Best Affidavits & Statutory Declarations Lawyers in Greece

About Affidavits & Statutory Declarations Law in Greece

In Greece, affidavits and statutory declarations are forms of formal statements that a person swears or affirms to be true for use in administrative or legal proceedings. The common Greek terms are υπεύθυνη δήλωση (solemn/official declaration for administrative purposes) and ένορκη δήλωση or ένορκη βεβαίωση (sworn declaration for court or notarial contexts). These documents help prove facts such as identity, residence, or income in situations where public authorities require sworn assurances.

The framework blends civil procedure rules with administrative processes. The primary procedural backbone guiding affidavits and declarations in civil matters is the Code of Civil Procedure (Κώδικας Πολιτικής Δικονομίας, Kpold) and related administrative provisions. Greece is increasingly digitizing declaration processes so residents can submit certain declarations electronically through official channels. This shift aims to reduce delays while preserving accuracy and accountability in evidence-based procedures.

Because declarations can carry legal consequences if inaccurate, Greek law emphasizes accuracy and truthfulness and imposes penalties for intentional false statements. When in doubt, consulting a lawyer early can help ensure the declaration serves its intended legal purpose and avoids later challenges or sanctions. For ongoing developments, official government portals provide current guidance on acceptable forms and filing pathways.

“Υπεύθυνη Δήλωση is used in a broad range of administrative procedures in Greece, from resident registrations to applications for permits.”

Gov.gr - Official Greek government portal for public services and guidance on declaration requirements.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Working with a legal professional can prevent errors that might undermine a declaration’s effectiveness or trigger penalties. Below are concrete, Greece-specific scenarios where a lawyer’s advice is essential.

• Real estate transactions requiring attestations for property transfers. When buying a home, a υπεύθυνη δήλωση may be used to confirm occupancy status or ownership details for banking or tax purposes, and precise wording is crucial to avoid misrepresentation. A lawyer helps draft declarations tailored to the transaction and lender requirements.
• Cross-border inheritances or probate filings that involve foreign documents. Declarations may need to be translated, certified, and submitted alongside international documents. A lawyer coordinates this process to satisfy both Greek courts and foreign authorities.
• Administrative permit applications (eg, residence or work permits) requiring proof of income, residence, or status. A lawyer can prepare robust υπεύθυνες δηλώσεις supported by documentary evidence, reducing the risk of rejection or delay.
• Banking and financial disclosures for loans, mortgages, or guarantee arrangements. Banks frequently request sworn statements regarding income, debt, or residency. An attorney ensures declarations align with financial disclosures and comply with Greek consumer protection rules.
• Family law matters where declarations accompany filings (eg, declarations about parental responsibility or household composition). Precise language matters when the court interprets a declaration in relation to custody or support.
• Notarial or court procedures requiring an ένορκη δήλωση or ένορκη βεβαίωση. A lawyer helps determine whether a notary is needed, and how to structure the sworn statement to withstand judicial scrutiny.

Local Laws Overview

The Greek legal framework for affidavits and statutory declarations centers on the civil procedure code and the administrative declaration regime. The following are commonly cited authorities relevant to practice in Greece. Always verify current texts on official sites, as statutes are amended and adapted over time.

• Κώδικας Πολιτικής Δικονομίας (ΚΠολΔ) - Code of Civil Procedure guiding evidence, sworn statements used in court, and how declarations operate within civil litigation. This code determines the admissibility, forms, and procedural steps for declarations introduced as evidence in disputes.
• Υπεύθυνη Δήλωση and Administrative Declarations - The concept of a υπεύθυνη δήλωση is widely used for administrative purposes and in dealings with public authorities. It is commonly cited in administrative acts, licensing, taxation, and immigration-related processes.
• Κώδικας Δημοσίων Συμβολαιογράφων (Notarial/Sworn Documentation) - Governs notarial acts and the use of sworn statements in notarial contexts, including how declarations may be formalized or authenticated by a public official. Public notaries play a role in certifying copies and validating certain declarations.

Recent trends emphasize greater digitalization of declarations and proof of identity through government portals. Greece has been expanding online services through gov.gr, allowing citizens to submit certain declarations electronically, verify documents, and access procedural guidance. This shift aims to streamline administrative processes while maintaining verification standards.

Digital declaration services improve accessibility while preserving accuracy and legal effect.

For authoritative texts and up-to-date provisions, consult official sources online. Notable resources include the Hellenic Parliament for law texts and gov.gr for procedural guidance and service delivery related to declarations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Greek sworn declaration and when is it used in court?

A sworn declaration in Greece is a statement that a person declares to be true under oath or affirmation. It is used to support civil or administrative matters, and may be submitted to courts as evidence or to public authorities for decisions.

How do I know if I need a notary for my declaration?

Notaries are typically involved when a declaration must be certified, translated, or legalized for official use. A lawyer can assess whether a notarial act is required for your specific filing.

What documents are usually required to prepare a Υπεύθυνη Δήλωση?

Common documents include a valid photo ID, proof of address, the purpose of the declaration, and any supporting records (such as invoices or contracts). A lawyer helps tailor the declaration to your situation.

How long does the declaration process take in Greece?

Processing times vary by authority and purpose. Administrative declarations can be reviewed in days to a few weeks, while court-initiated declarations align with civil procedure timelines.

Do I need a lawyer to draft a Υπεύθυνη Δήλωση for an immigration matter?

Yes, for immigration or residency matters the wording is critical and must align with current regulations. A lawyer ensures accuracy and reduces the risk of delays or rejection.

What is the difference between an Ένορκος and a Υπεύθυνη Δήλωση?

The term Ένορκη Δήλωση refers to a sworn declaration under oath, often used in notarial or judicial contexts. A Υπεύθυνη Δήλωση is a solemn statement made for administrative purposes, sometimes without the formal oath depending on the context.

How much does it cost to prepare a declaration with a lawyer?

Costs vary by complexity, the number of documents, and whether notarial services are involved. Typical lawyer fees for drafting and advising range from modest fixed fees to hourly rates, with notarial charges added if applicable.

Can a declaration be submitted electronically in Greece?

Yes, many declarations can be submitted through official digital platforms such as Gov.gr. The platform provides guidance on which forms are eligible for online submission.

Should I translate my declaration for use abroad or with foreign authorities?

Translations are often required for cross-border use. A lawyer can arrange certified translations and ensure they meet the foreign authority's acceptance standards.

Do I need to provide supporting documents with my declaration?

Most declarations require supporting documents to verify the facts stated. A lawyer can identify exactly which documents are needed and help organize them properly.

Is there a difference between a Greek Υπεύθυνη Δήλωση and a statutory declaration used in other countries?

Yes. While both serve to affirm facts, the Greek Υπεύθυνη Δήλωση is tailored to administrative processes and may not carry the same evidentiary weight in foreign courts. A Greek lawyer can explain the local implications and cross-border considerations.

Additional Resources

• Gov.gr - Official portal for public services, including guidance on Λήξη και Υπεύθυνη Δήλωση, e-services, and filing procedures. gov.gr
• Hellenic Parliament - Source for legislative texts, including the Code of Civil Procedure and related declarations. hellenicparliament.gr
• EUR-Lex - Official European Union legal database for cross-border and harmonized rules affecting declarations and evidence. eur-lex.europa.eu

Next Steps

1. Determine the exact purpose of your declaration and the authority that will review it. Identify whether you need an administrative or a court-based submission.
2. Gather all supporting documents and identify potential translations or certifications needed for Greek authorities or foreign bodies.
3. Contact a qualified attorney with experience in civil procedure and administrative law in Greece to assess whether a Υπεύθυνη Δήλωση or an Ένορκη Δήλωση is appropriate.
4. Ask the lawyer to draft the declaration, review for compliance with ΚΠολΔ and current administrative rules, and advise on whether notarial certification is required.
5. Confirm any digital submission options on Gov.gr and ensure you have the necessary digital identity or secure login credentials.
6. Schedule any notary appointment if an Ένορκη Δήλωση or certified copy is required, and have the document reviewed for accuracy before signing.
7. Keep copies of all submitted declarations, receipts, and correspondence; track the status with the relevant authority and your lawyer’s office.