réttarfarið

Réttarfarið is an Icelandic term that translates to "legal proceedings" or "due process." It encompasses the entire system and procedures by which legal matters are handled in Iceland, from investigation and prosecution to trial and sentencing. This includes the rights and obligations of individuals involved in the legal system, whether as plaintiffs, defendants, witnesses, or legal representatives.

The Icelandic legal system is based on civil law traditions, with a strong emphasis on written law and established procedures. Réttarfarið ensures that all legal actions are conducted fairly, impartially, and in accordance with the constitution and applicable statutes. This involves principles such as the presumption of innocence, the right to a fair trial, the right to legal counsel, and the right to a public hearing.

Key institutions involved in réttarfarið include the police, the prosecutor's office, the courts, and correctional services. The process typically begins with a police investigation, followed by a decision from the prosecutor on whether to press charges. If a case goes to trial, it is heard by a judge or a panel of judges, and evidence is presented by both the prosecution and the defense. Réttarfarið aims to provide a clear and predictable framework for resolving disputes and upholding justice within Icelandic society.