Best Juvenile Law Lawyers in Thivais

About Juvenile Law Law in Thivais, Greece

Juvenile law in Thivais - and across Greece - focuses on the rights, protection, and accountability of minors in both criminal and child-protection contexts. It covers situations where a child is suspected of an offense, is a victim or witness, or needs protective measures due to neglect, abuse, or serious family difficulties. Greek courts and prosecutors have specialized juvenile sections, and procedures are designed to be child-friendly, emphasizing education, rehabilitation, and social support over punishment.

Under Greek law, a minor is generally a person under 18. The Greek Penal Code and the Code of Criminal Procedure set special rules for minors, giving priority to educational and protective measures. The Civil Code and family law also empower courts to step in when a child’s welfare is at risk. Greece applies international standards such as the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, which guides authorities to act in the best interests of the child at every stage.

In the Thivais area, juvenile cases are handled by the specialized juvenile sections of the local Court of First Instance and the corresponding Prosecutor’s Office. Social services, juvenile probation officers, and child protection agencies cooperate with the justice system to create individualized plans that support the minor and the family.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Parents and guardians in Thivais may need a juvenile law lawyer for many reasons. If a minor is accused of theft, assault, cyberbullying, drug possession, or similar offenses, a lawyer can protect the child’s rights during police questioning, negotiate diversion or mediation, and argue for educational measures instead of detention. If a child is a victim or witness, a lawyer helps secure safety, protective orders, and compensation, and ensures sensitive handling of testimony.

Legal advice is also important when the prosecutor or social services investigate alleged neglect or abuse, or when schools and authorities propose behavioral contracts or report incidents to the prosecutor. Families may need guidance on navigating child-protection hearings, compliance with probation or community service, clearing or sealing juvenile records, and dealing with cross-border issues such as travel restrictions or immigration status. A lawyer can also help apply for state-funded legal aid when the family cannot afford private counsel.

Local Laws Overview

Age categories and responsibility: Greek law distinguishes minors primarily by age. Children under a certain age threshold are not subject to criminal penalties and may only receive educational or protective measures. For older minors, the court may impose educational or corrective measures, and in serious felony cases it may order detention in a special juvenile detention facility. The focus is on guidance and reintegration rather than punishment.

Role of the Juvenile Prosecutor and Court: The Prosecutor for Juveniles leads investigations involving minors and can order immediate protective steps if a child is in danger. The Juvenile Court decides on charges, diversion, and measures, and it also hears child-protection applications involving neglect, abuse, or severe family conflict. Proceedings are closed to protect privacy.

Procedural safeguards: Minors have the right to a lawyer, to have a parent or trusted adult present whenever possible, and to be questioned in an age-appropriate manner. Police and prosecutors must use child-sensitive procedures, which can include specialized interview rooms and trained officers or experts. Statements obtained without respecting these safeguards can be challenged.

Measures and sanctions: Educational measures can include supervision by a juvenile probation officer, community service, participation in counseling or programs, and restrictions designed to promote schooling and positive behavior. Detention is reserved for exceptional circumstances involving serious crimes and when no other measure can protect society and the minor’s best interests.

Diversion and mediation: Greek juvenile justice encourages diversion from court when appropriate. Mediation between the minor and the victim, restitution agreements, and participation in social programs can lead to case closure if completed successfully. Compliance is monitored by probation services.

Child-protection pathway: Independently of any alleged offense, the prosecutor or a social service may bring a case to the court to protect a child. The court can order psychological support, family counseling, supervision, temporary placement with relatives or foster care, and other tailored interventions, always guided by the child’s best interests.

Privacy and records: Juvenile records are kept in restricted files. Access is limited, and records can be sealed or deleted after statutory time limits if the minor demonstrates good conduct. Public disclosure of a minor’s identity in connection with alleged offenses is prohibited.

Schools and reporting: Schools must prioritize the child’s welfare and safe learning environment. Serious incidents such as violence, weapons, sexual offenses, or credible threats of harm are typically reported to the prosecutor or police. A lawyer can help families respond constructively to school reports and disciplinary processes that intersect with juvenile justice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What age is considered a minor in Greece?

A minor is a person under 18. Juvenile procedures and protections apply in criminal and child-protection matters involving minors, with different approaches depending on the minor’s age and maturity.

Can a child be questioned by police without a parent or lawyer?

Authorities should ensure the presence of a lawyer and, where possible, a parent or trusted adult during questioning. If a minor is questioned without proper safeguards, a lawyer can challenge the use of those statements.

Will my child go to jail if convicted?

Detention for minors is a last resort reserved for serious felony cases. Courts prioritize educational and rehabilitative measures such as probation, counseling, and community service. A lawyer can argue for alternatives to detention based on the child’s needs and risk level.

What happens if my child is a victim of a crime?

The prosecutor can order immediate protective steps. A lawyer can request protective orders, support services, and restitution, and ensure the child is interviewed by trained professionals in a child-friendly setting.

How does diversion or mediation work?

For suitable cases, the prosecutor or court may propose mediation with the victim, restitution, community service, or participation in educational programs. Successful completion can lead to case discontinuation.

Are juvenile court hearings public?

No. Juvenile hearings are closed to protect the minor’s privacy. Records are confidential and access is strictly controlled.

Will a juvenile record affect my child’s future?

Juvenile records are restricted and can be sealed or deleted after statutory periods if the child shows good conduct. A lawyer can advise on timelines and applications to clear records.

What if school reports my child to the authorities?

Serious incidents may be reported to the prosecutor or police. Contact a lawyer promptly, gather school documents, and avoid allowing the child to be questioned without legal advice. The goal is to manage both school discipline and legal exposure constructively.

Can we get a state-appointed lawyer?

Minors have a right to legal counsel in criminal proceedings. If the family cannot afford a lawyer, the court can appoint one. Low-income families may also apply for legal aid for related proceedings.

What if social services say my child is at risk?

Cooperate respectfully but seek legal advice immediately. The court can impose supportive measures or, in extreme cases, temporary placement outside the home. A lawyer helps present a safety plan and supportive evidence to keep the child safe within the family whenever possible.

Additional Resources

Juvenile Prosecutor and Juvenile Court - contact the Prosecutor’s Office and Court of First Instance that serve Thivais for juvenile matters and filing guidance.

Juvenile Probation Service - attached to the Court of First Instance that serves Thivais, supervising educational measures, community service, and diversion compliance.

Hellenic Police - Juvenile Protection Units - specialized officers for cases involving minors. Emergency 112. Police number 100.

National Center for Social Solidarity - EKKA - social support and child protection coordination. Hotline 197.

The Smile of the Child - nationwide child protection organization. SOS line 1056. European Child Helpline 116111. Missing Children Hotline 116000.

Greek Ombudsman - Children’s Rights Department - independent authority for children’s rights issues and complaints.

Local Social Services - municipal social services in Thivais and wider Boeotia for family support, counseling, and referrals.

Local Bar Associations - contact a bar association serving Boeotia for referrals to lawyers experienced in juvenile law.

Next Steps

Act quickly and calmly. If your child has contact with police or social services, ask for a lawyer before any interview. Do not let the minor sign statements without legal advice. Ensure a parent or trusted adult is present whenever possible.

Collect key information and documents. Gather school reports, medical records, messages or posts relevant to the incident, names of witnesses, and any prior support plans. Keep a simple timeline of events.

Consult a juvenile law lawyer in Thivais. Ask about immediate protections, chances for diversion or mediation, and practical steps your family can take now, such as counseling, school plans, or community activities that demonstrate positive engagement.

Explore legal aid. If cost is a concern, ask the court or bar association about appointed counsel or legal aid based on income. Minors in criminal proceedings are entitled to legal representation.

Prioritize the child’s well-being. Arrange counseling or psychological support if needed, maintain school attendance when safe, and follow any interim instructions from the court or prosecutor. Compliance and stability help achieve better outcomes.

Follow up and document progress. Keep records of appointments, program participation, school communications, and any community service. Share updates with your lawyer so they can present the strongest case for educational measures and future record clearing.

This guide offers general information for Thivais, Greece. Every case is unique. For advice tailored to your situation, speak directly with a qualified juvenile law lawyer.