Many people in college consider hazing to be a fun, lighthearted way to “welcome” newcomers into a fraternity or other group. It might start out that way, but all too often, hazing can cause serious injury or even death. Depending on the specifics of the situation, hazing can lead to criminal charges for those involved. Keep reading to learn more, and then contact Law Office of Michael L. Fell at (949) 585-9055 for a free legal consultation.

A Wobbler Offense with Numerous Punishment Possibilities

Hazing is a wobbler offense, which means that it can be charged as either a felony or a misdemeanor. If there is no serious injury, then it is most likely to be charged as a misdemeanor. In this case, the punishment could include fines of at least $100 and up to $5,000. The convicted party could also spend up to one year in jail.

In the event that someone was killed or suffered a serious injury during the hazing, then anyone who took part in it could be charged with a felony. This is punishable by up to three years in state prison.

The Victim Can Sue the Parties Involved Directly

Another issue that can occur is that the victim and/or their family can bring a civil lawsuit to seek compensation for their damages. This lawsuit could be brought against an entire school or organization that allowed the hazing to occur or against the specific people who participated.

There Will Be Consequences at School

When a college student is allegedly involved in hazing, they could face discipline from the Office of Student Conduct, too. This could be serious enough to result in expulsion. However, the good news is that if you are facing this situation, Law Office of Michael L. Fell could be able to help you. Attorney Fell has experience working with college students as they prepare to face the disciplinary board of their school. We can help you get prepared, and, in some cases, we might be allowed to present a defense on your behalf.

There Are Defense Options to Accusations of Hazing

Whether you are facing legal charges are repercussions at school, there are defenses to accusations of hazing. For example, if the person who was allegedly being hazed as part of the group that was “hazing” them, then it does not meet the legal definition of hazing.

Second, we can show that that hazing was not likely to result in serious bodily injury, which is another requirement of hazing. Even if an injury did occur, if we can show that it was unlikely that this would be the outcome, then we could beat the charges or accusations.

Finally, if the hazing took place at a school-sanctioned event, then it is not illegal. It might be grounds for a civil suit against the school, but it is not illegal. Contact Law Office of Michael L. Fell at (949) 585-9055 now for a free legal consultation to learn more about defense options to charges of hazing.