Analysis of efficiency and productivity of Brazilian federal regional courts: a quantitative approach with 2023 data

Abstract The efficiency and productivity of the Brazilian federal regional courts are crucial for strengthening the Rule of Law and the socioeconomic development of Brazil. This study quantitatively analyzes the efficiency of the Brazilian federal regional courts based on updated 2023 data extracted from the “Justice in Numbers” report by the National Council of Justice of Brazil. Indicators such as the number of new cases, case completion rate, expenses relative to Gross Domestic Product, and the number of judges per 100,000 inhabitants were examined. Using statistical techniques like Analysis of Variance, Spearman’s correlation, and multiple linear regression, the results indicate that the overload of new cases negatively affects the courts’ efficiency. Additionally, higher expenses relative to Gross Domestic Product are not necessarily associated with greater judicial efficiency. Although the availability of judges showed a positive trend in efficiency, it was not sufficient on its own. The study concludes that a more balanced and efficient management of human and financial resources, as well as the adoption of modern management practices and technologies, is necessary to improve the efficiency of the federal regional courts. Future research should incorporate longitudinal analyses and additional variables for a more comprehensive understanding.