Best Drug Crime Lawyers in Melissia

About Drug Crime Law in Melissia, Greece

Melissia is a suburb in the northern part of the Athens metropolitan area. Criminal cases that arise there are handled under Greek national criminal law and processed through the local police, the prosecutor's office and the courts of Athens. Drug-related offences in Greece are governed primarily by the national narcotics law and the Penal Code. Offences cover a spectrum from possession for personal use to production, trafficking and organised distribution. Penalties and procedural steps depend on the type of offence, the quantity and type of substance involved, the accused person's criminal history and whether the incident is linked to organised crime.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

A criminal lawyer is essential in drug matters because the consequences can be severe and complex - criminal penalties, administrative measures, social and employment consequences, and possible immigration effects for non-citizens. Common situations where you will likely need a lawyer include the following:

- Arrest or police custody. A lawyer can attend questioning, protect your rights and advise on how to respond to investigators.

- Search and seizure. If police conduct a search of your property, a lawyer can assess whether the search was lawful and challenge improperly obtained evidence.

- Charges for possession, distribution, manufacture or trafficking. Lawyers identify defences, negotiate with prosecutors and represent you at trial.

- Pre-trial detention and bail matters. A lawyer can work to avoid or shorten detention and argue for release conditions.

- Plea negotiations and sentencing. Experienced counsel can seek alternatives to imprisonment, mitigation or lesser charges where possible.

- Appeals and post-conviction matters. Lawyers handle appeals, requests for sentence reduction and applications for rehabilitation or record-related relief.

- Non-criminal consequences. A lawyer can advise on administrative sanctions, professional licensing issues or immigration consequences arising from drug charges.

Local Laws Overview

The legal framework relevant to drug offences in Melissia is national in scope. Key points to understand are:

- Governing statutes. Greece has a specific law regulating narcotics and drug-related behaviour and the general provisions of the Penal Code apply where the act constitutes a criminal offence.

- Types of offences. Typical categories are possession for personal use, possession with intent to supply, trafficking, production or cultivation, import and export, and participation in organised networks.

- Evidence and proof. Prosecutors must prove the elements of the offence beyond a reasonable doubt in criminal trials. Forensic analysis of seized substances is commonly used to establish the nature and quantity of drugs.

- Quantity and intent. Penalties commonly depend on the type and quantity of the substance and whether the facts indicate an intent to distribute - small quantities for personal use are treated differently from larger quantities or packaging consistent with sale.

- Procedural rights. Suspects have rights at arrest and in custody - for example, to be informed of the reason for arrest, to consult a lawyer, and to appear before a prosecutor within prescribed time limits. A lawyer can assert these rights when necessary.

- Alternatives and treatment. Greek law includes provisions for treatment and harm-reduction measures as well as certain alternatives to punishment in specific circumstances, particularly when drug dependence is a factor.

- Sanctions. Depending on the offence, sanctions may include fines, imprisonment, confiscation of assets, suspension of driving or professional licenses and other administrative measures. Repeat offences or links to organised criminal activity typically attract harsher penalties.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do immediately if I am arrested for a drug offence in Melissia?

Request a lawyer as soon as possible and exercise your right to remain silent. Do not consent to searches beyond what is lawful without a lawyer present. Ask to be brought before a prosecutor within the time limits prescribed by law. Contact family or a person you trust to inform them of your situation.

Can the police search me or my home without a warrant?

Police powers to search depend on the circumstances. Generally, searches should be authorised by a warrant or based on clear legal grounds such as imminent danger, consent or arrest in the act. A lawyer can review the circumstances of the search and challenge any evidence obtained unlawfully.

What is the difference between possession for personal use and possession with intent to supply?

Possession for personal use typically involves small quantities and lacks indicators of sale - for example, no packaging, scales or large sums of money. Possession with intent to supply is suggested by larger quantities, packaging materials, communications about sales or other evidence of distribution. The legal distinction matters for charges and penalties.

How serious are the penalties for drug offences?

Penalties vary widely. They can range from fines and non-custodial measures for minor personal-use offences to substantial prison terms and heavy fines for trafficking, production or organised distribution. The specific sentence depends on the offence, the substance, quantities and any aggravating or mitigating factors.

Can I be detained before trial?

Yes. Pre-trial detention can be ordered by authorities when there is a risk of flight, evidence tampering or continued criminal activity. A lawyer can argue against detention or for conditional release while the case proceeds.

What kind of evidence will be used against me?

Common forms of evidence include forensic analysis of seized substances, witness testimony, electronic communications, surveillance, statements made to police and material found during searches. The defence can challenge the admissibility or reliability of such evidence.

Can a foreign national be deported or face immigration consequences?

Drug convictions can have immigration consequences for non-Greek citizens, including detention, deportation or difficulties with residency and future entry. It is important for non-citizens to seek legal advice promptly to understand and address these risks.

Are there options other than prison for first-time or dependent users?

In some cases, courts may consider alternatives such as suspended sentences, probation, community service or referral to treatment programs, especially when dependence is established and the offence is minor. A lawyer can present evidence and argue for these alternatives.

How long does a drug case usually take to resolve?

Case length varies with complexity, from a few months for simpler matters to more than a year for serious cases that go to trial and through appeals. Factors include investigative needs, court schedules and whether the case is contested.

How do I find and choose a lawyer experienced in drug crimes in Melissia?

Look for a criminal defence lawyer who has handled drug cases and who can explain strategy, likely outcomes and fees. Ask about experience in the local courts, approach to plea negotiations and trial, and availability. Contacting the local or regional Bar Association can help identify qualified attorneys and access legal aid if you qualify.

Additional Resources

When seeking help, consider contacting or learning about the following kinds of organisations and authorities in Greece:

- Local police station and Hellenic Police Narcotics Units - for information on the immediate procedure following an arrest and for filing complaints about police conduct.

- Public Prosecutor's Office - the prosecutor handles criminal charges and pre-trial decisions.

- Athens Bar Association or the local Bar Association - to find qualified criminal defence lawyers and information about legal aid eligibility.

- Public Defender or legal aid services - available to those who meet income or other criteria.

- National and local health services and drug treatment organisations - for assessment and access to treatment programs if dependence is an issue.

- Municipal social services in Melissia - for support with rehabilitation, social assistance and referrals.

Next Steps

If you or a close person is dealing with a drug-related legal matter in Melissia, consider the following practical steps:

- Prioritise legal representation. Contact a criminal defence lawyer promptly and, if needed, ask for emergency legal assistance when in custody.

- Preserve evidence. If you were searched or arrested, write down what happened as soon as you can while details are fresh, and keep records of any receipts, messages or witnesses.

- Be cautious in communications. Do not discuss the case on social media or with people who are not your lawyer. Statements can be used as evidence.

- Consider medical or social support. If substance dependence is relevant, seek assessment and document any treatment - this can be important in court.

- Prepare for the meeting with your lawyer. Bring identification, documents related to the incident, any police paperwork you received and contact details for witnesses.

- Ask questions. At your first meeting, ask about likely outcomes, procedural steps, costs and what the lawyer recommends for both short-term and long-term strategy.

Facing a drug-related charge can be stressful. Early and experienced legal help combined with appropriate social or medical support gives you the best chance of protecting your rights and pursuing the most favourable outcome possible.