Understanding the Impact of Hazing in Fraternities and Sororities
Hazing has been a part of fraternity and sorority traditions for generations. This behavior has been known to get out of control, with some hazing rituals even having fatal consequences. Thousands of other situations result in serious injuries, alcohol poisoning, or sexual abuse.
If you or a loved one have been hurt during these incidents, now is the time to seek legal counsel. An experienced attorney from Tomeny | Best could advise you of your rights and help you understand the impact of hazing in fraternities and sororities.
What Qualifies as Hazing?
Hazing is any degrading or humiliating activity or practice that is expected of new members of an organization. These acts can come in the form of physical, verbal, or emotional abuse. In some cases, it endangers a person’s life or well-being.
There are three necessary elements for an act to qualify as hazing. It must occur in a group context. Usually, this means a person who is attempting to join a fraternity or sorority. Additionally, it must involve degrading, humiliating, or endangering behavior. This could include a wide range of actions like non-consensual nudity, violence, or extreme alcohol abuse.
Finally, the lack of consent is crucial to a hazing case. These actions must generally occur regardless of whether an individual wishes to participate or not. Each organization is different, with this behavior occurring rarely or frequently depending on the group. While some incidents involve little more than intimidation or harassment, others escalate to full physical violence.
The Max Gruver Act
Louisiana has taken steps many other states have not after the tragic death of college student Max Gruver. The Max Gruver Act is designed to limit hazing by providing criminal consequences to fraternity or sorority officers who allow the behavior to occur and fail to report it afterward.
Duty to Report
The act comes with a duty to report acts of hazing to law enforcement. This duty applies to anyone serving as an officer of the fraternity or sorority at the local or national level. Failure to do so can have serious consequences, including fines, forfeiture of any public funds obtained by the organization, and being barred from campus for a set period of time.
Mandatory Investigation
The national chapter also must conduct an internal investigation within 14 days of the reported incident. Fraternities and sororities are allowed to conduct an internal investigation during that time period before reporting it to the police to determine whether the allegations are true.
Who Is at Fault?
Part of understanding the consequences of hazing in fraternities and sororities is carefully examining who is ultimately held responsible for these incidents. Many families initially blame the school, but the courts will not always agree. Colleges and universities are often dismissed from these cases because they are not responsible for student behavior at non-sanctioned events.
When it is time to pursue legal action, a suit may be appropriate against the individuals involved in the hazing. This is especially true for those who acted as local chapter officers at the time. That said, the primary target for legal action is usually the fraternity or sorority itself.
Learn More About the Impact of Hazing in Sororities and Fraternities From Our Attorneys Today
If you sustained abuse or injury during a hazing event, you may have a case for compensation. No one should have to deal with harassment or violence to join a social club on campus.
Reach out right away to schedule a free consultation and learn how Tomeny | Best could help you today.
