Understanding the Structure of the Brazilian Court System

STF, STJ, TJ…you’ve likely seen these abbreviations before, but their meanings may still be a mystery to you. Like in other countries, Brazil has abbreviations for the names of its judicial institutions.

Below is a description of the courts that make up the Brazilian legal system.

At the top of the hierarchy is the STF. STF stands for Supremo Tribunal Federal. This is Brazil’s Supreme Court, also known as the guard of the Constitution. The court comprises eleven justices who are responsible for cases involving the Constitution.

STJ refers to the Superior Tribunal de Justiça. This court is responsible for interpreting federal law. It’s also responsible for issuing final judgments on civil and criminal cases unrelated to constitutional matters. You may often hear this court referred to as the Federal Court of Appeals. Among other functions, the STJ domesticates foreign judgments.

Each state has its own Tribunal de Justiça (TJ). In São Paulo, for example, the abbreviation is TJSP. In Rio, it’s the TJRJ. These are state courts of appeals that hear civil, family and criminal cases.

At the lowest level of the legal system are the trial courts. When you file a lawsuit, a judge will analyze and decide the case. If you disagree with the decision, then you can appeal to the TJ.

Finally, there are subject matter courts, such as labor law and military law courts.

While the court system in Brazil is complex, we hope this article gives you the guidance you need if you ever have to file a lawsuit in Brazil.