This procedure offers a simpler, faster, and generally less costly method for dissolving a marriage when both spouses agree to separate. Since 2017 in Greece, this process is carried out extrajudicially through a notary, with the assistance of the parties’ attorneys, in cases of mutual consent for divorce.
This option is available for both civil and religious marriages, provided that the parties have drafted a private agreement for the dissolution of their marriage with the assistance of their lawyers. The authenticity of the signatures of the spouses and their attorneys is certified on this agreement.
In addition to the dissolution of the marriage, if there is a minor child, the agreement may also include provisions regarding custody, the parent with whom the child will reside, visitation rights of the non-custodial parent, and child support.
Ten days after signing the private agreement, the parties, accompanied by their attorneys, appear before the notary to confirm that all legal requirements have been met, to formalize the dissolution of the marriage, and to sign the notarized deed.
Finally, the notarized deed is registered with the competent local Civil Registry. In the case of a religious marriage, prior canonical dissolution of the marriage by the relevant Diocese, to which the Church belongs, is required.