Anti-Corruption and Criminal Compliance Legislation
The Criminal Organization Law (Law 12.850/2013) and Anti-Corruption Law (Law 12.846/2013) introduced plea deals and leniency agreements into the Brazilian legal system, reshaping the procedural landscape that had been in place until then.
The widespread adoption of cooperation mechanisms has expedited criminal investigations, enabling authorities to uncover and address infractions more swiftly compared to traditional methods. While individuals and companies seek alternative defense strategies, law enforcement operations increasingly target not only corporate headquarters but also the homes of executives and employees, posing potentially irreparable short-term risks. Consequently, the innovations brought by the 2013 anti-corruption law have profoundly transformed the role of criminal lawyers, who must now develop proactive strategies to mitigate risks.
Moreover, the anti-corruption law has spurred the development of compliance programs, which have gained significant legal relevance in Brazil. The Car Wash Operation catalyzed efforts to implement or enhance corporate compliance frameworks nationwide, encompassing the establishment of internal controls, risk management structures, and comprehensive corporate policies and procedures.
Our firm boasts extensive experience in providing legal counsel to companies and individuals on Brazilian anti-corruption laws and criminal compliance matters, having handled numerous high-profile cases with national impact.
