Best Venture Capital Lawyers in Petroupolis

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

Free. Takes 2 min.


4 people in their team
English
Sophia Leftherriotou & Partners Law Firm is a modern Athens based practice that provides specialized legal services to individuals, companies and professionals. The firm concentrates on civil, commercial and regulatory matters, delivering precise analysis, strategic guidance and practical solutions...
AS SEEN ON

About Venture Capital Law in Petroupolis, Greece

Venture capital activity in Greece, including the Petroupolis area near Athens, operates under national law aligned with European Union frameworks. Law governs how funds are organized, how investments are made, and how portfolio companies are managed and exited. The core aim is to balance investor protections with support for early stage businesses in the Greek market.

Because Petroupolis is part of the Attica region, the local business climate benefits from Greece’s modernized corporate, tax, and securities rules. Practical effects include how you form a venture capital fund, how capital is raised from investors, and how you structure investments into Greek startups and scale-ups. Legal counsel helps ensure compliance and efficient governance for local entrepreneurs and investors alike.

As a resident or founder in Petroupolis, you should know that national regulations are implemented and enforced by Greek authorities with EU oversight. This means certain filings, reporting, and due diligence standards reflect both Greek law and EU requirements. Local counsel can help translate this into actionable, jurisdiction-specific steps for your deal flow and fund operations.

According to the Hellenic Capital Market Commission, venture capital funds in Greece are supervised under a national framework aligned with EU AIFMD rules. Learn more from the HCMC.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Engaging a qualified solicitor or attorney with venture capital experience is essential in Petroupolis for concrete, real-world scenarios. Below are common situations that demand legal counsel rather than generic advice.

1) Negotiating a term sheet for a Greek startup funded by an Athens-area venture capital firm. A lawyer helps fix valuation methods, liquidation preferences, and board representation to protect both founders and investors.

2) Conducting due diligence on a portfolio company located in or near Petroupolis. You need due diligence on corporate structure, IP ownership, employee agreements, and compliance with local employment law.

3) Drafting a shareholder agreement and a stock option plan for a company with Greek employees. A lawyer ensures clear vesting schedules, post-money ownership, and options tax treatment under Greek law.

4) Structuring a cross-border investment into a Greek startup with an international VC. Counsel coordinates cross-border tax issues, repatriation of profits, and cross-jurisdiction securities compliance.

5) Aligning a portfolio company with local regulatory requirements such as data protection (GDPR) and sector-specific licensing. A legal review helps mitigate enforcement risk and penalties.

6) Preparing exit strategies for investors in Greece, including potential sale to strategic buyers or a Greek IPO. A lawyer advises on fiduciary duties, disclosures, and securities filing obligations.

Local Laws Overview

This section highlights 2-3 specific laws and regulations that govern venture capital activity in Greece, including Petroupolis. The Greek framework is frequently updated to stay aligned with EU regimes, and professional counsel should verify current texts.

Law 2992/2002 on venture capital funds and venture capital companies provides the baseline for organizing funds and their investment vehicles in Greece. It sets out permissible structures, governance, and reporting requirements for venture capital entities operating in the country. Effective since 2002, with subsequent amendments to reflect EU practice, this law remains foundational for Greek VC activity.

Law 4099/2012 transposes the European Union’s Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive (AIFMD) into Greek law. It governs how alternative investment fund managers operate, disclosure duties, and compliance obligations when managing venture capital funds in Greece. This alignment with EU rules helps facilitate cross-border investments and investor protections. Recent updates to the Greek implementation continue to refine registration and supervision standards.

EuVECA Regulation (Regulation (EU) No 346/2013) on European venture capital funds sets a European label for qualifying funds, allowing marketing across EU borders under a common framework. Greece implements EuVECA principles within its national regime, enabling Greek-registered funds to access cross-border investors with standardized governance and reporting. This regime remains relevant for funds seeking wider EU participation.

For practical guidance, consult the Greek government portal and the Hellenic Capital Market Commission for the latest amendments and implementions. The EU-level regimes above interact with local tax and corporate rules to shape how Greek VC deals close and how funds are reported.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is venture capital law in Petroupolis, Greece?

Venture capital law in Petroupolis governs the formation of funds, investment structures, and investor protections under Greek law aligned with EU rules. It covers fund management, disclosures, and governance for portfolios in Greece, including near Athens. Local counsel helps ensure compliance with both national and EU expectations.

How do I start a venture capital fund in Greece?

Starting a Greek venture capital fund requires selecting an appropriate legal form, registering with the competent authority, and appointing a licensed fund manager. You will need governing documents, an investment strategy, and a compliant due diligence process. A Greek lawyer guides you through formation, licensing, and ongoing supervision.

What is a term sheet in a Greek VC deal?

A term sheet outlines key deal terms such as valuation, equity stake, governance rights, and liquidation preferences. In Greece, it also reflects local norms on board seats, drag-along rights, and tax considerations. It is a non-binding document that guides the subsequent definitive agreements.

How long does due diligence typically take in Greece?

Due diligence for a Greek portfolio company usually spans 4 to 8 weeks, depending on complexity and access to documents. Extended diligence may occur for cross-border investments or regulated sectors. A lawyer coordinates the process to avoid delays.

Do I need to register the venture fund with the HCMC?

Registration or notification with the Hellenic Capital Market Commission may be required for certain fund structures under Greek AIFMD regulation. Exact obligations depend on the fund type and manager authorization. A local attorney confirms the registration strategy and timing.

Is there a tax relief for investors in Greek start-ups?

Greece offers various incentives for investments in start-ups, including potential tax relief for certain investor groups and eligible companies. Tax incentives require formal approval and documentation. A tax-qualified Greek lawyer can map these benefits to your investment plan.

How much does it cost to hire a venture capital lawyer in Petroupolis?

Hourly rates for Greek venture capital counsel typically range from €150 to €350, depending on firm size and complexity. Some matters may be priced on a project basis, such as term sheet drafting or due diligence packages. An initial consultation clarifies fee structure.

What is the difference between a venture capital fund and private equity in Greece?

Venture capital funds typically invest in early-stage companies with growth potential, while private equity funds target more mature firms. In Greece, both are regulated under EU and national frameworks, but due diligence, risk profiles, and exit strategies differ. A lawyer clarifies classification for your deal.

Can non-EU investors participate in Greek venture capital funds?

Non-EU investors can participate under Greek and EU rules, subject to licensing, investment restrictions, and tax considerations. Compliance with EU sanctions and registration requirements remains essential. A local solicitor helps navigate cross-border eligibility and reporting.

Should I hire a Petroupolis-based lawyer or a firm in central Athens?

Petroupolis-based lawyers bring local market knowledge and connections, while Athens-based firms may offer broader resources. The choice depends on deal complexity, regulatory needs, and preferred communication. Either option should include a lawyer with venture capital experience.

Do I need to disclose conflicts of interest in Greece?

Yes, Greek regulatory rules require disclosure of conflicts of interest in investment transactions and governance. This ensures transparency to investors and regulators. A lawyer helps implement a robust conflicts policy in your documents.

How do stock option plans (ESOPs) get regulated in Greece?

ESOPs involve both corporate and tax considerations under Greek law, including vesting, taxation, and reporting. A local lawyer can draft compliant grant agreements and ensure alignment with employment and securities rules. Clear documentation reduces future disputes.

Additional Resources

Access official sources for further guidance on venture capital in Greece and Petroupolis.

  • Hellenic Capital Market Commission (HCMC) - Regulator for funds, investment services, and market conduct in Greece. https://www.hcmc.gr/en
  • Gov.gr - Greek government portal with information on business, taxation, and start-up support programs. https://www.gov.gr
  • European Investment Fund (EIF) - EU body providing equity and financing for small businesses and start-ups in Greece. https://www.eif.org
  • Hellenic Development Bank for Investments (HDB) - National institution supporting investment and financing for Greek businesses. https://www.hdb.gr
  • European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) - EU regulator with guidance on cross-border venture capital funds and investor protection. https://www.esma.europa.eu

Next Steps

  1. Clarify your goal and location in Petroupolis - determine whether you are an founder, investor, or fund manager, and define your target sector and stage.
  2. Gather core documents - corporate formation papers, cap table, term sheets, and any prior investor communications for review.
  3. Identify a local venture capital lawyer - prefer someone with Greek VC fund formation, M&A, and cross-border investment experience in Attica.
  4. Request an initial consultation - discuss scope, fees, and a practical plan for your deal or fund setup, including timelines.
  5. Engage counsel and begin due diligence - start with a gap analysis, then proceed with drafting or negotiating term sheets, shareholder agreements, and ESOP plans.
  6. Prepare regulatory filings and disclosures - ensure alignment with HCMC requirements and EU frameworks applicable to your fund and investments.
  7. Review tax and incentives - work with a tax adviser to map Greek start-up incentives, investor reliefs, and any local tax considerations.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Petroupolis 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 Venture Capital, 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 Petroupolis, 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.