Legal Protections For Hazing Victims

A lawyer sits at a table with her client, a woman with dark hair, who asks, “What legal protections exist for hazing victims?”

Hazing can have devastating physical and emotional consequences for victims, leaving them searching for justice. Fortunately, legal protections exist for hazing victims, both at the state and federal levels.

Victims may pursue legal action against individuals or organizations responsible, seeking compensation for damages such as medical expenses, emotional distress, and lost wages. A Columbus personal injury lawyer can explain what legal protections exist for hazing victims and help them understand their rights.

Depending on the circumstances, cases may involve criminal charges, civil lawsuits, or both. Holding perpetrators accountable not only aids victims in their recovery but also helps prevent future incidents by sending a strong message against hazing practices.

State and Federal Legal Protections for Hazing Victims

Ohio has implemented strict measures to combat hazing, particularly through Ohio Revised Code Section 2903.31, commonly known as Collin’s Law. This law defines hazing as any act that recklessly or intentionally causes mental or physical harm to another person as part of initiation, membership, or continued participation in an organization. Enacted in 2021, Collin’s Law increases penalties for hazing offenses and requires educational institutions to adopt anti-hazing policies and provide training to students and staff.

Penalties Under Ohio Law

Penalties for hazing in Ohio depend on the severity of the incident:

Second-degree misdemeanor: Hazing that does not result in significant harm.
Third-degree felony: Hazing that causes serious physical harm or death.

Individuals and organizations involved in hazing may also face civil lawsuits for damages, including medical expenses, emotional distress, and other losses.

Relevant Federal Laws

Hazing incidents in Ohio may also involve federal laws, including:

Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972: Applies if hazing involves gender-based discrimination or harassment in federally funded educational institutions.
Clery Act: 20 U.S.C. § 1092(f) requires educational institutions to report hazing-related crimes and implement safety policies to protect students.

By combining Ohio’s state laws with federal protections, victims of hazing have multiple avenues for holding perpetrators accountable and seeking justice. Institutions are also incentivized to create safer environments and prevent hazing incidents.

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Legal Rights of Hazing Victims

Hazing victims have the right to pursue both civil and criminal actions against individuals and organizations responsible for their harm. These legal avenues provide victims with opportunities to seek accountability, justice, and compensation for damages caused by hazing.

Victims’ Rights to Pursue Civil or Criminal Actions

Victims can pursue criminal charges by reporting hazing incidents to law enforcement. In Ohio, hazing offenses are prosecuted under Ohio Revised Code § 2903.31. Victims also have the right to file civil lawsuits against individuals, organizations, or institutions that allowed or failed to prevent hazing. Civil actions may seek compensation for:

Medical expenses
Pain and suffering
Lost wages
Diminished earning capacity

These lawsuits often target organizations, such as fraternities, sororities, or schools, for negligence or for failing to enforce anti-hazing policies.

Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Lawsuits in Ohio

In Ohio, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit is generally two years from the date of the incident or the discovery of the injury, as outlined in Ohio Revised Code Section 2305.10. This means that victims of hazing or other personal injuries must initiate legal action within this two-year window to preserve their right to seek compensation for damages.

Certain exceptions may apply, such as cases involving minors. If the victim is under the age of 18 at the time of the hazing incident, the statute of limitations generally does not begin until the victim reaches the age of majority (18 years old).

Victims need to act promptly to avoid missing the deadline to file a lawsuit, as failing to do so may result in the loss of their legal right to pursue compensation. Consulting an attorney early in the process can help ensure that all legal deadlines are met.

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How a Columbus Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help Hazing Victims

A Columbus personal injury lawyer can provide compassionate representation and guide hazing victims through the legal process, working to secure the compensation they deserve. Attorneys take several steps to build a strong case for their clients, such as:

Conducting a thorough investigation: An attorney can gather evidence such as witness statements, photographs, videos, medical records, and documentation of the organization’s involvement or negligence. They may also review school or organizational policies on hazing to determine whether proper guidelines were followed or if there was a failure to prevent the incident.
Handling all communication: A lawyer can manage all communication with insurance companies, opposing counsel, and other parties involved in the case to protect the victim’s rights and prevent them from saying or doing anything that could harm their lawsuit.
Calculating damages: Attorneys assess the full extent of the victim’s damages, including medical expenses, emotional distress, lost wages, and pain and suffering, to ensure they pursue the maximum compensation available.
Filing and representing the lawsuit in court: If necessary, a personal injury lawyer can file the lawsuit on the victim’s behalf and represent them in court. This includes drafting legal documents, presenting evidence, and arguing the case before a judge or jury.
Negotiating a fair settlement: Many cases are resolved without going to trial. Attorneys work to secure a fair settlement that compensates the victim adequately without the need for a prolonged legal battle.

By taking these steps, a personal injury lawyer advocates for the victim’s rights, working to achieve justice and fair compensation.

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Our Lawyers Can Explain What Legal Protections Exist for Hazing Victims

At Cooper Elliott, our dedicated Columbus personal injury lawyers are committed to helping victims of hazing and personal injury secure the compensation they deserve. With over $700 million recovered for our clients and more than 100 years of combined experience, we have the expertise, resources, and determination to fight for justice on your behalf.

If you or someone you love has been harmed by hazing, don’t wait to take action. Contact Cooper Elliott today for a free consultation. Let us guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and pursue the compensation you need to move forward.

Call or text 614-481-6000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form

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21:15 24 Jul 25

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17:55 11 Jun 25

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16:51 29 Mar 24

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03:46 23 Mar 24

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14:10 02 Mar 24

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14:06 15 Feb 24

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23:14 25 Jan 24

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15:39 21 Dec 23

I am so glad I found cooper Elliot. My attorneys Jon and Adam helped me through the entire process. After a traumatic experience in my life I was confused and in pain. They worked tirelessly to become familiar with all the details of my story and represented me in a way that made me more able to process and understand the trauma myself. This was huge for me, while there’s still healing to do, I can do that work now instead of staying in a purgatory of cognitive dissonance. They didn’t just win justice for me, they are a significant part of my healing journey. They were validating, non judgmental, honest, and knowledgeable.

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17:29 15 Dec 23

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A D

16:10 08 Dec 23

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12:19 02 Sep 23

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08:42 23 Jul 23

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15:30 21 Jul 23

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11:20 16 Jun 23

I would highly recommend Cooper Elliott to any of my friends and family! Chip Cooper was extremely helpful guiding me through a difficult process. Chip was patient with me and provided feedback during the process that kept me informed until the desired outcome was achieved. There were interactions with other staff of the firm (whose names I do not know) that were helpful as well, I was impressed with the entire team!

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06:30 17 May 23

Adam Richards is the best attorney I have ever met. He is responsive and very patient (I had a lot of questions) and he truly cares. He fought hard for me and he stands up to the bully. he is not afraid to take on anyone. Anytime I hear someone who has a legal issue I go out of my way to recommend Adam. He is unlike any attorney I have ever met. He is compassionate and he always answers his phone. There is no way I would have got the results I received with any other attorney. He was a bulldog in my case and really went to bat for me. Words cant express how grateful I am to him. His actions personally affected my life in a very positive way. He protected me in so many ways I couldn't begin to name them. It is a great feeling when you know your attorney outmatches the other party's attorney and it is obvious.

What Legal Protections Exist For Hazing Victims?