Best Merger & Acquisition Lawyers in Koropi

1. About Merger & Acquisition Law in Koropi, Greece

Merger and Acquisition (M&A) activity in Koropi, Greece is governed by a mix of Greek corporate law and European Union competition rules. Local deals typically involve due diligence, contract negotiation, and regulatory approvals before a closing, followed by registration of the change of control with the General Commercial Registry and relevant authorities. Because Koropi is part of the Athens metropolitan area, many M&A transactions there involve cross-border considerations and compliance with EU competition standards.

Key elements of the process include choosing the appropriate form of deal (share deal or asset deal), drafting a detailed purchase agreement, and obtaining necessary authorizations from Greek authorities if the transaction reaches merger thresholds. In practice, most Koropi deals incorporate notary involvement, corporate approvals by the target company’s governing bodies, and timely filings with the General Commercial Registry (GEMI) and, where applicable, the Hellenic Competition Commission. EU and national rules together shape the milestones and disclosures required at closing.

For a clear framework, the EU Merger Regulation provides harmonized rules across Greece for large cross-border concentrations, while Greek competition and corporate laws govern domestic aspects and enforcement. These rules influence how near-term decisions are structured, priced, and documented in Koropi and the surrounding Attica region.

Source note: Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 governs EU merger control, including cross-border concentrations that affect Greece. The Hellenic Competition Commission applies Greek merger control rules for non-EU concentrations or cases that fall under national jurisdiction. See: Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 and related Greek competition guidelines. eur-lex.europa.eu

“EU Merger Regulation provides a phased review process for concentrations affecting trade in the EU, with Phase I screening and potential Phase II investigation.”

Source: European Commission guidance on EU merger control and national implementation in Greece. ec.europa.eu/competition/mergers

2. Why You May Need a Lawyer

Engaging a qualified M&A attorney in Koropi is essential to navigate both Greek and EU requirements. Below are concrete scenarios where legal counsel is typically indispensable.

• In a local Koropi family business sale where the buyer seeks a share deal to acquire control. A lawyer helps draft the sale agreement, determine tax implications, and advise on whether to structure the deal as a share transfer or asset transfer to limit liabilities.
• Cross-border buyer enters the Attica market involving a Greek target. Counsel coordinates due diligence, foreign ownership considerations, and notifications to Greek authorities and the EU if thresholds are met.
• Asset-heavy merger within Koropi or East Attica requiring real estate transfers, licenses, and cadastre checks. A lawyer ensures proper title reviews, environmental due diligence, and compliance with land registry formalities.
• Competition and merger clearance concerns for a concentration that may affect market competition in the region. Legal counsel assesses notification risk and liaises with the Hellenic Competition Commission.
• Listed entity or funded investment where public disclosure, corporate governance, and fiduciary duties must be balanced with regulatory approvals. A lawyer coordinates disclosure obligations and regulatory filings.
• Post-merger integration risks including employee transfers, collective bargaining agreements, and retention plans. An attorney helps with transitional services agreements and compliance issues.

3. Local Laws Overview

Koropi-based M&A activity is governed by a combination of EU and Greek law. The most relevant authorities and laws include the following, with notes on how they apply locally.

• Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (EU Merger Regulation) - governs concentrations with cross-border effects within the EU, including Greece. It provides a phased clearance process and thresholds for notification. Effective since 2004, it remains central to large cross-border deals. EU Merger Regulation (EUR 139/2004)
• Law 3959/2011 (Competition Law) of Greece - outlines protections against anti-competitive practices and administers merger control within Greece, typically via the Hellenic Competition Commission. The law has been amended to reflect EU competition standards over the years. Hellenic Competition Commission - Merger Control
• Law 2190/1920 on Sociétés Anonymes (S.A.) - the core framework for corporate forms in Greece, including public and private acquisitions and mergers by absorption or reorganization. It has undergone numerous amendments to align with EU and national corporate practices. Gov.gr - Corporate Law overview

Practical note: Greek corporate restructurings often require notarial deeds, approvals by shareowners or directors, and registration of changes with GEMI. Local filings in Koropi may involve the Department of Economic Affairs of the East Attica regional units, depending on the transaction structure. For cross-border deals, EU competition rules interact with Greek law, creating a two-track regulatory path.

Source: Regulation (EC) No 139/2004, Hellenic Competition Commission Merger Control, and Greek corporate law references. eur-lex.europa.eu • hcc.gr • gov.gr

4. Frequently Asked Questions

What is the EU Merger Regulation and when does it apply?

The EU Merger Regulation applies to concentrations with cross-border effects within the EU, including Greece. It triggers a formal notification process to the European Commission for large deals. For smaller deals, national authorities may handle the review.

How do I know if my Koropi deal needs HCC or EU clearance?

Deals that meet EU thresholds require EU clearance. If the concentration does not meet EU thresholds, Hellenic Competition Commission rules apply for Greek-based markets. A local attorney can assess the thresholds based on turnover and market shares.

What is the typical timeline for Greek merger approvals in Attica?

Domestic Greek filings often begin with due diligence and a draft agreement, followed by internal approvals, notary steps, and GEMI filings. Regulatory review timelines vary, but Phase I in the EU process generally runs several weeks, with potential Phase II investigations if concerns arise.

Do I need a lawyer for a small Koropi asset deal?

Yes. Even asset deals involve contract drafting, risk allocation, and compliance checks with property and labor laws. A lawyer helps avoid hidden liabilities and ensures proper transfer of assets and licenses.

What are the typical costs of M&A legal services in Koropi?

Costs vary by deal size and complexity. Expect retainers for due diligence and variable fees tied to hours or fixed milestones. Request a detailed engagement letter outlining scope, rates, and potential disbursements.

How long does due diligence usually take for a Koropi target?

For mid-size Greek targets, due diligence commonly ranges from 2 to 6 weeks, depending on complexity and data room readiness. A structured data room and a defined due diligence plan help shorten the process.

Do I need to involve a notary and GEMI in a merger in Koropi?

Yes. A notary is usually required to formalize certain act deeds, and GEMI filings are needed to register changes in corporate structure. In Koropi, local registry offices assist with these steps after corporate approvals.

What is the difference between a share deal and an asset deal in Greece?

A share deal transfers ownership of the target company, including its liabilities, whereas an asset deal transfers specific assets and liabilities selected in the agreement. Tax and liability implications can differ significantly.

Is cross-border merger activity subject to Greek law in Koropi?

Cross-border deals are subject to EU merger rules and Greek competition law, with the Greek authority applying national procedures when appropriate. Local counsel coordinates multiple jurisdictions.

Can a foreign buyer acquire a Greek company in Koropi?

Foreign buyers can acquire Greek companies, but may face competition and regulatory review. Familiarity with Greek corporate governance and taxation is important to avoid compliance issues.

Should I consider alternatives to a merger in Greece, like a strategic partnership?

Strategic partnerships or joint ventures may reduce regulatory risk and provide flexibility. An attorney can help structure the arrangement for tax efficiency and governance clarity.

5. Additional Resources

These official sources provide guidance on merger control, competition law, and corporate structures in Greece and the EU.

• Hellenic Competition Commission (HCC) - national authority responsible for competition policy and merger control in Greece. Merger notifications and guidance are published here. hcc.gr
• European Commission - Merger Control - EU-wide rules and notification procedures for concentrations affecting the internal market. ec.europa.eu/competition/mergers
• Gov.gr - official Greek government portal for corporate law, business registrations, and regulatory compliance. gov.gr

6. Next Steps

1. Define the transaction scope and target timeline with your Koropi advisor, including whether the deal is local or cross-border. This helps determine applicable regulators and filing thresholds. Estimate a 6-12 week window for diligence and approvals in typical cases.
2. Identify local M&A counsel experienced in Greek corporate law and competition rules. Prioritize firms with demonstrated activity in Attica and knowledge of GEMI filings. Schedule initial consultations to align expectations and fees.
3. Undertake a structured due diligence plan with your lawyer, covering corporate documents, real property, employment, contracts, tax, and regulatory compliance. Prepare a data room and assign roles to your team and advisers.
4. Request a clear engagement letter from your chosen attorney outlining scope, milestones, fees, and a communication plan. Confirm language preferences (Greek/English) and transparency of billable hours or fixed milestones.
5. Obtain and review preliminary term sheets and draft sale/purchase agreements with counsel. Ensure allocations of liabilities, representations, warranties, and closing conditions are well defined.
6. Plan for regulatory filings and notices, including GEMI registrations and any competition notifications. Schedule closing milestones and contingency plans in case of regulatory delays.
7. Execute the closing and implement post-merger integration governance, including employee matters, IT systems, and compliance programs. Conduct a post-close review with counsel to address any residual liabilities or ongoing disclosures.