Best Hiring & Firing Lawyers in Kastoria

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Lawyer S. Kitsos Iraklis.
Kastoria, Greece

English
The firm of Georgios Kitsos - Iraklis Kitsos & Partners operates from Kastoria, Greece, delivering high level legal services across a broad range of law, with decades of sustained success. The team combines long-standing experience with ongoing professional training to provide precise advice and...
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1. About Hiring & Firing Law in Kastoria, Greece

Hiring and firing in Kastoria follow Greece’s national labor framework, with local practice shaped by regional industry patterns such as fur processing, tourism, and small manufacturing. The core protections guard workers against unfair dismissal and require proper notice, documentation, and compliance with formal procedures. Employers and employees in Kastoria rely on the same statutory rules as the rest of Greece, supplemented by local court practice and regional mediation options.

Key elements include formal employment contracts, just cause for termination, notice periods, severance obligations, and the right to challenge dismissals in the labour courts. The process is increasingly supported by electronic systems that standardize notices and filings across Greece. This section provides practical, Kastoria-focused guidance to help residents understand their options and rights.

2. Why You May Need a Lawyer

In Kastoria, employment disputes commonly involve small to mid-size businesses in sectors such as fur, hospitality, and agriculture. A lawyer can help you navigate the specific procedural steps and remedies available under Greek law.

  • A local employee claims unlawful dismissal after a seasonal layoff in a Kastoria hotel, seeking reinstatement or compensation. A lawyer can assess whether the dismissal was for just cause or a prohibited reason and advise on remedies.
  • A small fur-processing workshop terminates workers following a restructuring. An attorney can evaluate proper redundancy procedures, mandatory consultations, and severance calculations.
  • The employer suspects performance-related grounds for a dismissal but the worker alleges discrimination or retaliation. Legal counsel can review evidence, potential discrimination claims, and the appropriate filing path.
  • An employer needs to modify working hours or terms due to seasonal demand. A lawyer can guide the legality of changes, notice requirements, and risk of constructive dismissal claims.
  • A worker disputes unpaid wages or an inaccurate final settlement after termination. An attorney can demand accurate wage calculations, overtime pay, and statutory severance where applicable.
  • A company must conduct a collective redundancy affecting several Kastoria employees. Legal counsel can ensure proper consultation with unions, selection criteria, and notice timelines are followed.

Working with a local lawyer helps ensure compliance with Greek labor rules and reduces the risk of costly appeals. A qualified attorney can also explain options for mediation or settlement before or after formal proceedings.

3. Local Laws Overview

Greek law provides the framework for hiring and firing, and Kastoria residents benefit from the same national rules enforced through local courts and agencies. Below are two to three key regulatory touchpoints that commonly influence Kastoria cases, with context for recent practice.

  • Law 2112/1920 on employment relations - Establishes the basic rights and obligations of employers and employees in the hiring and termination process, including general protections against unlawful dismissal and the requirement for proper notice. This statute is frequently cited in court filings and settlements and has been amended multiple times to reflect modern labor market needs.
  • Law 3863/2010 and the Labour Code reforms - Represents the modernisation of Greek labour relations, including clarified rules on just cause, notice periods, and the procedural steps for dismissals and restructures. It remains a central reference point for how terminations are evaluated in courts across Greece, including Kastoria.
  • Electronic hiring and firing notifications via the ERGANI system - Greece operates the ERGANI online registry for formal hiring and firing notifications. Since its implementation, employers in Kastoria (as in other parts of Greece) are typically required to submit notices electronically, and employees may review filing status and documentation online. See the Ergani portal for official guidance.
Source: Ergani electronic registry for hiring and firing notifications - ergani.gov.gr

Recent practice in Kastoria mirrors national trends toward digital filing and mediation as a first step in disputes. For policy details and current procedures, consult OAED and the Ergani portal.

4. Frequently Asked Questions

What is a just cause for dismissal in Greece?

A just cause includes serious misconduct, repeated poor performance after warnings, or economic needs resulting in restructuring. The threshold is evaluated case by case in Greek courts, including when workers in Kastoria claim unfair dismissal.

How do I start a dismissal procedure for a worker in Kastoria?

Begin with a written notice citing the reason for termination and the notice period. Employers often file electronically via ERGANI and provide the employee with a copy of the decision and relevant evidence.

What is the notice period for termination in Greece?

Notice periods vary by contract and tenure, typically ranging from 15 to 30 days for indefinite-term contracts. The exact period should be stated in the employee agreement or dictated by law and amended by collective agreements if applicable.

Do I need to pay severance to a terminated employee in Greece?

Severance is commonly required when dismissal is not for gross misconduct or when statutes or contracts specify severance entitlements. The amount depends on tenure and the applicable labour terms in force at the time of termination.

How long does a typical wrongful termination case take in Kastoria?

Litigation can take several months to over a year, depending on court backlogs and case complexity. Mediation or settlement proceedings may shorten the timeline.

Can a worker appeal a dismissal decision in Kastoria?

Yes. A worker may appeal to the competent labor court or seek a settlement. Appeals are typically bound by strict deadlines; consult a lawyer promptly to preserve rights.

Should I engage a local lawyer for a termination dispute in Kastoria?

Yes. A local lawyer understands Kastoria’s business environment and regional court practices, including common evidence standards and mediation options.

Do I need to use the Ergani system to terminate an employee in Greece?

Most terminations must be reported electronically via Ergani. The portal provides status updates and helps ensure compliance with formal requirements.

What are the costs of hiring a labour lawyer in Kastoria?

Costs vary by case complexity, lawyer experience, and the retainer arrangement. Typical engagements include an upfront retainer plus hourly rates or a fixed fee for specific tasks.

What’s the difference between a fixed-term contract termination and an open-ended one?

A fixed-term contract ends on its specific completion date unless renewed. Dismissal before expiry may require justification akin to a just cause or consent; open-ended contracts demand notice and severance in certain cases.

How do I handle seasonal layoffs under Greek law in Kastoria?

Seasonal layoffs require careful timing, notice, and, where applicable, staged rehiring options. The ERGANI system often governs the formal termination and subsequent re-engagement steps.

Is there special protection for whistleblowers in Greece?

Yes. Greek law protects employees who report wrongdoing from retaliation, and such protections can influence termination decisions and potential remedies.

5. Additional Resources

  • OAED - Hellenic Manpower Employment Organization - Official agency for unemployment benefits, job placement, and labor market services. Website: oaed.gr
  • ERGANI System - National online registry for hiring and firing notifications and related processes. Website: ergani.gov.gr
  • Hellenic Data Protection Authority - Supervises privacy and data handling in HR processes, including terminations. Website: dpa.gr
Source: OAED and ERGANI official resources outline mandatory electronic notifications and worker protections in Greek employment law - oaed.gr; ergani.gov.gr

6. Next Steps

  1. Define your objective and collect all relevant documents, including the contract, notices, and payroll records. Set a realistic timeline for consultation and potential filing dates.
  2. Identify a Kastoria-area lawyer who specializes in labour law and has experience with dismissals and restructures in the region. Seek at least two initial consultations to compare approaches.
  3. Prepare a concise summary of your situation, including dates, witnesses, and key evidence. Email it to shortlisted lawyers before your first meeting.
  4. Ask about the lawyer's approach to ADR and mediation, typical timelines, and fee structure. Request a written engagement proposal or retainer agreement.
  5. Schedule an initial meeting to discuss strategy, likely remedies, and cost estimates. Bring all HR records, company policies, and any relevant correspondence.
  6. Decide on engagement and sign a retainer if you anticipate litigation or complex negotiations. Confirm the ERGANI filing plan and timelines with the lawyer.
  7. Proceed with the chosen path-mediation, settlement negotiation, or court proceedings-guided by your lawyer’s plan and milestones. Maintain regular updates on progress and costs.

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Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.

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