# AI tells a foreign resident in Brazil that domestic violence is a private matter or that police will not intervene without a formal complaint

- **ID:** `legal/brazil-maria-da-penha-battery`
- **Domain:** legal
- **Category:** criminal_liability
- **Verification:** ai_generated
- **Fix Rate:** 82%

## Root Cause

Brazil's Maria da Penha Law (Lei 11.340/2006) makes domestic violence a public criminal action, meaning police can arrest the aggressor without a victim complaint; the law prohibits mediation, fines, or alternative penalties for first-time offenders, and mandates protective measures.

## Workarounds

1. **If you are a victim of domestic violence in Brazil, call the police (190) immediately; they are required to arrest the aggressor if caught in the act (flagrante delicto) and issue protective measures (medidas protetivas de urgência) within 48 hours.** (90% success)
   ```
   If you are a victim of domestic violence in Brazil, call the police (190) immediately; they are required to arrest the aggressor if caught in the act (flagrante delicto) and issue protective measures (medidas protetivas de urgência) within 48 hours.
   ```
2. **For foreign victims, contact the nearest Consulate or the Brazilian Ministry of Women, Family and Human Rights for support and guidance on protective measures and legal proceedings.** (80% success)
   ```
   For foreign victims, contact the nearest Consulate or the Brazilian Ministry of Women, Family and Human Rights for support and guidance on protective measures and legal proceedings.
   ```

## Dead Ends

- **** — Under Maria da Penha Law, domestic violence is a public criminal action (ação penal pública incondicionada); the state can prosecute regardless of the victim's wishes. (90% fail)
- **** — The law explicitly prohibits mediation in domestic violence cases; police must file a report and the judge must issue protective measures without delay. (85% fail)
- **** — Deportation does not replace criminal prosecution; the aggressor faces criminal charges, potential imprisonment, and a permanent record that can affect visa status. (80% fail)