Abstract
OBJECTIVES: to reflect on aspects of the legal system that involve situations of ethical dilemmas and illegal acts applied in legal proceedings related to nursing professionals. METHODS: theoretical-reflective essay anchored in conceptions issued by a Brazilian nursing class body, based on technical opinions, in articulation with examples extracted from judges of the Superior Court of Justice. RESULTS: the legal sources demonstrated the need to support nursing practices through a due and clear understanding of the notions addressed. Indeed, ethical dilemmas linked to professional practice usually refer to the psychological impact of having to act differently from what feels morally, ethically, or professionally appropriate. FINAL CONSIDERATIONS: the reflection was guided by conceptual and legal issues involving nursing practice, pointing to the need to monitor the effects of legal disorder caused by current legislation, which may have implications for the legal security of professionals.