Rettfræðinám

Rettfræðinám, also known as legal studies or law school, refers to the academic and professional education required to become a lawyer in Iceland. This path typically begins with a four-year Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) degree from a university in Iceland, such as the University of Iceland or Bifröst University. This undergraduate program provides a foundational understanding of various legal fields, including constitutional law, criminal law, contract law, and tort law.

Upon completion of the LL.B. degree, aspiring lawyers must undertake a two-year period of practical legal training, known as starfsþjálfun. This training is usually conducted in law firms, government offices, or other legal institutions, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in legal practice under the supervision of experienced legal professionals.

Following the successful completion of both the academic and practical components, individuals must pass a final examination administered by the Icelandic Bar Association to be admitted to the bar. Once admitted, they are qualified to practice law as attorneys (lögmenn) in Iceland. The field of rettfræðinám is rigorous, demanding a strong analytical mind, excellent communication skills, and a deep commitment to justice and ethical conduct. Continuous professional development is also expected of practicing lawyers.