Best Antitrust Lawyers in Nea Smyrni

About Antitrust Law in Nea Smyrni, Greece

Antitrust law - also called competition law - aims to protect fair competition and consumers by preventing practices that distort markets. In Nea Smyrni, as elsewhere in Greece, antitrust matters are governed by Greek national law and by European Union competition rules. The Hellenic Competition Commission is the main national authority that investigates and enforces competition rules. For most residents and businesses in Nea Smyrni the practical effect is that agreements or conduct that restrict competition, abuse a dominant position, or complete mergers without required clearance can lead to investigations, fines, and orders to change behavior.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

You may need a lawyer with competition experience in situations such as:

- Receiving a notification or formal inquiry from the Hellenic Competition Commission.

- Being the subject of a dawn raid or inspection at business premises.

- Planning or negotiating a merger or acquisition that may trigger notification thresholds.

- Facing allegations of price fixing, market allocation, bid rigging, or other cartel behavior.

- Being accused of abusing a dominant market position, such as refusing to supply or imposing unfair trading terms.

- Considering or defending a private damages claim brought by customers, competitors, or suppliers.

- Implementing a compliance program, internal audit, or leniency application to seek immunity or reduced sanctions.

Competition matters can carry substantial administrative and civil consequences, and early legal advice helps protect rights, preserve evidence, and manage risk.

Local Laws Overview

Key legal points that are particularly relevant in Nea Smyrni and across Greece include:

- Legal framework - Greek competition law implements EU rules and is primarily set out in national legislation that aligns with Articles 101 and 102 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union. National rules govern enforcement by the Hellenic Competition Commission and allow private enforcement before national courts.

- Enforcement authorities - The Hellenic Competition Commission is the independent national regulator that investigates restrictive practices, assesses mergers that meet national thresholds, and can impose remedies and fines. EU institutions can also take action in cross-border cases.

- Prohibited behavior - Agreements between businesses that restrict competition and concerted practices that have the object or effect of restricting competition are prohibited. Abuse of a dominant position is separately prohibited. Both types of conduct can trigger administrative investigations and civil claims.

- Merger control - Transactions that meet national turnover thresholds must be notified to the national authority before implementation. Larger transactions may fall under EU merger control rules. Implementing a concentration before clearance can lead to penalties.

- Sanctions and remedies - The authority can order behavior or structural remedies, impose fines, and require discontinuation of illegal practices. Fines are typically calculated with reference to turnover and can be substantial. A leniency program allows whistleblowers to seek immunity or reduced fines in cartel cases.

- Private enforcement - Individuals and companies injured by anticompetitive conduct can seek damages in national civil courts. Competition decisions by the authority can be used as evidence in private claims.

- Procedural rights - Parties under investigation have procedural rights, including the right to be heard and to contest decisions before the courts. Judicial review of administrative decisions is possible under Greek administrative law.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is covered by antitrust law in Greece?

Antitrust law covers agreements and practices that restrict competition, abuse of a dominant market position, and the review of mergers and acquisitions that may significantly impede effective competition. Both national law and EU law apply depending on the facts.

Who enforces antitrust rules in Greece?

The Hellenic Competition Commission is the primary national enforcer. In cross-border or very large cases, EU institutions may also intervene. Private parties can enforce their rights in national courts.

What should I do if the Hellenic Competition Commission opens an investigation?

Contact a lawyer experienced in competition law immediately. Preserve all relevant documents and communications, do not destroy records, and limit communications about the subject matter. Your lawyer can advise on the right responses, requests for information, and representation during interviews or hearings.

What happens in a dawn raid or inspection?

Inspectors may enter business premises to secure evidence. You should cooperate but you also have rights. Allow legal counsel to be present if possible, identify and preserve privileged communications, and avoid obstructing the inspection. Document what is seized and the course of the inspection.

Do I need to notify a merger or acquisition in Greece?

You must notify the Hellenic Competition Commission if the transaction meets the national turnover thresholds for concentration control. Larger transactions may need notification to EU authorities under EU merger rules. Failure to notify when required can lead to fines and unwinding of the transaction.

What is a leniency program and should I consider it?

A leniency program allows a participant in a cartel to report the conduct and provide evidence to receive immunity or a reduced fine. If you have inside knowledge of cartel activity, contact a competition lawyer quickly because timing and the quality of evidence are critical for a successful leniency application.

Can I sue for damages if I was harmed by anticompetitive conduct?

Yes. Private parties that suffered harm from anticompetitive practices can seek compensation in civil courts. A decision by the competition authority can strengthen a private claim, but private suits can also proceed independently.

What penalties can companies or individuals face?

Penalties can include administrative fines, orders to change behavior, and civil liability for damages. Fines are commonly linked to turnover and can be significant. In complex cases there may also be reputational and commercial consequences.

How long does a typical antitrust investigation or merger review take?

Timelines vary. Merger reviews often follow statutory deadlines but can be extended if remedies or commitments are proposed. Investigations into restrictive practices can take many months or longer, depending on complexity and whether appeals are brought in court.

How do I find a competition lawyer or firm near Nea Smyrni?

Look for lawyers or firms with specific competition law experience and with records of handling Hellenic Competition Commission matters, EU competition issues, and private damages litigation. Many specialist lawyers are based in Athens and are available to advise clients in Nea Smyrni and the surrounding area. Ask about experience, approach to investigations, and fee structure before hiring.

Additional Resources

Useful institutions and resources to consult include:

- Hellenic Competition Commission - the national authority responsible for enforcement and guidance.

- European Commission Directorate-General for Competition - sets and enforces EU competition rules in cross-border cases.

- Athens Bar Association - for referrals to qualified local competition lawyers and information about legal aid or pro bono services.

- Official national legislation texts and the Government Gazette for the most recent statutory amendments on competition law.

- University law faculties and legal research centers that publish articles and practical guides on competition law.

- Consumer protection agencies and business associations, which may provide materials on compliance and reporting channels.

Next Steps

If you believe you are involved in or affected by possible anticompetitive conduct, follow these steps:

- Preserve evidence - keep documents, emails, contracts, call logs, and other records intact. Do not delete or alter files.

- Limit communications - avoid discussing the matter with others until you have legal advice.

- Seek specialized legal advice - contact a lawyer experienced in Greek and EU competition law for an initial assessment.

- Consider urgent measures - if a dawn raid is possible or an investigation is underway, act immediately to secure legal representation.

- Evaluate options - your lawyer can advise on leniency applications, settlement or commitments, litigation strategy for private claims or appeals, and compliance steps.

- Understand costs and process - discuss fees, expected timeline, and likely outcomes with your lawyer so you can make informed decisions.

This guide provides general information and does not replace professional legal advice. For advice tailored to your situation consult a qualified competition lawyer who can assess your facts and represent you before authorities and courts.