Two guardianship councilors from the municipality of Otacilio Costa were suspended from their positions due to “conduct incompatible with the profession.” One was charged with voting and voter incitement, while the other was found guilty of offering alcoholic beverages to a minor.

Two guardianship lawyers were removed from their positions in the Investigative Committee – Photo: Reproduction/ND

The case of alleged withdrawal took place during the last elections to the Board of Trustees in October of this year. According to Law No. 9504 of 1997, penalties range from 6 months to 1 year in prison plus a fine.

A lawyer convicted of offering alcohol to a minor no longer has the opportunity to appeal his conviction. The crime falls under Law no. 13.106/2015, which provides for a prison sentence of two to four years and a fine of three to ten thousand reais.

According to the MPSC (Ministry of State of Santa Catarina) last Wednesday (21), requests for deletion were registered in various public civil actions (ACP).

The role of guardianship consultants

Under the ECA (Children and Adolescents Act), the Guardianship Council and its members have a duty to provide assistance to children and adolescents whose rights have been violated or are at risk.

Board of Guardians – Photo: Daniel Queiroz Archive/ND

The Guardianship Consultant is also responsible for facilitating escalation of situations to parents or guardians during the custodial period.