Established by the Constitution of 1988, the Superior Court of Justice (STJ) is a pivotal institution in Brazil that aims to unify the interpretation of federal laws, ensuring consistency in the judiciary's application of legislation across similar cases. This high court not only addresses civil and criminal cases from both State and Federal Justice but is also tasked with adjudicating criminal actions involving state governors and representatives from state courts. Recently, the STJ has gained attention for its decision to suspend Minister Marco Buzzi over accusations of sexual harassment, highlighting ongoing issues within the judiciary regarding misconduct.

The STJ consists of 33 ministers who are appointed by the President of Brazil from a list of three candidates presented by the court itself. This selection process mandates that appointees must be between the ages of 35 and 70 and possess a distinguished legal expertise along with an impeccable reputation. Furthermore, before assuming their roles, these individuals must pass a thorough examination in the Senate, ensuring that only qualified professionals serve on this critical judicial body.

The relevance of the STJ extends beyond mere legal interpretation; it shapes the landscape of Brazilian law and governance. As it presides over significant cases, including those involving high-ranking officials, the court's decisions can have far-reaching implications for political accountability and legal standards across the nation. The recent controversies, particularly regarding ministerial conduct, have reignited discussions about judicial integrity and the importance of maintaining robust ethical standards in the judiciary.