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Elliniko, Greece Attorneys in related practice areas.
Employment and labor law in Elliniko follows the national framework of Greece, shaped by Greek statutes, collective agreements and European Union directives. Whether you work in a private business, a public entity or as an independent contractor, your rights and obligations are determined primarily by national law and sectoral contracts rather than by municipal rules. Local offices and services in Elliniko can help with administration and enforcement, but disputes are resolved under the same legal system that applies across Greece.
This guide explains the main issues people face when dealing with employment and labor matters in Elliniko, why you may need a lawyer, what local laws and institutions matter, and practical next steps if you need help.
Employment matters can be emotionally charged and legally complex. A lawyer can help protect your rights, explain legal options and represent you in administrative procedures and court. Common situations where legal assistance is useful include:
- Dismissal or redundancy disputes - where the law on lawful termination, notice and severance may apply.
- Collective bargaining and union representation issues - including disputes arising under workplace agreements.
- Harassment, discrimination or whistleblower complaints - to identify remedies and navigate complaint procedures.
- Contract negotiation and interpretation - for employment contracts, non-compete clauses, confidentiality agreements and freelancing arrangements.
- Wage, overtime and social security claims - including unpaid salary, incorrect contributions to EFKA and benefits disputes.
- Health and safety incidents - where employer liability or inspection reports may determine compensation and corrective measures.
A lawyer experienced in employment law can assess evidence, preserve important documents, meet procedural deadlines and advise whether to pursue conciliation, mediation, administrative remedies or litigation.
Key legal elements you should know when dealing with employment matters in Elliniko are set at the national level. Important themes include:
- Employment contracts - Contracts may be written or verbal, fixed-term or indefinite. Written contracts are strongly recommended because they provide clear proof of terms and conditions.
- Termination and severance - Employers must follow legal rules on notice, justified reason for dismissal and payment of any severance or other termination-related sums. The specifics depend on contract type, length of service and reason for termination.
- Working time and overtime - Working hours, rest breaks and overtime are regulated by national law and EU standards. Employers normally must compensate overtime work financially or with time off.
- Minimum pay and benefits - Greece sets statutory minimum wage levels and rules on paid annual leave, public holidays, sick leave and parental leave. Collective agreements for certain sectors may provide higher standards.
- Social security and contributions - Social security and health coverage for employees are administered through EFKA. Correct registration and contributions are essential for entitlement to benefits.
- Health and safety - Employers must ensure safe working conditions and comply with occupational health and safety rules. The Labour Inspectorate inspects and enforces compliance.
- Anti-discrimination protections - National law, reinforced by EU law, prohibits discrimination and harassment on grounds such as gender, race, religion, disability, age and union membership.
- Collective labor law - Trade unions, collective bargaining and the right to strike are recognized, with specific rules that govern lawful industrial action.
- Enforcement and dispute resolution - Administrative bodies such as the Labour Inspectorate and courts specialized in labor disputes handle enforcement and claims. Alternative dispute resolution mechanisms like mediation and conciliation may also be available.
While an employment relationship can exist without a written contract, having the terms in writing is strongly recommended. A written contract clarifies salary, working hours, duties, probation periods, notice periods and other conditions. If you do not have a written contract, keep written records of pay slips, communications and work schedules to support your position in a dispute.
First, gather evidence such as pay slips, bank statements, employment emails and any written employment terms. Raise the issue formally with your employer in writing. If the employer fails to resolve the matter, contact the Labour Inspectorate for an inspection and consider consulting a lawyer to pursue unpaid wages through the courts or settlement procedures.
An employer cannot lawfully dismiss an employee for an improper or discriminatory reason. Dismissal must comply with procedural rules and substantive grounds required by law. Immediate dismissal for serious misconduct is possible but must be justified. If you believe a dismissal was unfair, seek advice promptly because procedural time limits often apply for raising complaints or bringing court claims.
Notice periods depend on the type of contract, length of service and whether the dismissal is for cause or not. Collective agreements and individual contracts can set specific notice terms. Check your contract and relevant sectoral agreement, and consult a lawyer or local labour office if you need help interpreting the applicable notice period.
Severance entitlement depends on statutory rules, the reason for termination and length of service. Different formulas apply for ordinary termination, redundancy and other cases. Because calculations can be complex and depend on precise facts, ask a lawyer or an accredited advisor to review your situation and compute any entitlement.
Greek law and EU directives prohibit discrimination and harassment on grounds including gender, race, religion, disability, age and trade union activity. Employers have an obligation to prevent and respond to harassment. You may file a complaint with the Labour Inspectorate, seek remedies through the courts or get support from trade unions and specialist organizations.
If you believe social security contributions were not paid on your behalf, collect pay slips, contribution statements and correspondence. Contact EFKA to request clarification and records. If contributions are missing, EFKA procedures and legal remedies exist to recover unpaid amounts; a lawyer or social security expert can help you navigate the administrative claims and, if necessary, litigation.
Yes. Workers have the right to join trade unions and participate in collective bargaining and lawful industrial action. Private and public sector employees have different rules for strikes, especially in essential services. Consult your union or a lawyer to understand the lawful scope and procedures for collective action in your sector.
Seek medical attention immediately and keep all medical records and reports. Notify your employer and, if relevant, the Labour Inspectorate. Workplace accidents involving serious injury or death trigger investigations and may give rise to compensation claims under social security and civil liability rules. Contact EFKA regarding temporary disability benefits and consult a lawyer if you consider a compensation claim.
Time limits for employment claims can be short and vary by claim type - for example, unlawful dismissal, unpaid wages or social security disputes. Because deadlines differ and are strictly applied, act quickly. If you suspect you have a claim, preserve evidence and consult a lawyer or local labour office without delay to avoid losing rights due to procedural time limits.
Below are organizations and bodies that can assist or provide information in employment matters in Elliniko. Contacting these institutions can help you understand rights, file complaints or get referrals to legal services.
- Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs - national policy and guidance on employment and social protection.
- Labour Inspectorate (SEPE) - enforces labour law and conducts workplace inspections.
- EFKA - Unified Social Security Fund - handles social insurance contributions and benefits.
- OAED - Manpower Employment Organisation - unemployment benefits, job placement and training.
- General Confederation of Greek Workers (GSEE) and sector unions - collective bargaining and worker support.
- Athens Bar Association or local bar association - for lawyer referrals and access to legal aid schemes.
- Greek Ombudsman - for certain public sector employment complaints and administrative remedies.
- Local municipal social services and community legal clinics - can offer guidance or referral in some cases.
If you believe you need legal assistance for an employment or labor matter in Elliniko, follow these practical steps:
- Preserve evidence - keep contracts, payslips, emails, messages, time records, medical reports and any notices from your employer.
- Note key dates - record when events occurred, deadlines you receive and any meetings or communications.
- Seek initial advice - contact a lawyer experienced in employment law for an assessment. If cost is a concern, ask about free initial consultations, legal aid eligibility or union legal services.
- Use public authorities - file complaints with the Labour Inspectorate or EFKA where relevant. These bodies can investigate and sometimes secure administrative remedies or inspections.
- Consider dispute resolution - mediation or conciliation may resolve the matter faster and at lower cost than litigation. Your lawyer can advise whether these options are suitable.
- Prepare for litigation if needed - if a negotiated solution is not possible, your lawyer will explain the process, costs, timelines and likely outcomes before filing a claim with the appropriate court.
Act promptly, be organized and seek specialist advice early. Employment disputes often involve strict procedural rules and deadlines, so timely professional guidance will help protect your rights and improve your chances of a favorable outcome.
