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Hiring a lawyer in Thivais, Greece typically begins with identifying the area of law that matches your issue, such as property, family, business, employment, criminal defense, or administrative law. Most clients start by seeking referrals and then schedule an initial consultation to outline goals, timelines, and costs. During the first meeting, expect the lawyer to run a conflict check, ask for identification for anti money laundering compliance, and review key documents that support your case or transaction.
You should verify that the lawyer is registered with the local bar association and authorized to practice in Greece. Ask for a written engagement letter that explains the scope of work, fee structure, billing schedule, and any success fee arrangements permitted by Greek law. Fees may be hourly, flat, or mixed, and they are generally subject to Greek VAT. For real estate and corporate matters, you may also interact with notaries, tax authorities, and the land registry, with your lawyer coordinating the process. If you reside outside Greece, most firms can handle onboarding remotely, arrange secure document exchange, and use a power of attorney for filings and signings where permitted.
Before work starts, assemble identification, proof of residence, contracts, correspondence, financial records, and any court or administrative notices. Clear communication about desired outcomes, budget, and deadlines will help your lawyer design a practical strategy. Always keep copies of everything you sign and request regular updates on milestones and next steps.
People in Thivais often hire lawyers for property transactions, inheritance planning and probate, setting up or restructuring a business, and resolving commercial disputes. Real estate deals in Greece require careful legal review of title, zoning, and land registry records, especially for agricultural or coastal property. Inheritance matters may involve cross border heirs, acceptance of inheritance, and tax filings, which benefit from local counsel. Business owners rely on lawyers to draft contracts, protect trademarks, and navigate licensing and compliance.
Family law issues such as marriage agreements, divorce, child custody, and maintenance frequently require tailored advice and representation before the court or through mediation. Employees and employers use lawyers to address hiring agreements, dismissals, claims for unpaid wages, workplace policies, and social insurance issues. Criminal defense counsel is essential for police interviews, bail applications, trial representation, and appeals. Administrative and immigration matters, such as residence permits, fines, and challenges to government decisions, also commonly call for legal assistance.
Other situations include defending consumer rights, handling data protection or privacy complaints, negotiating debt settlements, and seeking compensation for accidents. A lawyer can help you evaluate options, manage deadlines, avoid procedural mistakes, and improve your chances of a favorable outcome.
Greece follows a civil law system based on codified statutes. Civil disputes are governed mainly by the Greek Civil Code and the Code of Civil Procedure, criminal matters by the Penal Code and Code of Criminal Procedure, and administrative disputes by the Code of Administrative Procedure. Courts of first instance hear most cases, with appeals to regional Courts of Appeal and, for points of law, to the Supreme Civil and Criminal Court. Administrative disputes can ultimately reach the Council of State. Your lawyer will explain which court or authority has jurisdiction over your issue and what timelines apply.
Real estate transfers involve notaries, due diligence on ownership, encumbrances, and zoning, and registration with the Hellenic Cadastre. Certain plots may be subject to forestry classifications, coastal protections, or archaeological restrictions that can affect development. Your lawyer will coordinate with surveyors, notaries, and registries and can advise on taxes and municipal fees that apply to the transaction.
In civil and commercial cases, Greek law encourages alternative dispute resolution. Under the current framework on mediation, some categories of disputes require an initial mediation step or information session, and parties may choose voluntary mediation to save time and cost. For cross border matters in the European Union, EU regulations may apply to jurisdiction, service, and recognition of judgments, which your lawyer can integrate into the strategy.
Consumer rights, data protection, labor relations, and tenancy are regulated by national and EU rules. The General Data Protection Regulation applies, and the national data protection authority oversees compliance. Employment relationships involve statutory protections regarding pay, hours, leave, and termination. Residential leases follow the Civil Code, and parties should put terms in writing and understand deposit, maintenance, and termination rules. Legal fees are typically subject to VAT, and success fees are regulated by the Greek Lawyers Code, often combined with a base fee. Official translations and document legalization follow the Hague Apostille framework for participating countries, and certified translators are recognized under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs system.
You can ask the lawyer for their registration details and confirmation of membership with the local bar association. You can also request a formal engagement letter on firm letterhead and, if needed, contact the bar to confirm status. Many courts and authorities will only accept filings from licensed lawyers, so verification is standard practice.
Greek lawyers commonly use hourly, flat, or mixed fee arrangements. Success fees are permitted in regulated forms and are usually combined with a base fee. Most legal fees are subject to Greek VAT, which your invoice will reflect. Ask for a written fee agreement and a billing schedule before work begins.
You will need both. The notary drafts and executes the sale deed and ensures certain statutory checks. Your lawyer conducts independent due diligence, verifies title and encumbrances, reviews planning and zoning issues, manages negotiations, and coordinates registration with the land registry. This dual role reduces risk and helps avoid costly errors.
Yes. Most firms can onboard clients remotely, verify identity, and exchange documents securely. Where permissible, your lawyer can use a power of attorney to represent you for filings, court appearances, and signings. You may need certified translations and apostilles for foreign documents.
Bring valid identification, any contracts or correspondence related to the issue, official notices, court papers, land registry extracts for property matters, company documents for business issues, and a timeline of key events. Organized documentation helps your lawyer give precise advice and plan next steps.
Timeframes depend on complexity, court schedules, and whether the parties pursue mediation or settlement. Administrative filings may resolve faster than contested trials. Your lawyer should provide a realistic timeline, identify critical deadlines, and update you if circumstances change.
Greece offers legal aid to eligible low income individuals for certain types of cases. You can apply through the competent court with supporting financial documents. Your lawyer can explain eligibility and the application process or direct you to official guidance.
In many civil and administrative matters, your lawyer can appear on your behalf with proper authorization or a power of attorney. For certain criminal procedures and specific hearings, your presence may be required. Your lawyer will advise what attendance is mandatory.
Success fees are allowed under the Greek Lawyers Code but are regulated. They usually complement a base fee and must be agreed in writing, with clear terms about results and calculation. Your lawyer will outline what is lawful and appropriate for your case.
First, raise the issue directly with your lawyer and review the engagement letter and invoices. If not resolved, you can submit a complaint to the local bar association that supervises disciplinary matters. Keep detailed records of communications, instructions, and payments to support your position.
The official government portal provides centralized information on justice services, documents, and procedures. You can start with the Single Digital Portal at
