Arrested in Greece?

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Arrested in Greece?

Arrested in Greece? - Economou & Economou law office the best criminal lawyers in Athens Greece econlaw@live.com (+30)2103603824

Being arrested in Greece can be an overwhelming and bewildering experience. Despite Greece being a member of the European Union, it’s important to understand what to expect, what rights you have and what’s the procedure in such a situation.

As part of the EU, Greece’s legal system, particularly in the area of criminal law, shares similarities with those of other European countries, like Germany. However, for a foreigner, being arrested in Greece—or in any unfamiliar country—can be a daunting and confusing ordeal.

Upon arrested in Greece, a person will undergo a series of procedures, starting with bureaucratic steps before appearing in court. These include preliminary examinations, questioning by a judge, and interactions with prosecutors. These steps are crucial as they can significantly influence the case’s outcome and the resulting court decision.

Given the extensive Criminal Procedure Code that must be adhered to, combined with an unfortunately burdened court system, these procedures can take months to complete. Additionally, the wait for a court hearing can sometimes stretch into years. During this period, the defendant may remain in custody for up to 18 months. From the first day of detention, the defendant has certain rights, including the right to contact and be represented by a criminal lawyer of their choice in Greece, as well as the right to an interpreter to ensure they fully understand each procedure.Without proper legal representation, a defendant risks spending the entire process in custody, far from home and loved ones, without access to financial resources or the many protections afforded by Greece’s Criminal Procedure Code. In fact, without legal representation, a foreigner in custody in Greece may find themselves effectively stripped of their rights.Prolonged DetentionTypically, a defendant may be compelled to remain in custody in Greece until their case is heard, unless they can pay a substantial bail, which allows them to await the hearing outside of detention. However, this often comes with the condition of a travel ban, meaning the foreign defendant cannot return home to their family or work until the court decision.What is less known is that Greek law allows a defendant to apply for a release order pending their court hearing, with the requirement that they report regularly (weekly or monthly) to the Greek Embassy in their home country. This option enables them to return home safely and return to Greece for their hearing when the time comes. Certain conditions must be met for this to be granted, such as having a known residence in their home country or work and family obligations, but it is certainly worth applying for. In my experience, when such a request is properly presented, courts often grant this to foreigners with a well-documented background.Fines and Legal RepresentationHandling fines in Greece through our service involves several steps:- Initial Consultation: Assessing your situation and understanding the details of the fine.- Document Review: Analyzing all relevant documents related to the fine, including legal notices and evidence.- Legal Advice: Providing a clear explanation of the legal implications, available options, and potential outcomes.- Representation: Representing you in dealings with relevant authorities or in court, if necessary.- Negotiation and Settlement:** If you can present evidence that the fine is unjust, we will work to negotiate and settle the matter.- Resolution:Aiming for the most favorable outcome, whether it involves a reduced penalty, a payment plan, or a complete dismissal.Throughout this process, we ensure transparent communication and keep you informed of all developments.

You might find the following services particularly useful:

1. Representation for Incarcerated Persons: We offer comprehensive legal representation for individuals currently in custody, ensuring their rights are protected throughout the legal process. This includes advocating for bail, petitioning for release orders, and handling all interactions with the authorities.

2. Extradition Proceedings: If you or someone you know is facing extradition, Economou & Economou legal team can provide expert representation. We handle the complex legal and procedural aspects of extradition cases, Interpol red notices removal, working to protect your rights and prevent unwarranted transfers.

3. Dealing with Fines & Administrative Matters: We assist with all aspects of dealing with fines and administrative penalties in Greece. Our services include reviewing the legality of fines, negotiating settlements, and representing you in administrative hearings or court if necessary

.4. Arrest Warrant Check: If you are concerned about the possibility of an outstanding arrest warrant in Greece, we can conduct a thorough check on your behalf. This service includes verifying the existence of any warrants and advising on the best course of action if a warrant is found.These services are designed to provide you with the legal support and guidance needed to navigate complex legal situations in Greece.

If you are arrested in Greece and need representation by the best confidential criminal lawyers in Greece, Economou & Economou law office in Athens is ready to assist. We are committed to successfully handling your criminal case with the utmost responsibility and dedication, anywhere in Greece. Contact us by email at econlaw@live.com, by phone at (+30) 210 3603824, or through our contact form.

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