Best E-commerce & Internet Law Lawyers in Peristeri

1. About E-commerce & Internet Law in Peristeri, Greece

Peristeri residents and businesses operate under Greek national law that aligns with European Union rules on digital commerce and data protection. E-commerce and Internet Law cover contracts formed online, consumer rights, privacy, and the liability of platforms and sellers. Local enforcement is tied to national authorities and the EU framework, with Greece implementing EU directives through national legislation.

In practice, this means Greece requires clear online contract terms, proper disclosure of prices and fees, and a valid mechanism for refunds and withdrawals. Privacy and data security are also central, given the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and Greece's national implementations. For Peristeri based small businesses, understanding these rules helps prevent disputes and consumer complaints.

For individuals and companies in Peristeri, a local lawyer can interpret how national laws interact with EU directives, advise on compliant website terms and privacy notices, and help with dispute resolution when online transactions go awry. E-commerce law intersects with consumer protection, contract formation, data protection, Intellectual Property, and advertising standards.

2. Why You May Need a Lawyer

Below are concrete, real-world scenarios that Peristeri residents and businesses commonly face. These examples illustrate when legal counsel is essential beyond generic guidance.

• A Peristeri retailer operates a Greek language online shop and needs to draft a compliant distance selling contract and a robust return policy that satisfies Law 2251/1994 and EU Directive 2011/83/EU. Without precise terms, a customer may dispute a withdrawal or claim unfair terms.
• A Greek consumer reports a data breach from an online shop collecting customer data via a Peristeri-based website. You need guidance on GDPR compliance, breach notification timelines, and potential penalties from the Hellenic Data Protection Authority, as applicable.
• Your Peristeri business uses influencer marketing and affiliate links. You require advertising disclosures, contract clarity with influencers, and protection against misrepresentation under Greek consumer law and EU rules.
• A domain name dispute or suspected Intellectual Property infringement arises when a Peristeri entrepreneur uses a brand name online. You need counsel on trademarks, domain disputes, and protection of your brand in Greece and the EU.
• Your e-commerce operation processes customer data across the EU. You need advice on data transfers outside the EU, standards for data minimization, and appointing a Data Protection Officer if required.
• A Peristeri company wants to issue electronic invoices and stay compliant with Greek tax rules and VAT obligations for online sales. You need counsel on the right fiscal treatment and reporting timelines.

3. Local Laws Overview

The Greek legal framework for E-commerce and Internet Law combines EU directives with national statutes. Here are 2-3 key legal anchors relevant to Peristeri businesses and consumers.

• Law 2251/1994 on the protection of consumers in distance selling and related transactions. This statute governs online contracts, consumer rights, and the cooling-off period for purchases made remotely. It has been amended to align with EU consumer rights directives and evolving online commerce practices.
• Regulation (EU) 2016/679 (the GDPR) and Greek Law 4624/2019 implementing GDPR in Greece. These rules regulate personal data processing, consent, data subject rights, breach notification, and cross-border data transfers. They directly affect how Peristeri based shops collect and store customer information.
• Directive 2000/31/EC on electronic commerce (the E-commerce Directive) as implemented in Greek law. This directive covers online service terms, commercial communications, and liability considerations for online intermediaries. Greece has incorporated its requirements into national practice and enforcement frameworks.

Recent trends include stronger GDPR enforcement and a focus on transparent online terms, clear privacy policies, and cookie consent mechanisms in line with EU expectations. If you operate a Peristeri shop or website, you should ensure your terms, privacy notices, and data handling practices comply with both Greek law and EU standards.

4. Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cooling-off period for online purchases in Greece?

The cooling-off period for distance selling is typically 14 days in line with EU consumer rights rules. This allows a buyer to cancel a remote purchase without giving a reason and to receive a refund.

How do Greek distance selling rules apply to social media shops?

Distance selling rules apply when a social media shop forms a contract with a consumer remotely. Clear disclosures, terms of sale, and a right of withdrawal are required for online transactions initiated via social media platforms.

What does GDPR require for Greek e-commerce businesses?

GDPR requires lawful basis for processing personal data, clear consent where needed, data minimization, transparency in privacy notices, and breach notification within 72 hours when feasible.

How much can a Peristeri lawyer cost for e-commerce matters?

Costs vary by matter complexity and attorney experience. A typical initial consultation may be charged, with ongoing matters billed hourly or through a fixed-fee arrangement after the scope is defined.

Do I need a local Peristeri lawyer or can I hire Athens-based counsel?

Local knowledge helps with regional enforcement nuances and local business practices. An Athens-based lawyer with E-commerce and Internet Law expertise can be sufficient if they are familiar with Peristeri regulations and Greek consumer law.

Do I need a Data Protection Officer if I process personal data?

Not all businesses require a DPO. A DPO is typically required if you process large-scale data or certain categories of data. A lawyer can help assess whether you need a DPO and how to appoint one or appoint a suitable outsourcing arrangement.

Is domain name registration subject to trademark protection in Greece?

Domain names can implicate trademark rights and potential cybersquatting. If your brand is registered as a Greek or European trademark, consult a solicitor about domain name registration, disputes, and brand protection.

Can I sue for online scams in Greece?

Yes. You can pursue civil remedies for breaches of contract and consumer protection claims. In grave cases, you may also report criminal activity to the authorities for investigation.

How long does the Greek legal process take for e-commerce disputes?

Timeline varies by case type. Simple consumer disputes may resolve within a few months, while complex matters like IP or cross-border issues may take longer due to court schedules and appeals.

What is the process to register an electronic contract in Greece?

Electronic contracts are generally binding if formed with mutual assent and valid form. Specific terms for distance selling must be transparent, and certain contracts may require written form or opt-in for electronic signatures in line with Greek law.

How should I handle cookies and consent on a Greek e-commerce site?

Cookie notices should be clear, with options to accept or reject non-essential cookies. Consent should be freely given and revocable, and privacy policies must explain data processing practices clearly.

What are the acceptance terms for electronic signatures in Greece?

Electronic signatures are generally recognized if they meet legal standards for authenticity and integrity under Greek law and EU norms. You should implement robust authentication and audit trails for important contracts.

5. Additional Resources

Use these organizations and resources for authoritative information and practical guidance on E-commerce & Internet Law in Greece. They provide relevant standards, guidance, and policy context.

OECD - E-commerce and the digital economy overview. https://www.oecd.org/sti/ieconomy/e-commerce/

ICANN - Domain name system and disputes; guidance for domain and online branding matters. https://www.icann.org/

WTO - Digital trade and e-commerce topics, trade rules and facilitation considerations. https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/serv_e/digital_trade_e.htm

6. Next Steps

1. Clarify your E-commerce needs and goals. Write a one-page summary of your online shop, customer base, and data processing activities. This helps you communicate scope to a lawyer within 1 week.
2. Gather key documents. Collect your terms and conditions, privacy policy, data processing records, supplier contracts, and any notices given to customers. Have these ready within 2 weeks.
3. Research local E-commerce & Internet Law professionals. Look for at least 2-3 Athens or Peristeri based lawyers with relevant experience. Reach out within 1-2 weeks to request an initial consultation.
4. Schedule an initial consultation. Inquire about areas of practice, language capabilities, and proposed engagement scope. Aim for a 30-60 minute meeting within 2-4 weeks.
5. Discuss fees and engagement terms. Request a written fee estimate and preferred billing method. Compare fixed-fee alternatives for specific tasks versus hourly rates for ongoing matters.
6. Obtain a written engagement letter. Ensure it covers scope, deliverables, timelines and data protection considerations. This helps ensure alignment and reduces miscommunication.
7. Begin the engagement and implement compliance steps. After signing, create a compliance checklist for online terms, privacy notices, and data protection policies to be updated within 4-8 weeks.