agrav

Agrav is a shorthand term used in Portuguese-language legal practice to refer to agravo, a procedural remedy used to challenge certain judicial decisions before the final judgment. In many civil-law systems, an agravo allows a party to request review of an interlocutory decision by a higher court, without waiting for the entire appeal to progress.

Etymology and scope: The noun agravo derives from Portuguese, linked to the verb agravar, meaning to burden or aggravate; in legal usage it designates a formal mechanism to intensify scrutiny of a decision. The term is widely found in Brazilian jurisprudence and legal documents; it is less common in jurisdictions that follow common-law traditions, where different terms or processes may apply.

Forms and types: The category includes several subtypes, most notably agravo de instrumento, an appeal against interlocutory decisions, and agravo regimental or interno, an appeal within the appellate court. Other forms exist in various codes and contexts, such as agravo de petição or specialized agravos in labor or tax procedures, with specific rules that vary by jurisdiction.

Procedure and practical use: An agravo is typically filed within a short period after notification of the decision, and must state the grounds for review concisely. Depending on the jurisdiction and the specific agravo, it may or may not have suspensive effect on the contested decision. The court’s ruling on the agravo determines whether the decision under review is stayed or remains in effect pending further appeal.

Geographic scope: The term agravo and its abbreviated form agrav are most common in Brazil, where civil and labor procedure codes provide detailed rules for agravo instruments. In Portugal and other Portuguese-speaking regions, related mechanisms exist but with different names and procedures; in many non-Portuguese jurisdictions, similar recourse is achieved through alternative appeal processes. See also: Appeal, Interlocutory appeal, Agravo de instrumento.