Right to a Lawyer in Iceland
Reviewed by the Commoner Law Editorial Team. Sourced from Icelandic Acts of the Althingi, statutory instruments, and official guidance. Written in plain language for general understanding — this is educational content, not legal advice. Our editorial standards
What is this right?
If you are arrested or treated as a suspect, you have the right to contact a lawyer immediately.
- The right to counsel attaches from the moment you are treated as a suspect, not only after formal charge.
- An arrested person is entitled to contact a lawyer immediately following arrest.
- You are also entitled to contact next-of-kin, unless there is special reason to believe this would impede the investigation.
- If you request appointment of defence counsel and have been arrested, police must comply with that request.
- Attorney-client privilege: Seizure of property is not permitted if it contains information exchanged between a suspect and their legal counsel.
When does it apply?
- You are arrested or formally treated as a suspect in a criminal investigation.
- The right applies at all stages of the criminal process — from initial questioning through trial.
What to Do If You Are Arrested or Detained and Need a Lawyer in Iceland
- Clearly request a lawyer — state that you want legal counsel before answering questions.
- If you cannot afford a lawyer, request that one be appointed by the court.
- Cooperate with identification (name, kennitala) but decline further questions until counsel arrives.
What should you NOT do?
- Don't waive your right to a lawyer under pressure — once waived, statements made may be used against you.
- Don't discuss your case with anyone other than your lawyer — conversations with other detainees or police are not privileged.
Common Questions
When can I ask for a lawyer in Iceland?
Immediately. The right to counsel attaches from the moment you are treated as a suspect, not only after formal charge. An arrested person is entitled to contact a lawyer immediately following arrest under Article 70 of the Constitution and the Criminal Procedure Act. If you request appointed defence counsel and have been arrested, police must comply with that request.
Can I contact my family if I'm arrested in Iceland?
Yes, generally. You are entitled to contact next-of-kin following arrest, unless there is special reason to believe this would impede the investigation. The police must document any denial of this contact. Request both a lawyer and family contact clearly. Clearly request a lawyer and state you want counsel before answering any questions.
Is my conversation with my Icelandic lawyer confidential?
Yes. Attorney-client privilege is protected — seizure of property is not permitted if it contains information exchanged between a suspect and their legal counsel. Do not discuss your case with anyone other than your lawyer; conversations with other detainees or police are not privileged. If you cannot afford a lawyer, request that one be appointed by the court.
When does it apply — right to a lawyer?
You are arrested or formally treated as a suspect in a criminal investigation.The right applies at all stages of the criminal process — from initial questioning through trial.
What should I do if I am arrested and want to speak to a lawyer in Iceland?
Clearly request a lawyer — state that you want legal counsel before answering questions.If you cannot afford a lawyer, request that one be appointed by the court.Cooperate with identification (name, kennitala) but decline further questions until counsel arrives.
What should you NOT do — right to a lawyer?
Don't waive your right to a lawyer under pressure — once waived, statements made may be used against you.Don't discuss your case with anyone other than your lawyer — conversations with other detainees or police are not privileged.