Best Accounting & Auditing Lawyers in Agia Paraskevi

About Accounting & Auditing Law in Agia Paraskevi, Greece

Accounting and auditing in Agia Paraskevi follow national Greek law and EU rules that regulate how businesses record, report and verify financial information. Small shops, service providers and local companies must keep accounting records, submit tax and social security returns, and in some cases undergo statutory audits performed by licensed auditors. Larger entities - such as public interest companies, listed firms and companies that exceed national thresholds - face stricter accounting frameworks and mandatory audits. In practice residents and business owners in Agia Paraskevi work with local certified accountants and auditors who understand both national requirements and the administrative practices of nearby tax and municipal offices.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Legal assistance is often needed where accounting or auditing issues have legal, regulatory or dispute elements. Common situations include tax audits and assessments, disagreements with auditors or shareholders about financial statements, allegations of tax fraud or evasion, disputes over social security contributions, insolvency and restructuring matters, and professional disciplinary proceedings against an auditor or accountant. A lawyer helps interpret law, represent you before tax authorities, courts and professional bodies, negotiate settlements, coordinate forensic accounting and ensure procedural rights are protected during audits or investigations.

Local Laws Overview

Several legal strands are especially relevant for accounting and auditing in Agia Paraskevi:

- Accounting standards and reporting - Businesses in Greece prepare financial statements in accordance with Greek accounting rules and where applicable International Financial Reporting Standards - IFRS. Specific rules vary by legal form and size of the entity.

- Statutory audits - Law requires statutory audits for public interest entities, listed companies and other firms that exceed statutory thresholds. Only licensed statutory auditors may sign audit reports. Audits assess whether financial statements give a true and fair view.

- Tax law and VAT - Corporate income tax, personal income tax, VAT and other indirect taxes are governed by national tax law and administered by the Independent Authority for Public Revenue. Obligations include registration, invoicing rules, filing returns and paying taxes within set deadlines.

- Social security contributions - Employers must meet reporting and payment obligations to the national social security authority. Incorrect payroll reporting can trigger assessments and penalties.

- Record keeping and digital reporting - Businesses must retain accounting records and supporting documents for administrative review. Greece has increased electronic reporting and bookkeeping requirements in recent years, including platforms for digital submission of transactional data.

- Professional liability and discipline - Licensed auditors and accountants are subject to professional rules and can face disciplinary actions or civil liability for negligent audits or breaches of professional independence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a statutory audit and who needs one?

A statutory audit is a legally required examination of a company's financial statements by a licensed auditor to confirm that the accounts present a true and fair view. Statutory audits are mandatory for public interest entities, listed companies and businesses that exceed size or turnover thresholds set by Greek law. Small businesses that fall below these thresholds may not require a statutory audit but still must keep proper accounting records.

Do I need a lawyer if I receive a tax audit notice?

Not always, but it is often advisable. A lawyer with tax law experience can help you understand your rights and obligations, coordinate with your accountant, prepare responses, negotiate with tax officials and represent you in administrative appeals or litigation if an assessment is issued. For complex or potentially criminal matters it is important to involve legal counsel early.

How long must I keep accounting records in Greece?

Accounting records and supporting documents should be kept for the statutory retention period required by Greek law and tax rules. This period may vary depending on the type of document and specific circumstances, and records may need to be retained longer if an investigation, appeal or criminal matter is pending. Check with your accountant or lawyer for the precise retention period that applies to your business.

Can auditors or accountants be held liable for mistakes?

Yes. Licensed auditors and accountants can face civil liability for negligent work that causes financial loss and may be subject to professional disciplinary procedures. In cases of fraud or gross misconduct, criminal liabilities may arise. If you believe your auditor caused harm, consult a lawyer to evaluate possible claims and evidence such as the audit file and communications.

What should I do if I disagree with a tax assessment?

You may object administratively within the deadlines provided by tax law and, if necessary, appeal to administrative courts. A lawyer can prepare the objection, gather supporting evidence, and represent you before tax authorities and courts. Timely action is important to preserve legal remedies and limit penalties or interest accrual.

Are invoices and bookkeeping in Greek required?

Business records and official tax filings must be submitted in the language and format required by the competent authority. In practice tax authorities operate in Greek, and official submissions should be in Greek or accompanied by certified translations where appropriate. Your accountant can advise on acceptable formats for supporting documents.

How does VAT compliance work locally?

VAT-registered businesses must issue compliant invoices, calculate and remit VAT correctly, and submit periodic VAT returns. Errors can lead to assessments and penalties. Special rules apply for cross-border transactions, digital services and certain sectors. A local accountant or tax lawyer can help ensure compliance with VAT rules and exemptions.

What happens in the event of suspected tax fraud?

Suspected tax fraud can trigger administrative audits, criminal investigations and prosecutions. Authorities may freeze assets, impose fines and refer cases to prosecutors. If you are investigated, seek legal counsel immediately to protect your rights and coordinate with forensic accountants where necessary.

How do I find a qualified auditor or accountant in Agia Paraskevi?

Look for professionals who are licensed and members of the relevant professional bodies. For statutory audits, the auditor must be a licensed statutory auditor. Check credentials, ask for references, and confirm experience in your sector. A lawyer can help vet professionals and coordinate multidisciplinary teams for complex matters.

Can cross-border or foreign income affect my obligations here?

Yes. Residents and businesses with cross-border income or foreign operations may face additional reporting, transfer pricing and double taxation issues. International treaties and EU rules influence how foreign-sourced income is taxed. Specialized tax lawyers can advise on residency rules, treaty relief and compliance for cross-border transactions.

Additional Resources

- Ministry of Finance - for laws, regulations and policy documents.

- Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE) - tax administration and guidance.

- Body of Statutory Auditors and Accountants - professional regulation and licensing of auditors and accountants.

- Athens Bar Association - for lawyer verification and professional standards.

- General Commercial Registry (GEMI) - company registrations and corporate filings.

- Social Security Authority - employment and contribution obligations.

- Municipality of Agia Paraskevi - local administrative matters and business services.

- Economic Chamber of Greece and local business associations - sector guidance and networking.

Next Steps

If you need legal help with accounting or auditing matters in Agia Paraskevi, follow these steps:

- Gather documents - collect accounting records, invoices, payroll files, audit reports and any correspondence with tax authorities or auditors.

- Identify the issue - clarify whether the matter is administrative, civil, criminal or professional in nature so you can find the right specialist.

- Consult a specialist - contact a lawyer experienced in tax, corporate and accounting law. Consider also engaging a licensed auditor or certified accountant to prepare or review financial material.

- Verify credentials - check lawyer membership with the Athens Bar Association and accountants auditors with the relevant professional body.

- Agree on fees and scope - obtain a written engagement letter that sets out the work, timelines and fee structure.

- Act promptly - meet filing or appeal deadlines and respond to notices from tax or social security authorities within required timeframes.

- Coordinate defense and remediation - where necessary work with both legal counsel and accounting professionals to prepare objections, negotiate settlements or implement compliance improvements to prevent future issues.

If you are unsure where to start, schedule an initial consultation with a qualified lawyer in Agia Paraskevi who can assess your situation and recommend the appropriate technical and legal support.