rannsóknaraðilar

Rannsóknaraðili, in Icelandic legal use, refers to the party responsible for conducting investigations into suspected crimes. It designates the authority or person that leads the investigation, gathers evidence, and coordinates the inquiry. In most cases, the police or the public prosecutor's office acts as the investigating authority.

Role and powers: The investigating authority determines what lines of inquiry to pursue, requests warrants, collects documents and data, interviews witnesses and suspects, arranges expert assessments, and prepares case material for prosecutorial decision. They must operate within the law, respect fundamental rights, and maintain a clear chain of custody for evidence.

Procedure and oversight: In ordinary criminal cases, the police initiate the inquiry and later hand it to the prosecutor, or the prosecutor may designate investigators. In complex matters, specialized units or independent investigators may be appointed. The work is subject to judicial oversight and procedural safeguards under Icelandic criminal procedure and data protection rules.

Terminology and context: Rannsóknaraðili is not a fixed job title; it refers to the entity performing investigation duties in a given case. The term can encompass police investigators, prosecutors acting in a supervisory capacity, or other authorities empowered to conduct investigations.