Tax in Greece

Dryllerakis Law Firm

Deploying a ‘client-focused approach’ and ‘innovative solutions’, Dryllerakis Law Firm has extensive experience in handling high-value claims surrounding public tenders before the Greek tax authorities and Supreme Administrative Court. The practice is well versed in overseeing all stages of tax audits and VAT treatments, with ‘invaluable’ team lead John Dryllerakis specialising in complex tax issues for both counselling and litigation. Eleftherios Rantos is knowledgeable of tax disputes before Administrative Courts of all instances, Nikolaia-Anna Lepida primarily focuses on corporate tax matters, while John Papadakis has insight into duties and customs rules. Dimitris Karavas is also cited as an integral team member.

Practice head(s):

John Dryllerakis


Other key lawyers:

Eleftherios Rantos; Nikolaia-Anna Lepida; John Papadakis; Dimitris Karavas


Testimonials

‘The tax practice at Dryllerakis & Associates stands out due to its exceptional blend of technical expertise, client-focused approach, and innovative solutions. What sets this team apart is its ability to offer comprehensive advice that spans both the intricacies of local Greek tax law and the complex global tax landscape, making it an ideal partner for multinational corporations and domestic businesses alike. Its deep understanding of regulations, combined with a proactive approach to identifying tax-saving opportunities, makes its advice invaluable.’

‘A key strength of the team lies in its leadership, particularly John Papadakis. John is highly respected for his strategic thinking and extensive knowledge of Greek and international tax law. His ability to distil complex legal concepts into actionable, client-friendly advice is impressive. John’s hands-on approach ensures that clients always feel supported by senior expertise, and his commitment to delivering tailored solutions has earned him a reputation for excellence in the field. His deep experience in tax planning, corporate restructurings, and contentious tax disputes adds immense value to clients navigating complicated tax challenges.’

‘One of the team’s key strengths is their deep industry knowledge combined with a proactive approach. They work closely with us to anticipate regulatory changes and stay ahead of developments in tax law, ensuring businesses can adjust swiftly and efficiently. This foresight enables us to benefit from practical, actionable advice that is both legally sound and commercially viable.’

‘In comparison to other firms, Dryllerakis & Associates combines a high level of proficiency with a strong focus on client service, making it a standout in the tax advisory landscape. The ability to think ahead, implement modern solutions, and provide truly personalized service makes it a trusted partner for us.’

‘John Dryllerakis brings an exceptional blend of leadership and deep expertise. His strategic vision and thorough understanding of tax law are evident in every interaction. John’s ability to guide complex projects and provide insightful, practical advice has been invaluable. What truly sets him apart is his commitment to understanding our business’s broader context, ensuring that his guidance aligns with our long-term goals. His leadership fosters a collaborative environment that enhances the overall effectiveness of the team.’

‘John Papadakis has a remarkable ability to simplify complex tax issues. His approach is both strategic and accessible, making intricate matters manageable. John invests time in understanding the specific challenges and goals of our business, which allows him to offer tailored, actionable advice. His proactive problem-solving and clear communication have been crucial in navigating complex tax scenarios, especially for our company, which is a multi-national one.’

Key clients

EUROBANK Group


Piraeus Port Authority S.A. (PPA S.A.)


Thessaloniki Port Authority S.A. (ThPA S.A.)


Fluor Corporation


Hellenic Petroleum Group


Siemens Group


Regency Entertainment Group


Aegean Airlines


REDEN SOLAR Greece S.A.


Beiersdorf Group


Minoan Lines Group


LAMDA Group


Vernilac S.A.


Work highlights


  • Managing a complex tax case for Piraeus Port Authority (PPA), challenging a €10 million additional income tax for 2017-2019 and addressing significant Transfer Pricing issues for 2020-2021.
  • Represented a partly state-owned mining company before the Supreme Administrative Court (Council of State) over a €209 mil. value tax audit, creating a precedent on the tax deductibility of losses incurred by hedging financial instruments against commodity price volatility risk.
  • Acting for a Greek bank in a Supreme Court victory over the refund of €32 mil. of withheld tax on the sale of the client’s Polish subsidiary, as part of the Bank’s strategy to divest from non-core assets at the height of the Greek financial crisis in 2012.

POTAMITISVEKRIS

Advising on complex tax elements of desecuritisations and acquisitions, POTAMITISVEKRIS displays ‘ample knowledge’ when instructed by HNW individuals, local companies, and multinational corporations. The practice covers the whole gamut of VAT, income, and corporate tax matters, while Athens-based Aspasia Malliou leads the outfit, predominantly specialising in international tax planning and capital gains tax issues. Grigoris Katsoras is highly knowledgeable on financing agreements and corporate restructurings, whilst Dimitra Katsipi mainly concentrates on tax audits and judicial petitions before the Administrative Courts. The firm is very active across the energy, banking, and clothing sectors, showcasing solid cross-border abilities.

Practice head(s):

Aspasia Malliou


Other key lawyers:

Grigoris Katsoras; Dimitra Katsipi


Testimonials

‘Ample knowledge of the legal background and tax court/tax authority practices constant updating in frequent legislative changes.’

‘Aspasia Malliou is a leading legal tax advisor in Greece, actively participating in tax law-making and jurisprudence.’

‘One of the best law firms in Greece we have worked with. They know their stuff.’

‘Aspasia Maliou is a dedicated tax lawyer. She has trustworthy expertise.’

Key clients

Eydap SA


D. Daskalopoulos Collection Non-Profit Civil Company


Kalogirou SA


Azerbaijan Gas Supply Company (AGSC)


Grivalia REIC


PQH Single Special Liquidation S.A.


Kessaris Group of Companies


Matsas & Son Co Ltd.


AstraZeneca SA


Bank of Cyprus


Hellenic Petroleum


Elinoil S.A.


Interamerican – Life Insurance SA


Gerolymatos Group


Citibank International Plc


Forbisson Limited


Dromeus Capital


Attica Bank SA


GEK Terna Group


Indotek SA


Work highlights


  • Advising Attica Bank on the tax aspects of the de-securitization and re-securitization of loans and the tax implications of its merger with another Greek bank, especially in relation to deferred tax assets.
  • Advised on the tax aspects of the deal for the sale of the majority shareholding of Terna Energy S.A. to Masdar and the relevant service agreements.
  • Advised on the tax aspects of the sale of the majority shareholding of Attica Department Stores.

Stavropoulos & Partners

Standing out for its expertise in income tax audit disputes and VAT assessments before the Greek Administrative Courts, the ‘very knowledgeable’ Stavropoulos & Partners practice routinely represents major energy and pharma companies. The team is highly regarded for its knowledge in special inheritance tax audits and tax litigation against income tax and transfer pricing assessments, with the ‘key’ head Ioannis Stavropoulos specialising in the application of double taxation treaties and VAT legislation. Vassiliki Michalopoulou predominantly focuses on customs duties and excise taxes, while Evgenia Kousteni is highlighted for her coverage of all aspects of international taxation and customs law proceedings.

 

Practice head(s):

Ioannis Stavropoulos


Other key lawyers:

Vassiliki Michalopoulou; Evgenia Kousteni; Evanthia Tsiri


Testimonials

‘Great team, easy to work with, very close to the client; deep business understanding and practical advice provided. Quality of work and speed are a standard, irrespective of the team member involved.’

‘Ioannis Stavroupoulos, Evanthia Tsiri, and Evgenia Kousteni are to be commended for their exceptional service to the client, professionalism, highly capable of handling complex matters, and inspiring confidence in the client.’

‘They are very knowledgeable of tax issues, pragmatic applications and trends of future development. Exceptional litigations skills.’

‘Ioannis is the key person, mixing his incredible experience and business knowledge.’

‘Professionalism at very high standards and they are always available for advice and engagement on urgent matters.’

‘Excellent knowledge of the legislation and applicable laws and speed in understanding the needs of the business.’

‘The individuals handle the case with professionalism and accountability and are working on the case as their own. This is the partnership that the company wants to have.’

‘Strong expertise in tax matters and addressing cases with a business-oriented approach.’

Key clients

AGET Heracles


Athenian Brewery SA


Avin Oil


Bayer Hellas SA


Brewinvest SA


Bureau Veritas


Campari Hellas SA


Coca-Cola HBC Greece SAIC & Coca-Cola HBC Services MEPE


Delta Foods


Dunapack Packaging


Du Pont Group


Ekter SA


Elastika Michelin


Energean


FrieslandCampina Hellas SA


Galenica SA


GSP Offshore SRL


H&M Hennes & Mauritz S.A.


Hellenic Recycling Company


Lafarge Beton


Louis Vuitton


Love 2 Celebrate


Luxottica Hellas SA


Motor Oil


Nestle


Novartis Hellas SA


Papastratos


Pfizer


Roche


Shell Company Hellas Limited


Toyota Motor Europe


Work highlights


  • Represented Athenian Brewery SA before the Supreme Administrative Court in a case successfully securing the client’s right to revoke tax returns due to an error of law directly before the Administrative Courts.
  • Represented FrieslandCampina Hellas SA before the Supreme Administrative Court and the Administrative Courts, in tax litigation against multimillion income tax and VAT assessments.
  • Represented Novartis (Hellas) S.A.C.I. in out-of-court tax proceedings in a series of cases, achieving a settlement with the full reverse of income tax, VAT and WHT assessments and a multi-million tax refund.

Zepos & Yannopoulos

Being experts in managing income tax adjustment claims before the Supreme Court and Court of Appeal, the team at Zepos & Yannopoulos is praised for its ‘professional attitude’ and ‘timely responses’. The practice has in-depth experience in the renewable energy, financial services, and maritime sectors. Operating out of Athens, Yerassimos Yannopoulos heads the tax offering, mainly focusing on tax structuring for domestic and international business owners; Maria Zoupa is knowledgeable of tax advisory and compliance measures; while Elina Filippou specialises in international tax matters. Alex Karopoulos is a tax litigation expert, Marina Allamani is a real estate specialist, and Daphne Cozonis is also highlighted as key.

Practice head(s):

Yerassimos Yannopoulos; Maria Zoupa; Alex Karopoulos; Elina Filippou


Other key lawyers:

Marina Allamani; Daphne Cozonis; Dimitris Gialouris; Anna Paraskeva; Diana Tsourapa; Ioanna Tapeinou; Evangelia Yotakou; Elina Belouli; Filenia Andreadi; Irene Tsiosta


Testimonials

‘People are highly knowledgeable, and collaboration is embedded in their nature.’

‘Yerassimos Yannopoulos is a very knowledgeable, resourceful and effective lawyer with a wonderful personality. His availability and response time are outstanding. Marina Allamani is also very knowledgeable in her area of law and provides effective solutions to difficult matters.’

‘I dealt with Maria Zoupa and Ioanna Tapeinou and was confident in both cases that their advice was sound and that their drafting suggestions were appropriate.’

‘They have great expertise in the pharmaceutical industry and approach every issue from all aspects that may create potential implications, such as legal, tax and accounting. This approach provides added value as they highlight issues and implications that may have escaped our attention.’

‘Each one of the individuals that we have cooperated with (Marie Zoupa and Alex Karopoulos) is an expert in their field and provide high-quality work.’

‘Alex Karopoulos and his team provide excellent service in tax litigation with an astonishing success rate. He is very experienced and provides business-oriented advice which is always to the point.’

‘Professional attitude, expertise & timely responses.’

‘Reachable, professional & knowledgeable.’

Key clients

Amadeus


BIC


Deutsche Telecom


Gagosian Gallery


Stavros Niarchos Foundation


Trafigura


Zoia


Ecoener Group


Work highlights


  • Advised the Lloyd’s Register (LR) Maritime Decarbonisation Hub, which accelerates sustainable decarbonisation of the maritime industry, in relation to establishing a not-for-profit Athens-based global Maritime Emissions Reduction Centre.
  • Advised Italgas, the Italian gas distributor, on the corporate simplification process related to its operational presence in Greece.
  • Advised a Greek bank on tax issues for a merger with another Greek bank.

Andersen Legal - Pistiolis - Triantafyllos & Associates Law Firm

Spearheaded by Martha Papasotiriou, Andersen Legal - Pistiolis - Triantafyllos & Associates Law Firm is described as both ‘experienced’ and ‘always with a solution at hand’, frequently handling special tax regimes and complex tax incentive programs. The team is especially strong at providing tax advice in cross-border share sales and spin-offs, with Papasotiriou being an expert in planning tax strategies for international transactions involving multinationals in the telecoms, energy, and life sciences spheres. Nikos Siakantaris primarily focuses on double tax treaties, whilst Dimitris Moraloglou is knowledgeable of indirect and real estate tax proceedings.

Practice head(s):

Martha Papasotiriou


Other key lawyers:

Nikos Siakantaris; Dimitris Moraloglou


Testimonials

‘Andersen Legal has established itself as one of the most trusted partners of our group throughout the years. Experienced, always with a solution at hand, looking at the big picture and clients’ objectives.’

‘We worked with them on highly demanding projects, and they delivered excellent results combined with high-level client service. The firm is a go-to for clients who need sophisticated advice that requires a blend of local market knowledge and international business. They stand out from any other law firm in the market regarding innovation, tools, and new technologies.’

‘We were impressed by their methodology, approach, and tailored tools, which ensured the project ran smoothly.’

Key clients

Islalink


Co-Operative Bank of Thessaly


Central Mare


Gefsinous


Green Top S.A.


Lax Roman Lion Ltd.


Blue Stream S.A


Work highlights


  • Provided tax advice to Blue Stream S.A. on the sale of its shares to an ASE-listed company.
  • Advised Gefinus group on tax matters regarding the allocation of the company’s shares to board members and executives by creating a Stock Purchase Plan.
  • Provided tax advice to CA Autobank S.p.A. Italy in a cross-border merger of its subsidiaries in Austria & Italy and the Greek branch.

Bernitsas Law

With the ‘exceptional’ Fotodotis Malamas and Panayotis Bernitsas at the helm, Bernitsas Law has vast expertise in handling tax aspects associated with cross-border M&A transactions, alongside assisting with VAT assessments. Since being promoted to partner in March 2024, Malamas specialises in advising businesses on tax-efficient structures and indirect taxation matters, while Bernitsas is highly knowledgeable on VAT refund claims and arbitrations. The team is particularly active in the financial services, energy, and beverage sectors.

Practice head(s):

Panayotis Bernitsas; Fotodotis Malamas


Testimonials

‘The team was very professional and attentive to our concerns and wishes.’

‘Fotodotis Malamas is a great professional with extensive in-depth knowledge of the field and is a lovely person to talk and work with. The head of the law firm, Mr. Panayotis Bernitsas, is a true professional and a go-to person when you have a problem that needs to be solved.’

‘Exceptional team. Knowledgeable and to-the-point advice. Excellent client service skills.’

‘Fotodotis Malamas is an excellent lawyer. He is really knowledgeable and efficient in his advice.’

‘The team is up to date with all new legal developments in the tax sector at any time.’

‘Fotodotis Malamas is an exceptional tax advisor, we know that we can always rely on him when it comes to complicated tax legal advice.’

‘Technical expertise. Customer relationship.’

‘Mr. Malamas has solid technical expertise, is client-centric and has an excellent understanding of business needs and priorities.’

Key clients

CVC


Pyletech


Vinci Energies


Work highlights


  • Advised Guala Closures S.p.A. on the tax aspects of its acquisition of 100% of Astir Vitogiannis from Ideal Holdings SA.
  • Acting as Greek law counsel to Piraeus Financial Holdings (PFH) in connection with the Hellenic Financial Stability Fund (HFSF)’s full divestment from PFH.
  • Advised a fund and a private investor on the tax issues arising in the context of their participation in a joint venture to develop and operate a high-profile land development project on a Greek island and their completion of the acquisition of the company which owned the land.

KBVL

Showcasing vast expertise in the contentious sphere, including challenging claims regarding the taxation of damages compensation, the ‘well-rounded’ KBVL practice consistently provides multi-jurisdictional tax and estate advice to private companies and HNW individuals. The firm demonstrates strength in the aviation, tourism, and insurance industries, with co-lead Efstathios Bakalis being well versed in handling tax cases before the tax authorities and administrative courts. The other team lead George Venieris is known for advising shipowners and Greek families, Evangelos Aidonis specialises in inheritance and gift taxation, whilst Magdalini Souli is a tax planning expert.

Practice head(s):

Efstathios Bakalis; George Venieris


Other key lawyers:

Evangelos Aidonis; Magdalini Souli; Nikoletta Sieva


Testimonials

‘The team is very knowledgeable and willing to assist.’

‘We have worked together with Efstathios Bakalis. He is an expert in tax matters and very professional.’

‘Well-rounded and customer-centric team.’

The main team members I work with are George Venieris and Evangelos Aidonis. Both are extremely knowledgeable about Greek/EU/International Shipping corporate and tax matters. They offer practical solutions.’

Key clients

Qualco


Hellenic Diaries


Μerck Sharp & Dohme Hellas


3M Hellas


Le Grand Tourism Enterprises


Intralot


SIGMA Leasing


Work highlights


Fortsakis, Diakopoulos, Mylonogiannis & Associates Law Firm

Acting on behalf of clients in cases relating to capital gains tax issues and VAT impositions before the Administrative Supreme Court, the Fortsakis, Diakopoulos, Mylonogiannis & Associates Law Firm team is hailed for fielding ‘excellent practitioners’, predominantly in the finance and pharma sectors. Based out of Athens, ‘remarkable’ team leader Petros Pantazopoulos specialises in customs-related litigation and ADR, Katerina Sideromenou is an administrative law and real estate expert, whilst Athina Mavroeidi predominantly concentrates on complex tax audits and commercial law matters.

Practice head(s):

Petros Pantazopoulos


Other key lawyers:

Katerina Sideromenou; Athina Mavroeidi; Katerina Kalampaliki


Testimonials

‘We have worked with Mr Pantazopoulos and his team are experts in tax law. The team’s strengths are mainly the fact that they combine deep legal knowledge, business understanding and Court practice, including a deep knowledge of the practical side of the litigation processes.’

‘Petros Pantazopoulos, partner, with whom we have worked closely on important litigation claims, is extremely quick in response and always very well prepared.’

‘Professionalism, prompt response, accuracy, deep knowledge of applicable laws.’

‘Katerina Sideromenou is a professional with great experience and special skills. She has exceptional work ethic and is very committed to her clients. She is a person you can rely on.’

‘The tax team of the firm consists of prominent academics and excellent practitioners.’

‘Mr. Petros Pantazopoulos is an excellent lawyer and academic who combines profound knowledge of tax law with professional and commercial acumen.’

‘Long-term outside counsel in administrative disputes and tort litigations with consistently good performance.’

‘Petros Pantazopoulos is a valuable asset to the firm and clients, and he is very agreeable to work with. Petros’ expertise on tax law is remarkable.’

Key clients

Hines Greece


Viva Wallet


Extraco SA


ETVA VIPE


Greek Church of Scientology


Pharmaserve – Lilly S.A.C.I


Alpha Investment Properties Elaiona SA


Goldair Group


Alpha Bank


Vodafone – Panafon SA


Archeiothiki SA


Italian Embassy


ADMIE SA (Independent Electricity Transmission Operator)


AGET Iraklis (LaFarge Group)


Work highlights


  • Represented Vodafone – Panafon SA on its dispute with the tax authorities about the legality of deduction from gross revenues of commitment fees.
  • Represented Alpha Bank on its dispute with the tax authorities for the refund of tax amounting to €12m.
  • Represented a company of the La Farge Group on its dispute with the tax authorities for the refund of approx. €24m corresponding to surcharges which were unlawfully calculated.

Kyriakides Georgopoulos Law Firm

Primarily handling tax treatment elements of executives’ remuneration and corporate restructurings, Panagiotis Pothos heads the ‘outstanding’ Kyriakides Georgopoulos Law Firm team, routinely representing renewable energy and tech companies. Pothos specialises in international taxation and transfer pricing matters, Ioanna Barmpa is knowledgeable of tax planning for investment and disinvestment purposes, while Angeliki Miliakou focuses on shipping taxation issues. Evangelos Gesios frequently oversees Greek tax aspects of M&A and exit opportunities, and both Eleana Gkotsoulia and Dimitra Gkiotsaliti are cited as other key members.

Practice head(s):

Panagiotis Pothos


Other key lawyers:

Ioanna Barmpa; Angeliki Miliakou; Evangelos Gesios; Eleana Gkotsoulia; Dimitra Gkiotsaliti


Testimonials

‘Professionalism and expertise, customer-focused approach.’

‘Panagiotis Pothos is an absolute delight to work with. He is a good listener and subject matter expert, focusing his advice on the needs of the client in a very practical and non-theoretical way.’

‘My experience thus far with the team at KG Law has been very positive. After about 1.5 years of working with them on a multi-level tax project, involving many jurisdictions, I can state that what makes them unique is the level of care they display. Although our project keeps hitting obstacles, they always try to find and propose a new solution, in order to bring the matter to a successful close.’

‘I have been working exclusively with Angeliki Miliakou and Panagiotis Pothos. What makes them stand out is that they go the extra mile for me, as a client, trying to find innovative solutions to complicated, multi-jurisdictional problems, and always working with colleagues in other jurisdictions in order to check that their proposed solutions are valid and can work. Overall, I feel that both Angeliki and Panagiotis care about me as a client and as an individual, and about my project.’

Work highlights


Iason Skouzos & Partners

Counting multinational companies and HNW individuals amongst its key clients, the ‘very strong’ department at Iason Skouzos & Partners is highly knowledgeable on the whole spectrum of EU VAT legislation and R&D tax incentive schemes. Co-heads Theodoros Skouzos and Natalia Skoulidou both specialise in complex tax litigation and indirect taxation matters, whilst Elena Ntafouli is highly regarded for her wealth structuring and estate planning work. Aikaterini Besini and Ourania Moraitou are both highlighted as key.

Practice head(s):

Theodoros Skouzos; Natalia Skoulidou


Other key lawyers:

Elena Ntafouli; Aikaterini Besini; Ourania Moraitou


Testimonials

‘Theodoros Skouzos – business-minded, understands business people. Aikaterini Besini – ability to understand details.’

‘I have the best experience from my cooperation with Theodoros Skouzos because he has a very wide angle of approach to the matters but always sees the little details in relation to the related tax matters.’

‘We would point out our cooperation with Natalia Skoulidou and her tax team. Natalia Skoulidou is a real expert in tax law with an emphasis on complicated projects and is always getting the job done. Exceptional knowledge and expertise. Moreover, Theodore Skouzos, the managing partner of the firm, is business-oriented and solution-driven.’

‘Theodoros Skouzos is very knowledgeable in his field, time efficient in his deliverables, innovative and thinking out of the box.’

‘Compared to other Greek firms, Iason Skouzos & Partners stands out for its proactive and practical approach, in-depth knowledge of all aspects of taxation and its commitment to understanding and meeting client needs.’

‘Theodoros Skouzos is a standout partner, very professional, he manages his team effectively and efficiently, giving personal care where needed. He is most professional and very knowledgeable as well as responsive and dedicated to the case.’

‘Very strong corporate tax and M&A practice. Ability to structure innovative solutions that mitigate transaction risks to acceptable levels; they do not stick to reciting the tax regulations and associated implications.’

Key clients

Nokia, Solutions and Networks Hellas S.A.


Moore Stephens Chartered Accountants S.A.


Stephenson Harwood LLP


Aylo (formerly MindGeek and Manwin)


Work highlights


  • Assisted the client with claiming the tax incentives relating to the R&D Expenses of Nokia S.A. for the tax year 2023, according to article 22A of Law 4172/2013.
  • Acting for Aylo (formerly MindGeek and Manwin) – a Canadian pornographic conglomerate – owned by Canadian private equity firm Ethical Capital Partners.

KLC Law Firm

Deploying specialists in tax litigation, consistently relating to VAT input dedication disputes before the Court of Appeal, KLC Law Firm is well regarded for being ‘deeply skilled’ and ‘very qualified’. Based out of Athens, Xenofon Papayiannis leads the outfit, displaying in-depth knowledge of corporate taxation and international tax planning matters, alongside cross-border M&A transactions. The practice is particularly active across the aviation, travel, and pharma industries.

Practice head(s):

Xenofon Papayiannis


Testimonials

‘We are thoroughly satisfied with the efficiency demonstrated by the KLC Law Firm team, their prompt responses and their overall approach to handling our cases and managing the client relationship. This law firm consistently provides an exceptionally high level of service, characterized by swift response time, strong business acumen and industry knowledge, and sound and appropriate advice.’

‘A deeply skilled team. Mr. Xenofon Papagiannis has been an excellent legal advisor.’

‘Very qualified people and great collaboration.’

‘They are very client-focused. They have great experience and in-depth knowledge being humble at the same time. We have a relationship based on trust.’

Key clients

Athens International Airport


Meeting Point Hellas


Edison SpA


Teva Hellas S.A.


Pyramis


Adidas S.A.


RGreen Invest


Stichting Bootvluchteling


Medecins sans Frontieres


Simmons & Simmons LLP


Work highlights


  • Represented the Athens International Airport in a €155m VAT litigation and won €150m so far.
  • Represented TEVA in litigation concerning the proper timing of recognition of certain expenses for corporate tax purposes and won at the level of the Second Instance Court despite the lack of relevant precedents in case law.
  • Represented Adidas before the Supreme Court in a dispute with the Greek customs authorities.

Koutalidis Law Firm

Headed by the ‘fantastic’ George Naskaris from Athens, Koutalidis Law Firm routinely provides tax advice in corporate transactions, in conjunction with handling income tax assessments. Naskaris is well versed in assisting with the tax elements of cross-border M&A and share capital sales, whilst Lydia Sofrona leverages her experience in the Greek tax administration, regularly overseeing business restructurings and international corporate taxation issues.

Practice head(s):

George Naskaris


Other key lawyers:

Lydia Sofrona


Testimonials

‘In-depth knowledge of the tax background and with possibility to be actively involved in legal developments in a complex and ever-changing tax environment in Greece.’

‘George Naskaris is fantastic. He has great clarity of the tax framework, is easily accessible and can provide guidance on difficult tax situations.’

‘The cooperation with the law office mainly concerns the legal support of important tax matters. From my collaboration, I will mention the professional expertise and full legal coverage provided by the office and specifically the tax team due to the expertise and deep knowledge it has, and this makes it stand out from the competitors as well as the means it has for the multifaceted and thorough coverage of the tasks it undertakes.’

‘Mr. Naskaris is one of the worthiest, most informed and professionally qualified lawyers who undertake to complete difficult tax and specialized matters such as those of the banking sector. His suggestions and advice contribute and help to solve the issues he handles. Knows the sources and from where to draw evidence and jurisprudence to provide an informed legal opinion.’

Key clients

Alpha Bank S.A.


Alpha Services and Holdings S.A.


Eurobank S.A.


Piraeus Bank S.A.


National Bank of Greece S.A.


Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft


BofA Securities Europe S.A.


BNP Paribas


Goldman Sachs Bank Europe SE


JP Morgan SE


Hellenic Financial Stability Fund


United States International Development Finance Corporation (DFC)


Fraport Regional Airports of Greece A S.A.


Work highlights


  • Advised Joint Lead Managers in relation to the issue by the Hellenic Republic of the €4,000,000,000 3.375 per cent. notes due 15 June 2034, on the terms and conditions set out in the preliminary offering circular prepared by the Republic and dated 29 January 2024 and the offering circular prepared by the Republic and dated 2 February 2024.
  • Advised Joint Global Coordinators in relation to the Offering by the Hellenic Financial Stability Fund (HFSF) of common shares, representing a participation stake of 22% in National Bank of Greece S.A.
  • Advised Alpha Bank S.A. on a corporate restructuring centred around the demerger of its indirect subsidiary, Alpha Leasing S.M.S.A.

KPP Law

Demonstrating broad cross-sector expertise, spanning from gambling and plastics to real estate, KPP Law has extensive experience in VAT refund cases and tax assessment disputes. Located in Athens, team lead Stylianos Papademetriou is ‘well respected’, predominantly focusing on transfer pricing and double taxation treaties. George Kerameus is highly knowledgeable on corporate restructurings and international transactions, while Konstantinos Miliarakis is also cited as key.

Practice head(s):

Stylianos Papademetriou


Other key lawyers:

George Kerameus; Konstantinos Miliarakis; Andreas Kouknis; Charikleia Apostolopolou; Christina Carkoula


Testimonials

‘Stylianos Papademetriou, Head of Tax, has a strategist’s mind and a client’s champion’s heart. Not only does he possess an encyclopedic knowledge of tax codes, but he can also translate legalese into clear terms, ensuring you understand every step of the process. He is a fierce negotiator, meticulously detail-oriented, and constantly seeks innovative solutions to minimize your tax burden.’

‘Our long-term cooperation started with Mr Stylianos Papademetriou, KPPLAW Tax Partner, who is currently one of the top tax litigation lawyers in the country, well respected by his fellow colleagues in the field of tax litigation. Notably, the KPPLAW team’s adept handling of a series of intricate tax cases with significant financial exposure has demonstrably yielded substantial long-term benefits for our group.’

‘They have expertise and an experienced team that gives us confidence that we will receive the support we need. Every time we are sure they will thoroughly examine our cases and with high professionalism and standards They are always available for our needs within the given deadlines. They are also aware of market evolutions.’

‘Stelios Papademetriou: Always available and responsive and informed on any recent changes in the legal and market frameworks.’

‘Andreas Kouknis: Available and responsive. Professional in his work and ready to discuss any problem or concern we might have.’

‘A highly skilled team with a broad range of expertise, fully equipped to handle various cases. They are incredibly responsive, detail-oriented, and consistently thorough, providing invaluable advice to protect our interests while also taking a proactive approach. Their collaborative mindset and client-focused approach ensure that we feel supported every step of the way, making them an exceptional partner in navigating legal challenges.’

‘KPP Law office members are accessible anytime, and able to provide the best expertise by respecting the tight deadlines as set by our company.’

‘Andreas Kouknis and Stelios Papademetriou are excellent professionals with excellent hard and soft skills, standing by the client and covering all needs even under stressed timelines.’

Key clients

Samsung


Diageo


Opap


Opel


Fourlis group


Interamerican


Mount Athos (Holy Mountain) Community & Monasteries


American Bureau of Shipping (ABS)


Lavipharm


Grecotel


Alumil


Manpower


Work highlights


  • Represent DIAGEO, an alcoholic beverage and spirits vendor, on a VAT refund case for VAT charged on invoices of 5 m. EUR, which remained unpaid by counterparties which were subject to insolvency proceedings.
  • Acted as tax advisors for a construction company in tax planning of a sale of a 60 m. business line including the design of a spin-off transaction and SPA transaction using M&A tax regimes applicable.
  • Represented a dairy goods company before the Tax Directorate in a complex 7Μ income tax assessment dispute achieving a significant reduction of taxes assessed.

Lambadarios Law Firm

Providing transactional support services to multinational companies and financial institutions on the structuring, tax treatment, and implementation of investments, Lambadarios Law Firm is praised for its ‘great communication skills’. The practice is headed by the trio of Smaro Anagnostou, Melina Katsimi, and Constantinos Lambadarios, with each specialising in double taxation treaties and company formations. Meanwhile, Katerina Malanou is knowledgeable in the beverage, consumer goods, and tourism industries.

Practice head(s):

Smaro Anagnostou; Melina Katsimi; Constantinos Lambadarios


Other key lawyers:

Katerina Malanou


Testimonials

‘Great communication skills and making complex conditions easy.’

‘Patience with the client, good timing to opposing parties.’

‘The motivation of the team to follow up and complete an end-to-end process for any service requested.’

‘It feels that all individuals that we have worked with put our company needs as a priority and this is of utmost importance for us.’

Key clients

Whirlpool Hellas SA


Baker McKenzie


Dow Chemicals


Sony – EMI


Apple


Goodyear


BriQ


Cardlink-Worldline


Athens Brewery


Dronamics


Var Group


Work highlights


  • Advised an investment fund on the tax issues related to the structuring, and implementation thereof, of the acquisition and immediate resale of a bank’s portfolio of real estate assets, to non-identified end buyers.
  • Advising Whirlpool Hellas on its claim against Greek tax authorities regarding VAT refund on overdue receivables – bad debts, in accordance with the EU VAT directive provisions, not yet transposed into national law.
  • Advised BriQ on profit distribution ratios, and extraordinary income – capital gains distribution, according to REIC special legislation and ongoing changes in the law, commenting on the Ηellenic Fund and Asset Management Association‘s relative opinion.