The Brazilian Penal Code refers to the legislative body of laws and regulations that govern the criminal justice system and penal offenses within the Federative Republic of Brazil. It is a comprehensive set of legal norms that outline the rights and responsibilities of individuals involved in criminal activities, as well as the corresponding punishments and procedures for administering justice.
The Brazilian Penal Code covers a wide array of criminal offenses, ranging from general crimes such as theft, assault, and homicide to specific offenses related to corruption, drug trafficking, cybercrimes, and money laundering. This legal framework establishes the principles of legality, culpability, and proportionality in relation to criminal sanctions and seeks to ensure the protection of citizens' rights while promoting social order and security.
In addition to defining various offenses and their corresponding penalties, the Brazilian Penal Code also establishes the fundamental principles guiding the criminal justice system, including due process, the presumption of innocence, and the right to a defense. It also outlines the role and responsibilities of the police, prosecutors, judges, and other judicial actors within Brazil's criminal justice system and specifies the procedures through which criminal cases are investigated, prosecuted, and adjudicated.
The Brazilian Penal Code is periodically reviewed and updated to adapt to the evolving nature of criminal activities, societal norms, and international legal standards. Its objective is to maintain a just and effective legal system that can appropriately address criminal conduct, protect individuals' rights, and promote social harmony and security.
