Best Accounting & Auditing Lawyers in Acharnes

About Accounting & Auditing Law in Acharnes, Greece

Accounting and auditing in Acharnes are governed by the same national legal and regulatory framework that applies across Greece. Businesses and professionals operating in Acharnes must follow Greek accounting standards and tax rules, meet company-law reporting obligations, and comply with auditing and professional conduct requirements for certified auditors. Common local institutions that play a role in practice include the local Tax Office, the General Commercial Registry - GEMI, the Independent Authority for Public Revenue - AADE, and the national professional body for certified accountants and auditors.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Legal issues in accounting and auditing often combine technical financial detail with procedural and statutory rules. You may need a lawyer when you face any of the following situations:

- Tax audits, tax assessments, or disputes with AADE where procedural protection and appeals are required

- Allegations of accounting errors or fraud that could lead to civil liability or criminal charges

- Disputes with auditors or accounting firms about the quality of work, reports, or liability for damages

- Shareholder disputes over financial statements, dividend distribution, or corporate governance

- Regulatory compliance matters for entities subject to mandatory audit requirements - for example larger companies, listed entities, banks, and insurance firms

- Insolvency, restructuring, or bankruptcy where historical accounting and audit issues affect creditor claims

- Professional disciplinary proceedings against an accountant or auditor before the professional body

- Cross-border accounting or VAT matters involving other EU jurisdictions

Local Laws Overview

Key legal points that matter for accounting and auditing in Acharnes include the following:

- Accounting standards and financial reporting: Companies prepare financial statements under Greek accounting standards or International Financial Reporting Standards - IFRS - for entities required to use them. The Ministry of Finance and national accounting standard-setters issue rules and guidance.

- Audit rules and professional qualifications: Statutory audits must be performed by certified auditors registered with the national professional institute. Auditors follow the auditing standards adopted in Greece and are subject to professional discipline for breaches of ethics or independence.

- Statutory audit thresholds and requirements: Certain company types must have audited financial statements - for example publicly traded companies, financial institutions, insurance firms, and companies exceeding size thresholds. Smaller companies may be exempt from statutory audit requirements but still have tax review obligations.

- Tax law and procedures: Tax audits, assessments, penalties, and administrative appeals are handled under national tax law and administered by AADE and local tax authorities. Proper books and records are critical to supporting tax positions.

- Record retention and documentation: Businesses are required to keep accounting records and supporting documentation for specified minimum periods for tax and legal purposes. Retention periods are important when responding to audits or legal claims.

- Company law filing obligations: Annual financial statements and certain corporate disclosures must be filed with the General Commercial Registry - GEMI - and may also be publicly accessible. Timely filing affects compliance and potential penalties.

- Civil and criminal liability: Incorrect accounting, false statements, or concealment of assets can lead to civil liability, administrative sanctions, and in serious cases criminal prosecution. Legal advice is essential when allegations are made.

- Dispute resolution and remedies: Civil claims against accountants or auditors are brought in local courts, while administrative appeals against tax assessments follow administrative procedures. Mediation and arbitration may be options for some commercial disputes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I always need to have my company audited in Acharnes?

Not always. Whether a company needs a statutory audit depends on the company type and size thresholds set by law. Public companies, banks, insurance companies, and firms exceeding specified turnover, assets, or employee thresholds normally require an audit. Smaller companies may be exempt from statutory audits but should confirm their obligations with an accountant or lawyer because other reporting or tax review requirements may still apply.

What should I do if the tax office in Acharnes starts an audit of my business?

Gather and secure all relevant accounting records and supporting documents immediately. Notify your accountant and consider consulting a lawyer with tax experience before or during interactions with auditors. A lawyer can advise on rights during the audit, help prepare responses to information requests, and represent you in administrative appeals if assessments are issued.

How long must I keep accounting records and receipts?

There are minimum retention periods for accounting and tax records under Greek law. These periods are important when you face an audit or legal dispute. Because retention rules and practical needs can vary by case, keep records for the full statutory period recommended by your accountant and seek legal advice if you are uncertain.

Can I challenge a tax assessment issued by AADE or the local tax office?

Yes. Tax assessments can be challenged through administrative appeal procedures and, where permitted, in the administrative courts. Deadlines to file appeals are strict, and procedural rules must be followed closely. A lawyer experienced in tax litigation can assess your chances, prepare the appeal, and represent you in court if necessary.

What are my options if I suspect accounting fraud or misconduct by an auditor in Acharnes?

If you suspect fraud, preserve evidence and limit further access to records. Notify your lawyer and accountant promptly. Depending on the situation, steps may include internal investigation with forensic accountants, reporting to the competent professional body for auditors, civil claims for damages, and criminal complaints if fraud is evident. Legal counsel can coordinate these actions and advise on confidentiality and privilege issues.

How do I verify that an auditor or accountant is properly licensed?

Certified auditors and certain accounting professionals must be registered with the national professional institute. You can ask the professional to provide proof of registration and professional insurance. A lawyer can help verify credentials and advise if you suspect unlicensed practice or professional negligence.

Can I sue my auditor or accountant for a bad audit or accounting work?

Potentially yes. Claims for professional negligence, breach of contract, or breach of duty can be brought in civil court if you can show loss caused by the professional's conduct. Because such cases depend on expert evidence and strict time limits, consult a lawyer experienced in professional liability claims promptly to evaluate the merits and timing of any claim.

What penalties could a company face for late or incorrect financial filings?

Penalties may include fines, administrative sanctions, and in some situations restrictions on corporate actions. Persistent or serious failures may trigger enhanced scrutiny from tax authorities or professional bodies and could affect the companys access to banking or public procurement. Corrective filings and timely legal or accounting advice can reduce exposure.

How do accounting and audit rules affect mergers, sales, or insolvency processes?

Accounting and audit records are critical in transactions and insolvency. Due diligence relies on accurate financial statements, and auditors may be asked for workpapers or explanations. In insolvency, historical accounting can affect creditor claims, trustee investigations, and liability for directors. Legal counsel and forensic accounting support are frequently needed in these cases.

How much does legal help in accounting and auditing matters typically cost?

Costs vary with the complexity of the issue, whether litigation or negotiation is required, and the need for expert accounting evidence. Some lawyers offer fixed fees for discrete tasks, while others bill hourly or on a phased basis. Ask about fee structures, likely costs, and whether contingency or success-fee arrangements are available for particular types of claims.

Additional Resources

When seeking guidance in Acharnes, these national and local institutions can be helpful:

- Independent Authority for Public Revenue - AADE - for tax procedures and audits

- General Commercial Registry - GEMI - for company filings and public company records

- The national professional body for certified auditors and accountants - for registration and disciplinary matters

- Ministry of Finance - for accounting and financial reporting rules and guidance

- Hellenic authorities overseeing accounting and auditing standards - for technical standards and adoption of international rules

- Hellenic Capital Market Commission - for matters related to listed companies and capital markets

- Local Tax Office and the municipal administrative offices in Acharnes - for local administrative contacts

- Local Courts and the Athens Bar Association - for litigation and finding specialized lawyers

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance with accounting or auditing matters in Acharnes, follow these practical steps:

- Act quickly: Many tax and legal procedures have strict deadlines. Preserve all documents and communications relevant to your matter.

- Gather core documents: Financial statements, accounting ledgers, audit reports, tax returns, notices from authorities, contracts, and correspondence with accountants or auditors.

- Consult a specialist: Look for a lawyer with experience in tax, corporate law, or professional liability and who works closely with qualified accountants or forensic auditors when needed.

- Verify credentials: Ask any auditor or accountant for proof of professional registration and insurance; ask a lawyer to confirm regulatory status when appropriate.

- Consider initial consultation: Use a preliminary meeting to outline the facts, learn about likely remedies, estimate costs, and set a timetable.

- Preserve evidence and limit exposure: Stop any actions that could worsen the situation without first getting professional advice, and avoid informal admissions when a dispute is active.

- Explore alternatives: Where appropriate, consider negotiation, mediation, or settlement before litigation, but rely on legal advice to protect your rights during those processes.

Getting timely, specialized legal advice will help you protect your rights, limit penalties, and navigate the technical and procedural issues that arise in accounting and auditing matters in Acharnes.