Best Sanctions & Export Controls Lawyers in Katerini

Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.

Free. Takes 2 min.

AS SEEN ON

1. About Sanctions & Export Controls Law in Katerini, Greece

Sanctions and export controls in Greece operate within the framework of European Union (EU) law and Greek national administration. Greece implements EU sanctions across all sectors, including financial restrictions, trade prohibitions, and licensing requirements for dual-use goods. In practical terms, a business in Katerini must perform due diligence to avoid involvement with sanctioned persons, entities, or destinations, and to obtain necessary licenses for controlled exports.

Since Katerini is part of the Central Macedonia region in Greece, local authorities coordinate with national ministries to enforce EU sanctions and export controls. A Greek attorney specializing in sanctions can help interpret EU regulations, assess business activities, and guide you through licensing, screening, and reporting obligations. Staying current with updates is essential because EU sanctions are frequently amended and expanded.

“EU sanctions are binding on all member states and require national implementation and enforcement by competent authorities.”

For up-to-date texts and official guidance, consult EU sources and the Greek government portal. See EU law texts on EUR-Lex and official EU policy pages for sanctions information. In Greece, the Government Portal (gov.gr) and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs provide guidance on compliance and enforcement.

Key sources you should check regularly include EU sanction regulations and Greek implementation notices. The following official links offer authoritative guidance and texts you may need when evaluating sanctions and export controls in Katerini.

Official sources: - European Commission - Trade Sanctions: ec.europa.eu/trade/sanctions_en - EUR-Lex - Official EU Law Texts (Regulations and Decisions): eur-lex.europa.eu - Greek Government Portal - gov.gr (Sanctions and Compliance Resources): gov.gr

2. Why You May Need a Lawyer

  • Exporting dual-use goods from Katerini to a country under EU sanctions requires a license; missteps may lead to fines or criminal exposure. A lawyer helps determine if a license is needed and coordinates the application with the competent authority.
  • You face possible penalties for facilitating sanctioned transactions through a supplier, broker, or intermediary in Greece. An attorney can assess both civil and criminal exposure and design a compliance program to reduce risk.
  • Your company has been contacted by authorities about an alleged sanctions violation. A sanctions attorney can prepare an effective response, gather documents, and negotiate with prosecutors or the court.
  • You operate a financial institution in Katerini and must implement due diligence and screening for customers and counterparties under EU sanctions. A lawyer can help implement or adjust a robust sanctions compliance program.
  • You are considering a business partnership or investment with an entity that may be on sanctions lists. A lawyer can perform a thorough sanctions-screening and advising on permissible interactions under EU rules.
  • Your export license application has been delayed or denied. An attorney can review the decision, prepare a strategic plan, and advise on potential appeals or alternative routes.

3. Local Laws Overview

Two primary EU instruments govern sanctions and export controls you should know if you operate in Katerini:

  • Regulation (EU) No 833/2014 on restrictive measures in response to the situation in Ukraine and related developments. This regulation creates the core set of prohibitions and targeted measures that Greece enforces. It is regularly updated as EU policy changes. For the text, see EUR-Lex: Regulation (EU) No 833/2014.
  • Regulation (EU) 821/2021 on the control of exports, transfer, brokering of dual-use goods and technologies. This regulation establishes licensing obligations and due diligence for items that could have civilian and military uses. It entered into effect in 2021 and is applied across Greece as part of EU law. See EUR-Lex: Regulation (EU) 2021/821.

In Greece, EU sanctions regulations are implemented through national administrative practices. Companies in Katerini must perform ongoing screening, maintain records, and cooperate with Greek authorities during investigations. For details on how to comply, consult the official EU texts and Greek government guidance on gov.gr and mfa.gr when available.

Recent trends include more frequent amendments to sanction lists and tighter due diligence requirements for exporters and financial institutions. Keeping documentation updated and training staff on compliance practices reduces legal exposure. For ongoing updates, monitor the EU Trade sanctions page and EUR-Lex notices as well as Greek government advisories.

4. Frequently Asked Questions

What is the scope of sanctions that apply to a Greek business?

EU sanctions apply to entities, individuals, and activities listed by EU authorities. Businesses must screen customers and partners against sanctions lists and may need licenses for restricted exports. Greek authorities enforce these regimes across sectors and report any violations.

How do I determine if my export needs a license in Greece?

Identify the item category and destination to see if dual-use or military items are involved. Check EU licensing requirements in Regulation (EU) 821/2021 and consult the national licensing authority for confirmation. A sanctions attorney can perform a pre-screening check.

When should I contact a lawyer about sanctions concerns?

Contact an attorney as soon as you suspect you might be dealing with a restricted party, or if a regulatory inquiry arises. Early legal guidance helps preserve evidence and structure an effective response. Timely advice can prevent escalation or penalties.

Where can I verify if a person or entity is sanctioned in Greece?

Use official EU and Greek resources to verify sanctions status. EU official lists are accessible via EUR-Lex and the EU sanctions portal, while national enforcement bodies may publish additional guidance. Regular checks reduce the risk of inadvertent violations.

Why is due diligence important in sanctions compliance?

Due diligence helps prevent transactions with prohibited destinations, persons, or entities. It protects your business from fines, asset freezes, and reputational harm. A documented due diligence process supports defense if enforcement actions occur.

Can a licensing decision be appealed in Greece?

Licensing decisions may be subject to administrative review or appeal under Greek procedural rules. An attorney can evaluate options, file timely appeals, and prepare supporting evidence. The timeline depends on the case and agency involved.

Do I need to hire a local Greek lawyer for sanctions matters?

Local lawyers understand Greek administrative procedures and the interaction with EU rules. They can coordinate with national licensing authorities and help manage potential criminal exposure. A local expert provides geographically relevant compliance strategies.

Is there a standard cost range for sanctions legal services in Katerini?

Costs vary by case complexity, scope of work, and timeline. Typical engagements may involve hourly rates or flat fees for specific tasks like licensing applications or compliance programs. Request a detailed quote after the initial consultation.

How long do licensing reviews typically take in Greece?

Processing times depend on the item category and the agency involved. Some applications may take several weeks, while complex cases can extend to months. A lawyer can estimate timelines and pursue expedited review where possible.

What is the difference between sanctions and export controls?

Sanctions restrict activities with certain countries or entities, including financial and trade bans. Export controls regulate the transfer of controlled items, requiring licenses for specific goods or technologies. Both aim to prevent misuse and align with EU policy.

What should I prepare for a licensing application in Katerini?

Prepare product descriptions, end-use statements, end-user details, and destination information. Include corporate registrations, financial information, and any prior licensing history. A lawyer can organize these documents to improve your submission.

5. Additional Resources

  • European Commission - Trade Sanctions - Official EU policy and updates on sanctions regimes across member states. Function: sets policy, issues guidance, and coordinates enforcement with member states. https://ec.europa.eu/trade/trade-policy/sanctions_en
  • EUR-Lex - Official texts of EU laws including Regulation 833/2014 and Regulation 821/2021. Function: provides authoritative legislative texts and amendments. https://eur-lex.europa.eu
  • Gov.gr - Greek Government Portal for sanctions guidance, compliance resources, and links to national authorities. Function: central access point for citizens and businesses to official information. https://www.gov.gr

6. Next Steps

  1. Define your sanctions or export controls issue clearly and collect all relevant documents, such as contracts, product descriptions, and destination details. Set a provisional timeline based on urgency.
  2. Identify a sanctions and export controls lawyer in Katerini with experience in EU and national compliance. Schedule an introductory consultation to discuss your case and fees.
  3. Submit a detailed information package to the attorney, including all licenses, orders, and communications with authorities. Ask for a written plan of action and milestone dates.
  4. Have the attorney perform a risk assessment, including screening against sanctions lists and licensing requirements. Obtain a clear set of compliance steps for your business.
  5. If licensing is required, work with the lawyer to prepare and file the application with the relevant national or EU authorities. Request an estimated processing timeline and any potential expedite options.
  6. Implement a sanctions compliance program in your business, including staff training, due diligence procedures, and ongoing screening. Schedule regular updates for changes in EU and Greek law.
  7. Monitor updates from EU sources and Greek authorities, and review your compliance program annually or after a significant business change. Keep all records organized for possible audits or investigations.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Katerini through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Sanctions & Export Controls, experience, and client feedback.

Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.

Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Katerini, Greece — quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.

We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.