réttarkerfinu

Réttarkerfið, or the legal system of Iceland, encompasses the institutions, laws and procedures through which justice is administered. It is founded on the Constitution of Iceland and is characterized by the rule of law, separation of powers and protection of individual rights. The system covers legislation enacted by the Alþingi, the application of those laws by courts, and the enforcement of decisions by public authorities.

The judicial branch is independent and is the core of rettarkerfið. The main components are the district courts (Héraðsdómstólar), which handle most civil and criminal cases at first instance; the Court of Appeal (Landsréttur), which reviews more significant or contested decisions from the district courts; and the Supreme Court (Hæstiráttur), the highest court that handles cassation and fundamental legal questions. The judiciary operates under the supervision of the Ministry of Justice, but judicial decisions themselves are independent of political influence.

Public prosecution and police are separate from the courts. Crimes are investigated by the police, and prosecutions are led by the State Prosecutor’s office (ríkissaksóknari) and local prosecutors, who bring cases before the courts. Civil and administrative disputes follow established procedures for presentation of evidence, hearing of witnesses, and defense rights. The legal process emphasizes a fair and timely trial, public proceedings where appropriate, and access to legal counsel. Legal aid and interpretation services are available to ensure equal access to justice.

Iceland’s rettarkerfi also interacts with international law, including the European Convention on Human Rights. While Iceland is not a member of the European Union, it participates in the European Economic Area and adheres to relevant international human rights standards, shaping the protection of rights within its justice system.