Drug Trafficking: When Is It Considered a Felony in Greece?

Understand when drug possession or trafficking is treated as a felony under Greek Criminal Law and what factors may affect criminal prosecution and sentencing in Greece

Drug trafficking constitutes one of the most serious criminal offences under Greek law. The strictness of the legal framework is reflected in the particularly severe penalties imposed when involvement in drug trafficking activities is established.

In practice, many cases brought before the Prosecutorial Authorities concern the distinction between simple possession of narcotic substances and drug trafficking — a distinction that is of decisive importance for the criminal treatment of the accused.

In this article, we will examine when an act is considered drug trafficking and under what circumstances the offence is treated as a felony under Greek Criminal Law.

What Is Considered Drug Trafficking Under Greek Law?

According to Greek criminal legislation, drug trafficking includes any act connected with the trade, distribution, or circulation of narcotic substances. 

The concept of trafficking may include, among others, the following acts:

• Sale of narcotic substances

• Purchase with intent to resell

• Transportation of drugs

• Storage or safekeeping of narcotic substances

• Import or export of drugs, etc.

This legal provision covers a wide range of conduct, which is why each case is assessed based on its own factual circumstances.

When Is Drug Possession Considered a Felony?

In the majority of cases, possession of narcotic substances is treated by law as a felony offence.

The offence may be classified as a felony when the competent Prosecutor concludes that the accused possessed the quantity not for personal use, but for further distribution or commercial trafficking purposes.

How Is the Purpose of Possession Evaluated?

In determining whether the possession of narcotic substances was intended for further trafficking, the authorities and courts may examine factors such as:

• The quantity of narcotic substances seized

• Discovery of precision scales during the police investigation

• Discovery of cash amounts during the police investigation, etc.

Which Factors Affect the Sentence in Drug Cases?

When determining the sentence, criminal courts examine factors connected both to the offence itself and to the personality of the accused, which may influence the final penalty imposed.

Among other things, the courts examine:

• The seriousness of the offence

• The role of the accused in the case

• The quantity of narcotic substances involved

• The existence of mitigating circumstances

The evaluation of these factors may substantially affect the severity of the sentence.

Frequently Asked Questions About Drug Trafficking

1. Does a small quantity of drugs always indicate personal use?

No. The quantity constitutes only one of the factors examined by the courts.

For this reason, proper legal assessment of the case by a Criminal Defence Lawyer is particularly important.Drug-related cases require careful legal evaluation, which makes the assistance of a lawyer specialising in drug legislation essential.

2. Can the transportation of drugs be considered trafficking?

Yes, when it appears that the transportation takes place within the framework of trade or distribution of narcotic substances.

A Criminal Defence Lawyer may contribute significantly to the development of the most appropriate defence strategy for the accused, while providing specialised and effective legal guidance.

3. What is the difference between possession and drug trafficking?

Possession generally concerns holding narcotic substances for personal use, whereas trafficking is connected with the distribution, sale, or commercial disposal of drugs to third parties.

4. What penalties are imposed for drug possession?

This depends on the quantity and type of substance involved. In cases concerning large quantities, the penalties may lead to long-term imprisonment.

Proper legal guidance from a lawyer experienced in drug-related offences may substantially affect the course of the case.

5. What determines the sentence for drug possession?

The sentence depends on the quantity involved, the intended purpose (personal use or trafficking), and the specific circumstances of the case.In many situations, felony prosecution may apply.

6. Do I need a lawyer if I am accused of violating drug legislation?

Yes. Proper formulation of legal arguments by a Criminal Defence Lawyer experienced in drug-related cases and criminal procedure helps protect your rights, prevents inaccurate or unclear statements, and establishes the defence strategy on the proper legal basis.

7. Has your law firm previously handled drug-related criminal cases?

Yes. With continuous practice and experience in the field of Criminal Law since 2010, our law firm possesses extensive courtroom experience and in-depth knowledge of Criminal Law, while specialising in drug legislation cases.

Indicatively, you may visit the following link and review some of our law firm’s successful results in Criminal Law and drug-related cases:

• Protecting Your Rights: Successful Criminal Defense in Greece

• Acquittals and Significant Court Successes in Criminal Law cases

8. How Can I Contact Your Law Office

You may call us at +30 6977424779 for immediate legal assistance regarding your case.

We are also available on Viber and WhatsApp using the same number.Alternatively, you may contact us via email at terzidislaw@yahoo.gr

Legal Support in Drug-Related Criminal Cases

Cases involving narcotic substances are characterised by particular complexity and require careful legal handling.

Our law firm possesses extensive experience and provides specialised legal support in Criminal Law cases, particularly those involving violations of drug legislation.

For more information about our legal services or for immediate legal assistance in drug-related criminal cases, you may contact us through one of the following methods:

Telephone:  +30 6977424779

Email:  terzidislaw@yahoo.gr

Website:  www.chterzidislawoffice.eu