In the wake of the Banco Master scandal, which had not yet reached the Supreme Federal Court (STF), Minister Gilmar Mendes took unprecedented steps to create a protective barrier for himself and his fellow justices. Early in December, Mendes issued a unilateral decree that established rules making it more difficult for Senate impeachment proceedings against court members. This action raised eyebrows due to its timing and context, as the judiciary was facing increased scrutiny in light of emerging controversies.

Shortly after Mendes' decree, Minister Dias Toffoli escalated the situation by allowing the Banco Master case to be brought before the Supreme Court. This decision was regarded as the beginning of a series of questionable judicial outcomes, particularly as Toffoli's financial relationships with former banker Daniel Vorcaro became increasingly scrutinized. The protective measures taken by Mendes gained more attention as evidence of possible conflicts of interest surfaced, casting doubts on the integrity of the court's dealings.

In February, the court's decano ruled to suspend the investigative procedures that would have revealed banking, tax, and telematics records of the company Maridt, in which Toffoli is a partner and which had business dealings with Vorcaro's investment fund. Critics argued that numerous legal irregularities were committed to obstruct the findings approved by the Organized Crime Commission's inquiry, thus undermining the accountability of the judiciary. As these events unfolded, they indicated a troubling trend within the Brazilian judicial system and raised questions about its impartiality and adherence to the rule of law.