Legal Juice
It’s time for the Chilean lawmakers to do some housecleaning. As reported by ilovechile.cl:
A recent study by the School of Law of the Universidad Bernardo O’Higgins (UBO), listed several situations sanctioned by the Chilean Criminal Code which may appear a bit… outdated by today’s standards.
Like what?
If you are a woman who has been widowed recently, know that if you choose to rebuild your life and get remarried before 270 days (nine months) after the death of your husband, you can face criminal charges.
Zoinks. Unlikely that one’s enforced.
If you dissatisfied with the current social, economic, or political situation in the country, any decision to “ring the bells of the people” in order to encourage your countrymen to rise against the powers that be will be punished under Article 123. Remember that this is not just for bells only, but of any other “instrument to excite the people to revolt for that same purpose”, such as speeches or printed manifestos.
A bit chilling, that one. As for dueling …
Article 404 indicates that you must face “imprisonment in its minimum degree” if you challenge your opponent to a duel.
The same penalty will apply if your opponent, in a “fit of cowardice or wisdom”, refuses to participate and you decide to publicly chastise him for his denial. In addition, those who choose to participate as sponsors of the duelers are also punishable.
So, unless you just say no to a duel, you’re screwed. And finally …
Article 496 of the Penal Code punishes all those who profit from making “premonitions” or interpreting dreams. Although this practice dates back many years, is still very popular.