Choosing a lawyer can make a real difference to the outcome of your case. The right lawyer knows the law and has handled cases like yours before. If you are new to Iceland, there are a few extra points worth checking.
Start by defining your case
First work out which area of law your case belongs to. Many Icelandic lawyers focus on specific fields: some mainly handle criminal cases, others family and inheritance law or property matters.
If you are not sure, look through the list of practice areas. Each page explains what the field covers.
Check the lawyer's rights of audience
Icelandic lawyers hold different rights of audience, which decide the courts they may appear before. A district court attorney (héraðsdómslögmaður) can argue cases before the district courts, while a Supreme Court attorney (hæstaréttarlögmaður) can appear before every court.
For most matters a district court attorney is enough. We explain the titles in more detail in the difference between lawyer titles in Iceland.
Experience with similar cases
Ask about the lawyer's experience with cases like yours. Someone who regularly handles similar matters knows both the legal rules and the practical side, which matters most in complex cases.
Every listing in our directory shows the lawyer's practice areas, so you can shortlist people who work in the right field.
Language
Court proceedings in Iceland are held in Icelandic, but most lawyers speak good English and many firms regularly advise foreign clients. Ask in your first message whether the lawyer can work with you in English or another language you are comfortable with.
If your case goes to court or involves the police, you are generally entitled to an interpreter.
Location
You can work with a lawyer anywhere in the country, and much of the communication can be done by email and video call. Still, many people prefer a lawyer in their own region, which makes meetings easier when a case requires regular contact.
The first meeting and fees
Many lawyers offer a first meeting to review your situation. Use it to judge whether the lawyer understands your case, explains things clearly and is someone you feel comfortable working with.
Ask about fees from the start: whether you pay by the hour or a fixed price, and what the total is likely to be. Remember that lawyers' fees in Iceland include 24% VAT. Read more in how much a lawyer costs in Iceland.
Trust and communication
You will share sensitive information with your lawyer and rely on their advice, so trust matters. Choose someone who listens, answers your questions and keeps you informed about progress.
Start your search
Browse lawyers by practice area or by region, compare their rights of audience and contact them directly using the details in each listing.