WHY 18 YEARS? POINTS AND COUNTERPOINTS ABOUT REDUCING THE AGE OF MAJORITY IN BRAZIL

Abstract

This study addresses the issue of lowering the age of criminal responsibility and its legal consequences. The purpose is to make a brief legal analysis of the subject, highlighting the aspects that impede its execution. First, the topic was approached through an analysis of the age of criminal responsibility over time, the provisions that address the issue in Brazil, and culpability. Next, the most significant aspects of the care given to children and adolescents were highlighted. Finally, the issue of the increase in crime among young people, the arguments for and against lowering the age of criminal responsibility, as well as the legislative attempt to lower the age of criminal responsibility in Brazil were discussed. This study was based on bibliographical research, using articles, books, and academic papers. The logical and systematic method was used in its preparation. The research, based on arguments for and against lowering the age of criminal responsibility, revealed a wide divergence of views on the topic. It discovered that it is unfeasible, because, instead of solving a problem, it would cause a series of aggravating factors. In view of the study that we intend to carry out, the issues to be discussed are the positive and negative points of reducing the age of criminal responsibility in Brazil.