Dr. Zema presents the Tripartite Theory of Delinquency: a new way to understand crime in Brazil

A Brazilian criminal lawyer with over 15 years of experience introduces the Tripartite Theory of Delinquency, soon to be published as a book and already drawing the attention of experts, public security policymakers, lawyers, and academic researchers worldwide

Criminal lawyer José Maria da Silva Filho, known as Dr. Zema, has established himself as a reference among jurists, academics and public security specialists. With a solid career in the Court of the Jury, where he acts as a respected and eloquent tribune, Dr. Zema is now considered one of the most experienced voices in criminal advocacy in Rio de Janeiro.

Combining mastery of legal dynamics with sensitivity to the human aspects of criminality, he introduces a new theoretical proposal to the country: the Tripartite Theory of Delinquency (TTD). The concept is already being debated in academic circles, conferences and legal forums, and is set to be published as a book in the coming months.

The TTD is based on a direct yet profound premise: criminal behavior arises when three internal safeguards fail simultaneously — morality, shame and fear. These elements belong not only to the legal or religious spheres but are part of every individual’s emotional and social structure. When eroded, they leave a person vulnerable, without ethical guidance, social bonds or an awareness of consequences.

“Crime itself is the final symptom. The collapse happened earlier, when the individual no longer distinguishes right from wrong, no longer fears social judgment and no longer dreads what might happen,” says Dr. Zema.

The theory was not developed in isolation within academia but is the result of years of real-world observation, through direct contact with defendants accused of homicide, members of criminal organizations, militias and also victims. For Zema, crime is not merely a legal fact but the ultimate manifestation of a slow process of internal erosion — a collapse of belonging, empathy and emotional structure.

The proposal is already being discussed in specialized forums, compliance panels, community leadership meetings and parliamentary offices. Its approach avoids both reductionism and polarization: it does not advocate blind punishment, nor does it romanticize the criminal. Instead, it proposes the restoration of social consciousness as a long-term security policy.

“We can keep filling prisons, or we can start restoring consciences,” the author summarizes.

In addition to being a lawyer, Dr. Zema is a former activist, digital influencer and political analyst, with a strong presence on social media and in public debates. At 49, married and the father of three children, he carries the values of his family and the intellectual legacy of his father, Maestro José Maria da Silva (in memoriam), and his mother, Dona Argentina.

This entire ethical, emotional and life experience informs the theory that now seeks to impact not only the field of law but also Brazilian culture, education and criminal policy.

The final version of the Tripartite Theory of Delinquency is currently undergoing editorial revision. According to Dr. Zema, it is not just a book, but a manifesto for a more conscious, structured and safer society.

Follow Dr. Joabs Sobrinho on Instagram for exclusive insights, professional updates, and expert legal commentary. Stay connected and informed!
👉 Instagram @dr.zemaoficial

See one of the articles about Dr. Zema and the Tripartite Theory of Delinquency

Jornal Renascer Entre o medo e a empatia: Dr. Zema defende que liberdade só existe com consciência moral

Teoria Tríplice da Delinquência | Proposta do Dr Zema que propõe conter o crime antes que ele aconteça - DF Soberano

Dr. Zema lança teoria que propõe frear a delinquência por dentro