisiana, which made hazing a felony with serious prison time. It stands as a stark reminder that legislative change and public outrage often follow concrete proof of hazing’s lethal consequences.

• Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021): 20-year-old Stone Foltz passed away after being forced to drink an entire bottle of whiskey in 18 minutes during a Pi Kappa Alpha pledge “Big/Little” event. This incident highlighted deliberate attempts to cover up the hazing and delay medical assistance. The aftermath included multiple criminal convictions against fraternity members, and Bowling Green State University (a public institution) agreed to a nearly $3 million settlement with the Foltz family. Other significant settlements were reached with the national fraternity and individuals. This case is crucial for Todville families as it demonstrates that universities, especially public ones, can face substantial financial and reputational consequences alongside the fraternities themselves.

4.2 Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Hazing isn’t limited to alcohol. Brutal physical and ritualized hazing continue to cause severe injury and death.

• Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013): Michael Deng, 19, died during a “glass ceiling” initiation ritual at an off-campus fraternity retreat in the Pocono Mountains. Blindfolded and wearing a heavy backpack, he was repeatedly tackled and assaulted. Fraternity members delayed calling for help for several hours. This case led to the criminal conviction of multiple members and, significantly, the national fraternity itself was criminally convicted and banned from Pennsylvania. For Texas families, it’s a powerful lesson that off-campus “retreats” are often chosen specifically to hide hazing and can be exceptionally dangerous, yet organizations remain liable.

4.3 Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Hazing is not exclusive to Greek life; it infiltrates other campus organizations, including high-profile athletic programs.

• Northwestern University Football (2023–2025): A major scandal erupted when former football players alleged widespread and severe sexualized, racist, and dehumanizing hazing within the Northwestern football program over multiple years. These allegations included forced “dry-humping” drills and other degrading acts. The scandal triggered multiple lawsuits against the university, its coaching staff, and led to the firing of highly successful head coach Pat Fitzgerald, who later settled a wrongful termination suit confidentially. This case profoundly illustrates that hazing extends far beyond Greek life into major athletic programs, raising critical questions about institutional oversight and the responsibility of universities to protect student-athletes.

4.4 What These Cases Mean for Texas Families

These national anchor stories, while geographically distant from Todville, paint a chillingly consistent picture of hazing:

• Common Threads: Forced alcohol or drug consumption, brutal physical assaults, severe sleep deprivation, public humiliation, deliberate secrecy, and, most disturbingly, delayed or denied medical care often lead to preventable deaths and catastrophic injuries.
• Accountability After Tragedy: In virtually every one of these cases, significant legal and institutional reforms, along with multi-million-dollar settlements or verdicts, only followed after a tragedy occurred and legal action was aggressively pursued by victims’ families.
• Relevance for Texas: Texas families facing hazing at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, or Baylor are operating within a legal and cultural landscape profoundly shaped by these national lessons. These cases serve as powerful precedents in Texas courts, demonstrating to juries and judges the foreseeable dangers of hazing and the institutional negligence that allows it to persist year after year.

5. Texas Focus: UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor

The Manginello Law Firm is deeply familiar with the unique environments of Texas universities. Families in Todville, whether their children attend the University of Houston in their own county or travel across the state, need specific insights into the hazing landscape at these institutions. Here, we delve into the practices, policies, and significant incidents at five of Texas’s largest and most prominent universities.

5.1 University of Houston (UH)

The University of Houston, a vibrant urban campus right here in Harris County, is a prime destination for many students from Todville and the surrounding Houston metropolitan area. While UH fosters innovation and diversity, its bustling campus life, including a dynamic Greek scene and numerous student organizations, can unfortunately also become a venue for hazing incidents. Todville families often send their children to UH due to its proximity and academic offerings, making its policies and history directly relevant.

5.1.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

UH is a large public university with a diverse student body, blending both commuter and residential students. Its Greek life is active and includes fraternities and sororities across all councils (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, and Multicultural Greek Council). Beyond Greek life, a wide array of student organizations, from cultural groups to sports clubs, enriches the campus experience, but also presents potential environments where hazing can occur.

5.1.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

The University of Houston officially prohibits hazing, both on-campus and off-campus. Its policy broadly defines hazing to include any activity that endangers mental or physical health for the purpose of initiation or affiliation. This specifically covers forced consumption of alcohol or drugs, sleep deprivation, physical mistreatment, and activities causing significant mental or emotional distress. UH provides various reporting channels for suspected hazing, including the Dean of Students Office, the Office of Student Conduct, the University of Houston Police Department (UHPD), and online reporting forms designed to facilitate confidential and anonymous submissions.

5.1.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

UH has a history of addressing hazing incidents, demonstrating that it is an ongoing challenge on its campus:

• 2016 Pi Kappa Alpha Case: In a highly publicized incident, pledges of the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity at UH allegedly endured severe hazing, including deprivation of sufficient food, water, and sleep during a multi-day event. One student reportedly suffered a lacerated spleen after being physically assaulted by being slammed onto a table or similar surface. The local chapter faced misdemeanor hazing charges, and the university imposed a suspension. This incident highlighted the serious physical risks associated with hazing activities.
• Ongoing Disciplinary Actions: While specific details aren’t always broadly publicized, UH’s records reflect numerous instances of disciplinary action against fraternities and other student organizations for behaviors deemed “likely to produce mental or physical discomfort,” including excessive alcohol consumption, physical activities, and other policy violations that fall under the hazing definition. Sanctions have ranged from probation to temporary or permanent suspension of recognition for these groups.

These incidents underscore UH’s willingness to enforce its policies, yet also reveal the persistent nature of hazing despite regulations. The public availability of detailed disciplinary records at UH can sometimes be limited compared to other institutions like UT Austin.

5.1.4 How a UH Hazing Case Might Proceed

For a Todville family pursuing a hazing case at the University of Houston, several agencies and legal pathways could be involved:

• Law Enforcement: Depending on the severity and location of the incident, investigations could involve UHPD for on-campus incidents or the Houston Police Department for off-campus events within city limits. Harris County Sheriff’s Office could also be involved.
• University Processes: The Dean of Students Office and Student Conduct Office would typically initiate an internal investigation and disciplinary process, which is separate from civil or criminal proceedings.
• Civil Litigation: Any civil lawsuit would likely be filed in the courts with jurisdiction over Houston and Harris County. Given that UH is a public university, defendants might argue sovereign immunity, though exceptions exist for gross negligence, intentional actions, or Title IX violations.
• Potential Defendants: In addition to the individual students involved, the local chapter, the national fraternity/sorority, and potentially the University of Houston itself, along with any property owners (if the incident occurred off-campus), could be named as defendants.

5.1.5 What UH Students & Parents Should Do

For students from Todville attending UH, or their concerned Todville parents, specific actions can be critical:

• Document Everything Thoroughly: As outlined earlier, immediately screenshot group chats, photograph injuries, and write down detailed accounts from your child.
• Understand UH’s Reporting Channels: Familiarize yourselves with how to report hazing to the Dean of Students, UHPD, or using the online reporting forms. Know that these reports can trigger an internal investigation.
• Obtain Prior Incident Information: An experienced Houston-based hazing attorney from Attorney911 can help uncover records of prior complaints and past disciplinary actions against specific organizations at UH, which can be crucial for establishing pattern and knowledge in a civil case.
• Seek Legal Counsel Promptly: Contact a lawyer experienced in Houston-based hazing cases immediately. Navigating university processes and building a strong civil case requires specific legal expertise in this complex area. Call us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a confidential consultation.

5.2 Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University, deeply rooted in tradition and spirited community, attracts students from all corners of Texas, including many from Todville who admire its unique culture and strong alumni network. While the Aggie spirit is renowned, the intense focus on traditions, especially within the Corps of Cadets and its robust Greek life, has unfortunately intersected with hazing incidents. Families in Todville need to understand how these traditions can sometimes escalate into harmful practices.

5.2.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Texas A&M is known for its pervasive traditions, sense of loyalty, and unique student organizations like the Corps of Cadets, which fosters a distinct military-style environment. The university also boasts a large and active Greek system, alongside countless clubs and organizations deeply ingrained in the Aggie identity. This culture, while promoting camaraderie, can sometimes create an environment where hazing is rationalized as “tradition.”

5.2.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Texas A&M unequivocally prohibits hazing both on and off campus, as outlined in its Student Rules. Their definition aligns with Texas state law, encompassing any act intended for initiation or affiliation that endangers physical or mental health. The university emphasizes that consent is not a defense. Reporting channels include the Department of Student Life, the Corps of Cadets leadership (for Corps-specific incidents), the University Police Department (UPD), and specific online reporting forms that allow for anonymous submissions.

5.2.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Texas A&M has faced significant hazing allegations across its varied student groups:

• 2021 Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) Lawsuit: In a disturbing case, two pledges of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity at Texas A&M alleged they suffered severe chemical burns. They claimed older members forced them through strenuous activity and poured substances on them, including an industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit, necessitating skin graft surgeries. The pledges sued the fraternity for $1 million, and the university suspended the chapter for two years. This incident underscored the sheer brutality and danger of some hazing practices.
• 2023 Corps of Cadets Lawsuit: A former cadet filed a lawsuit alleging severe and degrading hazing within the Corps of Cadets. The allegations included being subjected to simulated sexual acts and being bound between beds in a “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth. The lawsuit, seeking over $1 million, highlighted the dark side of “tradition” within the Corps. While the university stated it handled the matter internally, it drew national attention to hazing risks in military-style organizations.
• 2023 Kappa Sigma Allegations: The Kappa Sigma fraternity at Texas A&M faced allegations of hazing that resulted in severe injuries, specifically rhabdomyolysis. This condition, severe muscle breakdown from extreme physical hazing, can lead to kidney failure and is a serious medical emergency. This case is currently ongoing, further revealing the range of physical dangers pledges face.
• 1999 Aggie Bonfire Collapse: While not traditional hazing, the tragic collapse of the Aggie Bonfire, killing 12 students and injuring 27, raised profound questions about the dangers of high-risk student-led activities, institutional oversight, and the pressure within student traditions. Multiple lawsuits against university officials resulted in settlements exceeding $6 million dollars, and the official Bonfire tradition was ultimately ended.

5.2.4 How a Texas A&M Hazing Case Might Proceed

For Todville families navigating a hazing incident at Texas A&M, the legal path involves:

• Law Enforcement: Texas A&M University Police Department (UPD) would be involved for incidents on campus. For off-campus hazing in Bryan or College Station, the Bryan Police Department or College Station Police Department would have jurisdiction. Brazos County Sheriff’s Office might also be involved.
• University Processes: The Department of Student Life, Office of Student Conduct, and the Corps of Cadets leadership would conduct parallel administrative investigations and implement disciplinary actions, which are distinct from civil or criminal proceedings.
• Civil Litigation: Given A&M is a public university, civil lawsuits would be filed in courts with jurisdiction over Brazos County. Similar to UH, defendants might present sovereign immunity defenses, but skilled attorneys can navigate exceptions related to gross negligence, intentional conduct, or Title IX.
• Potential Defendants: Individual students, the local chapter (whether Greek or Corps outfit), the national organization, property owners, and potentially the university itself could be named defendants.

5.2.5 What Texas A&M Students & Parents Should Do

Todville students at Texas A&M, or their parents back home, need to be vigilant and informed:

• Prioritize Safety & Document: Immediately seek medical attention if needed and meticulously document all evidence—screenshots, photos, detailed notes, medical records. This is especially crucial for incidents within the Corps of Cadets or Greek organizations.
• Report Through Official Channels: Utilize A&M’s official reporting mechanisms, whether through the Department of Student Life, UPD, or their specific online forms. Remember, early reporting provides a record.
• Beware of “Tradition” Mentality: Recognize that some harmful behaviors within A&M’s intense traditional environment may be labeled as “tests of character” but are, in fact, hazing. Don’t let tradition rationalize abuse.
• Contact a Texas Hazing Attorney: An attorney experienced in cases against powerful state universities like Texas A&M can help leverage information about past incidents and navigate the unique legal challenges of public university liability. Call Attorney911 specialists at 1-888-ATTY-911 for strategic advice.

5.3 University of Texas at Austin (UT)

The University of Texas at Austin, a flagship institution, is a popular choice for many Todville students seeking a top-tier education and vibrant campus life. Austin, a dynamic city, provides a backdrop for a massive Greek system and numerous influential student organizations. While UT is known for its academic excellence, it also grapples with persistent hazing challenges, and its relatively transparent reporting policies provide valuable context for Todville families.

5.3.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

UT Austin is one of the largest and most prestigious universities in Texas, boasting a diverse student body and a robust Greek life. Its campus culture is vibrant, with numerous highly engaged student organizations, athletic programs, and spirit groups that often carry significant social weight. This environment can sometimes foster intense pressure to conform and participate in “traditions” that can escalate into hazing.

5.3.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

The University of Texas at Austin maintains strict anti-hazing policies, explicitly prohibiting any activity that endangers mental or physical health for initiation or affiliation purposes, on or off campus. UT is notably transparent with its Hazing Violations webpage (hazing.utexas.edu), which publicly lists organizations found responsible for hazing offenses, the nature of the violation, and the sanctions imposed. This public log serves as a critical resource for parents and students. Reporting channels include the Dean of Students Office, Student Conduct, the University of Texas Police Department (UTPD), and their confidential online reporting system.

5.3.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

UT Austin’s public hazing log provides clear evidence of ongoing issues within its student organizations:

• 2023 Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) Incident: UT disciplinary records show that the Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) fraternity directed new members to consume excessive amounts of milk and perform strenuous calisthenics, among other activities. This behavior was officially found to be hazing, resulting in disciplinary action, including probation and mandated hazing-prevention education. This pattern reflects the national history of this fraternity, which we discuss further below.
• Gamma Beta (2023): This multicultural fraternity was found responsible for hazing violations, including physical contact and forced consumption, indicating that hazing is not confined to traditional IFC/Panhellenic groups.
• Texas Wranglers (2022): A spirit organization with a long history at UT, the Texas Wranglers faced disciplinary action for hazing, which included alcohol-related misconduct, physical activity, and forced scavenger hunts that put new members at risk.
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) Assault Case (2024): In a very serious incident, an Australian exchange student filed a lawsuit against the Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) chapter at UT Austin, alleging he was assaulted by fraternity members at a party, suffering a dislocated leg, broken ligaments, a fractured tibia, and a broken nose. The chapter was already under suspension for prior hazing and safety violations when this assault allegedly occurred, further demonstrating a pattern of issues.
• “Absolute Texxas” Spirit Group (2022): This spirit organization was disciplined for multiple hazing violations, such as alcohol/drug misconduct, blindfolding, kidnapping, and verbally degrading new members. This highlights that hazing exists in non-Greek campus groups as well.

These documented incidents, publicly displayed by UT, are critical for Todville families. They show that hazing is a recurring issue, and the university’s knowledge of these patterns can be highly relevant in a civil lawsuit.

5.3.4 How a UT Austin Hazing Case Might Proceed

For a Todville family pursuing accountability for hazing at UT Austin:

• Law Enforcement: Investigations could involve UTPD for incidents on or adjacent to campus, or the Austin Police Department for off-campus events within city limits. Travis County Sheriff’s Office might also be involved.
• University Processes: The Dean of Students and Student Conduct offices would oversee internal disciplinary actions. The transparency of UT’s hazing log means that any findings will likely become part of the public record.
• Civil Litigation: Lawsuits would typically be filed in courts with jurisdiction over Travis County. As a public university, UT Austin may invoke sovereign immunity, but exceptions for gross negligence, specific policy violations, or Title IX-related harms can be pursued.
• Potential Defendants: Individual students, the local chapter, the national organization, property owners, and potentially the University of Texas at Austin could all be named as defendants. The public hazing log provides powerful evidence of a university’s prior knowledge and potential negligence.

5.3.5 What UT Austin Students & Parents Should Do

Todville students attending UT, and their parents, should take proactive steps:

• Review UT’s Hazing Violations Log: Before joining any organization, study the public log at hazing.utexas.edu to see if the group has a history of violations. This information is invaluable.
• Document Everything Diligently: Given the clear public record created by UT, meticulous documentation of any incident (screenshots, photos, detailed notes, medical records) is vital.
• Report via UT’s Channels: Use the Dean of Students office, UTPD, or the online reporting system. The more reports, the clearer the picture becomes, both for university action and potential future legal claims.
• Seek Experienced Legal Counsel Promptly: An attorney experienced in hazing cases at UT Austin can leverage the university’s public records, conduct further investigation, and navigate the specific legal landscape of a public university in Texas. Contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a confidential discussion.

5.4 Southern Methodist University (SMU)

Southern Methodist University (SMU), a prominent private institution in Dallas, is a frequent choice for Todville students seeking a distinguished educational experience. Its campus culture, often associated with a vibrant social scene and a particularly strong Greek presence, while offering many benefits, also carries specific hazing risks that Todville families should be aware of.

5.4.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

SMU is a selective private university known for its beautiful campus, academic rigor, and a dynamic student life that often includes a very visible and influential Greek system. The social environment can place a high value on affiliation with certain fraternities and sororities, which can inadvertently create pressure to endure hazing in order to gain acceptance or prestige. Beyond Greek life, SMU supports many student organizations and athletic programs where hazing can occur.

5.4.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

SMU strictly prohibits hazing, adhering to Texas law. Its hazing policy covers both on- and off-campus activities that endanger physical or mental health, explicitly stating that “consent” is not a defense. SMU provides various reporting channels, including the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards, the SMU Police Department (SMU PD), and online reporting forms. They also utilize systems like Real Response, which offers an anonymous channel for reporting concerns, hoping to catch hazing early.

5.4.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

SMU has taken disciplinary action against several organizations for hazing, demonstrating that these incidents are a reality on its private campus:

• 2017 Kappa Alpha Order Incident: The Kappa Alpha Order (KA) fraternity at SMU was suspended and faced severe sanctions following allegations of hazing. Reports indicated new members were subjected to physical abuse, including paddling, forced excessive alcohol consumption, and extreme sleep deprivation. The chapter faced restrictions on recruitment and operations for several years, gradually easing around 2021. This incident highlights the prevalence of physical and alcohol-related hazing even at seemingly prestigious institutions.
• Ongoing Disciplinary Actions: SMU’s Student Conduct records, whilst not as publicly detailed as UT’s, indicate various other fraternities and student groups have faced disciplinary measures for hazing-related offenses, including violations concerning alcohol, physical stunts, and forced servitude.

These incidents demonstrate SMU’s efforts to address hazing, but also reveal the persistent challenges in fully eradicating such practices within its student organizations.

5.4.4 How a SMU Hazing Case Might Proceed

For a Todville family pursuing a hazing case at SMU:

• Law Enforcement: Investigations could involve SMU PD for incidents on campus. For off-campus hazing in Dallas, the Dallas Police Department would have jurisdiction.
• University Processes: The Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards would conduct internal investigations, leading to potential disciplinary actions for students and organizations.
• Civil Litigation: Lawsuits would typically be filed in courts with jurisdiction over Dallas County. As a private university, SMU generally has fewer sovereign immunity protections than public institutions, potentially making it more directly susceptible to negligence claims.
• Potential Defendants: Individual students, the local chapter, the national organization, property owners, and Southern Methodist University itself could be named as defendants.

5.4.5 What SMU Students & Parents Should Do

Todville students attending SMU, and their parents, should consider these actions:

• Investigate Organizational History: While SMU’s public disciplinary records may not be as granular as a public university’s, research the past conduct of any organization your child is considering.
• Utilize SMU’s Reporting Systems: Use SMU’s official reporting channels, including the anonymous Real Response system, if you or your child suspects or experiences hazing.
• Document Thoroughly: Immediately prioritize collecting all evidence: screenshots, photos of injuries, detailed notes, and medical records. This is especially crucial for private university settings where external investigations might be necessary to uncover internal details.
• Contact a Dallas Hazing Attorney Promptly: An attorney experienced in hazing lawsuits against a private university like SMU can help navigate the specific legal and cultural dynamics, potentially gaining access to internal documents that are not publicly available. Contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a confidential evaluation.

5.5 Baylor University

Baylor University, a private Christian institution in Waco, draws students from Todville and across Texas seeking a values-based education. While its faith-based mission emphasizes community and integrity, Baylor has not been immune to hazing incidents. Its history, coupled with high-profile athletic and Title IX scandals, places additional scrutiny on the university’s oversight and response to student misconduct, making it particularly relevant for Todville families.

5.5.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Baylor University cultivates a strong sense of community rooted in its Christian mission. While it prioritizes spiritual growth and academic excellence, it also supports a vibrant student life, including a significant Greek system and competitive athletic programs. Its intense focus on its institutional values can sometimes create a unique dynamic when addressing student misconduct, including hazing, amidst a desire to uphold its reputation.

5.5.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Baylor University strictly prohibits hazing, in accordance with Texas law and its own ethical standards. Its policy extends to all student organizations, athletic teams, and unofficial groups, prohibiting activities that endanger physical or mental health, on or off campus. Baylor emphasizes that “consent” is not a defense and that any violation jeopardizes an organization’s good standing. Reporting channels include the Department of Student Conduct, the Baylor Police Department (BUPD), and an online reporting form.

5.5.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Baylor has faced various hazing-related incidents, often coming under renewed scrutiny due to its complex history of oversight challenges, notably from its football program scandals and Title IX failures:

• 2020 Baylor Baseball Hazing: A significant incident involved the Baylor baseball team, where 14 players were suspended following a university investigation into hazing. The suspensions were staggered over the early part of the baseball season, impacting the team’s performance. This highlighted that hazing extends to major athletic programs, even at institutions striving for high ethical standards.
• Ongoing Disciplinary Actions: Baylor has disciplined multiple fraternities, sororities, and other student groups for violations related to alcohol, physical activities, and other behaviors falling under the hazing definition. While public details can be limited for a private university, these actions confirm hazing is an intermittent issue on campus.

These incidents demonstrate that even within a values-driven institution, hazing can occur. Baylor’s broader history of scrutiny regarding institutional oversight (related to football and Title IX issues) adds a layer of concern for how effectively hazing allegations are handled.

5.5.4 How a Baylor Hazing Case Might Proceed

For a Todville family pursuing a hazing case at Baylor University:

• Law Enforcement: Investigations could involve the Baylor Police Department (BUPD) for incidents on campus or off-campus properties owned by Baylor. For incidents in Waco, the Waco Police Department or McLennan County Sheriff’s Office would have jurisdiction.
• University Processes: The Department of Student Conduct would handle internal investigations and disciplinary actions against students and organizations. Baylor’s internal processes may be affected by its historical challenges with transparency and independent oversight.
• Civil Litigation: Lawsuits would typically be filed in courts with jurisdiction over McLennan County. As a private university, Baylor generally does not benefit from sovereign immunity, making it more directly actionable for negligence claims compared to public institutions.
• Potential Defendants: Individual students, the local chapter, the national organization, property owners, and Baylor University itself could all be named as defendants.

5.5.5 What Baylor Students & Parents Should Do

Todville students attending Baylor and their parents should proceed with caution and diligence:

• Thoroughly Research Organizations: Look beyond official statements. While Baylor is transparent about its policies, actively research any organization’s past online and through informal channels for evidence of problematic “traditions.”
• Reliable Reporting: Utilize Baylor’s official reporting channels, including Student Conduct and BUPD. Emphasize the severity of any incident during reporting.
• Document Everything Meticulously: Immediately collect all digital and physical evidence related to hazing. For a private university, external investigations and legal action are often critical for uncovering internal documents and ensuring accountability.
• Contact a Hazing Attorney: An attorney experienced in hazing lawsuits against private institutions like Baylor can provide the specific legal guidance needed to navigate its unique cultural and legal landscape, and to address any patterns of institutional challenges. Contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for strategic evaluation.

6. Fraternities & Sororities: Campus-Specific + National Histories

The pain of hazing may begin at a specific chapter on a given campus, but the patterns often extend far beyond that single location. For Todville families, understanding these broader, national histories of fraternities and sororities, and how they intersect with local conduct at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor, is essential for seeking true accountability. It’s often not an isolated incident, but a foreseeable tragedy rooted in repeated institutional failures.

6.1 Why National Histories Matter

Most fraternities and sororities at Texas universities – including those on the campuses of UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor – are affiliated with national (or international) headquarters. These powerful national organizations:

• Develop extensive anti-hazing manuals and risk management policies.
• Collect dues and maintain oversight of their local chapters.
• Are acutely aware of the historical legacy of hazing, including numerous deaths and catastrophic injuries that have occurred within their own organizations.

This means national headquarters are often privy to known patterns of hazing: similar forced drinking nights, paddling traditions, humiliating rituals, or even specific “pledge challenges” that have led to harm at other chapters.

When a local chapter at a Texas university replicates a hazing scenario that has already led to injury, suspension, or a lawsuit at another chapter of the same national organization, it powerfully demonstrates foreseeability. It argues that the national organization knew, or absolutely should have known, that this type of hazing would likely cause harm, yet they failed to intervene effectively. This is a crucial element in establishing negligence or gross negligence against national entities in a civil lawsuit.

6.2 Organization Mapping: From Local Texas Chapters to National Patterns

While we cannot list every single chapter at every campus, below we provide examples of major fraternities and sororities with significant national hazing histories that are also present at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, or Baylor. This is not an exhaustive list, but highlights the types of organizations where pattern evidence is often strong.

• Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / Pike):

  • Present at: University of Houston, Texas A&M University, University of Texas at Austin, Baylor University.
  • National History: Pi Kappa Alpha has a deeply troubling national history of hazing. One of the most infamous incidents is the 2021 death of Stone Foltz at Bowling Green State University, where he died from alcohol poisoning after a forced liquor consumption initiated during a “Big/Little” event. The Foltz family secured a $10 million settlement against the national fraternity and university. Other severe incidents include the 2012 death of David Bogenberger at Northern Illinois University, also from alcohol poisoning during a fraternity event, leading to a $14 million settlement. These repeated tragedies, often involving forced drinking during “Big/Little” or pledge events, highlight a dangerous, recurring pattern within Pike, leading to significant liability for its national organization. The local chapter at UT Austin also faced discipline in 2023 for hazing.

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / SAE):

  • Present at: University of Houston, Texas A&M University, University of Texas at Austin, Southern Methodist University.
  • National History: SAE has faced multiple hazing-related deaths and severe injuries nationwide over the past two decades. The national organization famously attempted to eliminate its traditional pledge process in 2014 in response to numerous fatalities. Despite this, hazing persists. Recent incidents include allegations of a traumatic brain injury suffered by a pledge at the University of Alabama (lawsuit filed 2023). Texas A&M’s SAE chapter faced a significant lawsuit in 2021 for severe chemical burns allegedly inflicted on pledges. The University of Texas at Austin’s SAE chapter was sued in 2024 for an alleged assault resulting in serious injury. These cases show a pattern of physical abuse, chemical hazing, and assaults within SAE, despite national attempts at reform, making its national headquarters a frequent target in hazing lawsuits.

• Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ):

  • Present at: University of Houston, Texas A&M University, University of Texas at Austin, Southern Methodist University, Baylor University.
  • National History: This fraternity is tragically linked to the 2017 death of Max Gruver at Louisiana State University, who died from alcohol poisoning after participating in a forced drinking game called “Bible study.” His death led to the creation of the Max Gruver Act, Louisiana’s felony hazing statute. This incident is a clear example of how specific, dangerous “games” or rituals within a national fraternity can lead to highly foreseeable harm.

• Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ):

  • Present at: University of Houston, Texas A&M University, University of Texas at Austin.
  • National History: Pi Kappa Phi was involved in the 2017 death of Andrew Coffey at Florida State University, where he died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” involving forced, rapid consumption of hard liquor. The incident led to criminal prosecutions and a temporary suspension of all Greek life at FSU. Coffey’s family pursued a wrongful death suit, the details of which remain confidential. This case is another tragic illustration of the lethal risks of forced alcohol consumption during “pledge events.”

• Kappa Alpha Order (ΚΑ):

  • Present at: Texas A&M University, Southern Methodist University.
  • National History: Kappa Alpha Order has a history of hazing allegations at various campuses, including physical abuse and alcohol-related incidents. The SMU chapter itself was suspended in 2017 following allegations of physical hazing, including paddling, forced drinking, and sleep deprivation. The persistent nature of such allegations across different chapters points to a pattern that national headquarters should be actively preventing.

• Sigma Chi (ΣΧ):

  • Present at: University of Houston, Texas A&M University, University of Texas at Austin, Southern Methodist University, Baylor University.
  • National History: Sigma Chi has faced substantial hazing litigation. In a 2024 case involving their College of Charleston chapter, a family received more than $10 million in damages for severe hazing that resulted in physical beatings, forced drug/alcohol consumption, and psychological torment. This serves as a recent and powerful example of juries awarding significant damages for severe hazing.

• Kappa Sigma (ΚΣ):

  • Present at: University of Houston, Texas A&M University, University of Texas at Austin, Southern Methodist University, Baylor University.
  • National History: Kappa Sigma has a long history of hazing allegations. Tragically, the 2001 death of Chad Meredith at the University of Miami, who drowned after being encouraged by fraternity members to swim across a lake while intoxicated, resulted in a $12.6 million jury verdict against the fraternity for negligence and hazing. The Texas A&M chapter is currently involved in ongoing litigation in 2023 for allegations of hazing that caused severe injuries, specifically rhabdomyolysis, from extreme physical abuse. This organization demonstrates both historic and ongoing hazing patterns with severe consequences.

6.3 Tie Back to Legal Strategy

The cumulative weight of these national and campus-specific histories is not simply anecdotal; it forms the bedrock of a robust legal strategy for Todville families pursuing justice.

• Proof of Foreseeability and Pattern: When multiple chapters of a national fraternity or sorority are involved in similar hazing incidents across the country — or even at the same university over different years — it becomes much harder for the national organization or the university to claim the incident was “unforeseeable” or that they “didn’t know.” This pattern evidence is critical for establishing negligence.
• Failure to Enforce Policies: Every national organization has anti-hazing policies. However, if their own history repeatedly shows these policies are ineffective or unenforced, it undermines their defense. An experienced hazing attorney will meticulously gather evidence to show that the national organization (and potentially the university) failed to meaningfully enforce its rules or respond aggressively enough to prior warnings.
• Impact on Settlement and Punitive Damages: A clear history of similar hazing and institutional inaction can significantly strengthen a plaintiff’s position in settlement negotiations. It can also open the door to demanding punitive damages (where available), which are designed to punish especially reckless or malicious conduct and deter future similar acts. This is about forcing accountability, not just compensating for immediate damages.

By exposing these broader patterns, we challenge the narrative that hazing is merely “rogue individual” behavior. Instead, it reveals systemic failures within organizations and institutions that knowingly allow dangerous “traditions” to persist, often at the cost of young lives and irreversible harm.

7. Building a Case: Evidence, Damages, Strategy

For Todville families seeking legal accountability for hazing, the process of building a case is complex and demanding, requiring meticulous investigation, legal acumen, and strategic planning. The Manginello Law Firm excels at this, understanding that success hinges on evidence, a thorough understanding of damages, and a clear legal strategy.

7.1 Evidence: The Foundation of Any Strong Hazing Case

Modern hazing cases often turn on digital evidence, making rapid preservation critical.

• Digital Communications: These are often the most crucial pieces of evidence in hazing cases in 2025.

  • GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Slack, Instagram DMs, Snapchat messages, fraternity-specific apps: These platforms are goldmines. They show planning, intent, knowledge of what occurred, which individuals were involved, and what was said before, during, and after an incident.
  • Screenshots: Teach your child how to screenshot entire conversations, ensuring sender names/profile pics, timestamps, and sufficient context are visible. These must be saved in native resolution and immediately backed up to cloud storage or sent to a trusted family member.
  • Recovered Messages: Even if messages are deleted, digital forensics experts can often recover them, but acting quickly (before the phone is overwritten) is key.

• Photos & Videos: Visual evidence is incredibly powerful.

  • Content Captured by Members: Photos or videos taken by members themselves during hazing events (even if they seem “fun” or are captioned as jokes) can be damning.
  • Security Footage: Surveillance cameras from private residences, venues, or university facilities can capture what occurred.
  • Injury Photos: Meticulously photograph all injuries (bruises, burns, cuts) immediately after the incident, then again over days to show progression, using a ruler or coin for scale.

• Internal Organization Documents: These reveal the official and unofficial rules.

  • Pledge Manuals/Initiation Scripts: Often contain veiled commands or “traditions” that align with hazing definitions.
  • Emails/Texts: Communications among officers discussing upcoming “new member education” or “events.”
  • National Policies/Training: These establish what the national organization knew or should have known about hazing risks.

• University Records:

  • Prior Discipline: Records of past hazing violations, probation, or suspensions for the same organization (like those found on UT Austin’s public log) show a pattern and the university’s prior knowledge.
  • Campus Police Reports: Any incident reports involving the organization or individuals can reveal key details.
  • Clery Reports: Annual safety statistics that may include alcohol violations or assaults related to hazing.

• Medical and Psychological Records: These provide concrete proof of harm.

  • ER and Hospitalization Records: Document immediate injuries, intoxication levels (toxicology reports), and treatment received. Crucially, the medical provider should be told the injuries were hazing-related.
  • Ongoing Treatment: Records from specialists, physical therapists, and psychologists (for PTSD, anxiety, depression) document the long-term impact.
  • Forensic Pathology: In wrongful death cases, detailed autopsy reports are critical.
  • Life Care Plans: For catastrophic injuries, these expert reports project the lifetime costs of medical care.

• Witness Testimony: Eyewitness accounts are invaluable.

  • Pledges and Members: Other new members present, or current/former members who participated or witnessed the hazing.
  • Bystanders: Roommates, RAs, coaches, trainers, or even independent third parties.
  • Former Members: Individuals who quit or were expelled, often willing to speak out.

7.2 Damages: Compensating for the Full Scope of Harm

When hazing results in injury or death, the suffering is immense and multi-faceted. The law aims to provide compensation for the full scope of damages.

• Economic Damages: These are quantifiable financial losses.

  • Medical Bills & Future Care: Emergency room visits, ambulance transport, hospitalization, surgeries, medications, ongoing physical/occupational/speech therapy, and long-term care for severe injuries like brain damage (as seen in the Danny Santulli case).
  • Lost Income/Educational Impact: Wages lost due to inability to work, tuition for missed semesters, lost scholarships, and a reduced future earning capacity if the injury leads to permanent disability.

• Non-Economic Damages: These address the subjective but profound human suffering.

  • Physical Pain and Suffering: Acute and chronic pain from injuries, and the loss of physical abilities.
  • Emotional Distress & Psychological Harm: The deep emotional distress, trauma, humiliation, shame, anxiety, depression, and PTSD that are common after severe hazing.
  • Loss of Enjoyment of Life: The inability to participate in hobbies, sports, or social activities, and a diminished quality of life.

• Wrongful Death Damages (for Families): When hazing leads to a fatality, surviving family members (parents, spouse, children) can seek compensation for:

  • Funeral and Burial Costs: The direct expenses related to the passing.
  • Loss of Companionship, Love, and Support: The emotional and relational void left by the deceased.
  • Loss of Financial Support: If the deceased would have contributed income or support to the family.
  • Grief and Emotional Suffering: The profound sorrow and mental anguish experienced by family members.

• Punitive Damages: In cases where defendants acted with extreme recklessness, malice, or gross negligence, punitive damages may be awarded. These are not about compensating the victim, but about punishing the wrongdoer and deterring others from similar conduct. Historical patterns of ignored warnings or severe cover-ups often contribute to punitive damage awards.

7.3 Role of Different Defendants and Insurance Coverage

Hazing cases often involve multiple defendants, each with their own legal counsel and, crucially, their own insurance policies.

• Insurance Coverage Fights: National fraternities, universities, and even individual members often have insurance policies that may cover liability. However, insurers frequently try to deny coverage, arguing that hazing was an “intentional act” (which is typically excluded), or that the specific claim doesn’t fall under the policy.
• Experienced Hazing Lawyers: Attorney911, with our Legal Emergency Lawyers™ and insider knowledge (thanks to Lupe Peña’s background as an insurance defense attorney), understands these tactics. We meticulously:
  • Identify all potential sources of insurance coverage.
  • Argue that while hazing may have involved intentional acts, the negligent supervision by the national organization or university is covered.
  • Force insurers to defend the case and ultimately contribute to a fair settlement or judgment.

Building a strong hazing case is about more than just gathering facts; it’s about connecting those facts to legal theories, compelling storytelling, and aggressively advocating for full justice against powerful institutions. We don’t just see a single incident; we see the systemic failures that enabled it, and we leverage decades of experience to expose them.

8. Practical Guides & FAQs

For Todville families, knowing what to do immediately, what questions to ask, and what pitfalls to avoid can make a monumental difference in the aftermath of a hazing incident.

8.1 For Parents: Recognizing & Responding to Hazing

Parents from Todville, whether your child is at UH, A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor, or another Texas institution, your vigilance is key.

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Being Hazed

Beyond physical injuries, look for subtle changes:

• Physical Signs: Unexplained bruises, cuts, burns, or injuries (especially if explanations are vague or inconsistent); extreme fatigue; significant weight loss or gain; constant sleep deprivation; injuries to hands, back, or legs; signs of acute alcohol poisoning or drug use (even if your child typically avoids them).
• Behavioral & Emotional Changes: Sudden secrecy about group activities (“I can’t talk about it”); withdrawal from family or old friends; personality shifts (anxiety, depression, irritability); defensiveness when asked about the organization; fear of “getting in trouble” or “letting the chapter down”; expressions like “I just have to get through this.”
• Academic Red Flags: Unexpected drops in grades; missing classes or assignments; falling asleep in class; lost scholarships or academic standing due to mandatory group activities.
• Financial Red Flags: Unexplained large expenses; requests for money without clear explanations; buying excessive alcohol or items for older members.
• Digital/Social Behavior: Constant phone use for group chat monitoring; anxiety triggered by phone notifications; obsessive deletion of messages or browser history; receiving urgent calls/texts at all hours; social media posts showing concerning activities.

How to Talk to Your Child

Approach the conversation with empathy, not judgment:

1. “How are you genuinely doing with [fraternity/sorority/team]? Are you truly enjoying it?”
2. “Are they respectful of your time for academics and sleep?”
3. “What types of activities do they ask new members to do?”
4. “Is there anything that makes you uncomfortable, or that you wish you didn’t have to do?”
5. “Have you seen anyone get hurt, or have you been hurt yourself?”
6. “Do you feel like you can leave if you want to, or would there be negative consequences?”
7. “Are they asking you to keep secrets from me, the university, or law enforcement?”

If your child opens up, listen without judgment and reassure them of your unconditional support. If they shut down, monitor them closely and be ready to intervene.

What to Do If You Suspect Hazing

• Immediate Safety: If your child is in physical danger (drunk, injured, threatened), call 911 or campus police immediately. Prioritize their medical safety above all else. State clearly that it is a medical emergency.
• Document Everything: Create detailed, dated notes of what your child tells you. Screenshot texts, DMs, and group chats. Photograph any visible injuries. Save physical items like specific clothing or receipts.
• Report Strategically: You can report to campus authorities (Dean of Students, police), local police (if crimes occurred), or the National Anti-Hazing Hotline (1-888-NOT-HAZE). Consult an attorney first to determine the best reporting strategy for your specific situation.
• Do NOT: Directly confront the organization; sign any university or insurance documents without legal review; post details on public social media. These actions can severely compromise a future legal case.

8.2 For Students / Pledges: Self-Assessment & Safety Planning

If you’re a student from Todville going through “new member education” at a Texas university, ask yourself these tough questions:

Is This Hazing? Decision Guide

• Am I being forced or pressured to do something against my will?
• Would I do this activity if I had a real choice (no social repercussions, no fear of being excluded)?
• Is this activity dangerous, humiliating, degrading, or illegal?
• Would my parents, a dean, or campus police approve if they knew what was happening?
• Are experienced members making new members do things they don’t have to do themselves?
• Is this truly about “initiation” or “earning membership,” or is it primarily to humiliate or entertain older members?
• Am I being told to keep secrets, lie, or hide this from outsiders?

If you answered YES to any of these, it’s likely hazing. Remember the three tiers: Subtle hazing (servitude, social control), Harassment hazing (sleep deprivation, public humiliation), and Violent hazing (forced consumption, beatings, sexualized acts) – all are hazing and often illegal.

How to Exit Safely

• Immediate Danger: If you are physically unsafe, call 911 immediately. There are often safe harbor laws (like Texas’s good-faith reporter immunity) that protect you from punishment for seeking help.
• To Quit/De-pledge: You have the absolute right to leave at any time. Inform someone outside the organization (a trusted friend, RA, or parent) first. Then, send a clear communication (email or text) to the chapter president/new member educator stating your resignation. Do not attend “one last meeting” where you might be pressured or intimidated.
• Protect Yourself from Retaliation: Document any threats, harassment, or verbal abuse. Report fears of retaliation to the Dean of Students and campus police.

Evidence Collection (For Students)

• Screenshots: Immediately screenshot group chats and DMs (GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Instagram, Snapchat). Capture full threads, timestamps, and usernames.
• Recordings: In Texas, if you are a party to a conversation, you can legally record it (one-party consent). Record meetings or directives if safe to do so.
• Photos/Videos: Take photos of injuries, locations where hazing occurred, or any props used. Do not put yourself in danger.
• Save Everything Digital: Do not delete texts, DMs, or social media posts, even if embarrassing. Back them up to cloud storage.
• Medical Documentation: If you seek medical care, tell providers it was hazing-related so it’s in your medical record.

8.3 For Former Members / Witnesses

If you’re a former member or a witness to hazing, especially from Todville, you may feel conflicted emotions—guilt, fear, or a desire for redemption.

• Your Testimony Matters: Your unique perspective and evidence can be crucial in preventing future harm and saving lives. You may be the only one who can expose the truth.
• Seek Your Own Counsel: You may benefit from your own legal advice regarding potential criminal exposure or civil liability. A lawyer can explain your rights and help you navigate the process of cooperating.
• A Path to Accountability: Providing information can be a powerful step toward personal healing and holding those responsible to account.

8.4 Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

For Todville families and students, avoiding these common errors is paramount. These missteps can severely undermine a hazing lawsuit and hinder the pursuit of justice. Attorney911’s video on client mistakes (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY) emphasizes many of these points.

MISTAKES THAT CAN RUIN YOUR HAZING CASE:

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

   • What Parents Think: “I don’t want them or their friends to get in more trouble.”
   • Why It’s Wrong: This looks like a deliberate cover-up, can be considered obstruction of justice, and makes proving your case exponentially harder, if not impossible. Crucial digital breadcrumbs disappear forever.
   • What to Do Instead: Preserve everything immediately. Screenshot group chats, DMs, and any relevant social media. Even embarrassing content is vital evidence.

2. Confronting the Fraternity/Sorority Directly:

   • What Parents Think: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind.”
   • Why It’s Wrong: This immediately alerts the organization, leading to rapid destruction of evidence, coaching of witnesses, and the preparation of their defense. You lose the element of surprise.
   • What to Do Instead: Document all information and then call an experienced hazing lawyer before any direct confrontation. Let your legal counsel guide the interaction.

3. Signing University “Release” or “Resolution” Forms Without Legal Review:

   • What Universities Do: They often pressure families to sign waivers or agree to “internal resolutions” quickly.
   • Why It’s Wrong: You may unknowingly waive your right to pursue a civil lawsuit. Such internal settlements or agreements are often far below the actual value of your child’s injuries and damages.
   • What to Do Instead: Never sign anything from the university or organization without your attorney reviewing it thoroughly first.

4. Posting Details on Social Media Before Talking to an Attorney:

   • What Families Think: “I want the world to know what happened to my child.”
   • Why It’s Wrong: Defense attorneys meticulously screenshot public posts. Inconsistencies between public statements and legal testimony can severely damage credibility. Public posts can also unintentionally waive your child’s privacy or legal privileges.
   • What to Do Instead: Document privately and confidentially with your attorney. Allow your legal counsel to control the public messaging strategy, if one is pursued.

5. Letting Your Child Go Back to “One Last Meeting” with the Organization:

   • What Hazing Organizations Say: “Come talk to us before you do anything drastic; let’s work this out.”
   • Why It’s Wrong: This is an intimidation tactic. Your child may be pressured, coerced, or tricked into making statements that harm their case. They are not genuinely trying to “work it out.”
   • What to Do Instead: Once you are considering legal action, all communication with the hazing organization should be directed through your attorney.

6. Waiting “to See How the University Handles It”:

   • What Universities Often Promise: “We’re investigating this internally; please let us handle it.”
   • Why It’s Wrong: While internal university processes are important for campus discipline, they are separate from your legal rights. Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate and disperse, and the statute of limitations continues to run. Universities often prioritize protecting their image over swift justice for victims. The university’s process is not designed to secure your financial compensation or full legal accountability.
   • What to Do Instead: Preserve all evidence immediately and consult with an experienced hazing lawyer. Let the legal process for obtaining justice run parallel to any university investigation.

7. Talking to Insurance Adjusters Without a Lawyer Present:

   • What Adjusters Say: “We just need your statement to process the claim quickly.”
   • Why It’s Wrong: Insurance adjusters work for the insurance company, not for you. Their goal is to minimize payouts. Your recorded statements can be used against you, and early settlement offers are almost always lowball attempts.
   • What to Do Instead: Politely decline to speak with any insurance adjuster directly. Inform them that your attorney will contact them.

8.5 Short FAQ About Hazing and Texas Law

• “Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
  Yes, under specific circumstances. For public universities like UH, Texas A&M, and UT, sovereign immunity provides some protection, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, willful misconduct, violations of federal laws like Title IX, or when suing individuals in their personal capacity. Private universities like SMU and Baylor generally have fewer immunity defenses. The viability of a case depends on specific facts, prior knowledge by the university, and its actions or inactions. Contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a case-specific analysis.

• “Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
  Yes, it can be. While hazing typically starts as a Class B misdemeanor under Texas law, it becomes a state jail felony if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. This means jail time and significant fines. Additionally, officers of an organization can face charges for failing to report hazing.

• “Can my child bring a case if they ‘agreed’ to the initiation activities?”
  Absolutely. Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. Courts and experienced attorneys understand that “consent” given under peer pressure, within a power imbalance, or out of fear of exclusion is not true voluntary consent. Your child is still a victim under the law.

• “How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit in Texas?”
  Generally, there is a 2-year statute of limitations from the date of injury or death to file a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit in Texas. However, certain exceptions, like the “discovery rule” (where the harm wasn’t immediately apparent or its cause unknown), or cases involving fraudulent concealment, might extend this period. Time is critical—evidence disappears, memories fade, and organizations destroy records. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately to discuss your specific timeline.

• “What if the hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?”
  The location of the hazing does not eliminate liability. Universities and national fraternities/sororities can still be held responsible based on theories of sponsorship, control, prior knowledge, and foreseeability, regardless of whether the incident occurred on campus, at a local house, an Airbnb, or a remote retreat. Many major national hazing cases, including the high-profile death of Michael Deng (Pi Delta Psi) and Collin Wiant (Sigma Pi), occurred at off-campus or unofficial locations, yet still resulted in significant judgments and accountability.

• “Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”
  While the pursuit of justice is public, most hazing lawsuits ultimately resolve through confidential settlements before reaching a public trial. Your legal team can work to request sealed court records and negotiate confidential settlement terms to protect your family’s privacy while still achieving accountability and compensation. We prioritize your child’s well-being and privacy throughout the process.

9. About The Manginello Law Firm + Call to Action

When your family in Todville faces the devastating impact of hazing, you need more than just a general personal injury lawyer. You need tenacious and strategic attorneys who understand how powerful institutions—fraternities, national organizations, and universities—fight back, and how to win anyway. The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, operating as Attorney911, stands ready to be your Legal Emergency Lawyers™.

We understand that hazing at any Texas university touches families in Todville, its surrounding communities in Harris County, and across the state. From our Houston headquarters, we serve clients throughout Texas, including here in Todville, providing a local, accessible team that knows the Texas legal system inside and out.

Why Attorney911 for Hazing Cases

Our firm brings unique qualifications to hazing litigation:

• Insurance Insider Advantage with Lupe Peña: Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, spent years as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm. She knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies value (and often undervalue) hazing claims. She understands their delay tactics, their coverage exclusion arguments, and their settlement strategies. We know their playbook because we used to run it. This insider knowledge is a formidable advantage that helps us anticipate their moves and push for maximum accountability. You can learn more about Lupe Peña’s background at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/.

• Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions with Ralph Manginello: Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has decades of experience taking on some of the largest defendants imaginable. He was one of the few Texas attorneys involved in the historic BP Texas City explosion litigation, giving him invaluable experience in complex federal court cases. He has practiced in the United States District Court, Southern District of Texas, since 1998. We are not intimidated by the vast resources of national fraternities, universities, or their formidable defense teams. We’ve taken on billion-dollar corporations and won. We know how to fight powerful defendants and secure justice. You can find more about Ralph Manginello’s extensive credentials at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/.

• Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death and Catastrophic Injury Experience: We have a proven track record in complex wrongful death and catastrophic injury cases, recovering millions for families who have lost loved ones or suffered life-altering harm. This includes working with economists to value loss of life and collaborating with medical experts to document the lifetime care needs for brain injuries or permanent disabilities. We don’t settle cheap; we build cases that compel accountability and secure truly fair compensation. Our dedicated wrongful death practice area page provides more information at https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/.

• Dual Criminal and Civil Hazing Expertise: Ralph’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) provides us with a unique understanding of how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation. This dual perspective is invaluable both for advising victims and for helping witnesses or former members navigate their own criminal exposure while assisting a civil case. Our experience spans both civil and criminal defense, including our criminal defense lawyers page at https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/, showcasing how we cover all angles.

• Investigative Depth: We leverage a vast network of experts, including digital forensics specialists, medical professionals, economists, and psychologists. Our team has extensive experience in obtaining crucial, often hidden, evidence such as deleted group chats, social media evidence, and subpoenaing national fraternity and university internal records which they prefer to keep private. We approach every case with the investigative rigor necessary to uncover the truth, because we know your child’s life—and the lives of future students—depends on it.

We understand that hazing cases are different. They involve powerful institutional defendants, complex insurance coverage fights, and the delicate balance of preserving victim privacy with achieving public accountability. We also understand the intricate cultural dynamics of Greek life, military organizations, and athletic programs – how “tradition” can morph into coercion. Our firm is founded on the principle of empathy, coupled with relentless professionalism. We know this is one of the hardest things a family can endure. Our job is to get you answers, hold the responsible parties accountable, and work to prevent such harm from happening to another family. We believe in thorough investigation and unwavering advocacy, not quick settlements that minimize the gravity of the harm.

Call to Action: Your Next Step for Justice

If you or your child has experienced hazing at the University of Houston in our metropolitan area, at Texas A&M in College Station, the University of Texas at Austin, Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Baylor University in Waco, or any other Texas campus, we want to hear from you. Families in Todville and throughout the Greater Houston area and beyond have the right to answers and accountability. You do not have to navigate this overwhelming situation alone.

Contact The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. We will listen to your story without judgment, explain your legal options, and help you determine the best path forward for your family. We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning we don’t get paid unless we win your case. Watch our video explaining contingency fees at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc to understand this no-risk structure.

In your free and confidential consultation, you can expect us to:

• Listen carefully to your experience, providing a supportive and understanding ear.
• Review any evidence you currently have, such as photos, texts, or medical records.
• Explain your legal options, including pursuing a criminal report, a civil lawsuit, both, or neither.
• Discuss realistic timelines and what the legal process might entail.
• Answer all your questions about our contingency fee structure and cover all costs.
• Provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision, with no pressure to hire us on the spot.
• Ensure that everything you share with us remains strictly confidential.

Whether you’re in Todville, throughout Harris County, or anywhere across Texas, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone. Let us be your Legal Emergency Lawyers™. Call us today to begin your journey toward healing and accountability.

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC / Attorney911
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

Hablamos Español: Contact Lupe Peña directly for consultation in Spanish via email at lupe@atty911.com. Servicios legales en español disponibles.

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