The first of three courts of justice

The District Courts are the first of three judicial instances in Iceland. Their decisions can be appealed to either the National Court or the Supreme Court.

Eight district courts

There are eight District Courts in Iceland and they all have local jurisdiction.

Referees

There are 42 judges in the district courts and they are appointed for an indefinite period. The Judical Administration decides which district judges have a permanent seat. Three of the district judges do not have a permanent seat (travelling judges).

Legal experts may be appointed for five years to assist judges.

Directors

The Judical Administration appoints a chief judge at each district court, which hires other employees than judges. In addition to the practice of the court, the chief judge is the director of the district court and is responsible for its operations.