Existing user? Sign in
Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.
Free. Takes 2 min.
Elder law covers the legal issues that commonly arise as people age. In Agia Paraskevi, a suburb of Athens, elder law matters are handled under the broader framework of Greek law and local administrative practice. Typical topics include estate planning and wills, inheritance and property transfers, guardianship and capacity, powers of attorney, social security and pension rights, health-care decision-making and disputes with care providers, regulation of nursing homes and home care services, and protection against abuse or exploitation.
Because Greece uses national statutes and courts to decide most legal issues, local practice in Agia Paraskevi is shaped by municipal services, local social welfare offices, and the courts of Attica. Many residents also interact with national agencies for pensions, health care and long-term care regulation. A local lawyer who understands both the national legal framework and how local offices and courts operate can be especially helpful.
People turn to elder law lawyers for many reasons. A lawyer can help draft clear and valid wills so a personâs wishes for asset distribution are respected after death. Lawyers prepare powers of attorney and other advance planning documents so trusted people can act if the older person loses capacity. When capacity is disputed, attorneys guide families through the medical-evidence and court procedures needed to appoint a legal guardian or curator. Lawyers advise on pension and social-security entitlements and help appeal denied benefits. If there are disputes with care providers, nursing homes or banks - such as contract conflicts, overcharging or suspected financial abuse - a lawyer can protect rights and seek remedies. Finally, lawyers help with property matters, tax issues related to inheritance, and cross-border problems if family members or assets are outside Greece.
Civil and family law matters relevant to older adults are governed primarily by the Greek Civil Code and related statutes. Key areas include capacity and legal representation, inheritance and succession, and contracts. If an older person cannot manage their affairs, Greek law provides procedures for appointing a guardian or curator through the local court - a process that requires medical evidence and a judicial hearing. Guardianship is limited by law and the court may tailor powers to the individualâs needs.
Powers of attorney are commonly used for both financial and health-care matters. To be most effective, powers of attorney should be drafted clearly, signed before a notary or competent public authority, and kept with accessible copies. Documents executed abroad will generally require proper legalization or an apostille and an official Greek translation before Greek authorities accept them.
Inheritance claims are governed by the rules of succession. Wills are valid when they meet the legal form and execution requirements. Greek inheritance law also recognises compulsory heirs - close relatives who are entitled to a portion of the estate except in limited circumstances. Inheritance taxes and transfer duties may apply when assets pass to beneficiaries, and these are administered by tax authorities.
Health-care decisions can raise complex questions. Greece does not have a single comprehensive statute that covers all advance directives for end-of-life choices. As a result, families and doctors commonly rely on durable powers of attorney for health matters, clear written statements of patient wishes, and direct communication with treating physicians. Disputes about treatment or institutional care may involve medical ethics committees, court intervention or criminal law if neglect or abuse is suspected.
Long-term care providers - including private nursing homes and public residential units - are subject to national regulation and municipal oversight for certain services. Licensing, inspections and standards are overseen by health authorities. The Municipality of Agia Paraskevi runs local social and day programs for older residents, including KAPI centers - Open Care Centers for the Elderly - which can be a local starting point for services and referrals.
Protection from abuse, fraud and financial exploitation is provided by criminal statutes and civil remedies. Crimes such as fraud, coercion, theft and physical abuse can be reported to the police. Civil claims can seek compensation and protective measures. Municipal social services and KAPI often coordinate protective interventions and referrals to legal aid where needed.
To make a valid will you must be of sound mind and complying with Greek formalities. Wills should be written or made before a notary or in the presence of witnesses as required by law. A local lawyer can draft or review your will to ensure it meets form requirements and expresses your wishes clearly. Keep the original in a safe place and tell trusted people where it is held.
A power of attorney lets you appoint someone to manage financial or health-care matters on your behalf if you become unable to act. Durable powers of attorney remain effective even if you lose capacity. For enforcement in Greece, a power of attorney should be properly drafted, notarised and, if executed abroad, legalised and translated. A lawyer can tailor the document to your needs and advise on safe use and limitations.
If someone lacks capacity, family members can seek court appointment of a guardian or curator who will make decisions on their behalf. The court process involves medical assessments and judicial review. The court may restrict or define the guardianâs powers to protect the personâs interests. Before seeking guardianship, lawyers often explore alternatives such as powers of attorney or supported decision-making arrangements.
Nursing homes and care providers operate under national health and social-care regulations and are subject to licensing and inspections. Local municipal services and KAPI can advise on available programs, subsidised services and the quality standards to expect. Before moving into a facility, review the contract carefully, check its licensing status and request information about staff qualifications and complaint procedures.
If you suspect exploitation, preserve evidence such as bank statements, contracts and correspondence. Report suspected criminal activity to the police. Contact the bank to raise concerns about unusual transactions. Seek urgent legal advice to freeze assets or obtain protective court orders when necessary. Municipal social services and KAPI can also assist with referrals to support services.
Pensions and benefits are administered by national agencies. If a claim is denied or a payment is incorrect, you can request written explanations, file administrative appeals and, where appropriate, bring a case before administrative courts. A lawyer experienced in social-security matters can help prepare appeals, gather medical and employment evidence, and represent you at hearings.
Free or subsidised legal aid may be available to people who meet income or vulnerability criteria. The local municipality and the Athens Bar Association can provide information about legal-aid schemes and pro bono services. A lawyer can also advise on whether your situation qualifies for legal aid and help submit the necessary applications.
Bring identification documents, tax number (AFM), social security number (AMKA), property deeds or titles, bank statements and pension documents, any existing wills or powers of attorney, medical reports or certificates relating to capacity, and any correspondence with institutions or care providers. A lawyer will tell you if additional records are needed.
Inheritance disputes can arise over validity of wills, distribution of assets, claims of compulsory heirs or allegations of undue influence. Many disputes are resolved through negotiation or mediation. If that is not possible, litigation in civil courts determines entitlement and enforces transfers. A lawyer can evaluate claims, advise on tax implications and represent beneficiaries or executors in court.
Report immediate danger to the police. For non-emergency situations, contact the Municipality of Agia Paraskeviâs social services or the local KAPI center for guidance and intervention. You may also seek legal advice to pursue civil protection orders or criminal complaints, depending on the facts. Health-care providers have mandatory reporting duties in many cases and can assist in getting prompt help.
Start with local municipal services - the Municipality of Agia Paraskevi has a social-welfare department and KAPI center that provide information on social programs, community care and referrals. For legal help, contact lawyers who practice in elder law, family law and probate in the Attica region. The Athens Bar Association can provide a list of qualified lawyers.
National agencies are involved in specific matters: pension and social-security agencies for benefits, the Ministry of Health for regulation of care facilities and public health services, and police and public prosecutors for criminal complaints such as abuse or financial exploitation. Local health-care centres and hospitals supply medical documentation needed in guardianship or benefit claims.
Non-governmental organisations and community groups that serve older adults provide advice, social support and sometimes legal information or referrals. Your municipal KAPI can identify local NGOs, volunteer legal clinics and support groups that specialise in ageing issues.
If you need legal assistance in elder law, start by making a clear list of the immediate issue - for example document drafting, a potential guardianship, a pension appeal or suspected abuse - and gather relevant documents. Contact a lawyer experienced in elder law or family and estate matters in the Attica area. Ask about an initial consultation to assess your situation, the likely steps, estimated timelines and fees.
Seek practical local help from the Municipality of Agia Paraskeviâs social services or KAPI to access support services, care assessments and referrals. If there is urgent risk to health or safety, contact emergency medical services or the police without delay. For long-term planning, consider preparing or updating a will, a durable power of attorney and an inventory of assets and contacts so decisions can be made more easily if capacity changes.
Finally, make sure to keep trusted family members or advisors informed and to choose a lawyer who communicates clearly in plain language and explains costs up front. Good legal planning and timely advice can reduce stress and help protect rights, health and finances as you or your loved one age.
