Hazing Lawyers
They Call It Tradition. We Call It Abuse.
Our firm is nationally recognized for taking on fraternities, sororities, universities, and other organizations that permit and promote a culture of hazing. When they hide behind
tradition, we use the law to hold them accountable for the devastating harm they cause.
Their Cover-Up is a Well-Rehearsed Ritual.
After a hazing incident, the national organization and the university launch a predictable defense: deny, deflect, and blame the students. They count on their power and influence to silence victims. We have spent over three decades dismantling this playbook in courtrooms across the country.
Holding Groups Accountable for Dangerous Hazing Rituals
Hazing is a systemic problem, not a series of isolated pranks. Our trial attorneys have the experience to litigate cases of severe injury and wrongful death resulting from any form of hazing.
Fraternity & Sorority
Hazing
We hold local fraternity and sorority chapters and their powerful national organizations liable for hazing that involves forced alcohol and drug abuse, physical violence, and humiliating acts that result in serious injury or death.
Sports Hazing and Abuse in Organized Athletics
Coaches, trainers, and universities have a duty to protect their athletes. We pursue justice when they allow a culture of hazing to fester, leading to violent assaults, traumatic injuries, and psychological harm among teammates.
Hazing in Other Organizations
Any group sanctioned by a school or university has a responsibility to ensure student safety. We handle cases involving hazing in marching bands, academic clubs, and other student organizations that lead to harm.
A Record of Exposing a Culture of Negligence
The central focus of our work is proving that a hazing-related injury or death was not an isolated accident, but the foreseeable result of systemic failures and institutional negligence. By conducting comprehensive investigations, we identify the institutional failures and negligent conduct that contributed to the harm, including:
- A History of Ignored Complaints: Evidence that the university or national organization knew about previous hazing incidents at a specific chapter or team and did nothing to stop it.
- Lack of Supervision & Oversight: The failure of coaches, advisors, and administrators to provide meaningful supervision and enforce anti-hazing policies.
- Promotion of Dangerous Traditions: Proof that the organization glorified or encouraged high-risk activities involving alcohol abuse, physical endurance tests, and violence.
- Active Cover-Ups by Leadership: Actions taken by coaches, chapter leaders, or university officials to hide evidence, intimidate witnesses, and obstruct investigations.
Lasting change requires accountability. See how we’ve held institutions responsible and pursued justice in hazing cases across the country.
The Nation’s Pioneer on Hazing Lawsuits
These are cases with a great deal at stake and require more than experience — they demand specialized expertise. Here’s why The Fierberg National Group is a law firm that institutions would rather not face.
Leaders in Holding National Organizations Liable
Our firm is one of the few in the country with a proven history of success against national fraternities and athletic departments. Having litigated these cases extensively, we possess a deep understanding of their corporate frameworks, risk-management practices, and legal defenses, allowing us to anticipate and overcome the strategies they use to avoid accountability.
The Forerunner of Hazing Litigation
Our founder, Douglas Fierberg, is a nationally recognized authority on hazing litigation. Known for his extensive knowledge and success in this highly specialized field, Douglas is regularly sought after by the media, legal experts, and other attorneys seeking insight into these cases.
Unwavering Support for Victims and Their Families
We understand the unimaginable grief and anger you are experiencing. Our team is committed to providing compassionate guidance for you and your family while we mount an aggressive legal assault against every institution responsible for your loss.
Hazing Litigation: Frequently Asked Questions
Can the national fraternity or university be held responsible?
Yes. In many cases, the national organization or university can be held liable. If they knew about a history of hazing, failed to enforce their own rules, or created an environment where abuse was predictable, they can be held accountable.
What if my child was voluntarily participating in the activities?
“Voluntary” participation is not a valid legal defense for hazing. The immense peer pressure and threat of ostracism make it impossible for a student to give true consent to abusive and dangerous activities.
Can we still file a lawsuit if there is a criminal case?
Yes. A civil lawsuit to hold the institution accountable is a separate legal action from any criminal charges filed against individual students. The two cases can and often do proceed at the same time.
Federal Requirements for Hazing Accountability
The recently enacted Stop Campus Hazing Act now requires colleges and universities to publicly report hazing violations, implement prevention programs, and maintain transparency reports detailing incidents and findings.
Learn More About Compliance Requirements Under the Stop Campus Hazing Act
Injury Lawyers for Victims and Families Who Demand and Deserve Justice.
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