Best Private Client Lawyers in Greece

About Private Client Law in Greece

Private Client law in Greece covers a wide range of legal services aimed at individuals and families rather than businesses or corporations. This area of law typically includes estate and succession planning, wills and inheritance matters, property management, international asset protection, tax planning, family law (such as marriage, divorce and child custody), and wealth transfer. Private Client lawyers in Greece help both Greek nationals and foreign residents navigate complex legal and tax systems to protect their assets and ensure wishes are carried out in accordance with Greek law.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are several situations where consulting a Private Client lawyer in Greece is beneficial. Common reasons include:

• Drafting or updating a will to ensure assets are distributed as intended
• Managing the inheritance process, especially when cross-border assets or heirs are involved
• Protecting personal wealth and assets through trusts, gifts or other legal structures
• Navigating the Greek tax system, particularly if you have assets abroad or are a foreign resident
• Dealing with family law matters such as divorce, child custody, or adoption
• Resolving disputes over estates or property ownership
• Making lifetime gifts to children or relatives efficiently
• Safeguarding vulnerable family members through guardianship or power of attorney arrangements

A Private Client lawyer can provide clear advice, draft essential documents and handle dealings with Greek authorities to safeguard your interests.

Local Laws Overview

Greek Private Client law is governed by the Greek Civil Code, as well as various tax and family law statutes. Some key aspects include:

• Succession law in Greece is strict, with reserved shares for close family members such as spouses and children. These heirs cannot be easily disinherited.
• Foreigners with assets in Greece are often subject to Greek succession law if Greece is deemed their habitual residence or if property is located within Greece.
• There is a compulsory statutory share of the estate-certain relatives automatically have rights to a portion of a deceased person’s assets.
• Greek inheritance tax is imposed on beneficiaries, with rates and exemptions depending on their relationship to the deceased.
• Greece recognizes both Greek and certain foreign wills, but formalities must be observed for validity.
• Property ownership can involve complex legal checks and may require thorough title investigation, especially for cross-border owners.
• Family law in Greece covers divorce, maintenance, parental responsibility, and child custody, often with an emphasis on the best interests of the child.

Given the interplay between Greek law and international considerations, especially for expatriates or those with assets in multiple countries, professional advice is strongly recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

What documents are needed to draft a will in Greece?

To draft a valid will in Greece, you typically need identification documents, property deeds, certificates of family status, and a list of assets. A notary public is often involved for Greek notarial wills.

Can foreigners inherit property in Greece?

Yes, foreigners can inherit property in Greece. However, Greek succession laws may apply if the property is in Greece, possibly overriding wishes expressed in a foreign will.

Is Greek inheritance tax high?

Greek inheritance tax rates vary based on the heir’s relationship to the deceased and the value of assets. Close relatives benefit from higher exemptions and lower rates.

How are marital assets divided in a Greek divorce?

In Greece, each spouse generally keeps assets acquired before marriage. Assets acquired during marriage can be subject to claims for contribution after divorce, but are not automatically split 50-50.

Do I need a Greek lawyer to buy or sell property?

It is highly recommended to hire a Greek lawyer for any property transaction to carry out legal due diligence, ensure the title is clear, and handle contracts according to Greek law.

Can I create a trust in Greece?

Greece does not have domestic trusts, but trusts created abroad may be recognized under certain circumstances. Expert legal advice is essential in such cases.

How long does it take to inherit property in Greece?

The inheritance process in Greece can take several months, especially if there are disputes or cross-border issues. Proper documentation helps avoid delays.

What happens if there is no will in Greece?

If there is no will, Greek intestate succession rules apply. The estate is distributed among surviving relatives according to statutory order of priority.

Do Greek courts recognize foreign family law decisions?

Greek courts generally recognize and enforce certain foreign judgments, including divorce and child custody, particularly from EU member states, but specific procedures and documentation may be required.

What should I do if I have assets both in Greece and abroad?

Consult a Private Client lawyer experienced in cross-border issues to ensure your will and succession plans comply with Greek and international law, and to optimize your tax liabilities.

Additional Resources

Below are some helpful resources and authorities related to Private Client matters in Greece:

• Hellenic Ministry of Justice: Deals with succession, inheritance, and family law issues
• Greek Notarial Association: Offers information on legal formalities for wills, property, and powers of attorney
• Chamber of Greek Lawyers: Provides a directory of licensed lawyers specializing in Private Client work
• Greek National Tax Authority: Resource for tax rates, obligations, and inheritance tax details
• Municipal and local land registry offices: Handle property title and inheritance registrations

Next Steps

If you believe you need legal assistance with a Private Client matter in Greece, consider the following steps:

• List your assets and concerns, including property, family relationships, and cross-border issues
• Gather relevant documents such as property deeds, IDs, existing wills, and family certificates
• Contact a Greek lawyer specializing in Private Client law who can advise you based on your needs
• Discuss your goals and any specific concerns, such as asset protection, inheritance distribution, or family law matters
• Follow your lawyer’s guidance regarding documentation, legal requirements, and next actions
• Stay informed about changes in Greek law and review your arrangements periodically, especially after significant life events

Taking these steps will help you secure your interests and ensure compliance with Greek legal requirements.