Réttarvernd

Réttarvernd is an Icelandic legal term that translates to "legal protection" or "due process." It encompasses the fundamental rights and guarantees that an individual is entitled to when involved in legal proceedings. This concept is central to the Icelandic legal system, ensuring fairness and justice for all.

Key aspects of réttarvernd include the right to a fair trial, the presumption of innocence, the right to legal representation, and protection against arbitrary detention or punishment. It also covers the right to be heard, to present evidence, and to challenge the evidence presented against oneself. The principles of réttarvernd are enshrined in the Icelandic Constitution and international human rights conventions to which Iceland is a party.

The implementation of réttarvernd ensures that the state's power is exercised within legal boundaries and that individuals are treated with dignity and respect throughout the legal process. It serves as a safeguard against potential abuses of power and promotes public confidence in the administration of justice. The judiciary plays a crucial role in upholding réttarvernd by ensuring that all legal procedures adhere to established standards and that the rights of individuals are protected.