College should be a time of growth, learning, and building lifelong friendships. But some college kids—overly susceptible to peer pressure—can make poor decisions. And when a student is accused of hazing, everything they've worked for can be at risk. Schools and law enforcement take these allegations seriously, often imposing harsh penalties before the full story is even heard.
Hazing encompasses activities “expected of someone in joining or participating in a group that humiliates, degrades, abuses, or endangers them regardless of a person's willingness to participate.” Hazing allegations can be devastating, making you or your child feel like there's no way forward and no one to turn to for help.
The LLF Law Firm is nationally known, respected, and trusted for criminal defense. Whether it's hazing, assault and battery, manslaughter, or something else, we know how to challenge the charges with experience, strategy, and determination. Call us at 888.535.3686or fill out our confidential consultation form.
The Stop Campus Hazing Act: New Federal Laws Against Hazing
On December 23, 2024, former President Joe Biden signed the Stop Campus Hazing Act into law. This legislation compels colleges and universities to:
- Report hazing incidents in their Annual Security Reports
- Establish a Campus Hazing Transparency Report and
- Disclose information about their anti-hazing initiatives and prevention strategies.
How does this new law affect those who are accused of hazing? With the new push for reporting, schools may jump to conclusions, presuming guilt and taking harsh actions against accused students before they have a chance to defend themselves. After all, schools don't want to break federal law just because all the details aren't falling into place. Now, more than ever, getting legal help is crucial.
Pennsylvania's Hazing Laws: What You Need to Know
Pennsylvania has robust anti-hazing laws. In response to the 2017 fraternity-related hazing death of a Penn State student, Pennsylvania enacted the "Timothy Piazza Anti-Hazing Law" in 2018. Timothy Piazza was a sophomore who died after a fraternity hazing incident at Beta Theta Pi. After being forced to consume large amounts of alcohol, he suffered severe injuries from a fall and was left unattended for hours.
This law created tougher penalties for anyone involved. It applies if someone makes a minor or student to do any of the following:
- Violate Federal or State criminal law.
- Consume food, liquid, alcohol, drugs, or other substances that subject them to the risk of emotional or physical harm.
- Endure physical brutality, including whipping, beating, branding, calisthenics, or exposure to the elements.
- Endure mental brutality, including sleep deprivation, exclusion from social contact, or any conduct that could result in extreme embarrassment.
- Endure brutality of a sexual nature.
- Endure any other activity that creates a reasonable likelihood of bodily injury to the minor or student.
Aggravated hazing—defined as hazing resulting in serious bodily injury or death—is now a third-degree felony punishable by up to seven years in prison and a fine of up to $15,000.
How Behavior Can Spiral
The teenage and young adult brain is still a work in progress, particularly the prefrontal cortex, which governs judgment, self-control, and emotions. This ongoing development can make it harder for young people to manage impulses, think ahead, or resist the influence of their peers.
This scenario happens more often than one might think: It's the beginning of the semester, and the frat house is alive with excitement. The pledges are here, nervous but eager to prove they belong. As one of the older members, you're ready to carry out the tradition. The night is full of laughter, music, and the promise of fitting in.
You're tasked with overseeing a challenge for one of the pledges, a quiet freshman who's desperate to fit in. The challenge seems harmless at first—a drinking test. You tell the pledge to take a few shots, urging him to “prove himself.” He hesitates, but the pressure to belong is too much. He drinks more than he should.
As you watch him struggle, his face flushed and his steps unsteady, you keep laughing along with the group. The pledge's condition worsens, but no one stops. The group continues, unaware of how serious it's getting, urging him on like it's part of the fun.
By the end of the night, the pledge is found collapsed outside, unconscious.
What started as a rite of passage has turned into something dangerous. You never meant for things to get this far. You didn't want to hurt anyone—you were just following the tradition, trying to fit in. But now, the hazing has spiraled out of control, and the consequences are much worse than you ever imagined.
Now what do you do?
Why You Need a Criminal Defense Team That Understands Campus Issues
At the LLF Law Firm, we practice both criminal defense and national student defense, making us a unique and valuable choice for students facing serious charges like hazing. Whether you're facing criminal charges, disciplinary action, or both, we can approach the case from every angle to help you achieve the best possible outcome.
We'll also ensure that what happens in the campus hearing doesn't unfairly influence the criminal case. This dual approach allows us to mount a comprehensive defense that keeps the big picture in mind.
What Happens if Someone Lies About Hazing?
Colleges and law enforcement take hazing allegations seriously—sometimes too seriously. The moment a student is accused, both the university and police launch separate investigations, looking for enough evidence to justify disciplinary action or criminal charges.
But what happens when the accusation is false?
College life is full of social dynamics, and sometimes, personal grudges come into play. A student who feels excluded, mistreated, or wants to get back at someone may fabricate or exaggerate a hazing claim to damage reputations.
Fortunately, there are consequences for false accusations. While universities may penalize false accusers with suspensions or reprimands, law enforcement can go even further—charging them with false incrimination, a serious offense with lasting consequences.
If you've been falsely accused of hazing, don't take it lightly. The system moves fast, and your future is on the line.
Criminal Defense Lawyers Wish College Students Knew
What is one of the most important things criminal defense lawyers wish college students knew? If the police come sniffing around, do not talk to them—even to say you're innocent. Immediately ask for an attorney. Do not consent to any type of search.
Let's break down your Miranda Rights before we go any further:
- You have the right to stay silent.
- Anything you say can and will be used against you in court.
- You have the right to talk to a lawyer before speaking to the police, and to have one with you during questioning.
- If you can't afford a lawyer, one will be provided to you before any questioning, if you want one.
- If you choose to answer questions without a lawyer, you can stop at any time and ask for one.
College students are young and impressionable, and the police are counting on this. They count on your lack of experience to get the upper hand. They may even pull the old “good cop, bad cop” act. They may claim that you're not in trouble or that they are asking about someone else. They may be really nice and even crack jokes. Don't buy it.
It is so much harder to take words back or qualify them than it is just to super glue your lips together except to utter: “I want my lawyer.
What if You've Already Confessed or Incriminated Yourself?
Ok, let's say you (or your kid) did talk to the cops, did give consent, and perhaps did incriminate themself. All is not over. We have been through this, and we know how to keep any so-called confession out, how to qualify it, how to show police pressure, and so forth.
Whatever the scenario, we will find a way to fight. Our days and nights are spent dealing with impossible situations and turning the tables. Do not be discouraged. Remember, in a criminal case, the prosecution must prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt.
We'll examine the evidence, talk to the right people, and find the holes in the prosecution's story. Whether it's getting the charges dropped, cutting a deal, or going all the way to court, we'll have your kid's back every step of the way.
How Protecting Your Student's Record Secures Their Future
One misstep—or wrongful accusation—affects your student's entire future. A disciplinary mark from the university can prevent transfers or block internship opportunities. A criminal conviction follows them into job searches or grad school.
We're all about the bigger picture. Our goal is to help your child get through this, so they can stay focused on their goals and dreams.
Peace of Mind: Transparency Every Step of the Way
We get it—everything can seem like a maze. Universities? They leave you lost, unsure of your or your kid's rights or where to turn. And the criminal justice system? Cold, complicated, and overwhelming.
But with us on your side, you won't have to face it alone. We're more than just lawyers; we're your partners, ready to fight for you and your family and keep you grounded when everything else feels out of control.
Future Deserves a Fair Chance: Contact the LLF Law Firm Now
This process is tough, but we've got your back. We know the ins and outs of the system, every rule, every loophole, and how to stand up for our clients' rights. We'll make sure your side is heard. Whether it's preparing them for hard questions or challenging unfair decisions, we'll fight for a good future. Now's not the time to take risks—it's time to take action.
All those years of dedication shouldn't be overshadowed by a hazing accusation. The LLF Law Firm is here to protect your rights. Call us today for the defense you deserve. Whether it's Penn State, UPenn, Temple, Drexel, or anywhere else, we are prepared.
No more dark corners. If your kid's facing an accusation, let the LLF Law Firm go to bat. Call us at 888.535.3686or fill out our confidential consultation form.
With the right guidance and support, young people can learn from their mistakes, build resilience, and grow into adults who thrive without carrying the weight of past errors.
