Best Employment & Labor Lawyers in Melissia

About Employment & Labor Law in Melissia, Greece

Employment and labor matters in Melissia are governed primarily by national Greek law, supplemented by European Union rules, collective bargaining agreements and local practice. Melissia is a suburb of Athens within the Municipality of Penteli, so residents and employers follow the same statutory framework and administrative procedures that apply across Greece. Common workplace topics include contracts and contract terms, working hours and overtime, wages and social security, leave entitlements, health and safety, protection from discrimination and dismissal rules.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Employment issues often involve complex procedural and substantive rules and strict time limits. You may need a lawyer if you face any of the following situations:

- You have been dismissed and want to challenge the lawfulness of the termination or negotiate severance.

- You have unpaid wages, unpaid overtime, or improper deductions from pay.

- You are experiencing harassment, bullying or discrimination at work on grounds such as gender, age, religion, disability or nationality.

- Your employer has changed essential contract terms without agreement, for example reducing pay or changing working hours.

- You are on a fixed-term contract and believe it has been used to avoid permanent employment protections.

- You need help with redundancy procedures or collective dismissals where several employees are affected.

- You are an employer who needs to follow proper procedure for discipline or dismissal to avoid liability.

- You are a non-EU national seeking a work permit or facing immigration-related employment issues.

- You want help negotiating settlement agreements, drafting or reviewing employment contracts, or navigating collective bargaining matters.

Local Laws Overview

Key aspects of the legal framework that are important for workers and employers in Melissia include the following:

- National and EU Law - Employment rights in Greece derive from national statutes, decisions of Greek courts, collective agreements and EU directives implemented into Greek law. EU rules play a significant role in areas such as working time and anti-discrimination.

- Employment Contracts - Work relationships must be based on an employment contract. Contracts can be indefinite or fixed-term. Written evidence of main terms is important for enforcement of rights.

- Working Time and Leave - Working time rules set regular hours, rest periods, rules for overtime and night work, as well as statutory annual leave and public holiday entitlements. Employers must comply with limits and pay appropriate overtime rates where required.

- Wages and Social Security - Wages must meet statutory minimums or collective agreement minima where applicable. Social security contributions are paid to the national social security authority and provide access to health care, pension and unemployment benefits.

- Termination and Severance - Dismissal rules include notice requirements, grounds for lawful termination, and potential entitlement to severance pay for unfair dismissal or redundancy. Procedural fairness is important and failure to follow procedures can give rise to compensation claims.

- Anti-Discrimination and Harassment - Law prohibits discrimination in employment on a range of protected grounds and requires employers to prevent and address harassment and create safe workplaces.

- Health and Safety - Employers owe duties to protect employee health and safety, including risk assessments and appropriate safeguards in the workplace.

- Collective Rights - Trade unions and collective bargaining agreements influence terms in many sectors. A number of disputes can be dealt with through conciliation and mediation bodies, or through formal labour courts.

- Immigration and Work Permits - Non-EU nationals generally require work permits and relevant visas. Employers must follow the permit procedures and comply with immigration rules.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I challenge an unfair dismissal?

If you believe your dismissal was unfair or procedurally flawed, you should act quickly. Preserve all documentation - dismissal letter, payslips, employment contract, correspondence. Seek early legal advice to understand time limits and possible remedies such as reinstatement or compensation. Many dismissals are first addressed through conciliation or mediation, but court proceedings may be necessary.

What notice period am I entitled to when my employer terminates my contract?

Notice periods depend on the length of service, the terms of the contract, and applicable collective agreements. Some employment contracts specify notice terms, but statutory minimums and collective agreement rules may apply. A lawyer can check the specific rules that affect your case and calculate any back pay or compensation owed for improper notice.

Am I entitled to severance pay if I am made redundant?

Severance or redundancy pay may be owed depending on the reason for termination, length of service and statutory or collective agreement provisions. Entitlement also depends on whether the dismissal is lawful and whether correct procedures were followed. A legal review will determine whether you have a claim for severance or compensation.

What can I do about unpaid wages or unpaid overtime?

Document hours worked, contracts, and payroll records. Contact your employer in writing requesting payment and keep a copy. If the employer refuses, you can file a claim with the labour inspectorate or pursue a civil claim in the labour courts. A lawyer can help quantify the claim and guide you through enforcement options.

How are fixed-term contracts treated under Greek law?

Fixed-term contracts are permitted but are subject to rules intended to prevent abuse. Repeated renewals of fixed-term contracts may trigger conversion to an indefinite contract depending on the sector and applicable law. Review by a lawyer can determine whether a contract has been used in a way that violates the law.

What protections exist for workplace harassment and discrimination?

Greek law prohibits discrimination and harassment in employment on a variety of grounds. Employers must take steps to prevent harassment and respond to complaints. Remedies may include injunctions, compensation and disciplinary action against perpetrators. Keep records of incidents and report them through your employer or trade union as a first step.

Can I take sick leave or parental leave and keep my job?

Employees have statutory rights to certain types of leave, including sick leave and parental leave, with job protection during specified periods. The exact entitlements, pay during leave and notice requirements vary by type of leave and by collective agreements. Ensure you follow the employer notification and certification requirements to preserve your rights.

What should I do if my employer changes my contract terms without consent?

An employer cannot unilaterally make fundamental changes to employment terms such as pay, place of work or working hours without agreement or a lawful basis. If changes are imposed, raise concerns in writing, seek internal resolution, and consult a lawyer about suspension of duties, constructive dismissal claims or other remedies.

How do collective redundancies or mass dismissals work?

Collective redundancies require employers to follow consultation procedures with employee representatives and to notify the competent authorities. There are specific thresholds and timelines that trigger these obligations. Failure to comply may make dismissals unlawful and expose the employer to compensation claims. Legal advice is important for both employers and employees in these situations.

What should a non-EU worker know about work permits and employment rights?

Non-EU nationals generally need valid work permits and residence visas to be lawfully employed. Employers must follow permit procedures and ensure employment conditions meet legal requirements. Workers with permits are still protected by employment law. Immigration and employment issues are closely linked and often require coordinated legal and administrative action.

Additional Resources

Here are public bodies and organizations in Greece that can provide information or assistance:

- Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs - national policy and oversight on employment matters.

- Labour Inspectorate - enforces labour law, including working conditions, health and safety and wage claims.

- EFKA - the national social security organization for contributions and benefits.

- OAED - the Manpower Employment Organization, offering unemployment services and programs.

- OMED - the organization that handles mediation and arbitration for collective labour disputes.

- Athens Bar Association - for referrals to qualified employment lawyers; Melissia residents typically consult lawyers registered with the Athens Bar.

- Municipality of Penteli - local municipal services, Citizens Service Centres (KEP) for administrative help.

- Trade unions and sectoral collective bodies - can offer support, representation and practical advice in specific industries.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance with an employment matter in Melissia, consider the following steps:

- Gather documents - employment contract, payslips, correspondence, dismissal letter, time records and any evidence of the issue.

- Act promptly - many employment claims are subject to strict procedural time limits, so seek advice early.

- Contact your trade union or the labour inspectorate for preliminary guidance and possible mediation.

- Schedule an initial consultation with a specialised employment lawyer. Prepare a clear timeline and copies of documents for review. Ask about fees and whether they offer written cost estimates.

- Consider informal resolution first - a negotiated settlement or mediation can be faster and less costly than court proceedings.

- If pursuing a claim, follow your lawyer's guidance on evidence, procedural steps and realistic outcomes. Keep records of all steps taken and communications.

Employment law matters can be technical and time-sensitive. Professional legal advice will help you understand your rights, preserve evidence and choose the most effective course of action for your situation.