Fraternity & College Hazing Lawyers

What is Fraternity Hazing?

“Every year there seems to be another story about the dangers of hazing, but what exactly is hazing? Hazing, as defined by stophazing.org is “any activity expected of someone joining or participating in a group that humiliates, degrades, abuses, or endangers them, regardless of a person’s willingness to participate.”

There are three components that define hazing:

1. It occurs in a group context
2. Humiliating, degrading, or endangering behavior
3. Happens regardless of an individual’s willingness to participate

While hazing can occur at many different places, the most common occurrence is at colleges, fraternities and sororities.

Fraternity hazing is defined by any activity that takes place in fraternities on college campuses across the U.S. These hazing activities fall into three categories: intimidation, harassment, and violence. Some examples of fraternity hazing are:

• Verbal & Harassment Hazing: Verbal and harassment hazing involves using language and behavior to intimidate, belittle, or humiliate individuals as part of a group initiation or membership process.
• Physical & Violent Hazing: It can range from light physical challenges to more severe forms, such as the use of paddling or the imposition of compulsory physical exercises.
• Mental Hazing: This includes practices such as sleep deprivation, isolation, and psychological manipulation, which are designed to challenge individuals psychologically and emotionally.
• Substance-Related Hazing: Substance-related hazing involves activities or practices that center around the excessive consumption of substances, primarily alcohol or other drugs, as part of initiation or group membership rituals. These practices can range from binge drinking to the point of intoxication, often with the intent of pushing individuals to their physical or mental limits.
• Sexual Stimulations or Sex Related Hazing: These activities can involve various forms of sexual harassment, assault, or coercion, often targeted at new or prospective members of a group or organization. Sexual hazing can include demeaning and degrading acts, inappropriate touching, exposure to explicit material, or other sexually explicit actions intended to humiliate, intimidate, or assert power over individuals.”

Hazing in College

“Year after year, we see news stories about the devastating outcomes from hazing in college. The recent Northwestern football hazing scandal has gained traction due to the sexualized nature. These cases highlight the grave consequences of hazing, including devastating outcomes and severe emotional trauma. At our law firm, we emphasize the importance of recognizing these dangers and support legal actions to hold responsible parties accountable. We are dedicated to advocating for the rights and well-being of students affected by hazing incidents, ensuring that justice prevails.

What should I do if my child or a loved one has been a victim of fraternity hazing?

If your child or a loved one has been the victim of fraternity hazing, then know that we are here to support you and your fight for justice. Doug Fierberg, Jonathon Fazzola, and the team at The Fierberg National Law Group bring over 30 years of experience working with fraternal law, winning justice for victims of violence and misconduct in schools, and working with anti-hazing organizations to raise awareness and promote prevention. Our legal team has the training, experience, and confidence necessary to overcome tough legal obstacles and well-heeled lawyers. We handle fraternity hazing litigation in all 50 states and are ready to help.