Divorce in Greece: Legal Process, Requirements, and Rights for Greek-Americans
Navigating Divorce in Greece as a Greek-American: Legal Guide
Divorce in Greece involves a well-defined legal process that follows specific regulations under Greek family law. Whether you are a Greek citizen residing in the United States or a Greek-American with marital ties in Greece, understanding your legal rights and obligations is crucial. At E CHATZIDIMITRIOU LLC, we provide expert legal guidance on handling divorces in Greece, ensuring a seamless process for Greek expatriates.
For a consultation, call us at +13474034789 or schedule an online meeting to discuss your case in Greek.
Types of Divorce in Greece
1. Mutual Consent Divorce in Greece
A mutual consent divorce is the fastest and most straightforward option when both spouses agree to separate. The legal process involves signing a divorce agreement and submitting it to a Greek notary.
Key Requirements for a Mutual Divorce:
•Both spouses must agree on the terms of the separation.
•The marriage must have lasted at least six months.
•A family lawyer must represent each spouse in the proceedings.
•The agreement must outline child custody (if applicable) and financial arrangements.
The process typically takes one to three months to complete.
2. Contested Divorce in Greece
A contested divorce occurs when one spouse does not agree to the divorce or disputes key issues such as child custody, alimony, or property division. In such cases, the court will determine the terms of the separation.
Grounds for a Contested Divorce:
•Irretrievable breakdown of marriage (Article 1439 of the Greek Civil Code).
• Adultery, domestic violence, or abandonment.
• One spouse has been absent for at least two years.
Contested divorces require court proceedings and can take longer to finalize, depending on the complexity of the case.
Dividing Assets and Property in a Greek Divorce
Greek Property Law and Marital Assets
Under Greek law, assets acquired during the marriage are considered joint property unless stated otherwise in a prenuptial agreement. Greek courts follow the equitable distribution principle, meaning property is divided fairly based on each spouse’s contribution.
Common Property Division Issues:
•Real estate in Greece
•Bank accounts and financial assets
•Business ownership and investments
•Inheritance rights
E CHATZIDIMITRIOU LLC specializes in handling real estate division in Greece during divorce cases. If you own property in Greece, we can assist in transferring ownership and resolving financial disputes.
Child Custody and Parental Rights in Greece
Custody Rights for Greek Expatriates
Greek family law prioritizes the child’s best interests when determining custody and visitation rights. Courts consider factors such as parental involvement, financial stability, and the child’s emotional well-being.
Key Child Custody Factors in Greece:
•Shared custody is encouraged when both parents are involved.
•The primary caregiver typically receives physical custody.
•Non-custodial parents maintain visitation rights.
If one parent resides in the United States, custody agreements must include international visitation schedules.
Alimony and Spousal Support in Greek Divorces
Spousal support in Greece is granted based on financial need. Courts evaluate each spouse’s income, standard of living, and ability to support themselves.
Who Qualifies for Alimony?
•A spouse who is financially dependent.
•A parent who takes primary custody of minor children.
•A spouse who cannot work due to health or other valid reasons.
Alimony is typically awarded for a limited period or until the recipient gains financial independence.
How to File for Divorce in Greece from the U.S.
Greek-Americans can file for divorce in Greece even if they reside in the United States. Our law firm handles all legal procedures remotely, ensuring a hassle-free process without the need to travel.
Required Documents for a Greek Divorce:
•Marriage certificate (officially translated into Greek).
•Proof of residence (for Greek jurisdiction).
•Financial records (for alimony and asset division cases).
• Birth certificates of children (for custody cases).
Our firm can submit all necessary documents to Greek courts and represent you in divorce proceedings.
Why Choose E CHATZIDIMITRIOU LLC for Your Divorce Case?
✔ Expertise in Greek Family Law – We specialize in handling divorces for Greek-Americans.
✔ Remote Legal Services – No need to travel to Greece; we handle everything online.
✔ Personalized Legal Support – We guide you through every step of the process.
✔ Greek and English Communication – We ensure smooth communication in Greek and English.
Need help with a divorce in Greece? Contact us today at +13474034789 or schedule an online consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
❓ Can I get a divorce in Greece if I live in the U.S.?
✅ Yes, our law firm can handle the process remotely.
❓ How long does a Greek divorce take?
✅ A mutual divorce takes 1-3 months, while a contested divorce may take over a year.
❓ Do I need to appear in a Greek court?
✅ In most cases, we can represent you without requiring personal attendance.
❓ What happens to my Greek property after divorce?
✅ Assets acquired during marriage are divided based on contributions.
❓ What if my spouse does not agree to the divorce?
✅ A contested divorce can be filed on legal grounds such as abandonment or adultery.
For personalized legal advice, email us at info@hatzidimitriouvirtuallaw.com.
Need expert legal assistance for your divorce in Greece? Contact E CHATZIDIMITRIOU LLC today at +13474034789 for a consultation.