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Labor law in Elliniko - as in the rest of Greece - governs the legal relationship between employers and employees. It covers employment contracts, working time and rest, wages and social security contributions, paid leave, health and safety, dismissal and severance, collective bargaining and trade union rights. Most employment rights are set by national legislation and are applied locally by regional authorities, labor inspectors and the courts. Local practice in Elliniko reflects the same national rules, with additional relevance for workplaces in the Athens - Attica area and for businesses operating in the Elliniko - Argyroupoli municipality.
People typically seek a labor lawyer when they face disputes or uncertainty about their employment rights. Common situations include alleged unlawful dismissal, unpaid wages or social contributions, discrimination or harassment at work, disputes over the terms of a contract - including fixed-term versus permanent status - incorrect calculation of overtime or leave, workplace accidents and health and safety breaches, and collective bargaining or union-related conflicts. A lawyer helps explain your rights, reviews documents, negotiates with the employer, represents you before administrative bodies and courts, and assists in pursuing remedies such as back pay, reinstatement or severance.
Key aspects of local and national law that affect workers and employers in Elliniko include:
- Employment contracts - Contracts may be oral or written, but written terms are strongly recommended to record pay, hours, duties, probation periods and duration for fixed-term work. Specifics often depend on collective agreements.
- Working time and overtime - National rules set limits on working hours, rest breaks and overtime pay. Collective agreements and sectoral rules may provide higher standards.
- Leave and absence - Statutory rights include annual paid leave, public holidays, sick leave, and protected leave for maternity, paternity and family care. Entitlements often depend on length of service and contract type.
- Pay and social contributions - Employers must pay agreed wages and make the required social insurance and tax contributions to the national institutions. Failure to do so can lead to administrative penalties and civil claims.
- Termination and severance - Dismissal is regulated and may require objective grounds or procedural steps depending on the situation. Severance payments, if due, are calculated by law and by collective agreements.
- Health and safety - Employers have obligations to provide a safe workplace and to comply with occupational health and safety regulations. Violations can trigger inspections and sanctions.
- Collective rights - Trade unions and collective bargaining agreements play a role in many sectors. Local union branches and sectoral agreements in Attica can be relevant in Elliniko.
- Dispute resolution - Labor disputes are handled through administrative remedies, conciliation mechanisms and litigation before the competent labor courts. Time limits and formal procedures apply.
A valid employment contract can be oral or written, but a written contract is best for clarity. It should state the parties, job duties, place of work, start date, working hours, salary and method of payment, probation period if any, and whether the contract is fixed-term or indefinite. If you do not have written terms, keep pay slips, time records and any written communication as evidence. Ask a lawyer to review the terms if you suspect misclassification or missing entitlements.
National rules set maximum working hours, minimum rest periods and conditions for overtime pay. Many jobs have a standard weekly working time with paid overtime for hours beyond that limit. Sectoral collective agreements may set different hours and overtime rules. If your employer does not pay overtime or forces excessive hours, you can raise the issue internally, file a complaint with labor inspectors or seek legal advice to recover unpaid wages.
Annual leave entitlements depend on length of service and on collective agreements for your sector. The statutory minimum varies and collective agreements often provide more favourable leave. Employers should grant paid leave within the leave year and record granted days on pay slips or employment records. If you are denied leave or not paid for accrued leave on termination, seek advice promptly.
If an employer withholds wages or fails to make social security contributions, you can first request clarification in writing and keep copies of pay slips and communications. You may file an administrative complaint with the local Labour Inspectorate or the social security authority. A lawyer can assist with a civil claim for unpaid wages and with reporting unpaid social contributions to the relevant public bodies.
Dismissal is regulated and cannot generally be arbitrary. Employers must follow lawful procedures and may need objective reasons for termination in certain cases. Protection is stronger for employees with special status, such as those on maternity leave or union representatives. If you believe a dismissal was unlawful, get legal advice quickly as strict time limits may apply for bringing a claim.
Entitlement to severance depends on the grounds for dismissal, the length of service and the terms of the contract or collective agreement. Some dismissals give rise to statutory severance, while others may not. The calculation of any severance payment can be complex, so review payslips, employment records and collective agreements and consult a lawyer to confirm your entitlement and to calculate amounts.
Pregnant employees have protected rights that include maternity leave and job protection for a defined period. Paternity and parental leave rights also exist and can vary by contract and collective agreement. Employers cannot lawfully dismiss employees for reasons related to pregnancy or maternity. Inform your employer of anticipated leave and obtain documentation from a medical professional. For detailed entitlements and procedures, consult a lawyer or the competent public authority.
Document incidents in writing, save messages or emails, and report the matter through any internal grievance procedures your employer has. You can also file a complaint with the Labour Inspectorate or contact a lawyer for advice on civil or administrative remedies. If the matter involves criminal conduct, consider reporting to the police. Trade unions and the Greek Ombudsman can also provide assistance or guidance.
Labor disputes can be approached through administrative complaints, conciliation or litigation before labor courts. Specific procedures and deadlines depend on the type of claim. Some claims have short limitation periods, so act quickly. A lawyer can advise on the correct body to approach, prepare the required documentation and represent you in negotiations or court. Expect different timelines for settlement - from weeks in conciliation to many months if litigation is required.
Lawyers may charge fixed fees, hourly rates or contingency arrangements depending on the case. Costs vary with complexity, the need for court representation and the lawyer's experience. Low-income individuals may be eligible for legal aid - check eligibility with the local Bar Association or a public legal aid office. Trade unions often provide legal assistance to members. Ask about fees and payment options at the first consultation.
Useful public bodies and organizations that can assist with labor law matters in Elliniko include the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs, the Unified Social Security Institution - EFKA, the Labour Inspectorate for the Attica region, local labour courts in Athens, the Greek Ombudsman for administrative complaints, local trade union branches and the local Bar Association for referrals. Citizens Service Centers can provide help with administrative procedures. For workplace safety concerns, look to the competent occupational health and safety authorities.
If you need legal assistance in labor law in Elliniko - follow these practical steps:
- Collect documents - employment contract, pay slips, time records, emails, medical notes, termination letter or any written communications. Keep copies of everything.
- Create a clear timeline - note dates of hire, pay problems, incidents, disciplinary steps and any meetings.
- Seek initial advice - contact a lawyer experienced in Greek labor law for an initial assessment. Ask about fees, likely outcomes and timelines.
- Explore early resolution - consider internal grievance procedures, union support or mediation if appropriate, which can resolve disputes faster and with lower cost.
- File formal complaints if needed - your lawyer can advise on administrative complaints to labour inspectors or on starting litigation in the appropriate court.
- Check for legal aid - if you cannot afford private representation, ask about public legal aid or union-provided services.
Acting promptly and documenting the facts will strengthen your position. A local labor lawyer can evaluate your situation in light of Greek law and the specific practices that apply in the Elliniko - Attica area.
