I’ve Been Accused of Hazing. What Should I Do Next?

If you’ve been accused of hazing, whether you’re a coach or an athlete, the situation can escalate fast. Universities take hazing allegations seriously, and what begins as an internal investigation can quickly turn into something with real legal consequences. The most important thing you can do is stop talking about the case and start protecting yourself. Here are the three most important steps:

First, don’t try to explain or defend yourself to investigators, teammates, or the media. Anything you say can be used against you later. Instead, contact an attorney with direct experience handling hazing investigations in college athletics. These cases are complex, involving school disciplinary systems, athletic department policies, and sometimes criminal law.

Second, gather and preserve all evidence. Save messages, group chats, emails, and social media posts. Don’t delete anything, even if it looks bad. Altering or destroying potential evidence can make things worse. Your lawyer can review what’s relevant and use it to build your defense.

Third, avoid discussing the situation with teammates or posting about it online. Even private comments can spread and be misinterpreted. The less you say publicly, the more control you keep over your narrative.

A skilled sports lawyer can guide you through interviews, protect your rights during university proceedings, and manage the media if necessary. Acting early can often mean the difference between a suspension and a cleared record.

I’ve represented coaches, athletes, and teams across the country in hazing and misconduct matters, including a recent major hazing case at Boston College. I understand how these situations unfold - and how to get ahead of them before they spiral.

If you’ve been accused of hazing, don’t wait. Reach out today for a confidential consultation to protect your reputation, eligibility, and future.