Stavros Georgiou, one of Greece’s most recognizable criminal lawyers, was found dead inside his office in central Athens on Tuesday night, July 21, after his family raised concerns when he failed to respond to repeated calls.

Georgiou had built a long career in Greek criminal law, representing clients and families in several cases that attracted widespread public attention. His death has prompted a criminal investigation, with initial findings pointing to a violent attack.

Investigation into suspected homicide

The lawyer’s 16-year-old twin daughters became concerned after being unable to reach him for several hours. They went to his office on 3rd September Street in central Athens and repeatedly rang the bell without receiving a response.

A resident of the building heard their calls and alerted the building’s caretaker. When the office was opened, Georgiou was found dead inside.

According to initial information, investigators found no signs of forced entry or indications that the office had been searched. Authorities are treating the case as a suspected criminal act, with early findings suggesting that Georgiou suffered multiple blows to the head.

The forensic examination reportedly found no injuries caused by a sharp object or firearm. Investigators are examining whether the fatal injuries were caused by punches and kicks or by an object used during the attack.

Career marked by high-profile cases

Georgiou was among Greece’s best-known criminal lawyers, with decades of experience in courtrooms and involvement in cases that drew national attention.

He gained wider recognition through his participation in the trial of the November 17 terrorist organization, one of the most significant criminal trials in modern Greek history.

Over the years, he represented clients and families in several major cases, including the disappearance and death of 11-year-old  Alex Meshishvili in the northern Greek city of Veria and the 2015 murder of four-year-old Anny.

In the case of Alex, who disappeared in February 2006, Georgiou represented the then 13-year-old main suspect. His defense focused on contradictions in witness statements and gaps in the preliminary investigation.

In the case of four-year-old Anny, who was murdered in 2015, Georgiou represented the child’s mother and argued that she had been abroad and had been misled by the perpetrator. His legal strategy contributed to her acquittal on appeal over the charge of exposing a child to danger.

Georgiou also represented the family of Stathis Anthi, who disappeared in the United Kingdom. After a body found in Devon was identified as Anthi’s, the lawyer called for further examinations in Athens and raised questions on behalf of the family regarding the circumstances of his death.

Familiar face on Greek television

Beyond the courtroom, Georgiou was widely recognized for his frequent television appearances, where he commented on criminal law matters and major legal developments.