Best Auto Dealer Fraud Lawyers in Melissia

About Auto Dealer Fraud Law in Melissia, Greece

Auto dealer fraud refers to situations in which a car dealer knowingly misleads a buyer or conceals important facts about a vehicle in order to obtain money or avoid responsibility. In Melissia, Greece, cases of alleged dealer fraud are handled under a mix of criminal law, civil contract law and consumer protection rules. Affected buyers can pursue remedies ranging from administrative complaints and civil damages to criminal prosecution, depending on the nature and seriousness of the conduct.

Because Melissia is part of the greater Athens area, legal procedures, courts and enforcement bodies that serve Melissia follow national Greek law and the consumer protection framework established by Greece and the European Union. Local police and national enforcement authorities may investigate criminal allegations, while civil courts handle contractual disputes and claims for compensation or rescission of sale.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Many problems that arise in auto dealer disputes benefit from early legal advice. A lawyer can help you understand your rights, gather and preserve evidence, and select the most effective legal route. Common situations in which you may need a lawyer include:

- You discover undisclosed damage or structural repairs after purchase, such as hidden accident damage or frame repairs that were not disclosed.

- The dealer misrepresented mileage or has evidence of odometer tampering.

- The vehicle has an undisclosed lien, is still registered to someone else, or turns out to be stolen.

- The dealer refuses to honor an express warranty, a verbal promise, or statutory conformity obligations.

- You want to rescind the sale and seek a refund but the dealer refuses to cooperate.

- The dealer used deceptive advertising or false statements to induce you to buy.

- You are a business buyer and face complex commercial contract issues with a dealer.

- You need to file a criminal complaint for fraud, forgery or related offences and want legal representation during the criminal process.

- You need help with administrative complaints to consumer protection authorities or pursuing disciplinary steps against a dealer.

Local Laws Overview

The legal picture combines national criminal law, Greek civil code provisions on sale and contract, and consumer protection laws that implement EU rules. Key aspects to understand are:

- Contractual rights and remedies: The Greek Civil Code governs sale contracts. Buyers can claim remedies for breach of contract, such as rescission, price reduction or damages, when the seller fails to deliver what was promised or sells a vehicle that is not as described.

- Statutory guarantee and conformity: Goods sold to consumers are subject to rules on conformity. Under Greece's implementation of EU law, buyers generally have a legal guarantee period during which the seller must repair, replace, reduce the price or cancel the sale for goods that are not in conformity with the contract. For new goods the standard period is typically two years. Parties may agree a shorter period for used goods in certain circumstances, but statutory minimums and consumer protection rules may limit such reductions.

- Criminal law: Knowingly deceiving a buyer, falsifying vehicle records, tampering with odometers, selling stolen vehicles or falsifying documents may constitute criminal offences under the Greek Penal Code and related legislation. Criminal penalties may include fines and imprisonment, depending on the severity and specific offence.

- Administrative and regulatory rules: Dealers must comply with business and trade regulations, truthful advertising rules and licensing obligations. Administrative authorities can impose fines or sanctions, and repeated or serious breaches can lead to license suspension or revocation.

- Burden and standard of proof: In civil cases the buyer must generally prove the dealer breached the contract or misrepresented the vehicle. In criminal matters prosecutors must prove intent and elements of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. Gathering independent inspection reports and documentary evidence is crucial.

Frequently Asked Questions

What evidence should I collect if I suspect dealer fraud?

Collect everything from the sale: the contract, invoices, receipts, warranty documents, advertising copy, emails, text messages and any inspection or service records. Take clear photos of the vehicle, defects and VIN plates. Preserve KTEO inspection records and any mechanic reports. If possible, obtain an independent technical expert report that documents hidden damage or odometer inconsistencies.

Can I cancel the purchase and get a refund?

Possibly. If the vehicle has a material defect, was misrepresented, or the dealer breached the sale contract or statutory conformity obligations, you may seek rescission and a refund. Remedies depend on the extent of the breach, whether the buyer is a consumer, and the timing of the complaint. A lawyer can assess whether rescission is realistic and help with formal demand letters and court actions if needed.

What if the dealer claims the problem is my fault?

Document the vehicle condition immediately after discovery and obtain independent evidence. An expert inspection can show whether a defect pre-dated your ownership or resulted from normal use. Legal counsel can draft a formal notice challenging the dealer's position and, if necessary, bring legal action to shift the burden of proof or seek damages.

Is odometer tampering a criminal offence in Greece?

Yes, deliberate tampering with an odometer to mislead a buyer is commonly treated as fraud or an offence involving falsification of documents. Such conduct can lead to criminal investigation and prosecution, but successful criminal action depends on proving intent and the factual alteration. Criminal complaints should be filed promptly with local police or the public prosecutor.

How long do I have to bring a claim?

Limitation periods vary by claim type. Consumer conformity claims often have specific statutory timelines, while general contractual and tort claims follow civil prescription rules. Certain consumer guarantees run for two years for conformity issues, with different rules for used goods. Because time limits can bar claims, consult a lawyer quickly to preserve rights.

Can I use mediation or consumer dispute resolution instead of court?

Yes. Alternative dispute resolution, such as mediation or a consumer ombudsman process, can be faster and less costly than litigation. Administrative bodies and some insurance-backed schemes handle disputes between consumers and traders. A lawyer can advise whether ADR is appropriate and represent you in the process.

What can the Hellenic Consumer Ombudsman or authorities do for me?

National consumer protection authorities can investigate complaints, issue decisions, and in some cases recommend remedies or sanctions. They can also offer guidance on rights and next steps. Their decisions may be persuasive and lead to resolution without full court proceedings, but enforcement mechanisms are sometimes limited compared with court judgments.

Will I need to go to court in Athens if I live in Melissia?

Many disputes are handled in courts of first instance that serve the Athens area. Because Melissia falls within the greater Athens jurisdiction, you may attend hearings in the appropriate court in the region. Lawyers local to Athens and the Athens Bar Association routinely handle such matters for Melissia residents.

Can I sue the dealer for emotional distress or loss of use?

Civil claims commonly seek economic losses - refund, price reduction, repair costs and consequential damages such as towing or alternative transport. Claims for emotional distress are less common and harder to substantiate, but in certain cases additional damages may be recoverable if you can show a direct link between the dealer's wrongful conduct and significant non-economic loss. Legal advice is necessary to evaluate these claims.

How much will legal help cost and can I get legal aid?

Lawyer fees vary by complexity, experience and the fee arrangement. Some lawyers work on fixed fees, hourly rates or conditional arrangements in select cases. Court costs and expert fees are additional. If you have limited means, you may qualify for legal aid or reduced court fees through public legal aid schemes administered locally or by the Bar Association. Ask an attorney about fee structures and whether early settlement or ADR could reduce costs.

Additional Resources

- Local Police Station - for filing a criminal complaint if you suspect fraud, falsification of documents or theft.

- Public Prosecutor - for reporting criminal matters that require prosecution.

- General Secretariat for Trade and Consumer Protection - the national authority responsible for consumer issues and enforcement of trade rules.

- Consumer Ombudsman - an independent body that handles consumer complaints and can assist with dispute resolution and guidance.

- Athens Bar Association - for help finding a qualified lawyer experienced in consumer, contract and criminal law related to auto dealer disputes.

- KTEO and independent vehicle inspection centres - for technical inspections and reports documenting vehicle condition and roadworthiness.

- Technical Chamber of Greece (TEE) or accredited automotive experts - for expert evaluations that may be used as evidence.

- Local courts information office - for procedural guidance on civil actions and filing requirements applicable in Athens jurisdiction.

Next Steps

1. Preserve evidence - Keep the sales contract, all receipts and messages, and avoid making alterations to the vehicle that could affect an inspection. Photograph relevant defects and document dates and communications.

2. Get an independent technical inspection - Arrange an expert report from a trusted mechanic or accredited inspection centre as soon as possible. This report is often decisive in proving defects or tampering.

3. Contact the dealer in writing - Send a clear, dated written complaint describing the problem and the remedy you seek. Demand repair, refund or rescission where appropriate. Keep copies of all communications.

4. Seek early legal advice - Consult a lawyer experienced in auto dealer disputes and consumer law in Athens. A lawyer can assess remedies, draft formal notices, and advise whether to pursue administrative complaints, mediation or court action.

5. Report criminal conduct if warranted - If you suspect fraud, tampering or theft, file a criminal complaint with local police or the public prosecutor, and provide your technical report and documentary evidence.

6. Consider alternative dispute resolution - Mediation or consumer dispute mechanisms can provide quicker solutions in many cases. Your lawyer can represent you in ADR and evaluate offers.

7. Prepare for litigation if needed - If the dealer refuses to resolve the matter, your lawyer can prepare a civil claim for rescission, damages or price reduction, and pursue the case through the courts while seeking interim measures if necessary.

Act promptly. Time limits and loss of evidence can weaken a case. Even if you are unsure whether the dealer acted fraudulently, early evidence gathering and legal advice will protect your rights and improve your chances of a successful outcome.