Granito Boneli

Labor enforcement: TRT-15 ruling reinforces limits of liability for former partners

A decision by the 1st Panel of the Regional Labor Court of the 15th Region (TRT-15) brought an important point of attention for business owners and managers by exempting a former partner from liability in a labor enforcement case due to the expiration of the legal period following her withdrawal from the company.

In the case under review, the former partner had already formally disassociated from the company and had surpassed the time limit established by law for holding her liable. As a result, the court ruled that she could not be held responsible for labor debts that arose or were enforced beyond that time frame. The decision reinforces the application of Article 10-A of the Brazilian Labor Code (CLT), which sets a maximum period of two years for the potential liability of a withdrawing partner.

For entrepreneurs, the ruling highlights the importance of properly formalizing corporate changes, maintaining updated records with the Commercial Registry, and observing legal deadlines as a way to reduce future asset-related risks. It also signals greater legal certainty for those entering or exiting business partnerships.

TRT-15’s interpretation reinforces that liability in labor enforcement cases is not unlimited and must comply with clear legal criteria, contributing to a more predictable business environment that is less exposed to unforeseen liabilities.

Read the full article:
https://trt15.jus.br/noticia/2026/1a-camara-afasta-responsabilidade-de-ex-socia-em-execucao-trabalhista-apos-prazo-legal