Access to labor justice after the 2017 labor reform: a study on the reduction of lawsuits in the labor courts of Porto Velho and its impact on the effectiveness of labor rights.

Abstract

This study analyzes the impact of the Labor Reform (Law No. 13.467/2017) on access to Labor Justice, with a specific focus on the Labor Courts of Porto Velho, Rondônia. The general objective is to investigate the causes of the reduction in the number of labor lawsuits in the capital of Rondônia and to verify whether this phenomenon compromises the effectiveness of workers' fundamental rights. The methodology adopted consists of bibliographic and documentary research, of a quantitative and qualitative nature, using statistical data from the Regional Labor Court of the 14th Region (TRT-14) and jurisprudential analysis, with emphasis on ADI 5766. Preliminary results indicate that the introduction of success fees and the requirement for liquidation of claims have had an inhibitory effect on the filing of new lawsuits. It is concluded that, although the reform sought greater speed and a reduction in litigation, the economic barriers imposed may constitute an indirect restriction on the constitutional right of access to justice, demanding a humanized interpretation of the current rules to ensure the social protection of workers in Porto Velho.