New York City Hazing Lawyer
Hazing is often thought of as a rite of passage on college campuses in order to be admitted to a fraternity, sorority, or social club. However, hazing can get out of control quickly and result in serious bodily injuries – and even death.
If you have been charged with a hazing crime, contact a New York City hazing lawyer to review the charges against you, evaluate which legal defenses are available, and do everything possible to either have the charges against you dropped or reduced through a plea bargain. Your future is at stake, let a qualified student defense attorney help you protect it.
Legal Definition of Hazing in New York
Under New York Penal Law §120.16, hazing occurs any time an initiation into an organization or association is dependent on an individual intentionally or recklessly engaging in activities that carry the risk of substantial physical injury to themselves or others.
While hazing is supposed to be a rite of passing when it results in serious bodily injury or death, it can be paying substantial fines, serving time in prison, and having a criminal record.
What Actions/Activities Constitute Hazing?
Hazing practices on university campuses commonly include humiliation, alcohol/binge drinking, sexual acts, beatings, consuming non-food substances, isolation, sleep deprivation, and engaging in dares which often result in serious bodily injuries or death. Many college campuses have banned hazing practices in recent years for just that reason.
Anyone charged with a hazing – or any crime – should never try to fight those charges without the assistance of a qualified New York City hazing attorney. The stakes are simply too high, and the penal code is very complex.
Potential Penalties for a Hazing Conviction
As a local attorney can further explain, New York considers hazing as a Class A misdemeanor which can result in spending up to a year in prison and paying fines of up to $1,000. Although that might not seem serious, it is important to keep in mind that any conviction on someone’s criminal record can have significant consequences which can affect obtaining employment, renting an apartment, or qualifying for student loans and other types of aid.
Possible Defenses Against a Hazing Charge
There are several defenses to hazing offenses, including whether the hazing activities were inherently dangerous, whether someone’s injury was part of a pre-existing condition, and whether the hazing activities were the proximate cause of the injury or death.
While every case depends on the facts and circumstances surrounding the situation, an experienced New York City hazing attorney can determine what legal defenses might be available in any situation and be an advocate for students who find themselves answering not only to law enforcement officers but their school’s’ administration and faculty as well.
Contact a New York City Hazing Attorney Today
If you have been charged with a hazing crime, speak with a New York City hazing lawyer today. Let an attorney review your situation and determine what legal defenses you might have available to you.
Everyone should have as much information as they can so that they can make an informed decision on what is best for them and their family. Contact an experienced attorney who can protect not only your rights but your future as well.