Piraeus Bar Association: Naval Court Must Remain in Piraeus
Piraeus, May 7, 2026 – The Administrative Board of the Piraeus Bar Association (DSA) has unanimously voiced its strong opposition to the Ministry of Defense’s intention to relocate the Piraeus Naval Court from its historic seat to Athens, in the Rouf area. The Bar Association criticizes the move, stating that it was made without the legally required consultation with the Piraeus Bar Association, despite directly affecting the functioning of the Greek justice system.
Historical Significance and Operational Efficiency
In its official statement, the DSA highlights the profound historical significance of the Piraeus Naval Court, which was established in 1861. “The Piraeus Naval Court, the oldest of the country’s Naval Courts, is a historical reference point for the city of Piraeus. Since its establishment, it has been inextricably linked to the port of Piraeus and shipping, as well as to the Hellenic Navy and the Hellenic Coast Guard, whose cases it handles as the competent criminal court,” the statement reads.
The Bar Association further emphasizes that the current seat of the Naval Court, located in a building owned by the Hellenic Navy since 1924 and granted for free use, does not burden the state budget. This contrasts sharply with the potential financial implications of a relocation to Rouf, which would incur additional costs for military judicial structures.
Decentralization Policy and Public Trust
The decision to centralize all military justice structures in Attica, including the Piraeus Naval Court, is seen as a direct contradiction to the state’s declared policy of decentralizing judicial services. This policy aims to bring justice closer to citizens, as evidenced by the judicial map in civil, criminal, and administrative justice. The DSA argues that this move undermines the principle of protected trust, which demands stability and consistency in administrative actions.
The Piraeus Bar Association believes that the Naval Court’s continued presence in its historical seat in Piraeus is beneficial for the administration of justice. Therefore, it will undertake coordinated actions with local bodies and representatives of the city to prevent the relocation. The President, Ilias I. Klappas, and the General Secretary, Ioannis Z. Voutas, signed the announcement.
Call for Collaboration and Future Actions
The Piraeus Bar Association affirmed its commitment to collaborating with all local stakeholders and city representatives to thwart the planned relocation. This collective effort aims to safeguard the historical and functional integrity of the Piraeus Naval Court within its community.
The association’s stance underscores a broader concern regarding the centralization of judicial functions and its potential negative impact on regional justice and public accessibility. The move is viewed not only as a logistical change but as a symbolic detachment from Piraeus’s maritime heritage and judicial autonomy.
The outcome of these coordinated efforts remains to be seen, but the Piraeus Bar Association has made it clear that it will actively campaign against the Ministry of Defense’s decision, advocating for the preservation of the Naval Court in its traditional location.
Source: https://www.documentonews.gr/article/dikigoriko-syllogos-peiraia-na-min-metaferthei-to-naftodikeio-stin-athina/
