Best Wrongful Termination Lawyers in Corfu

About Wrongful Termination Law in Corfu, Greece

Wrongful termination refers to the dismissal of an employee in a manner that violates Greek employment law or the contractual terms agreed between an employer and an employee. In Corfu, just as in the rest of Greece, employment laws are designed to protect workers from unfair or unlawful dismissal. This means that an employer cannot terminate an employment contract without a valid reason or without adhering to the proper legal procedures. Wrongful termination can take many forms, from dismissals based on discrimination to those that disregard statutory notice periods or fail to provide adequate compensation.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Navigating wrongful termination cases can be complex due to the interplay of national laws, collective labor agreements, and local practices in Corfu. You may need a lawyer if:

• You believe you were dismissed without just cause or due process.
• Your employer failed to provide written notice or the proper severance pay.
• You experienced dismissal based on discrimination, retaliation, or personal beliefs.
• Your employment contract was broken unlawfully.
• You wish to negotiate a settlement or compensation following termination.
• There are disagreements regarding the terms of your employment or dismissal.

An experienced legal professional can help you understand your rights, assist in negotiations, and represent you in court if necessary.

Local Laws Overview

Greek labor law, as applied in Corfu and the rest of the country, is governed by the Greek Civil Code and specific labor law statutes. Key aspects relevant to wrongful termination include:

• Employment contracts may be terminated by either the employer or employee, but employers must provide written notice and justify the dismissal.
• Dismissing an employee without a valid reason (such as poor performance or redundancy) or without following legal procedures may constitute wrongful termination.
• Statutory notice periods and severance pay depend on the length of employment and the type of contract (open-ended or fixed-term).
• Certain groups like pregnant women, individuals on parental leave, or trade union representatives enjoy special protection against termination.
• Discrimination on the basis of race, gender, religion, disability, age, or sexual orientation is strictly forbidden.
• Employees who feel they have been wrongfully terminated can file a claim with the local Labor Inspectorate or seek recourse in civil court.

Frequently Asked Questions

What constitutes wrongful termination in Corfu, Greece?

Wrongful termination is when an employer dismisses an employee in violation of Greek employment laws or the specific terms in the employment contract. This includes termination without just cause, lack of proper notice, or dismissals based on discrimination.

Is my employer required to provide a reason for my dismissal?

Yes. In most cases, employers must provide a valid and documented reason for termination, especially for indefinite contracts. This reason must be included in the written notice of dismissal.

Do I have a right to notice before being terminated?

Yes. Greek law requires that employees receive written notice within defined periods based on their length of service. Failure to give notice obliges the employer to pay compensation in lieu.

Am I entitled to severance pay if I am dismissed?

Yes. Employees on open-ended contracts who are dismissed without severe misconduct are generally entitled to severance pay, the amount of which is determined by the length of service.

Can I be fired while on sick leave or maternity leave?

No. Employees on sick leave or maternity leave are afforded special legal protections against dismissal. Any attempt to dismiss under these circumstances is generally considered invalid.

What should I do if I think my termination was wrongful?

You should gather all relevant documents, including your employment contract and the written notice of dismissal. Consider consulting a labor lawyer or contacting the Labor Inspectorate promptly.

Can discrimination be a basis for wrongful termination?

Yes. Dismissing an employee due to their race, gender, religion, age, disability, or sexual orientation is illegal and constitutes wrongful termination under Greek law.

What is the statute of limitations for making a wrongful termination claim?

Generally, claims for wrongful termination must be filed within three months from the date of dismissal, but taking prompt action is always recommended.

Are there specific procedures I must follow to contest my dismissal?

Yes. Contesting a dismissal usually involves first raising the issue with the employer, then filing a complaint with the Labor Inspectorate, and, if unresolved, bringing the case before the courts.

What outcomes can I expect if my dismissal is found to be wrongful?

Remedies may include reinstatement in your job, financial compensation, payment of lost wages, or additional severance. The specific outcome depends on the circumstances of your case.

Additional Resources

If you are facing wrongful termination in Corfu, you may find assistance and information from the following resources:

• Corfu Labor Inspectorate (Soma Epitheorisi Ergasias)
• Greek Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs
• Local offices of OAED (Greek Manpower Employment Organization)
• Local Bar Association in Corfu for lawyer referrals
• Trade unions and workers' associations active in your sector

These organizations can provide guidance, legal advice, or refer you to professionals experienced in wrongful termination cases.

Next Steps

If you believe you have been wrongfully terminated in Corfu, Greece, take the following steps:

• Collect and organize all documents related to your employment and dismissal.
• Review your employment contract and note any provisions relating to termination.
• Contact a local labor lawyer or the Labor Inspectorate for an initial consultation.
• Consider reaching out to a trade union or workers’ association for support.
• Act swiftly, as there are time limits for filing claims.

Preparing your case with professional legal assistance will help ensure your rights are protected and improve your chances of a positive outcome.