Preliminary Examination – Legal Support by a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Thessaloniki

Preliminary Examination & Investigation of Criminal Offences – Legal Support by a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Thessaloniki

The Preliminary Examination as a Critical Stage of Criminal Proceedings

The preliminary examination constitutes the initial and particularly critical stage of criminal proceedings, during which the possible commission of a criminal offence is investigated and it is assessed whether criminal charges will be brought.

If you have been invited to provide written explanations within the framework of a preliminary examination, it is essential to consult a criminal defense lawyer without delay.

Providing explanations is not a mere formal procedure; it is a substantive stage in the evaluation of the case. Its content may decisively influence:

• whether criminal prosecution will be initiated

• the legal assessment of the case

• the future defence strategy

How We Can Support You

Our Greek law office provides specialised legal support in criminal law cases, with experience at all stages of criminal proceedings.

We undertake the defence of our principals from the preliminary examination and pre-trial investigation stage to trial and the filing of legal remedies, with the aim of effectively safeguarding their rights.

Christos Terzidis, Supreme Court Lawyer in Thessaloniki, criminal defense attorney holding a PhD title in Law from the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki in the field of drug-related offences, has extensive courtroom experience in criminal and drug-related cases.

Having served for 15 years as a member of the legal team of KETHEA (Therapy Center for Dependent Individuals), representing individuals undergoing treatment before investigative, prosecutorial and judicial authorities, he specialises in criminal law and, in particular, drug-related offences.

With continuous presence in the field of criminal law since 2010, we provide immediate and strategically structured legal support in cases involving preliminary examinations and the investigation of criminal offences.

Our Legal Services Include

• Review of the case file

• Drafting of a substantiated written statement of explanations

• Legal representation before prosecutorial and investigative authorities

• Strategic defence planning

• Ongoing legal guidance at every stage of the proceedings
  
  

Timely legal intervention often proves decisive for the outcome of a case.

Do I Need a Lawyer in a Preliminary Examination?

One of the most frequently asked questions is:

“Do I need a lawyer when providing an unsworn statement?”

The answer is clear: legal support from the very first stage is crucial.

The proper legal formulation of your statements:

• prevents inaccurate or harmful wording

• ensures the protection of your rights

• places your case within a structured defence strategy

Incorrect handling at this stage is often difficult to remedy at a later stage of the proceedings.

When Should You Contact a Lawyer?

If:

• you have received a summons for a preliminary examination

• you have been called to provide an unsworn statement

• a criminal complaint has been filed against you

• you have been informed that a criminal investigation is underway

timely legal guidance may prove decisive.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Preliminary Examination & Investigation Stage

1. What is a Preliminary Examination?

A preliminary examination is ordered by the Public Prosecutor in order to determine whether there are sufficient indications to initiate criminal prosecution.

2. What Happens During the Preliminary Examination Stage?

At this stage, you may be invited to:

• provide written explanations

• give an unsworn statement

• submit documents or evidence

Before taking any action, it is advisable to seek a legal assessment of your situation. Even a brief consultation with a criminal defense lawyer can clarify the next steps and what should be avoided.

3. Why Is the Preliminary Examination Stage Important?

Providing explanations is not a formal process but a crucial stage in the evaluation of the case.

Its content may significantly affect:

• whether criminal prosecution is initiated

• the legal classification of the case

• the future defence strategy

If you have been called to provide explanations, it is essential to consult an experienced criminal defense lawyer with knowledge of the relevant procedures.

4. Is Legal Representation Necessary at This Stage?

Substantive legal support from a criminal defense lawyer is extremely important.

The proper formulation of your arguments safeguards your rights, prevents vague or inaccurate statements, and establishes the foundation of your defence strategy.

This reduces the risk of misinterpretation, which is critical, as errors at this stage are not easily corrected later in the process.

5. Do You Handle Cases at the Preliminary Examination Stage?

Our Greek law office in Thessaloniki, with continuous activity in the field of criminal law since 2010, undertakes your legal representation with professionalism, strategic approach and discretion.

We prepare and submit your written statement of explanations and ensure that you are fully informed throughout the process.

Each case is handled individually, with emphasis on precision, confidentiality and strategic thinking.

6. Can I Refuse to Provide Explanations?

There are the rights to silence and protection against self-incrimination, which should always be assessed with the assistance of a lawyer.

7. How Much Time Do I Have to Submit a Written Statement?

The first step for anyone who has received a summons to provide written explanations is to contact -either personally or through their legal representative- the competent authority conducting the preliminary examination (usually a police department, and less frequently a pre-investigation office within the court).

Subsequently, they should attend the competent authority to obtain copies of the case file and be granted a deadline for submitting their written explanations.

Timely legal support from a criminal defense lawyer can make a decisive difference in the course of your case.