Hazing is often portrayed as a rite of passage—but for many students and young adults in New York, hazing escalates into serious sexual abuse and trauma. Whether in fraternities, sororities, athletic teams, military-style academies, or elite boarding schools, hazing that involves sexual coercion is a violation of basic human rights and dignity. What some institutions dismiss as tradition often results in permanent emotional and physical harm.
At Survivors of Abuse NY, we represent individuals who were sexually abused during hazing rituals. Our experienced legal team helps survivors hold not only the abusers accountable but also the institutions and organizations that failed to intervene or fostered a culture of silence. If you or a loved one was sexually assaulted in a hazing context, you may be entitled to financial compensation through a NY hazing sexual abuse lawsuit.
What Is Considered Hazing Sexual Abuse?
Hazing becomes sexual abuse when it includes:
Coerced nudity or sexually explicit acts
Sexual assault disguised as "initiation" or "team bonding"
Forced simulations of sexual behavior
Groping or harassment during pledging or rituals
Use of humiliation, alcohol, or power to coerce compliance
These actions are not jokes or harmless fun—they are criminal acts that leave lasting scars.
Where Hazing Sexual Abuse Often Occurs
College fraternities and sororities
High school and college sports teams
Military academies and cadet training programs
Private and religious boarding schools
Summer camps and youth development programs
Institutions often ignore early warning signs or fail to implement safeguards, creating an environment where abuse thrives.
Who Can Be Held Legally Responsible?
In a civil lawsuit, survivors can pursue damages from:
The individual perpetrators
Student organizations or team leaders involved in organizing abuse
Colleges, universities, or private schools that failed to act
Coaches, deans, or staff members who were complicit or negligent
National Greek-letter organizations with oversight responsibility
Our attorneys investigate deeply and bring claims based on both direct abuse and institutional failure.
What Can Survivors Recover in a Civil Case?
Victims of hazing sexual abuse may receive compensation for:
Psychological trauma and counseling expenses
Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
Educational or professional losses
Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence or cover-up
Relocation or safety-related expenses
We focus on restoring your voice and fighting for the justice you deserve.
Why Choose Survivors of Abuse NY
Skilled attorneys with extensive experience in school and institutional abuse cases
Survivor-centered, trauma-informed representation
No upfront legal fees—we only get paid if we win
Complete confidentiality and respect at every stage
You have the right to be safe. You have the right to be heard. Let us help.