Since joining the Bar in 1981, Ilias has built an admirable career in criminal law, handling cases ranging from financial and insurance fraud to art crimes. With studies in Athens and Frankfurt, and over 30 years as lead counsel, he has appeared in high-profile cases and shaped the legal landscape of Athens.
Beyond the courtroom, he has chaired the Hellenic Criminal Bar Association since 2013 and is a Professor Emeritus at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens.
Speaking to LAB, he shared his thoughts on success, the inspirations that have guided him, and what keeps him motivated after decades in the field.
If you could instantly acquire mastery over one skill - whether professional, artistic, or personal - what would it be, and why? How do you think this skill would enhance your work and life?
Acquiring mastery over any skill requires time and constant effort. During school I’ve had violin lessons for seven years but then stopped. I love music and wish I had continued trying to master this instrument.
Who has had the greatest influence on your life and career? Was there a particular lesson or value they instilled in you that continues to guide your path?
My father, George, and my mother, Stavroula, shaped me as a person with lots of love and thoughtful guidance; Professor Nikolaos Androulakis (Athens) and Professor Winfried Hassemer (Frankfurt am Main) inducted me into the beauties of criminal law, and Christophoros Argyropoulos (Athens) showed me the value of the Aristotelian ethos in practicing law. My wife, Persa, fuels me with her love. I am grateful to all of them.
Everyone seeks their place in the world. How challenging was it for you to choose a career in law and academia? If you had not become a professor or attorney, what profession would have fulfilled you in a similar way?
Choosing a career in law was an early decision for me. Following my father in court I was thrilled by the power of speech and the court drama. During my studies at the Schools of Law in Athens and in Frankfurt am Main I was inspired by some of the greatest law professors of that time who motivated me to also pursue an academic career. I am not sure what other profession would have fulfilled me in a similar way, maybe something creative like acting (if I had the talent).
If you could offer one piece of advice to your younger self - about life, career, or the pursuit of excellence - what would it be? Looking back, is there a principle or realization that has most influenced your decisions?
Be yourself; Learn from others; Use your imagination; Keep on fighting even when everyone else loses hope.
What is a memory you cherish deeply and often reflect on? Why does it stand out, and what significance does it hold for you?
The memory I deeply cherish is the memory of my father George. The older I get, the more I understand what a great man he was. There is still a form of “communication” between us that helps me respond to small or big challenges of life.
How do you define success? Has your understanding of success evolved over time?
Success is to feel happy with your loved ones and be satisfied with your work; and enjoy the summer!
What is a belief or conviction you once held strongly but later reassessed or changed your perspective on? What led to this shift, and how did it influence your approach to law or life?
Fighting for what I thought was right, sometimes aggressively, used to be one of my beliefs. Moving forward in life, I discovered the hidden value of more subtle ways to understand and communicate with others and pursue common goals and happiness together.
What do you hope people will remember you for? If you could shape the legacy you leave behind, what would it look like?
I don’t think it’s a good idea to try shape one’s legacy. I will leave it to those surviving to remember my feats or failures and what it meant to them to share love and affection in life.
If success were guaranteed, what is one dream or goal you would pursue without hesitation?
I would never pursue a dream or goal whose success is guaranteed. Success guaranteed, and the thrill is gone away.
What is a book, a film, and a piece of art that has profoundly impacted you? What do they mean to you, and how have they shaped your thinking?
Franz Kafka is my favourite writer; “Der Prozess”, “Die Verwandlung”, “In der Strafkolonie” are some of his stripped-down, imaginative and boundary-breaking works, unique in their style and urgency.
“Apocalypse Now”, of Francis Ford Coppola, is my favourite film. A ‘transcendental’ work of cinematic art that defines an era in a timeless manner; breathtaking settings, a dream cast, and that music! (“The End” by The Doors).
Amedeo Modigliani carried me away when I first saw an exhibition of his works in Lugano. Gazing at his surreally elongated portraits and raw expressive figures you enter a world of ecstasy.
shot by Vas Thalis