Served with an extrajudicial notice in Greece: what an exodiko means

What an extrajudicial notice can do

An exodiko may demand payment, compliance with a contract or an end to particular conduct. It can also communicate termination or another formal declaration. Its heading alone does not establish its legal effect. The entire document and the relationship behind it need to be considered.

The sender's allegations do not become true simply because they appear in a formally served document. Service may, however, establish that a declaration reached its recipient and when. An extrajudicial notice can therefore be an important step before further legal action.

Why dates need prompt attention

Subject to the Civil Code's requirements, a formal demand can place a debtor in default regarding an overdue obligation. A termination notice may have different effects. Establish whether a stated deadline comes from legislation, the contract or simply the sender's request.

There is no single response deadline for every exodiko. Nor should it be assumed that every extrajudicial notice interrupts a limitation period or preserves a court deadline. If a claim, payment order or other court document was also served, it needs separate and immediate review.

Preparing the documents

Keep every page and attachment, record when and how you received them and find the relevant contract. For a monetary demand, compare the figures with payment records. For an alleged breach, identify what was agreed, what happened and which points you dispute.

A short timeline makes an initial assessment easier. Include facts that may not support your position so the review can be complete. Preserve original electronic files and the full relevant correspondence, rather than edited extracts that omit the surrounding context.

• Notice, attachments and available service records
• Contract and subsequent amendments
• Receipts, invoices and payment evidence
• Relevant correspondence and earlier declarations

Choosing a proportionate response

Depending on the evidence, the appropriate response may be a reasoned reply, clarification, negotiation, performance of a valid obligation or court protection. Not responding does not invariably mean acceptance, but silence is not a safe universal strategy. A rushed reply can also affect your position.

Before acknowledging a debt, proposing specific settlement terms or making statements about disputed events, discuss the wording with a lawyer. The aim is an accurate response that preserves the available options and avoids unnecessary escalation.