Rettlæti

Rettlæti is an Icelandic term that denotes the state or quality of being in accordance with the law. In practice, it refers to legality—the idea that actions, decisions, and processes have legitimate legal authority, follow established statutes, and conform to constitutional norms.

In public law, rettlæti functions as a standard for the exercise of public power. Government agencies and courts rely on rettlæti to ensure that powers are exercised within the bounds set by law, that procedures are lawful and transparent, and that decisions are reasoned and justifiable. Judicial review often uses rettlæti as a test: whether an act is intra vires, whether statutory requirements have been met, and whether due process and other procedural rules were observed.

Rettlæti is closely linked to the rule of law and the principle of legality. It provides a framework for assessing administrative acts, licensing decisions, and enforcement measures, ensuring that public actions can be challenged when they overstep legal authority or violate statutory procedures. This concept also consolidates the predictability and accountability of government actions.

Limitations and critiques note that legality alone does not guarantee justice or fairness in substance. A decision can be legal yet undesirable or rights-violating, while some morally warranted actions may stretch or depart from strict legal formalities. In practice, rettlæti is often balanced with considerations of rights, proportionality, and policy objectives.

See also: rule of law, due process, ultra vires, legality principle, administrative law.