OAB requests presidential veto of Brazil's Federal Justice fee reform

The Federal Council of the Brazilian Bar Association (OAB) and its 27 sectional councils have formally requested that President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva veto Bill 429/2024. The legislation proposes a restructuring of the Federal Justice fee system and the creation of the Special Fund of the Federal Justice (Fejufe).

The OAB argues that the bill could significantly hinder access to justice by increasing costs. Under the proposed model, fees for general civil actions could rise from the current 1% of the case value to 3%, with a potential cap reaching R$ 107,332.80, adjusted annually by the IPCA. The entity expressed concern that these financial obstacles would disproportionately affect workers, retirees, self-employed professionals, micro-entrepreneurs, and middle-income families who do not qualify for full legal aid but cannot afford high upfront costs.

Additionally, the OAB criticized the rapid pace of the legislative process. The Senate approved a substitute text under an urgency regime on August 11, which was quickly processed through the Chamber of Deputies and sent for presidential sanction. The OAB is calling for a veto to allow for further debate involving the legal profession and civil society.