Brazil's Supreme Court ruled unanimously on Wednesday to significantly expand the scope of the country's landmark law to protect women from violence.
Legislation that was for two decades applied to domestic incidents, as in many other nations including the United States, can now be triggered outdoors. Brazil's top court also decided that the attackers should be put on trial even if they have no family or sentimental connection to the victim.
All 10 members of the court voted to extend the application of the Maria da Penha law for situations such as persecution, threats and harassment outside the home.
