Héraðsdómar

Héraðsdómar are the district courts of Iceland, the courts of first instance in the Icelandic judiciary. They handle most civil and criminal cases, including family law, contracts and property disputes, administrative matters, and various supervisory or preliminary duties in criminal proceedings. They also deal with juvenile cases and certain small-claims matters, and can issue interim orders in civil or administrative cases.

Organization and jurisdiction: Iceland is divided into several district courts that operate across the country. Each court is led by a district court judge or a panel of judges and may involve lay assessors in some cases. District courts apply Icelandic law and procedural rules and usually issue written judgments. They conduct trials in civil and criminal matters and may participate in certain administrative proceedings or preliminary investigations as required by law.

Appeal and higher courts: Decisions of district courts can be appealed to Landsréttur, the Court of Appeal, and, in limited cases, to Hæstiréttur, the Supreme Court. This creates a three-tier structure: district courts at first instance, an intermediate appellate court, and the supreme court for final review.

History and reform: The district courts have long formed the backbone of Iceland’s judiciary. A major reform came with the establishment of Landsréttur in 2012, creating a clearer appellate path while preserving the district courts as the primary entry point for litigation.

Role and scope: As the main entry point for much of Icelandic justice, héraðsdómar handle a broad range of civil and criminal matters, guiding disputes through the legal process at the regional level and ensuring access to judicial remedies for individuals and organizations.