The present article makes a reflection upon the role of the Sociology of Law on understanding the operation of the legislative activity, in order to analyze rationality and the probable effects of Law N. 11.340/06 (Maria da Penha Law). One concluded that, instead of moving forward and developing alternative mechanisms for the administration of conflicts, possibly more effective to reduce violence, once more, one recurred to the myth of the penal protection, in this case, a manifestation of the same culture one intended to combat.
juridical sociology; gender-based violence; Law N. 11.340/06