Brazil's Superior Court addresses vehicle sale liability

The Superior Court of Justice (STJ) in Brazil is reviewing Tema 1324, a legal issue regarding the liability of vehicle sellers for administrative and traffic infractions committed after a sale if the transfer is not communicated to the relevant traffic authorities.

The case involves a tax execution where a party challenged a fine issued by the National Land Transport Agency (ANTT) for evading a weighing station, arguing they were no longer the owner. The court is examining the distinction between the civil effects of selling movable property and the administrative obligations established by Article 134 of the Brazilian Traffic Code (CTB), which requires the communication of vehicle transfers to the National Registry of Motor Vehicles (RENAVAM).