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An appeal is a legal process by which a higher court reviews the decision of a lower court. In Agia Paraskevi, which is part of the greater Athens area, most first instance matters are handled by courts located in Athens. Appeals from those first instance courts are normally heard by the Athens Court of Appeal. For administrative disputes the path goes from the Administrative Court of First Instance in Athens to the Administrative Court of Appeal and, in certain cases, to the Council of State. For supreme review on points of law civil and criminal matters may reach the Supreme Court - Areios Pagos. Appeal proceedings focus on correcting legal or procedural errors and, depending on the type of appeal, may also reconsider factual findings.
Appeals are technical and governed by strict procedural rules. A lawyer can help in several common situations:
- When you believe the lower court made a legal error that changed the outcome of the case.
- When a judgment imposes penalties, fines or enforcement measures that you want stayed or overturned.
- When you need to challenge administrative decisions by public bodies covering licensing, planning, social security or tax matters.
- When a criminal conviction or sentence from a lower court needs review.
- When evidence or legal arguments were not properly considered at first instance and an appellate remedy is available.
- When costs, security for costs, or appeals bond issues arise.
A local lawyer experienced with the Athens courts will understand filing requirements, appeal grounds, procedural time limits and local practice. They will draft the appeal brief, assemble the record, make oral submissions where required and advise on chances of success and costs.
Key practical points about appeals in the Agia Paraskevi area and the broader Athens jurisdiction:
- Court structure - Civil and criminal first instance courts in the Athens area feed into the Athens Court of Appeal. Administrative disputes proceed through administrative courts and may reach the Council of State on points of law.
- Grounds for appeal - Appeals can be based on errors of law, procedural irregularities, incorrect application of substantive law, or in some cases errors in fact finding. Cassation procedures focus primarily on points of law.
- Strict time limits - Deadlines for filing an appeal are strictly enforced. Time limits differ by type of case and method of service. Missing the deadline can extinguish the right to appeal.
- Evidence and review - Depending on the appeal type, appellate courts may have limited powers to receive new evidence. Some appeals are limited to the document record and legal arguments.
- Representation - Legal representation is normally required or strongly advisable in appellate courts. Local bar associations provide lists of advocates experienced in appellate work.
- Interim measures - If enforcement of a judgment would cause irreparable harm, it is possible to seek suspension of enforcement pending appeal. Such suspension often requires a separate application and may be conditional on security or other guarantees.
- Costs and fees - Appeals involve court fees and lawyer fees. The losing party may be ordered to pay the successful party's costs, but courts have discretion. Legal aid may be available for eligible persons.
An appeal usually re-examines both facts and law or at least the application of law to the facts. Cassation is a higher review that focuses primarily on points of law and legal procedure. Cassation usually follows an appeal and is heard by the Supreme Court or the Council of State when admissible.
Deadlines vary according to case type, how you were notified of the judgment and specific procedural rules. Time limits can be short and strictly enforced. You should consult a lawyer immediately after receiving the judgment to ensure you do not miss the deadline.
Generally yes, if the judgment was issued by a court of first instance you may have the right to appeal to a higher court, provided there are valid grounds and you comply with procedural requirements and deadlines.
Technically some parties can appear without a lawyer, but appellate practice is technical and representation by an experienced appellate lawyer is strongly recommended. Certain appellate courts require representation by an advocate for complex matters.
Not automatically. Enforcement is often suspended only where the court grants a stay or if you provide the required security. You should apply promptly to the court to request suspension of enforcement and be prepared to meet conditions imposed by the court.
Common grounds include errors in applying the law, procedural irregularities that deprived a party of a fair hearing, misinterpretation of critical evidence, or conclusions that are manifestly unreasonable given the record. Grounds differ by case type and must be articulated clearly in the appeal brief.
That depends on the type of appeal and the court rules. Some appeals permit limited new evidence only in narrowly defined circumstances. In many cases the appellate court reviews the record from the lower court and will not accept new evidence unless special conditions are met.
Appeal timelines vary greatly. Some appeals are resolved within months, while others may take a year or more, especially if there are multiple levels of review. Complexity of the record, court workload and need for expert reports affect timing.
Costs include court filing fees, possible security for costs, and lawyer fees. Lawyer fees vary by complexity and the advocate's experience. If you have financial need you may apply for legal aid, which is subject to eligibility rules and income means testing.
Contact the local bar association for recommendations and a list of advocates. Look for lawyers with appellate experience in the relevant field - civil, criminal or administrative law. Ask about previous appellate work, success rate, fees and procedural strategy during an initial consultation.
Organizations and public bodies that can be useful:
- Athens Court of Appeal - the appellate court that hears appeals from first instance courts in the Athens area.
- Areios Pagos - the Supreme Court for civil and criminal cassation matters.
- Council of State - the highest administrative court for cassation in administrative law cases.
- Administrative Courts of First Instance and Appeal in Athens - for disputes with public authorities.
- Athens Bar Association - for lists of licensed lawyers, referrals and information on legal aid.
- Ministry of Justice - for information on court procedures and legal aid policy.
- Local Legal Aid Services and public defender offices - for those who may qualify for state-funded legal assistance.
- Citizen Service Centres - KEP offices provide basic information and can guide you on administrative formalities.
If you are considering an appeal in Agia Paraskevi or the wider Athens area take these steps:
1. Act quickly - note all deadlines set out in the judgment or notification and start the appeal process without delay.
2. Preserve documents - collect the judgment, court file, correspondence, evidence and any transcripts of hearings. Make certified copies where needed.
3. Seek legal advice - contact an experienced appellate lawyer. Prepare a short summary of the case and key issues for your first meeting.
4. Discuss strategy and costs - ask the lawyer about grounds for appeal, likelihood of success, expected timeline, fees and possible need for interim relief like suspension of enforcement.
5. Consider alternatives - explore negotiation, mediation or settlement where appropriate to avoid lengthy appellate proceedings.
6. Prepare for procedural steps - your lawyer will draft the appeal brief, file necessary forms, request stays if needed and represent you in court.
7. Language and translation - court proceedings in Greece are in Greek. If you are not fluent, arrange for certified translations and a lawyer who can work with your language needs.
Appeals are often complex but manageable with prompt action and the right legal support. If you are unsure how to proceed, arrange an initial consultation with a local appellate lawyer to evaluate options and next steps.
