Civil law in Greece

Civil law in Greece regulates rights and duties between private parties. It differs from criminal law, which concerns offences, and administrative law, which concerns many disputes with public authorities. Contract law governs agreements such as sales, services, loans, and leases. A valid agreement creates duties, although mandatory law, fairness rules, form requirements, and public policy can limit what parties may arrange. When a party fails to perform, the other party may seek performance, termination, compensation, or another legal remedy. The contract wording, communications, payments, and actual conduct help establish what was agreed. Property law concerns ownership, possession, use rights, security rights, and transfers. Real estate matters require special care because formal documents and public registration can be decisive. Family law covers marriage, separation, divorce, parental responsibility, contact, maintenance, and related personal matters. The child’s welfare is central when decisions affect children. Inheritance law determines how property and obligations pass after death. A will, family relationship, reserved rights, estate debts, and formal acceptance or renunciation can all matter. Civil liability can arise when unlawful and blameworthy conduct causes harm. A claimant commonly needs to show the act, damage, causal connection, and legal responsibility. Civil proceedings usually involve a claim, service on the other party, evidence, submissions, a hearing or procedural examination, and a judgment. Appeals may be available under the applicable rules. Mediation and negotiated settlement can resolve some civil disputes without a full trial. A settlement should clearly state duties, payment arrangements, release terms, and what happens if performance fails. Documents are especially important in Greek civil matters. Written contracts, notarial instruments, registry records, invoices, bank transfers, expert reports, and messages can determine the practical strength of a case.