Best Hiring & Firing Lawyers in Volos

About Hiring & Firing Law in Volos, Greece

Hiring and firing employees in Volos, Greece is subject to national employment legislation, collective labor agreements, and local workplace practices. Greek employment law aims to balance employer needs with strong employee protections. Volos, as a vibrant city in the Thessaly region, follows these national employment standards, ensuring that labor practices are fair and transparent for all parties involved.

The legal framework applies to all employment relationships, whether in large organizations or small businesses. It outlines the processes for hiring, contract types, working hours, terminations, severance pay, notice periods, and more. Both employers and employees must understand their rights and obligations under Greek law to avoid misunderstandings and ensure compliance.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are various situations where seeking legal advice or representation can be crucial in employment matters. Common scenarios include:

• Drafting or reviewing employment contracts to ensure legal compliance and fairness.
• Navigating the complexities of dismissing an employee, including proper notice and severance.
• Addressing claims of wrongful dismissal, unfair treatment, or workplace discrimination.
• Assisting with disputes over employment terms, working hours, or overtime pay.
• Guiding employers through collective redundancies and mass layoff procedures required by Greek law.
• Helping employees who feel their rights have been violated to seek remedies through mediation or the courts.
• Interpreting local or sectoral collective labor agreements applicable to specific industries in Volos.

Local Laws Overview

Employment relationships in Volos are governed primarily by national Greek labor law, notably the Greek Labor Code and relevant European Union directives. Several key aspects are especially important:

• Employment Contracts: Contracts can be fixed-term or indefinite. Written contracts are required, especially for fixed-term arrangements, and must outline basic terms such as job description, salary, and hours.
• Notice and Severance: Termination of indefinite-term contracts requires formal notice in writing. The amount of notice and severance pay depends on the employee’s length of service. Immediate dismissals without notice are only permitted for serious misconduct.
• Wrongful Dismissal: Dismissals must follow a just cause principle. Unfair dismissals can be legally challenged and may result in compensation or reinstatement.
• Probation Period: This typically lasts up to 12 months for new employees, during which termination is easier for the employer, but still subject to minimum legal requirements.
• Collective Agreements: Many sectors in Volos may be covered by collective labor agreements, which can enhance employee protections beyond the statutory minimums.
• Disciplinary Procedures: Employers must adhere to clear disciplinary procedures and document concerns with employee performance or conduct before taking termination action.
• Notification to Authorities: All hirings and firings must be reported to the ERGANI Information System (the national electronic employment database) and other relevant authorities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should be included in an employment contract in Volos?

A standard contract must detail job title, duties, salary, working hours, start date, contract duration (if fixed-term), notice periods, probationary terms, and any applicable collective agreements.

Is written termination notice always necessary?

Yes, for indefinite-term contracts, termination notices must be in writing and follow statutory notice periods based on the employee’s tenure. Immediate termination is possible only for justified serious cause.

Are probation periods mandatory in Greece?

Probation periods are not mandatory, but are common. For new employees, Greek law allows a probationary period of up to 12 months, during which dismissals face fewer restrictions, but certain obligations still apply.

What is the process for firing an employee?

Employers must provide written notice, pay any outstanding wages, calculate and pay statutory severance (if applicable), and file the termination with the ERGANI system. Additional sectoral or collective agreement requirements may apply.

Can an employee contest a dismissal?

Yes, employees may challenge a dismissal if they believe it was unjust or discriminatory. This can be done through mediation, labor inspectorate complaints, or court proceedings.

How is severance pay calculated?

Severance pay depends on the employee’s length of service and salary. For employees with more than one year of service, Greek law stipulates a sliding scale of compensation. Collective agreements may provide for additional severance.

What rights do employees have if dismissed during pregnancy or parental leave?

Greek law strictly protects employees from dismissal during pregnancy and parental leave. Only exceptional circumstances, such as closure of the business, permit termination during these periods, and employers must seek approval from the Labor Inspectorate.

Are fixed-term contracts automatically renewed?

No, fixed-term contracts end on the agreed date unless renewed by mutual consent. Repeated renewals without a substantial reason may convert the contract into an indefinite-term one by law.

When is mass redundancy applicable, and what process must be followed?

Mass redundancy applies when more than a specified number of employees are dismissed within a month. Employers must follow consultations with employee representatives, notify authorities, and respect additional procedural safeguards.

What happens if an employer does not follow legal procedures for firing?

Failure to comply with legal procedures can lead to reinstatement orders, penalty fines, severance payment, or compensation for damages. Employees have the right to contest the termination in court or before the Labor Inspectorate.

Additional Resources

For those seeking more information or assistance on hiring and firing issues in Volos, the following resources may be helpful:

• Greek Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs: Offers comprehensive guides on employment rights and employer obligations.
• Labor Inspectorate (SEPE): Handles complaints and enforces employment law at the local level in Volos.
• OAED (Manpower Employment Organization): Provides support for both employers and employees regarding hiring, unemployment benefits, and workforce regulations.
• Local Bar Association in Volos: Can help connect you with specialized labor law attorneys in the area.
• Workers' Unions and Employers’ Associations: Offer guidance related to collective bargaining, workplace disputes, and interpretation of local agreements.

Next Steps

If you need legal advice or assistance regarding hiring and firing in Volos:

• Gather all relevant documentation, including employment contracts, correspondence, and internal policies.
• Contact a qualified local lawyer with experience in Greek employment law. The Volos Bar Association can suggest specialists.
• If you are facing an imminent dismissal or have already been terminated, do not sign any documents or accept offers of settlement before consulting a lawyer.
• Consider reaching out to the local Labor Inspectorate for initial questions or to file a complaint if informal resolution seems possible.
• Keep notes of all relevant events, dates, and conversations to support your case if legal proceedings become necessary.

Understanding your rights and obligations will help you navigate the complexities of employment law in Volos and ensure fair treatment throughout the hiring and firing process.