álitamál

Álitamál is a term used in Icelandic administrative and constitutional law to refer to a question of legal interpretation that is referred to a higher authority for an advisory opinion. The word is derived from Icelandic álit ("opinion") and mál ("matter" or "case").

In practice, álítamál arise when a government body, such as a ministry or the Alþingi (parliament), seeks guidance on whether proposed legislation or public actions are compatible with the constitution or with existing statutes. The request is directed to the appropriate authority, commonly the Supreme Court of Iceland (hæstiréttur) or another designated constitutional organ, depending on the legal framework at issue.

An álitamál results in an advisory opinion that analyzes the legal questions and sets out reasons and possible interpretations. The opinion is usually non-binding but carries persuasive force and can influence legislative drafting, administrative practice, and subsequent judicial interpretation. The process aims to clarify constitutional and legal standards and to prevent uncertainty in governance.

See also

- Advisory opinion

- Icelandic Constitution

- Supreme Court of Iceland

- Constitutional law