Brazilian judges rule in favor of upholding the legal process

While emotions have certainly flared following the Mensalão scandal that rocked Brazil to its core eight years ago, it appears that justice and the country’s commitment to democracy and a fair trial will ultimately win out.

In 2005, it was revealed that several individuals working under then-Brazilian president Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva had allegedly used public money to pay Congressional deputies a monthly stipend to receive votes that best suited their political interests. Shockwaves were sent throughout the country at the time and many are still being felt today, eight years later.

The Supreme Court ruled last year that a number of parties were guilty, which set off a round of appeals. Due to the level of disturbance the entire incident has caused the Brazilian public, it was suggested that the Supreme Court ignore these appeals and make no consideration of amending its decision. That will not be the case.

Judges recently confirmed that the Supreme Court is in fact entitled to revise its decisions should it encounter new evidence that could modify its previous thoughts on the case.

José Henrique Rodrigues Torres, the president of the executive council of the Association of Judges for Democracy (AJD) gave a statement where he praised the decision to let these appeals be heard and processed.

“We did not have a judgment within all democratic parameters and directed by a democratically constituted judiciary power,” he said. “It is an appeal within a democratic legal process. The issues will be reexamined by the committee and there are new members. Can the decision be maintained? It can. But the decision can also be revised and modified. This is part of a democratic legal process. It is not a setback or progress, it’s not about that. What is important is that the democratic system is maintained. ”

This should offer encouragement to business owners considering working within the Brazilian borders. The process remains the same for all individuals, which means justice is always in the legal system’s best interest. Companies considering a move to Brazil should, however, contact a legal advisor to ensure they understand the laws they are being protected by when working in the country.

Lawyers in Brazil can offer sound advice pertaining to the legality of starting up a business in the country. This will help owners ensure their operation is legitimate and that it is put in the best position to succeed on an international level.