A Justiça no banco dos réus: o caso Bernardo Boldrini e os desafios da aplicação da Lei penal ao filicídio

This paper aims to examine the phenomenon of filicide within the Brazilian legal framework, with a focus on the high-profile case of Bernardo Boldrini, murdered in 2014 by his father and accomplices. The study investigates whether the Brazilian penal system is adequate for the punishment and prevention of such crimes, especially in light of the lack of a specific legal classification for filicide. Using an exploratory methodology based on literature review, the research analyzes the historical, social, and legal aspects of this crime, addressing its current legal treatment and the shortcomings in the protection system that failed to prevent Bernardo’s death. The case is contextualized within national and international legal perspectives, revealing how other countries provide stricter legais frameworks for intrafamily homicides. The results show that the Brazilian response is largely reactive, with limited preventive mechanisms. The study concludes by recommending the creation of a specific criminal offense for filicide and the strengthening of public policies and interinstitutional strategies to ensure the full protection of children and adolescents, in accordance with constitutional principles.