Viðurlög

Viðurlög, translated as sanctions or penalties, are legal measures imposed in response to violations of law, regulation, or contract. They aim to punish wrongdoing, deter future violations, and promote compliance and public safety. The term covers a broad range of mechanisms and is used in criminal, administrative, civil, and international contexts.

Criminal sanctions include imprisonment, fines, community service, and other penalties imposed through criminal proceedings. Administrative sanctions are imposed by regulatory or government agencies and may include fines, license suspensions, operating prohibitions, or other restrictions. Civil or contractual sanctions refer to consequences for breach of contract or wrongdoing in civil matters, such as damages, liquidated damages, or performance penalties.

Determination and due process are central to the use of viðurlög. In most jurisdictions, sanctions are decided by courts or competent authorities and must respect due process, proportionality, and non-discrimination. Affected individuals typically have rights of defense and appeal. Enforcement requires clear legal authority, defined criteria, and transparent procedures, with safeguards to prevent arbitrary use.

International sanctions form an important dimension of the concept. Beyond national law, viðurlög describe measures imposed by states or international bodies against other states, organizations, or individuals. They often include embargoes, asset freezes, travel bans, and financial restrictions. Such measures are usually coordinated through international law and institutions, and may carry humanitarian exemptions or conditions for easing restrictions.

Relation to other concepts: sanctions are distinct from civil remedies such as damages but are designed to enforce compliance, deter unacceptable conduct, and uphold the rule of law. They operate across domestic and international spheres and are continually adapted to evolving legal and political contexts.