In the ever-evolving legal landscape of Brazil, Ana Tereza Basilio stands as a beacon of integrity, leadership, and resilience. A distinguished attorney, judge, educator, and the newly elected President of the OAB-RJ (Rio de Janeiro section of the Brazilian Bar Association), she has carved her legacy with determination and a relentless pursuit of justice.
A Calling for Justice
For Ana Tereza, law is not merely a profession—it is a life mission fueled by a deep-rooted sense of justice. “Helping people to see justice applied in their lives is extremely rewarding,” she says. Her definition of success goes beyond accolades and positions—it lies in securing fair outcomes for clients and society. This personal drive continues to shape her career as a legal practitioner and leader.
Balancing Tradition and Innovation
In today’s fast-moving world, leaders must navigate the tension between heritage and progress. Ana Tereza believes in a thoughtful balance: “We can’t innovate without respecting the past. Our traditions teach us not just values but also the mistakes we must avoid repeating.” Whether addressing modern challenges in the courtroom or embracing digital legal practices, she ensures that innovation never comes at the cost of wisdom.
Leadership in the Face of Challenges
Among her many career milestones, Ana Tereza points to her tenure as Vice-President of OAB-RJ as one of the most defining periods. Leading a diverse legal community across the state came with tremendous responsibilities—but also meaningful victories. Her leadership has always been marked by inclusion, listening, and decisive action. Today, as President, she continues this path with clarity and conviction.
The Ethical Compass
Ana Tereza’s view on ethics is clear: it’s not a complex or abstract concept. “Ethics is obedience to what is good, fair, and prioritizes society over the individual,” she says. For her, true leadership involves making decisions that balance legality, morality, and ethics—principles that transcend borders and time.
A Voice for Women in Law
As a woman navigating and rising in a traditionally male-dominated field, Ana Tereza has firsthand experience with gender-based challenges. Yet she has always turned barriers into stepping stones. Under her leadership, OAB-RJ now reflects a new chapter of inclusivity, with women in key decision-making roles. “Our struggle continues,” she affirms, “but we’ve already made history. And now, it’s about ensuring this progress is irreversible.”
The Future is Now: Mediation and Technology
According to Ana Tereza, the future of legal resolution—especially in mediation and arbitration—is not coming; it’s already here. She is a vocal supporter of using technology to improve access to justice, particularly in consumer disputes where faster, fairer solutions are needed. Virtual hearings, AI tools, and online legal environments are part of the new normal, and she embraces them as powerful tools to bring justice closer to the people.
Mentoring the Next Generation
For young professionals entering the legal field, Ana Tereza offers practical yet powerful advice: study deeply, avoid superficial learning, and stay resilient. “Law is not built on shortcuts,” she reminds us. She encourages emerging leaders to be multidisciplinary, ethical, and curious—qualities that form the backbone of a successful legal career.
Leading with Purpose
Ana Tereza doesn’t just lead—she uplifts. Whether guiding her team at Basilio Advogados, mentoring students, or driving policy change, she leads by example. “A leader must unite people towards a common purpose,” she says. Her leadership style is anchored in persistence, empathy, and the ability to inspire.
Basilio Advogados: A Legacy of Excellence
Founding Basilio Advogados in 2008 alongside her brother João Basilio remains one of her proudest achievements. Today, the firm is recognized for its strategic litigation and arbitration services, representing clients in sectors ranging from banking to healthcare. “We built a team to be proud of—highly qualified, ethical, and committed to delivering results,” she shares. Their influence spans national and international cases, a testament to their vision and consistency.
A Message to Aspiring Women Leaders
To young women dreaming of leadership, Ana Tereza offers wisdom born from experience: “Work hard. Study relentlessly. Support other women. The struggle is hard, but success will be worth it. Keep your passion and your fight alive—and nothing will be out of reach.”
Ana Tereza Basilio is more than a legal authority—she is a symbol of what purposeful leadership looks like in the modern era. Her story is not only one of personal success but also of a broader transformation in the Brazilian legal system—toward inclusion, innovation, and unwavering justice.
