Best Corporate Governance Lawyers in Katerini

1. About Corporate Governance Law in Katerini, Greece

Katerini, a city in Pieria in Central Macedonia, follows the national Greek framework for corporate governance. This framework regulates the duties of directors, rights of shareholders, and the transparency obligations of companies operating in Greece. National law applies uniformly to firms in Katerini just as it does to companies in Thessaloniki, Larissa, and Athens.

At its core, Greek corporate governance is built on the balance between management and ownership, with emphasis on accountability, accurate reporting, and the protection of minority shareholders. Companies in Katerini must comply with ongoing disclosure requirements, board procedures, and annual general meeting rules defined by Greek statute and, for larger or listed entities, non-binding governance codes. A practical effect is that local directors and shareholders in Katerini rely on national judicial and regulatory institutions to resolve governance disputes and enforce duties.

Corporate governance in Greece emphasizes transparency, accountability and protection of shareholder rights as mandated by Law 2190/1920 and related regulations.

Source: Greek Government Portal

2. Why You May Need a Lawyer

In Katerini, concrete scenarios often require tailored legal advice on corporate governance matters. Below are real-world examples that residents and business owners in the area frequently face.

• A family-owned business in Katerini plans to convert from a private limited company (Ltd) to a public limited company (S.A.) to raise capital. This involves board structure changes, shareholder rights adjustments, and compliance with the relevant corporate laws.
• A minority shareholder dispute arises between relatives over director duties, related-party transactions, or minutes from a general meeting. A lawyer helps preserve minority rights and mediates a fair resolution compliant with Greek law.
• A medium-size Katerini company with several family shareholders needs a formal conflict-of-interest policy and a code of conduct for directors and executives. A lawyer drafts, reviews, and implements these governance documents.
• The company is preparing to issue new shares or a capital increase and must align with governance rules, board approval procedures, and disclosure requirements to avoid regulatory scrutiny.
• A Katerini-based business seeks investment from a local bank or venture capital fund and requires governance documentation, including board charters and financial controls, to meet lenders’ due diligence standards.
• A local company faces potential board liability concerns or an internal governance audit after a management decision that may have breached fiduciary duties; legal counsel helps assess risk and prepare corrective actions.

3. Local Laws Overview

Greek corporate governance is shaped by a mix of foundational statutes, regulatory instruments, and non-binding codes that are frequently revised. Two to three key references commonly invoked in Katerini include:

• Law 2190/1920 on Anonymous Companies (S.A.) - the foundational statute governing corporate form, board duties, and shareholder rights. It remains central despite many amendments and updates over the decades.
• Code of Corporate Governance for Listed Companies - a non-binding code issued by national bodies to guide listed companies on board independence, accountability, and risk management; many Katerini firms that seek external funding or plan an eventual listing use this code as a benchmark.
• Non-financial Reporting and EU-aligned governance reforms - Greece has updated governance and reporting practices in line with EU directives, including disclosures on environmental, social, and governance factors for large enterprises. These reforms have been implemented progressively between 2018 and 2021 and continue to evolve.

Note: Specific articles, dates, and applicability depend on company type (private vs public), size, and sector. Always verify current text with official sources.

Greece has implemented non-financial reporting requirements for large companies in line with EU directives, with Greek regulations evolving through 2018-2021.

Source: Greek Government Portal

4. Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of corporate governance in Greek companies?

Corporate governance provides structure for board oversight, protects shareholder rights, and promotes transparent decision-making. It applies to both private and public companies in Katerini and across Greece.

How do I start a governance review for my Katerini business?

Begin with an internal audit of board practices, minutes, and policies. Engage a Greek lawyer to map gaps and propose a governance framework aligned with Law 2190/1920 and relevant codes.

When must our company disclose governance information in Greece?

Public companies face formal disclosure requirements in annual reports. Large private companies may have non-financial reporting obligations under EU-aligned directives. Consult an attorney for current thresholds.

Where can I find the official governance code used in Greece?

Non-binding governance codes are publicly referenced by authorities and professional bodies. Your lawyer can locate the latest version and explain its relevance to your company.

Why is board composition important for a small business in Katerini?

Board composition affects oversight, risk management, and access to capital. A well-balanced board helps mitigate conflicts of interest and improve credibility with lenders.

Can a minority shareholder bring a governance dispute in Greece?

Yes. Greek law provides protections for minority shareholders and mechanisms to challenge unfair practices, with remedies including investigations, minutes adjustments, or board changes.

Should a non-listed Katerini company adopt a governance code?

Adopting a governance code can improve transparency for investors, lenders, and partners, even if not legally required. It helps prepare for future growth or listing.

Do I need a lawyer to draft board minutes and governance policies?

Yes. A lawyer ensures minutes reflect accurate decisions and that policies comply with Law 2190/1920 and any applicable codes, reducing disputes later.

Is there a timeline to implement governance changes in Greece?

Implementation timelines vary by scope and company size, typically spanning several weeks to months, depending on board approvals and stakeholder engagement.

How much does hiring a corporate governance lawyer cost in Katerini?

Costs vary by case complexity and firm. A simple review may start in the low hundreds of euros, while comprehensive reforms run into thousands.

What is the difference between a private and a public company governance structure?

A private company typically has fewer formal reporting obligations and lighter disclosure. Public companies face stricter board requirements and shareholder rights protections.

Do Greek governance rules align with EU standards?

Yes, Greece aligns many governance requirements with EU directives, especially for larger or listed entities and for non-financial reporting. Local practice evolves with EU guidance.

5. Additional Resources

Access official resources to understand governance obligations, including Greek government portals and international guidance that informs national practice.

• Greek Government Portal - primary source for current laws, regulations, and official notices related to corporate governance and business registrations. Source: gov.gr
• OECD Corporate Governance Guidance - provides international benchmarks for board oversight, risk management, and transparency that can inform Greek practice. Source: OECD Corporate Governance
• European Directives and Greek Implementation Notes - for context on EU-level governance requirements and how they are implemented in Greek law. Source: gov.gr

6. Next Steps

1. Define your governance needs and engage with a Katerini-based corporate governance attorney to assess scope and budget. Create a written brief outlining company type, size, and key stakeholders.
2. Collect current governance documents including board charters, minutes, policies, and organizational charts. Prepare to share confidential documents with your prospective lawyer.
3. Request initial consultations with 2-4 law firms in Katerini that specialize in corporate law and governance. Compare proposed approaches, timelines, and fee structures.
4. Ask for a written proposal outlining the scope of work, deliverables, and milestones. Ensure the proposal includes a timeline estimate for board policy updates or reform steps.
5. Agree on engagement terms and a fixed or capped fee for essential tasks. Confirm billing practices, retainer, and scope changes in writing.
6. Develop a prioritized governance action plan with your lawyer, starting with policy updates, board governance, and regulatory disclosures where applicable.
7. Implement the plan with periodic reviews and adjust as laws or EU directives evolve. Schedule a follow-up review after 3-6 months to confirm compliance.