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Nea Smyrni is a municipality in the Athens urban area and is governed by the same national road and criminal laws that apply throughout Greece. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is prohibited and enforced by the Hellenic Police during roadside controls and after traffic incidents. Offending conduct can lead to administrative penalties - such as fines and licence suspension - as well as criminal prosecution in more serious or repeat cases. Breathalyzer and blood tests are the usual methods of measuring blood alcohol concentration - often abbreviated as BAC - and test results are used as evidence in administrative and criminal procedures.
- You were stopped in Nea Smyrni and recorded a BAC result that could lead to licence suspension or criminal charges.
- You refused or were unable to take a breath or blood test and the police started proceedings against you.
- You caused a traffic accident while suspected of intoxication, especially if there was damage, injury or death.
- You face repeat-offender penalties after prior drunk driving convictions or administrative sanctions.
- You need help understanding procedural steps - for example how to challenge the test, how to request evidence, or how to appear in court.
- You are concerned about indirect consequences, such as loss of livelihood, insurance increases, or immigration and family law effects.
- Legal limits: Greek law sets blood alcohol concentration limits that apply across the country. There are lower limits for novice drivers and professional drivers. These limits are evidenced through breathalyzer or blood tests and are the main objective criterion for administrative and criminal responses.
- Enforcement: Police carry out roadside checks in towns like Nea Smyrni. If an officer suspects intoxication, they may conduct a breath test on the spot and, if needed, arrange for a confirmatory test at a hospital or police station.
- Refusal: Refusing to submit to lawful testing can itself be an offence and may lead to penalties similar to or greater than those for a positive test result.
- Penalties: Penalties depend on the measured BAC, the circumstances of the stop or incident, and whether the offence is a repeat. Typical penalties include fines, administrative licence suspension and vehicle immobilisation. Serious cases - for example causing bodily harm or death while intoxicated - may lead to criminal charges and possible prison sentences.
- Procedure: Administrative measures can be imposed immediately by police. Criminal proceedings, if initiated, will follow the ordinary criminal process and may involve prosecution in Greek courts. You have the right to legal representation and to challenge evidence presented against you.
The general legal BAC limit is lower than in some other countries. There is a stricter limit for novice drivers and professional drivers. Limits are measured by breathalyzer or blood test. Exact numeric limits can change by legislation, so consult a lawyer or official authority for the current figures before relying on a specific number.
If your BAC exceeds the limit, police may impose immediate administrative measures such as a fine and temporary licence suspension. Depending on the degree of excess, whether there was an accident, and whether you are a repeat offender, criminal charges may also follow. You should request legal advice as soon as possible to understand your options.
You can refuse, but refusal is itself likely to trigger penalties and may be treated as an aggravating factor. In many cases the police can require a blood test or take other steps. Consult a lawyer promptly if you have refused or are considering refusal, because the legal consequences vary and specialists can advise on risks and next steps.
Licence suspension periods vary by the seriousness of the offence, measured BAC levels, and whether you are a repeat offender. Suspensions can range from a few months to several years in severe or repeat cases. A lawyer can explain the likely duration in your circumstances and whether administrative remedies or appeals are available.
Short-term administrative offences typically do not lead to prison. However, if the offence is criminal in nature - for example because it caused serious injury or death, or because of very high BAC levels combined with aggravating conduct - criminal prosecution can result and may include custodial sentences. Each case depends on facts and applicable law.
A lawyer can review whether police followed correct procedures - for example whether the breathalyzer device was properly calibrated, whether the test was administered correctly, or whether chain-of-custody and laboratory procedures for blood samples were observed. Lawyers can also obtain expert opinions, request evidence disclosure, and raise procedural or factual defenses in court.
- Stay calm and comply with lawful police orders. - Note the time, place and names or badge numbers of officers if possible. - Take photos of the scene and any damage. - Collect contact details of witnesses. - If detained or charged, request a lawyer as soon as possible and avoid making detailed self-incriminating statements before consulting counsel.
A conviction or administrative sanction can lead to higher insurance premiums, cancellation or refusal of cover, and may affect professional licences or employment if driving is part of your job. Employers may also have policies that trigger disciplinary action. Discuss these risks with a lawyer who can advise on mitigation and representation.
Yes. Foreigners driving in Greece are subject to the same laws as residents. Consequences can include fines, licence suspension, and criminal charges. If you hold a foreign licence you may still face administrative suspension in Greece and potential difficulties returning to drive in your home country. Non-EU residents should be aware of additional immigration and travel practicalities if detained or prosecuted.
Look for lawyers experienced in traffic and criminal law who practise in Athens and can represent you in local courts. Ask about their experience with DUI cases, success in negotiating administrative outcomes, and approach to trial work. You can contact the local Bar Association to confirm a lawyer's registration and to seek referrals. Arrange an initial consultation to discuss fees, strategy and likely outcomes.
- Hellenic Police - the national police force that conducts roadside checks and handles immediate administrative measures.
- Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport - the authority responsible for road safety policy and regulations.
- Local municipality of Nea Smyrni - for local traffic information and community safety programs.
- Bar Association of Athens - for lawyer referrals, verification of licences to practise law, and information about legal aid eligibility.
- Road safety organisations and educational bodies - they offer information on prevention, rehabilitation programs and public campaigns.
- If you are stopped: cooperate with lawful instructions, note facts, and request a lawyer promptly. Avoid making detailed admissions without legal advice.
- If you received a fine, notice of suspension, or a criminal summons: preserve all documents and evidence, write down your recollection of events, and contact a lawyer experienced in DUI matters for an early case assessment.
- If you caused an accident: ensure the safety of those involved, call emergency services if needed, and obtain medical and police reports. Legal representation is important when injuries or property damage occurred.
- To prepare for a lawyer meeting: bring police reports, test results, witnesses contacts, medical records, and any correspondence or notices you received. Ask your lawyer about deadlines to appeal administrative measures or to respond to charges.
- If you cannot afford private counsel: ask the Bar Association about legal aid and pro bono options that may be available depending on your circumstances.
Getting timely legal advice can protect your rights, clarify likely outcomes, and give you options for minimizing the longer-term consequences of a drunk driving incident in Nea Smyrni.
