What a prior hearing means
The right to a prior hearing allows an affected person to present their views before an administrative action or measure adversely affects their rights or interests. Its constitutional basis is Article 20(2), while Article 6 of Law 2690/1999 sets out the general procedure. The purpose is to allow relevant arguments and evidence to be considered before a decision is formed.
An invitation to provide explanations does not itself mean that a fine has already been imposed or a licence withdrawn. Check whether the document is a hearing notice, an inspection report or a final act. That distinction affects your response and the next procedural steps.
Check the notice and supporting file
Record when you received the notice, the authority involved, its subject and how it asks you to express your views. Check whether the information is sufficiently specific and whether the time allowed meets the applicable rules. Do not replace the document's deadline with a general deadline found online for a different procedure.
If you do not know what material supports the case, request lawful access to the relevant documents. Access may be restricted by personal-data protection or confidentiality requirements. Keep proof of your request. A request for access or additional time should not be assumed to suspend the response deadline by itself.
Sources for this section
Prepare focused written submissions
Start with the specific issues raised in the notice. For each event, explain what you accept, what you dispute and which document supports your explanation. Separate dates, your own involvement and any compliance steps already taken. A clear, documented answer is generally more useful than simply stating that you are not responsible.
Number the attachments and keep the final submissions with proof of filing. Avoid irrelevant characterisations, inconsistent statements and unsupported accusations. If the same events may also raise criminal issues, obtain coordinated legal advice before submitting explanations. If you need language assistance, arrange it promptly rather than leaving the notice unanswered.
- Hearing notice, service details and relevant inspection report
- Licences, decisions, contracts or compliance records
- A short timeline and a response to each disputed issue
- Numbered attachments and proof of filing
If no hearing was offered or a decision has already been issued
The right is not assessed in exactly the same way for every adverse act. Relevant factors include whether the decision concerns the person's conduct or only objective conditions, alongside specific legislation and possible urgent exceptions. A failure to offer a hearing can be legally significant, but is not a universal rule of automatic invalidity.
If an act has already been issued, the available administrative or judicial remedies, deadlines and possible interim protection need separate assessment. Presenting views does not replace an appeal or automatically suspend the measure. For advice from a lawyer in Heraklion, provide the complete file and every notification date.
This article is for general information only and does not constitute tailored legal advice. Every matter should be assessed according to its specific facts and available documents.
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