Best Accounting & Auditing Lawyers in Melissia

About Accounting & Auditing Law in Melissia, Greece

Accounting and auditing in Melissia, Greece - as elsewhere in the country - operate within a national legal and regulatory system that implements European Union accounting and audit rules, Greek tax law, and national standards for financial reporting. Businesses and organizations in Melissia must prepare financial statements in accordance with the applicable Greek accounting framework, and certain entities must have those statements audited by a licensed statutory auditor. The audit and accounting professions are regulated, and auditors and certified accountants must meet professional qualifications and follow mandatory ethical and technical standards. Local businesses also deal with the national tax authority and other state bodies when it comes to filing, compliance and inspections.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Legal advice is often necessary when accounting or auditing issues have potential legal, regulatory or financial consequences. Common situations include:

- Disputes with an auditor about scope, findings or the wording of an audit report.

- Notices of tax assessment, tax audits or disputes with the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE).

- Allegations of accounting irregularities, fraud or misstatements that could lead to criminal or administrative investigations.

- Corporate transactions - mergers, acquisitions, restructurings - that raise complex accounting and reporting questions or require due diligence.

- Breaches of directors discharge duties related to financial reporting, where shareholder claims or creditor actions may follow.

- Insolvency, restructuring or enforcement proceedings where accurate accounting and audited statements are central.

- Disagreements over professional liability and fee disputes with accountants or auditors.

- Cross-border accounting or consolidation issues for companies with foreign operations.

Local Laws Overview

The legal framework relevant to accounting and auditing in Melissia consists of several layers:

- National accounting rules and frameworks - Greek accounting requirements apply to financial statements according to company size and type. Listed companies and certain large entities must prepare statements under International Financial Reporting Standards - IFRS - while other entities follow national standards adapted to EU directives.

- Auditing standards and licensing - the audit profession is regulated. Only licensed statutory auditors or audit firms may perform statutory audits. Professional bodies set ethical rules and continuing education obligations for practitioners.

- Tax law - the Independent Authority for Public Revenue - AADE - enforces tax compliance, tax reporting and carries out tax audits. Tax legislation affects accounting choices such as depreciation, provisions and recognition of revenue for tax purposes.

- Company law and director duties - company legislation sets obligations for boards and management to ensure accurate record keeping and timely filing of accounts. Breaches can trigger civil liability, administrative fines or criminal sanctions in severe cases.

- EU audit regulation and directives - Greece implements EU requirements for statutory audits, including independence rules for auditors, audit report content and public oversight of the audit profession.

Because most of these rules are national or EU-wide, the same principles apply in Melissia as in other Greek municipalities. Local differences arise mainly in administrative procedures and contacts with local authorities or courts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I always need an audit for my company in Melissia?

Not always. Whether a company needs a statutory audit depends on its legal form and size. Large companies and listed entities are generally required to have statutory audits. Medium and small enterprises may be exempt depending on turnover, total assets and number of employees under the criteria that apply at the national and EU level. It is important to check the rules applicable to the specific company type and the current thresholds.

What is the difference between a certified accountant and a statutory auditor?

A certified accountant typically prepares bookkeeping, tax returns and management accounts, and can provide consultancy services. A statutory auditor is an independent, licensed professional who performs audits of financial statements required by law. Auditors have specific independence, qualification and reporting requirements that differ from those of accountants.

What should I do if an auditor finds irregularities in my accounts?

First, review the auditor's findings carefully and ask for clarification in writing. Consider obtaining legal advice if the findings could lead to penalties, tax assessments or criminal investigation. Preserve documents and correspondence, cooperate with legitimate requests, and consider corrective measures such as restating accounts or implementing improved internal controls under legal guidance.

Can I challenge a tax assessment based on accounting issues?

Yes. Tax assessments involving accounting issues can be disputed through the administrative appeal processes at AADE and, if necessary, in the administrative courts. Time limits and procedural requirements apply, so engage a tax lawyer or an experienced accountant early to prepare the challenge and support your position with proper documentation.

What liabilities do directors have for accounting and auditing failures?

Directors are required to ensure accurate record keeping and timely filing of accounts. Failures can result in civil liability to the company or creditors, administrative fines and in serious cases criminal charges. The exact exposure depends on the facts, such as whether negligence or intentional misconduct occurred. Directors should seek prompt legal advice if they face allegations.

How do I find a qualified auditor or accountant in Melissia?

Look for professionals licensed by the relevant Greek professional body and with experience in the sector and company size similar to yours. Ask for written engagement letters that specify scope, fees and deliverables. Professional associations and the local chamber of commerce can help identify accredited practitioners.

What are the typical penalties for accounting noncompliance?

Penalties range from administrative fines and corrective orders to tax reassessments and, in severe cases, criminal charges. Penalties depend on the nature, duration and severity of the noncompliance. Prompt remediation and voluntary disclosure may mitigate sanctions, but you should get legal and accounting advice immediately.

Are audit reports public in Greece?

Certain filed financial statements and audit reports of companies registered with the General Commercial Registry or other official registries are accessible as part of public filings. Access depends on company type and the filing regime. Consult a lawyer if confidentiality concerns arise.

What protections exist for whistleblowers who report accounting fraud?

Greek and EU rules provide protections for whistleblowers in many contexts, including reporting breaches of financial reporting or audit rules. Protections may include confidentiality and protection from retaliation. The scope and procedures for protection depend on the specific law and public or private sector context, so consult legal counsel when reporting serious misconduct.

How long should I keep accounting records in Greece?

Greek law sets minimum retention periods for accounting and tax records. These periods can vary depending on the document type and tax or corporate requirements. Retention is important both for compliance and for defending positions in audits or disputes, so keep records in an orderly and accessible form and confirm applicable retention rules with a professional.

Additional Resources

When seeking further information or assistance you may consult the following types of organizations and bodies in Greece:

- Independent Authority for Public Revenue - AADE - for tax and filing procedures.

- The professional body for auditors and accountants - the national institute that licenses statutory auditors (for example the body commonly known by its Greek acronym SOEL).

- Ministry of Finance - for laws and regulations on accounting, auditing and taxation.

- Hellenic authorities and oversight bodies responsible for accounting and auditing standards and public oversight.

- Local chambers of commerce and business associations in Attica and North Athens - for business-related guidance and lists of local professionals.

- Athens Bar Association and local law firms specializing in tax, commercial and corporate law - for legal representation.

- Professional accounting firms and certified auditors offering advisory, compliance and audit services in the Melissia area.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance with an accounting or auditing matter in Melissia, consider the following practical steps:

- Gather key documents - financial statements, tax filings, audit reports, engagement letters, board minutes and correspondence related to the issue.

- Identify the core problem - misstated accounts, audit disagreement, tax assessment, suspected fraud, director liability or other concerns.

- Seek an initial consultation with a lawyer experienced in tax, commercial and audit litigation. Ask about their experience with similar cases and their approach to fee arrangements.

- Consider coordinating with a qualified accountant or auditor to analyze the technical accounting matters while the lawyer handles the legal strategy.

- Preserve evidence and avoid altering documents after a potential dispute emerges. If criminal allegations are possible, obtain early legal advice about communications and cooperation with authorities.

- Explore alternative dispute resolution - mediation or arbitration - if appropriate and agreed by the parties, as a cost-effective option before litigation.

- Implement remedial measures and compliance improvements as advised to reduce legal and regulatory exposure and to demonstrate good faith to authorities.

Taking timely, informed steps and working with experienced legal and accounting professionals will improve your chances of resolving accounting and auditing issues efficiently and with minimal risk.