Brazilian courts issue rulings on parental rights and socio-affective filiation

In separate legal developments in Brazil, courts have addressed complex family law matters regarding parental relationships.

A court in Araquari, Santa Catarina, rejected a father's request to recognize parental alienation by the mother of his children. While a psychological evaluation found that the children were suffering emotionally due to conflicts between the adults, including the father, the mother, and a stepmother, the judge ruled there was no evidence of intentional interference by the mother to undermine the father-child relationship. The court recommended maintaining shared custody to preserve the children's bonds.

In Acre, the Court of Justice (TJAC) unanimously recognized socio-affective filiation between a woman and her late stepfather. Following more than 30 years of coexistence, the Second Civil Chamber determined that the evidence—including documents, videos, and witness testimony—demonstrated a true father-daughter relationship. This ruling allows for the recognition of legal parenthood based on established emotional bonds, even after the death of the parental figure.