LEGAL ILLITERACY AND ITS SOCIAL AND PROCEDURAL IMPACTS: AN ANALYSIS IN THE CONTEXT OF LAW

Abstract

This article sought to discuss legal illiteracy, which refers to the phenomenon of individuals' lack of understanding of legal norms and procedures, affecting their ability to interact adequately with the legal system. This phenomenon has direct implications for legal proceedings, as the difficulty in understanding rights and duties can lead to failure to meet deadlines, errors in petitions and, often, to the loss of opportunities for adequate defense. In addition, legal illiteracy contributes to increased inequality in access to justice, since those without adequate legal knowledge are vulnerable to unfavorable court decisions. In the procedural context, the consequences can be serious, resulting in erroneous decisions and ineffectiveness in the application of justice, since the right to adversarial proceedings and full defense, fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution, are often not fully exercised. This scenario requires a critical analysis of the causes of legal illiteracy, such as the lack of formal education and the complexity of legal language. Overcoming this barrier involves adopting measures that promote accessible legal education and strengthening legal guidance practices. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, can understand their rights and act effectively in the judicial process, promoting more equitable and efficient access to justice.