Law 11.340 / 06, known as Maria da Penha Law, has been named in honor of Maria da Penha Maia Fernandes, who fought for twenty years to see your abuser arrested.

On August 7, 2006 Law No. 11.340, it was enacted and entered into force on 22 September 2006, 45 days after its publication.

The Maria da Penha Law, provides protective measures to women victims of violence, physical, moral or psychological.