THE FEDERAL SUPREME COURT AND THE OUTCOMES OF CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS OF MEMBERS OF THE LEGISLATIVE AND EXECUTIVE BRANCHES IN BRAZIL (2004-2015)

Abstract

This article aims to analyze the institutional performance of the Brazilian´s Federal Supreme Court (STF), in its criminal jurisdiction, that is, in the investigation of inquiries instituted, in the period 2004 - 2015, against possible crimes committed by elected politicians, both from the legislative branch. (Federal Deputies and Senators), as well as the executive branch (Presidents and Ministers of State), which are assessed under the prerogative of function (Privileged Forum). The problem being examined is whether there is a low number of inquiries concluded within the prescribed period or that reached the statute of limitations, which would result in impunity in the Brazilian political system.