Department of Law
Department of Law
Dean:Eiríkur Elís Þorláksson
Email:ru@ru.is
Website:http://www.ru.is/ld
TeachersView
BA in Law
BA in Law
Semesters:6
Years:3
ETCS:180
About majorAðaleinkenni laganámsins við HR er hversu verkefnatengt það er. Nemendur læra að tileinka sér sjálfstæð og skipulögð vinnubrögð til að leysa úr álitaefnum með rökstuddum hætti. Nemendur takast á við fjölbreytt og áhugaverð viðfangsefni lögfræðinnar og byggja upp traustan fræðilegan grunn.
Learning OutcomesView
Education cycle1
Degree titleBA in Law
Research – theoretical writing – legal argumentation CoreL-000-UNDBECTS 0
Year1. year
Semester
Level of courseN/A
Type of courseCore
PrerequisitesNo prerequisites.
ScheduleNo schedule found.
Lecturer
No lecturer found.
Content
No content found.
Learning outcome - Objectives
No objectives found.
Course assessment
No assessment found.
Reading material
No reading material found.
Teaching and learning activities
No activities found.
Language of instructionNo language found.
Methodology CoreL-101-ADF1ECTS 8
Year1. year
SemesterFall 2024
Level of course6. Second cycle, advanced
Type of courseCore
PrerequisitesNo prerequisites.
ScheduleFive lectures each week, along with dedicated discussion classes and project work in the middle of the semester.
Lecturer
No lecturer found.
Content
The course will deal in detail with legal sources and their use in solving legal questions and with legal interpretation (construction). Substantial emphasis will be placed on having students acquire an understanding of the nature and importance of individual sources, their interaction and importance for reaching a legal conclusion in individual disputes. Instruction will be based on case law wherever possible to illustrate individual aspects and main emphasis is placed on training students in independent and critical working practices (methods) in using and applying legal sources.
Learning outcome - Objectives
On completion of the course students should: •know the principal characteristics of the Icelandic legal system. •know and understand the various types of legal sources, their importance and interrelation in solving practical problems. •know the materials used for legal interpretation (construction). •know the methods of legal interpretation (construction) and perspectives followed in the interpretation (construction) of law.
Course assessment
Practical assignment (40%), written mid-term examination (20%) and written final examination (40%). Students must obtain a minimum grade of 6,0 to pass this course.
Reading material
No reading material found.
Teaching and learning activities
Lectures and discussion classes.
Language of instructionIcelandic
Constitutional Law CoreL-102-STSRECTS 8
Year1. year
SemesterFall 2024
Level of courseN/A
Type of courseCore
PrerequisitesNo prerequisites.
ScheduleNo schedule found.
Lecturer
No lecturer found.
Content
 This course examines fundamental questions in constitutional law, such as what is the foundation of government, how to secure the rights of the individual vis-à-vis the state, the role of constitutions and which rules should have constitutional status. Students will be introduced to basic concepts in constitutional law and to the Icelandic constitutional system. Amongst the things discussed will be separation of powers, democracy, parliamentary systems of government, the protection of individual rights offered by the Bill of Rights in the Icelandic constitution and by international treaties and how the state can enter into international agreements. The course will also cover the interpretation of the constitution and the effects of the constitution and of international treaties on the interpretation of general legislation.
Learning outcome - Objectives
Upon completion of the course, students should understand fundamental doctrines and ideas in constitutional law and their influence and be able to describe those doctrines and compare them. Students will be acquainted with and able to describe the characteristics and development of the Icelandic constitutional system, have solid knowledge of how to find, interpret and apply human rights legislation, know the main legal rules concerning the role, organization and workings of the three branches of government and the relevant international organizations and have received some training in how to find legal sources and apply legal rules.
Course assessment
Practical assignment (40%), written mid-term examination (20%), written final examination (40%). Further information will be posted on the class website before teaching begins.
Reading material
No reading material found.
Teaching and learning activities
Short sessions on each topic, consisting of a few lectures and of discussion classes
Language of instructionIcelandic
Seeking solutions to legal problems CoreL-106-ÚRÁLECTS 6
Year1. year
SemesterFall 2024
Level of courseN/A
Type of courseCore
PrerequisitesNo prerequisites.
ScheduleThree week course taught at the end of the semester.
Lecturer
No lecturer found.
Content
No content found.
Learning outcome - Objectives
No objectives found.
Course assessment
No assessment found.
Reading material
No reading material found.
Teaching and learning activities
No activities found.
Language of instructionIcelandic
Private Law I - Contracts and general laws of obligation CoreL-115-FJM1ECTS 8
Year1. year
SemesterFall 2024
Level of courseN/A
Type of courseCore
PrerequisitesNo prerequisites.
ScheduleNo schedule found.
Lecturer
No lecturer found.
Content
No content found.
Learning outcome - Objectives
No objectives found.
Course assessment
No assessment found.
Reading material
No reading material found.
Teaching and learning activities
No activities found.
Language of instructionIcelandic
Independent Study ElectiveL-739-SJVEECTS 2
Year1. year
Semester
Level of course6. Second cycle, advanced
Type of courseElective
PrerequisitesNo prerequisites.
ScheduleNo schedule found.
Lecturer
No lecturer found.
Content
No content found.
Learning outcome - Objectives
No objectives found.
Course assessment
No assessment found.
Reading material
No reading material found.
Teaching and learning activities
No activities found.
Language of instructionNo language found.
Exchange Studies ElectiveX-699-EXCHECTS 30
Year1. year
SemesterSpring 2024
Level of courseN/A
Type of courseElective
PrerequisitesNo prerequisites.
ScheduleNo schedule found.
Lecturer
No lecturer found.
Content
No content found.
Learning outcome - Objectives
No objectives found.
Course assessment
No assessment found.
Reading material
No reading material found.
Teaching and learning activities
No activities found.
Language of instructionIcelandic
Vorönn/Spring 2024
Company Law CoreL-202-FELAECTS 8
Year1. year
SemesterSpring 2024
Level of course1. First cycle, introductory
Type of courseCore
PrerequisitesNo prerequisites.
ScheduleFive lectures a week.
Lecturer
Arnljótur Ástvaldsson
Helga Kristín Auðunsdóttir
Content
This is a basic course in company law. The course will begin with a discussion of the problems and legal sources of company law and the nature of cooperation under the corporate form, and will provide a comparison of that form with other forms of organisation and legal structures. An overview and a comparison of the features of the principal corporate forms under Icelandic law will be provided. The course places particular emphasis on public and private limited companies, as these are the most common corporate forms in Iceland. In this context, the typical company law problems that may arise in connection with the operation of a company will be addressed from both a theoretical and practical perspective, including issues relating to: (i) the features of the so-called limited liability of shareholders, including the inherent advantages and disadvantages, as well as the powers of the courts to lift the corporate veil; (ii) the founding of a company; (iii) the shares and share capital of a company, including the payment of share capital, own shares, dividend payments and loans and guarantees provided by a company in connection with the acquisition of shares; (iv) the management structure of limited companies, including the status of the board, managing director and shareholders, individually and in relation to each other; (v) the status (protection) of the creditors of a company; (vi) the financing of companies; (vii) groups of companies and related issues, including creditor protection; (viii) the merger, demerger and dissolution of companies; and (ix) the legal remedies available to parties who believe that their rights have been violated in connection with the operation of a company.
Learning outcome - Objectives
The goal is for students to acquire basic knowledge of the rules of Icelandic law governing the principal corporate forms and non-profit institutions, with particular emphasis on public and private limited companies. Students should also have acquired skills in addressing company law problems, both practical and theoretical.
Course assessment
Practical assignments, 30%, mid-term examination, 20% and a written final examination, 50%. Submission of assignments is required for taking the final examination.
Reading material
No reading material found.
Teaching and learning activities
Lectures, discussions and practical assignments.
Language of instructionIcelandic
Private Law II - General laws of obligation CoreL-205-FJA2ECTS 8
Year1. year
SemesterSpring 2024
Level of course1. First cycle, introductory
Type of courseCore
Prerequisites757,
Schedule4 lectures a week and seminars
Lecturer
Stefán A Svensson
Content
A. Performance/non-performance of an obligation This section will address the general principle of the law of obligations that for an obligation to be properly discharged it needs to be discharged (i) at the proper time (ii) in the proper place and (iii) in the proper state. Discussions will cover the rules applicable to time and place of payment. The discussion will include the concepts of late payment, late delivery and late acceptance. The rules of due dates, final due dates and earliest discharge date of claims, rules governing acceleration and principles of interest and default interest. Finally, this section will address the state of payment, which will include the rules on faults, and rules on procedural defects. B. Remedies in the event of default This section will address the legal effect of default and conditions for resorting to the various remedies available to parties to a commercial agreement. This will touch on the rules applicable to rescission, specific performance, withholding of payment, damages and discounts, as well as contractual default remedies. C. Cessation of obligations This section will discuss the rules that apply to the cessation of obligations. First, the discussion will relate to the rules applicable to payment of claims, including the permission of a party to make partial payments, rules on the right to reimbursement of overpaid amounts, and rules on escrow. Discussions will then cover rules on limitation of obligations, lapse through neglect, defective statement of claims and netting. Efforts will be made to present the content of the course in a practical form, with reference to case law and practical issues, to enable students better to understand the general principles under discussion at any time. Students will be required to prepare well for classes and to be prepared to express themselves orally concerning the judgments and material assigned each time.
Learning outcome - Objectives
The objective of the course is to provide students with a good understanding of what constitutes default in the context of commercial law and instruction in the various remedies available to parties in the event of non-performance. The course will also include a detailed study of rules on the cessation of obligations. The course is a continuation of Commercial law I.
Course assessment
Practical assignments (30%), mid-term examination (20%), written final examination (50%).
Reading material
No reading material found.
Teaching and learning activities
Lectures and discussions
Language of instructionIcelandic
Administrative Law CoreL-401-STJRECTS 8
Year1. year
SemesterSpring 2024
Level of course1. First cycle, introductory
Type of courseCore
PrerequisitesNo prerequisites.
ScheduleFive classes a week.
Lecturer
Elín Ósk Helgadóttir
Hafsteinn Dan Kristjánsson
Content
In the course of their work, lawyers frequently need to deal with the government. These relations are subject to numerous rules which need to be clearly understood. The course will provide a brief account of the structure of the administrative system and the tasks of administrative authorities. Class discussion will address the legal foundations of administrative law, its general principles and basic concepts. Special attention will be focused on the concept of ‘administrative decision’ and the parties involved in administrative issues. Administrative procedure will be addressed in some detail, as well as the effect of defective procedure. Class discussion will also address the material rules of administrative law, e.g. the viewpoints to be taken into account when authorities make a decision based on choice, as well as surveillance of administrative work and review of decisions. Finally, some account will be given of the provisions of the Information Act. This is a wide area, but extremely practical for Icelandic lawyers. The emphasis will be on relating the course material to actual issues that have come up, based on decisions of the Parliamentary Ombudsman and case law. Students will be given practical assignments toward the end of the semester.
Learning outcome - Objectives
On completion of the course students should be familiar: • with the principles of administrative law. • its legal foundation and basic concepts. • the structure of the system of government administration. • the rules of administrative procedure. • the general substantive rules of administrative law. • rules on the surveillance of administrative activities and the effect of defects on administrative decisions. • the rules of the Information Act.
Course assessment
To be announced.
Reading material
No reading material found.
Teaching and learning activities
Lectures and discussions
Language of instructionIcelandic
Methodology ElectiveL-700-ADFEECTS 0
Year1. year
SemesterSpring 2024
Level of course4. Second cycle, introductory
Type of courseElective
PrerequisitesNo prerequisites.
ScheduleTaught for 5 weeks until beg. October.Only for students that have not BA degree in Law
Lecturer
Andri Árnason
Content
The course will deal in detail with legal sources and their use in solving legal questions and with legal interpretation (construction). Substantial emphasis will be placed on having students acquire an understanding of the nature and importance of individual sources, their interaction and importance for reaching a legal conclusion in individual disputes. Instruction will be based on case law wherever possible to illustrate individual aspects and main emphasis is placed on training students in independent and critical working practices (methods) in using and applying legal sources
Learning outcome - Objectives
On completion of the course students should: •know the principal characteristics of the Icelandic legal system. •know and understand the various types of legal sources, their importance and interrelation in solving practical problems. •know the materials used for legal interpretation (construction). •know the methods of legal interpretation (construction) and perspectives followed in the interpretation (construction) of law.
Course assessment
Final oral examination (100%). Students must obtain a minimum grade point average of 6 on the oral examination.
Reading material
No reading material found.
Teaching and learning activities
Lectures and discussion classes.
Language of instructionIcelandic
Entrepreneurship and Starting New Ventures CoreX-204-STOFECTS 6
Year1. year
SemesterSpring 2024
Level of course1. First cycle, introductory
Type of courseCore
PrerequisitesNo prerequisites.
ScheduleLectures, teamwork, 2-3 weeks at the end of term are assigned as teamwork for this course.
Lecturer
Ásgeir Jónsson
Svava Björk Ólafsdóttir
Content
The course aims at developing business ideas into business opportunities and a comprehensive business plan for the new company, which is divided into four main areas: (i) business opportunities and sources - the business idea. (ii) Preparation of a business plan - a reality test. (iii) Making a business plan. (iv) Introduction to business ideas for investors.
Learning outcome - Objectives
Learning outcomes refer to the knowledge, skills and ability within Nýsköpun og stofnun fyrirtækja (e. Innovation and founding startups) that students are expected to aquire during the semester. Knowledge: •Students can identify basic terms such as Business Model, Business Plan, Grants, Seed funding, Business Angels, VC Investments, Entrepreneurship Center, Incubators, Accelerators and Startups •Students understand a typical growth path for new startups. •Students can identify the services available for new startups in Iceland in different stages up until VC investments. •Students understand where to find information about the services available for startups on the web. Skills: •Students can pitch a short elevator pitch for an audience •Students can pitch a business idea to an investor •Students can draw an example of the growth path of new businesses •Students can understand media reporting regarding Startups •Students can talk to possible customers and acquire information regarding their needs and rather the business idea needs to pivot in order to meet those needs Competence: •Students are able to understand the effects of political decision making on the Entrepreneurial Eco System •Students realise what data gives information about the growth of the Entrepreneurial Eco System •Students can interpret media news regarding Startup Businesses •Students know what main documents are needed in founding a business in Iceland and key factors to think about before doing so
Course assessment
No assessment found.
Reading material
No reading material found.
Teaching and learning activities
No activities found.
Language of instructionIcelandic
Haustönn/Fall 2024
Civil Procedure CoreL-302-EMRFECTS 8
Year2. year
SemesterFall 2024
Level of course1. First cycle, introductory
Type of courseCore
PrerequisitesNo prerequisites.
ScheduleFive classes a week
Lecturer
No lecturer found.
Content
The course will cover the justice system in Iceland and give an account of the classification of court cases into categories, which in certain respects are subject to different process. The basic principles of civil procedure, e.g. the principle of equality of the parties and the principle of oral pleadings, will be explained as well as the fundamentals of criminal procedure, including participation by the same judge in different stages of the process and the division of responsibility between the respective parties to the case and the judge. Various aspects of civil procedure will be discussed, for instance as regards jurisdiction, standing, representation, admissibility and cause of action, preparation of court documentation, submission of evidence, preparation of judgments and their legal effect. An overview will be provided over the principal rules of the law applicable to the enforcement of awards. As regards public prosecution, the discussions will cover the principal rules, e.g. the powers of prosecution and their exercise, the legal position of accused persons and their legal counsel, as well as the alleged victim and the submission and treatment of evidence. Finally, the course will touch upon appeals to the Supreme Court and an account will be given of the different rules applicable to the civil and criminal processes in that context. For obvious reasons, the course will involve the analysis of a considerable amount of case law relating to its subject matter.
Learning outcome - Objectives
On completion of the course students should: - have learnt about the composition of the judicial system. -have obtained knowledge of the fundamental principles applicable to the litigation of civil cases. - have gained an insight into the methods that apply to the litigation of civil suits before the district courts. - have gained some knowledge of judicial enforcement procedures. - have gained an acquaintance with the methods that apply to the conduct of public prosecution. - have gained some knowledge of the general principles applicable to appeals to the Supreme Court and due process before the Supreme Court.
Course assessment
Assignments (individual or group assignments) 50% and written final examination (50%). Students must obtain a minimum grade of 5,0 in the final examination before the assignments count for final grade
Reading material
No reading material found.
Teaching and learning activities
Lectures and discussions, moot courts, practical assignments and court visits.
Language of instructionIcelandic
Private Law III - Torts CoreL-305-FJA3ECTS 8
Year2. year
SemesterFall 2024
Level of course1. First cycle, introductory
Type of courseCore
PrerequisitesNo prerequisites.
Schedule4 lectures per week
Lecturer
No lecturer found.
Content
The course will primarily focus on tort. The principal emphasis will be on tort relating to personal injury and property damage, and to a lesser extent on torts relating to general financial loss. An account will be given of the conditions for the establishment of a claim in tort, entitlement to compensation, legal protection through tort rules and the expiration of legal protection. Rules concerning assessment of damage and various rules of settlement will also be discussed. Special attention will be given to Act No. 50/1993 on Tort. Active student participation will be required.
Learning outcome - Objectives
Knowledge: At the end of the course the student should have a basic understanding and insight into the main theories and concepts of tort and its connections to the other pillars of private law. The student acquires this knowledge by understanding and knowing the fundamental conditions of tort regarding the establishment of claims for damages and the calculations of compensation, both relating to personal injury, property damage and general financial loss. Skills: Upon completion of the course the students should be able to apply the methods and procedure that are used in torts and be able to connect them to other branches of private law. The student gains these skills by being able to analyse various points and arguments relating to tort and solving them in a logical manner. Also by solving practical assignments and by being able to assess the reliability of the information that these assignments are based on. Competences: At the end of the course the student should be able to utilise his knowledge and skills in tort law both in working environments and in further studies. The student evolves those competences by ascribing to independent and organised working methods, both on his own and while working with groups of students on assignments, applying the principals of tort.
Course assessment
Practical assignments (group and/or personal) (80%), written exam 20%
Reading material
No reading material found.
Teaching and learning activities
Lectures and discussions.
Language of instructionIcelandic
European Law CoreL-403-EVROECTS 8
Year2. year
SemesterFall 2024
Level of course1. First cycle, introductory
Type of courseCore
PrerequisitesNo prerequisites.
ScheduleFive lectures a week.
Lecturer
No lecturer found.
Content
The European Union is Iceland’s largest trading partner and the EU’s influence on Iceland in other areas is extensive. Iceland is linked to the EU primarily through the Agreement on the European Economic Area (EEA). The course will begin with a discussion of the origin and history of the EU and go on to address its legal system, i.e. European Law, in a narrow sense. The discussion will focus on the institutional framework of the European Union and its legislative and decision-making processes. The basic aspects of the legal system, such as direct effect and primacy of EU Law, will be addressed, as well as the interplay between the domestic legal order of the member states and EU Law in general. The European Court of Justice and the European Court of First Instance and their interaction with the judicial systems of the member states will be discussed separately. The course will then turn to the basic principles of the Single Market, i.e. the free movement of goods, services, people and capital and the right of establishment. Finally, the course will examine the EEA Agreement, its institutional framework, decision-making process and material scope, particularly the relationship between the EEA Agreement and the Icelandic legal order.
Learning outcome - Objectives
On completion of the course students should: • have gained a good grasp of the basic aspects of Community Law. • have gained familiarity with the Agreement on the European Economic Area. • understand the links between Community Law and Icelandic law through the EEA Agreement.
Course assessment
Group assignment (30%), other assignments (10%) and written final exam (60%).
Reading material
No reading material found.
Teaching and learning activities
Lectures and discussions.
Language of instructionIcelandic
Family and Inheritance Law CoreL-505-FJERECTS 6
Year2. year
SemesterSpring 2024
Level of courseN/A
Type of courseCore
PrerequisitesNo prerequisites.
ScheduleCourse taught in a three week period at the end of the semester.
Lecturer
Dögg Pálsdóttir
Svala Ísfeld Ólafsdóttir
Content
The main focus of the course is on the following three areas of law: Personal law. Law on Majority No. 71/1997. The content and meaning of the concepts of majority, self-determination (full legal age) and financial means. Deprivation of majority. Compulsory internment. Statutory overseers. Marriage Law. Marriage Act No. 31/1993. Legal rules regarding the establishment and dissolution of marriage. The rights and obligations of a couple. Obligation to support. Marital finances: marital assets, separate assets, prenuptial agreements, responsibility for obligations, joint taxation, etc. A special emphasis will be placed on rules on the dissolution of marriage and divorce agreements. Furthermore, rules on cohabitation and certified cohabitation of same sex couples. Children’s Law. Children’s Act no. 76/2003. Paternity and maternity. Custody and right to access. Support obligation. Procedure in cases before administrative bodies and courts relating to disputes on child support, custody and right to access in connection with the parents’ divorce or termination of cohabitation. Adoption. Rules relating to pregnancy and childbirth. Act on legal maturity. Inheritance Law. Inheritance Law no. 8/1962. Legal succession and succession by will. Wills. Sitting in an undivided estate. Division of the estates of deceased persons. Inheritance tax.
Learning outcome - Objectives
On completion of the course students should: have become familiar with the basic principles of marital law, i.e. the establishment and dissolution of marriage, marital finances and the separation of marital assets. - have become familiar with the basic principles of children’s law, i.e. maternity, paternity and custody. The course will also cover the handling of custody disputes, right to access and support obligation in the event of dissolution of marriage or cohabitation. Also adoption and child protection rules. - have become familiar with the basic principles of inheritance law. - be familiar with major judgments in these areas. - have become skilled in solving practical problems concerning the basic principles of family and inheritance law.
Course assessment
Assignments and an oral final exam.
Reading material
No reading material found.
Teaching and learning activities
Lectures, discussions and assignments.
Language of instructionIcelandic
Vorönn/Spring 2024
Competition Law CoreL-303-SAKEECTS 8
Year2. year
SemesterSpring 2024
Level of course1. First cycle, introductory
Type of courseCore
PrerequisitesNo prerequisites.
Schedule5 lectures per week
Lecturer
Heimir Örn Herbertsson
Content
The course will cover the principal provisions of the Competition Act No. 44/2005, as amended, and the principal rules of European competition law. An account will be given of court precedents in this area, both from Iceland and other jurisdictions. The administrative aspects of competition cases and the principal material aspects of competition law will be discussed. Among other things, course discussions will touch upon the ban on collusion between competitors, prohibition of the abuse of dominant position and the rules on mergers. Also, there will be discussion of the sanctions prescribed in the Competition Act.
Learning outcome - Objectives
On completion of the course students should:  have gained an understanding of the general underlying principles of competition law and the reasons why competition law is considered necessary in today’s market systems. Students will be expected to learn the principal substantive rules of the Competition Act No. 44/2005, as amended, as well as rules on the anticompetitive collusion of enterprises, abuse of dominant position and mergers of companies, and the sanctions imposed for violation of the Competition Act.  have been introduced to the foreign rules on which the Competition Act is based and the principal case law of domestic and foreign competition authorities and courts.  have been expected to familiarize themselves with procedures in competition cases before the Icelandic competition authorities and courts.
Course assessment
Assignments 40% and final oral examination 60%
Reading material
No reading material found.
Teaching and learning activities
Lectures and discussions.
Language of instructionIcelandic
Criminal Law CoreL-402-REFSECTS 8
Year2. year
SemesterSpring 2024
Level of course1. First cycle, introductory
Type of courseCore
PrerequisitesNo prerequisites.
ScheduleFive classes a week
Lecturer
Anna Barbara Andradóttir
Hulda María Stefánsdóttir
Content
The following are the focal areas of the course: Criminal law and its place within the study of law and relation to other academic disciplines. The legal sources of criminal law. The concept of crime and the categorization of crimes. Attempted crimes and refraining from the commission of crimes. Accessories and partnerships in crime. Culpability. Aggregate crimes. Competence to be held criminally responsible. Illegality and objective grounds of non-culpability. Intent. Recklessness. Penalties and punitive sanctions. Determination of sanctions. Repeated offences. Imprisonment and prisons. End of culpability and lapse of sanctions. Also more specialized areas of criminal law, often with emphasis on recent judgments, law amendments and current media discussions.
Learning outcome - Objectives
On completion of the course students should: ? have a sound knowledge of the field of criminal law. ? be prepared to work within the field of criminal law. ? be adequately prepared for the advanced study of criminal law.
Course assessment
Assignment (40%) and final examination (60%).
Reading material
No reading material found.
Teaching and learning activities
The teaching methods will be based on lectures and discussion sessions. The topics will be issues that are relevant and prominent in the media and in academic deliberation at each time and those topics will be put in context with the reading material and course outlines. Specialists from different fields of criminal law will visit the class and give an overview and insight into their work. Emphasis will be put on court rulings, which will be used to explain and deepen the students’ understanding of the subject.
Language of instructionIcelandic
Private Law IV - Property CoreL-406-FJA4ECTS 8
Year2. year
SemesterSpring 2024
Level of course1. First cycle, introductory
Type of courseCore
PrerequisitesNo prerequisites.
Schedule5 lectures per week
Lecturer
Jóhann Fannar Guðjónsson
Þorsteinn Magnússon
Content
This course presents a survey of the basic principles of property law. It addresses both real property and personal property. However, emphasis is on real property. Amongst others, the course covers the following issues: the constitutional protection of property; the definition of real property; classification of real property; rules relating to joint ownership; demarcation of real property; ownership of natural resources; public regulation of ownership rights; nuisance law; expropriation; adverse possessions and land ownership (including the demarcation of private lands, public lands and the commons). Additionally, this course provides an overview of the principles and legislation applying to registration of title, i.e. protection of title to and of rights in real property by registration. Finally, a survey is provided over mortgage law, for instance the creation and characteristics of mortgages. The constitutional protection of property rights according to the European Convention on Human Rights.
Learning outcome - Objectives
On completion of the course students should: Have gained enough knowledge to be able to- describe the subjects of property law and explain the connections they have to other fields of private law. Analyse and define the key components of propert law. Present and explain the key topic points of the field with correct references to laws and regulations. Be able to analyse and compare the main theories of academics that touch on the subject at hand. Students should also have acquired the skills necessary to be able to define matters relating to property law and how they connect to the content of the course. Analyse those matters and explain the main legal arguments that might be applied to solving those matters. To be able to rationalise, both orally and in writing, the solution to the matters at hand with appropriate legal reasoning and quoting legal documents.
Course assessment
Practical assignment (40%) and final examination (60%)
Reading material
No reading material found.
Teaching and learning activities
Lectures and discussions.
Language of instructionIcelandic
Private Law V - Project Based Course CoreL-407-FJA5ECTS 6
Year2. year
SemesterSpring 2024
Level of courseN/A
Type of courseCore
PrerequisitesNo prerequisites.
Schedule3 weeks after the final spring semester examination
Lecturer
Heimir Örn Herbertsson
Content
In the beginning of the course the teachers will put forth a summary of events about a legal matter in the area of Private Law. Students will be divided into groups. Students will write a summons or a report as an assignment. Lectures/seminars will be held on the preparation of a commercial agreement and negotiation techniques. The course will deal with the writing of summons and report in a judicial case relating to disputes regarding a commercial agreement. Lectures/seminars will be held on the basic principles and techniques in the preparation of these documents. The students will then try litigation before court and the writing of a judgment in relation to a dispute that has been submitted to court. In addition to lectures/seminars regarding the rules and techniques in litigation and the writing of judgment, students will be assigned to plead a case and write a judgement. During the course students will receive special training in how to deliver arguments on legal matters through oral presentation.
Learning outcome - Objectives
On completion of the course students should: ? have gained a general overview of the structure of certain types of commercial agreements. ? be trained in the preparation of commercial agreements. ? be trained in legal proceedings following a dispute regarding the content of agreements prepared by students. ? have gained an insight into the writing of a judgment in relation to a dispute.
Course assessment

Reading material
No reading material found.
Teaching and learning activities
Lectures and team work, litigation training and exercises.
Language of instructionIcelandic
Haustönn/Fall 2024
Intellectual Property Law CoreL-304-HOFUECTS 6
Year3. year
SemesterFall 2024
Level of course1. First cycle, introductory
Type of courseCore
PrerequisitesNo prerequisites.
ScheduleClass taught in a 3 week period at the end of the semester, consisting of lectures, discussions and practical assignments.
Lecturer
No lecturer found.
Content
The course will begin with a discussion of the basic concepts of intellectual property rights and the regulatory framework of this field of law. The principal international agreements on this subject will be examined, as well as their relation to the domestic legal order. This will be followed by discussion of the individual branches of intellectual property rights and the principal rules and concepts of each branch, starting with copyrights to literary works or works of art, covered by Act No. 73/1972, as amended, patent protection of inventions, covered by Act No. 17/1991, as amended, and trade mark law, covered by Act No. 45/1997, as amended, and finally design protection, covered by Act No. 42/2001. Discussions will focus on the rules applicable to the establishment of rights, the term and scope of protection, and international co-operation in these areas.
Learning outcome - Objectives
On completion of the course students should: be familiar with the basic principles of intellectual property and be able to discuss their importance and connection with cultural activities and the economy.
Course assessment
The course assessment will be built upon students’ participation in class, practical assignments and shorter tests that will be presented at regular intervals. Teachers reserve the right to make minor changes to this assessment but the final outline will be available to students before teaching begins. Each part of the assessment will count towards no more than 40% of the final grade.
Reading material
No reading material found.
Teaching and learning activities
Lectures and discussions.
Language of instructionIcelandic
Securities Regulations CoreL-501-VERBECTS 8
Year3. year
SemesterFall 2024
Level of courseN/A
Type of courseCore
PrerequisitesNo prerequisites.
ScheduleFive lectures per week
Lecturer
No lecturer found.
Content
During the course the parties and institutions which are involved on the financial markets will be introduced. Rights and obligations of financial institutions providing securities services will be explored. In addition rules and regulations on initial public offerings and due diligence studies, public listing of securities on a stock exchange, take-over bids, insider trading, market abuse and rules on surveillance of parties and operations on the securities market will be presented and discussed in detail. The course will cover the evolution of Icelandic law relating to the subject and its connection to EEA-regulation. The rules and requirements for financial establishments regarding investor protection and internal control systems will be one of the focus points.
Learning outcome - Objectives
On completion of the course students should: - have obtained an overview of the rules that apply to securities transactions and the operations of organized securities markets. – Understand how the capital market works. – Know the main establishments and key players in the capital market and understand their role. – Know which rules apply to these market exchanges and their connections to other legislation.
Course assessment

Reading material
No reading material found.
Teaching and learning activities
Lectures and discussions.
Language of instructionIcelandic
Tax Law CoreL-502-SKATECTS 8
Year3. year
SemesterFall 2024
Level of course1. First cycle, introductory
Type of courseCore
PrerequisitesNo prerequisites.
ScheduleFive lectures a week
Lecturer
No lecturer found.
Content
Emphasis is placed on students becoming familiar with the tax law in force, other legal sources and the principal view on their interpretation. The definition of the term tax and the demands that are in force regarding taxation rights in Icelandic law. A special emphasis is placed on law regarding the taxation of legal entities, financial income, value added tax, the organization of the tax system and procedure in the field of tax law.
Learning outcome - Objectives
On completion of the course students should: be prepared for assignments relating to the application of tax law, whether as an advocate, in administration, in tax consulting or in relation to other safeguarding of interests. Have gained a deeper knowledge about the scope and purview of tax legislation and have received training in applying said legislation, whether it’s from a litigators standpoint or for administrative purposes. Be able to realise the tax legislations unique standing with regard to the Icelandic constitution. Students should be able to apply the tax legislation and other legal documents to solve practical assignments relating to the taxation of private parties as well as legal entities. Know the fundamental rules of Value Added Tax.
Course assessment
Practical assignment (40%) and final examination (60%)
Reading material
No reading material found.
Teaching and learning activities
Lectures
Language of instructionIcelandic
Public International Law CoreL-503-THJRECTS 8
Year3. year
SemesterFall 2024
Level of course1. First cycle, introductory
Type of courseCore
PrerequisitesNo prerequisites.
ScheduleFive lectures per week
Lecturer
No lecturer found.
Content
During the first half of the course the following topics will be addressed: the nature and characteristics of international law, the relation of municipal and international law, sources, subjects of international law, territory, state responsibility, jurisdiction and immunities, the law of treaties, use of force, and friendly settlement of disputes. International institutions will be introduced, and the role and organization of the United Nations examined. In the second half of the course some sub-areas will be introduced: international criminal law, international economic law, the law of the sea, and human rights. Throughout the course, due account will be paid to current events and debate.
Learning outcome - Objectives
On completion of the course students should: • be familiar with the basic principles of public international law; • understand the relationship between international and national law; • understand principles relating to peaceful settlement of disputes, including the jurisdiction of international courts and tribunals; • understand the role and position of international organizations; • have been introduced to some more specialized sub-areas of international law; • be able to analyze and solve international law problems.
Course assessment
Assignment (30%), Practical Assignment (30%), Final examination (40%).
Reading material
No reading material found.
Teaching and learning activities
Lectures and discussions
Language of instructionIcelandic
Vorönn/Spring 2024
Criminal Procedure CoreL-605-SAREECTS 7,5
Year3. year
SemesterSpring 2024
Level of course1. First cycle, introductory
Type of courseCore
PrerequisitesNo prerequisites.
ScheduleFour lectures per week.
Lecturer
Halldóra Þorsteinsdóttir
Sindri M Stephensen
Content
Deals with the main principles of criminal procedures, the investigation of criminal procedures and other important issues. The link between criminal procedures and human rights protection is also discussed.
Learning outcome - Objectives
At the end of the course, students should have knowledge of main principles of criminal procedures and rules governing investigations and procedure handlings from various angles and be able to apply these rules.
Course assessment
Assignment 50% and a written final exam 50%. Students must achieve at least a grade of 5,0 to pass the course.
Reading material
No reading material found.
Teaching and learning activities
Lectures, practical assignments and discussions as well as visits to courts and law enforcement.
Language of instructionIcelandic
Methodology II-Legal Theory CoreL-609-ALREECTS 7,5
Year3. year
SemesterSpring 2024
Level of course1. First cycle, introductory
Type of courseCore
PrerequisitesNo prerequisites.
Schedule4 classes per week, lectures, working- and discussion groups.
Lecturer
Hafsteinn Dan Kristjánsson
Content
A continuous discussion from methodology during 1. year. Basic questions in legal philosophy are discussed and linked to the methodology students have already learnt.
Learning outcome - Objectives
At the end of the course, student should have basic knowledge of main legal theories and be able to apply them and have training in reading and discussing legal philosophy.
Course assessment
Essay 30%, oral exam 60%, practical assignment 10%.
Reading material
No reading material found.
Teaching and learning activities
Lectures, project work and discussions.
Language of instructionIcelandic
BA Thesis ElectiveL-611-BACRECTS 15
Year3. year
SemesterSpring 2024
Level of courseN/A
Type of courseElective
PrerequisitesNo prerequisites.
ScheduleNo schedule found.
Lecturer
Guðmundur Sigurðsson
Kristína Benedikz
Content
A specific B.A. thesis can replace two elective courses. The thesis shall be 15 ECTS credits and fulfil the following conditions: •Discuss legal problems or problems relating to legal issues as well as issues in other academic branches that are considered worth discussing at the time when the thesis is written. •Involve the academic use of primary sources and derived sources as applicable in relation to the subject of the thesis. •Comply with the goals that the student has set for himself/herself before commencing the work and approved by the supervisor. The objectives shall be clear in the introduction to the thesis. •The handling of the subject shall be in such a manner that it is clear that at least 300 hours have been spent working on the thesis. •The length of the thesis shall be between 12.500-18.500 words. The supervisor evaluates the thesis written by the student along with a moderator appointed by the Dean. If there is more than one supervisor they evaluate the thesis jointly along with the moderator. A grade shall be given for the thesis in the same manner as for courses at the School of Law.
Learning outcome - Objectives
No objectives found.
Course assessment
No assessment found.
Reading material
No reading material found.
Teaching and learning activities
No activities found.
Language of instructionIcelandic