If there is more than one courtroom, information can be obtained in the court's reception. Information also appears on a screen in reception.

The District Courts of West Iceland, the Westfjords, Northwest Iceland, East Iceland and South Iceland have only one courtroom.

There are more courtrooms in the District Courts of Reykjanes and Northeast Iceland, and the Reykjavík District Court has by far the most courtrooms. There are four courtrooms in the Court of Appeal and two in the Supreme Court.

Accessibility issues

It is the policy of the Judicial Administration to try to ensure easy access to courts and within courts as far as possible. It is recommended that those who need assistance with access bring an escort to the courthouse. It is recommended to call the relevant courthouse before attending to make appropriate arrangements.

Punctuality is important

It is good to allow for ample time to get to the courtroom.

Witnesses

Witnesses always wait outside the courtroom while other witnesses testify. This is done to prevent witnesses from hearing their testimony. It is important that witnesses arrive at the courthouse on time to be able to enter the courtroom when the judge requests.

What does a courtroom look like?

Courtrooms do not all look the same, but their layout is the same.

Who sits where?

In the middle is a judge, or judges if there are more than one.

Witnesses sit in front of the judge.

At the table on the left side of the room, seen from the witness, sit:

• the plaintiff and the lawyer of the plaintiff, in a civil case

• the accuser and the victim's legal representative, in a criminal case

At a table on the right side of the room, seen from the witness, sit:

• the defendant the defence lawyer

Lawyers sit closer to the judges’ table than their clients.

A virtual reality courtroom

A virtual reality courtroom has been designed to assist victims in preparing for the hearing in court. The facility is located at Skúlagata 21 at the National Commissioner of the Icelandic Police. Inquiries about access must be sent to statum@statum.is.