Former Chief Justice Carsten Smith dies at 93

At the request of his family, the Supreme Court announces the passing of former Chief Justice Carsten Smith.

Carsten Smith served as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court from 1991 to 2002. Over a long and distinguished career, he left a profound mark on Norway’s legal landscape – as a legal scholar, public intellectual, and head of the judiciary. He also played a pivotal role in advancing Sámi law and strengthening the position of human rights in Norwegian law.

– Carsten Smith was deeply respected and highly valued, both as Chief Justice and as a person. After his retirement, he maintained a close connection with the Supreme Court and visited us regularly until recently. We greatly appreciated that, said Chief Justice Toril Marie Øie.

Carsten Smith passed away peacefully on Thursday evening, 28 May, surrounded by his closest family.