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How to Become a Lawyer in Greece
Becoming a qualified lawyer (dikigoros) in Greece requires completing a law degree, a mandatory training period (askisi), and passing the bar examination (dikigoritikes exetaseis). This guide walks you through every step of the process for 2026.
Step 1: Law School (Nomiki Scholi)
The path begins with a four-year law degree (ptychio nomikis) from a Greek university. Greece has several well-regarded law faculties:
- National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (EKPA) — The oldest and most prestigious, located in central Athens
- Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTH) — The leading law school in Northern Greece
- Democritus University of Thrace (DUTH) — Located in Komotini, known for strong legal theory
- University of Athens (Panteion) — Offers programs in law and political science
Admission is through the Panhellenic examinations (panellinies exetaseis). The four-year curriculum covers Greek civil law (astiko dikaio), criminal law (poiniko dikaio), commercial law (emporiko dikaio), constitutional law (syntagmatiko dikaio), administrative law (dioikitiko dikaio), and procedural law (diakoniko dikaio).
Step 2: Postgraduate Studies (Optional but Valuable)
While not mandatory, a postgraduate degree (metaptychiako) significantly enhances career prospects. Popular choices include:
- LLM programs at UK universities (particularly popular among maritime law aspirants)
- EU Law programs at European institutions
- Metaptychiako programs at Greek universities in specialized areas
Step 3: Askisi — Mandatory Training Period
After graduating, aspiring dikigori must complete an 18-month training period called askisi at a registered law firm or legal department. This is the Greek equivalent of a training contract or articleship:
- Duration: 18 months (reduced from 18 months to 12 months in some cases for LLM holders)
- Registration: You must register with a local Dikigoritikos Syllogos (Bar Association) — typically Athens, Piraeus, or Thessaloniki
- Supervising lawyer: Your askisi must be supervised by a dikigoros with at least 5 years of experience
- Compensation: Trainees receive a modest monthly stipend, typically EUR 700-1,200 in Athens
Finding a good askisi position is critical. Top firms like Zepos & Yannopoulos, Bernitsas Law, and KG Law offer structured training programs. Browse legal internships in Greece on LegalAlphabet for current opportunities.
Step 4: Bar Exam (Dikigoritikes Exetaseis)
After completing askisi, candidates sit for the bar examination organized by their local Dikigoritikos Syllogos. The exam covers:
- Civil Law (Astiko Dikaio) — General principles, obligations, property law
- Criminal Law (Poiniko Dikaio) — General and special criminal law
- Commercial Law (Emporiko Dikaio) — Company law, commercial transactions
- Civil Procedure (Politiki Dikonomia) — Court procedures and litigation rules
- Criminal Procedure (Poiniki Dikonomia) — Criminal procedural law
The exam consists of written tests, and candidates must achieve a passing grade across all subjects. Pass rates vary but typically range from 50-70%. The exam is held several times per year by each local bar association.
Step 5: Registration and Swearing-In
Upon passing the dikigoritikes exetaseis, you must:
- Register with your local Dikigoritikos Syllogos as a fully qualified dikigoros
- Take the oath of office before a court of first instance
- Obtain your dikigoritiki taytotita (lawyer's identity card)
- Register with EFKA (social security) and the tax authority
Rights of Audience
Greek lawyers gain expanded rights of audience (dikaioma parastaseos) based on experience:
- Protodikeio (First Instance) — Available immediately upon qualification
- Efeteio (Court of Appeal) — After 4 years of practice
- Areios Pagos (Supreme Court) — After 8 years of practice
EU Lawyers Practicing in Greece
Lawyers qualified in other EU member states can practice in Greece under the Establishment Directive (98/5/EC) and the Services Directive (77/249/EEC). After 3 years of regular practice in Greece, EU lawyers can apply for full integration into the Greek bar. This pathway is particularly relevant for international maritime law practitioners.
Start Your Legal Career in Greece
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