The Legal Consequences of Hazing in Fraternities and Sororities
By: Robert C. Johnson, Partner
Regardless of where you go to college, Greek life often plays a significant role in shaping campus culture. Unfortunately, hazing has long been associated with some of these organizations. Hazing is generally defined as the imposition of strenuous and often humiliating tasks as part of an initiation or training process. While it was once viewed primarily as a student conduct issue, it has evolved into a legal matter with often severe civil and criminal consequences.
In Greek life, hazing is often used as a means of initiation or admission into an organization. It is typically intended to humiliate participants or test how far they are willing to go to become part of the group. Over the years, numerous hazing incidents, most commonly involving fraternities, have resulted in pledges suffering serious injuries or even death. In Florida, two landmark cases brought national attention to the dangers of hazing and helped spur significant legal reforms designed to prevent similar tragedies.
Florida’s first significant anti-hazing statute traces back to the Chad Meredith case, which involved a University of Miami student who drowned following an alcohol-related hazing incident in 2001. In response, lawmakers enacted the Chad Meredith Act (HB 193) in 2005. This law made hazing a criminal offense in Florida and clarified that consent is not a defense. Under the Act, hazing that creates a substantial risk of injury may be charged as a first-degree misdemeanor, while hazing that results in serious injury or death may be prosecuted as a third-degree felony.
A second widely known hazing case occurred at Florida State University and deeply affected both the campus and the broader community. In 2017, Andrew Coffey, a 20-year-old pledge of the fraternity Pi Kappa Phi, participated in “Big Brother Night” during the fall semester. He was instructed to drink a large quantity of alcohol, causing his blood-alcohol level to rise to approximately six times the legal limit. Andrew tragically died from acute alcohol poisoning, and his family later filed a civil case against nine fraternity members, Pi Kappa Phi, and others in Florida.
Andrew’s death prompted lawmakers to further strengthen Florida’s anti-hazing laws. In 2019, the Legislature passed Andrew’s Law (SB 1080), which expanded criminal liability by allowing prosecutors to charge individuals who plan, solicit, or encourage hazing activities – even if they are not physically present when harm occurs. Andrew’s Law also provides limited immunity for the first person who calls 911 or provides aid to a hazing victim, encouraging students to seek help in emergencies without fear of prosecution.
Together, the Chad Meredith Act and Andrew’s Law represent significant milestones in the effort to prevent hazing and hold those involved in hazing accountable for any injuries caused. These
laws reinforce that hazing is not a harmless tradition. It is a dangerous act that can carry criminal penalties, bring civil liability, and leave dangerous, lasting consequences for everyone involved.
Hazing cases are complex and highly fact-specific, and outcomes depend on the circumstances of each situation. Students, families, and organizations who have questions about hazing laws should seek guidance from a qualified attorney who can review the facts and explain their rights.
With offices throughout South Florida, Pike & Lustig, LLP represents clients in complex civil litigation, personal injury, and hazing-related matters. If you have questions about a potential claim or would like to discuss your legal options, contact our firm to schedule a consultation.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice
