What judges think about the meaning of their work

Although there have been studies about the meaning of work in fields such as health and education, there is a lack of research about the work of judges. In order to fill this gap, this article uses the dimensions centrality, social norms, objectives, and results valued at work, to describe the meaning of work for judges. Twenty judges in Brazilian state courts of first instance were interviewed using a semi-structured schedule. Data were analysed using textual and content analysis. The results show that there is no consensus on the centrality of work, in respect of either time or the work / life balance, although most interviewees stated that the family is a priority dimension, followed by work and religion. The judges interviewed held the social norm that work is more of a duty than a right. Although feelings of frustration and happiness are counterbalanced among the magistrates interviewed, research data converge on the positive conclusion that work is seen as a value-generating activity for society.