Legal Consequences of Sorority Hazing

Sorority hazing is a serious issue that puts pledges and members’ safety at risk. While pledge activities are intended to foster bonding between new members, they can sometimes become harmful. Our hazing and bullying lawyers have created this guide to inform sorority members and their parents about the risks and legal consequences of sorority hazing.

What Is the Definition of Hazing Under Illinois Law?

Hazing in Illinois (720 ILCS 5/12C-50) is defined as requiring someone to perform an act for induction into a group at an educational institution, that is not authorized by the institution and results in bodily harm. Common in social fraternities, sororities, clubs, and athletic teams (especially in higher education), hazing rituals involve activities that intentionally or unintentionally put individuals at risk.

Legal Consequences of Hazing in Illinois

Illinois addresses hazing through criminal charges and civil remedies. Criminal charges, ranging from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class 4 felony, apply if hazing causes serious harm or death to members. Civil lawsuits can also be filed against individuals, organizations, or universities if it’s proven they owed a duty of care, breached that duty, and caused harm as a result.

Types of Hazing

HazingPrevention.org notes that such activities at fraternities, sororities, and other student organizations can include:

• Activities that cause physical discomfort such as excessive exercise, sleep deprivation, or physical violence
• Mental or emotional abuse through humiliation, ridicule, or isolation
• Heavy drinking or forced consumption of alcohol or drugs
• Sexual acts

How Widespread Is Hazing in Sorority Life?

According to the National Study of Student Hazing, over half of college students who participate in clubs, sports, and other organizations experience hazing activities, with 25% of advisors aware of these activities. A quarter of hazing incidents occur publicly on campus, and alumni are present at 25% of them.

Signs Your Daughter May Be a Victim of Sorority Hazing

Hazing, initiation rituals, and hazing deaths on college campuses are an all-too-common issue. Recognizing hazing can be challenging, especially if your daughter is hesitant to talk about it.

Warning signs of a hazing process can take many forms such as:

• Sudden changes in behavior after joining a group
• Reduced communication with friends or family
• Physical or mental exhaustion
• Unexplained weight loss, injuries, or illness
• Changes in sleeping or eating habits
• Withdrawal from normal activities
• Increased secrecy

Long-Term Impacts of Sorority Hazing

Sorority hazing can lead to serious long-term effects on women, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, eating disorders, substance abuse, and sleep disorders.

What to Do If You Suspect Your Daughter Is a Hazing Victim

If you think your daughter is being hazed, start by talking with her and encouraging her to report it. Hazing is not a practice required to join or maintain membership of any sorority in the United States.

If your daughter isn’t comfortable talking to you, there are other steps you can take. Contact the school’s Greek life office or the national sorority headquarters. If you believe a crime occurred, reach out to law enforcement.

How to Report Acts of Hazing

Stay involved during the pledging process, trust your instincts, and report any concerns about harassment or hazing immediately to ensure help is provided to prevent hazing or stop it before issues escalate.

Report harassment or hazing concerns about fraternities and sororities to:

• A Greek life adviser in the Greek system of the university and/or college
• The organization’s chapter president
• The organization’s chapter advisers
• The national executive board of the organization
• The dean of student life at the university and/or college
• The president of the university and/or college

The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers Is Here to Help

If your daughter has been seriously injured or killed as a result of hazing, contact an experienced lawyer to discuss your legal options. The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers has represented many families in these types of situations and can help you get the justice your daughter deserves. Call us today for a free consultation.