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This paper analyses the work and management activities carried out by the chief magistrates. They are responsible for both management and work organization, and for launching managerial orientations, like other “middle managers in the public service”. On one hand, in addition to regulating the flow and stock of cases, they have budgetary and human resources. A strong centralization persists despite the discourses favorable to the autonomy of local actors. On the other hand, heads of court act as change makers. These magistrates differently appropriate their role depending on the court characteristics; the type of magistracy (judges or prosecutors); their own interest for management and their previous professional experiences.