In a deeply moving and well-attended event, the Historical and Folklore Society of the Lassithi Prefecture recently paid tribute to our Managing Senior Partner, John C. Dryllerakis, in the crowded courtyard of the historic Neapolis High School.
Often hailed as the “architect of law firms” in Greece and currently the second oldest active practicing lawyer in Athens, John was honored for his monumental contributions to legal science, his extensive intellectual and literary work, and his steadfast, quiet dedication to social and charitable causes across Neapolis, Chania (the cherished homeland of his wife, Aliki), and the broader Cretan community.
The evening brought together esteemed institutional representatives, including Vice President of the Hellenic Parliament Yiannis Plakiotakis, Lassithi Deputy Governor Yiannis Androulakis, and President of the Friends of Neapolis Hospital Association Lia Moschovitaki. Speakers highlighted John’s enduring legal contributions to regional development—most notably his recent pivotal role in establishing the Neapolis Rehabilitation Center—and expressed profound gratitude for his lifelong service to his roots.
The program featured heartfelt remarks by Maria Sergaki, Physicist and former Head of General State Archives in Lassithi, who reflected on his remarkable family background and formative years. Attendees also viewed an exclusive documentary produced by Yiannis Stamelos, President of the Historical and Folklore Society of N. Lassithi, which traced John’s illustrious career. Mr. Stamelos lauded the visionary leadership, methodological rigor, and unwavering ethos that established him as a pioneer in modern Greek legal practice—including his foundational role in shaping professional law firms in Greece following the legislative shifts of the late 1990s, his 12-year tenure on the Disciplinary Council of the Athens Bar Association, his service on key independent Authorities, and his prolific academic output of over 17 books and 90 scientific articles.
Visibly moved, John accepted the honorary plaque, reflecting on the deep personal symbolism of returning to the schoolyard of his youth and paying tribute to Aliki, his lifelong partner, collaborator, and steadfast supporter. Surrounded by family, lifelong friends, colleagues, and institutional leaders, the evening concluded on a high note with live musical performances, closing a magnificent celebration of a distinguished legal career, a brilliant intellect, and a profound, quiet generosity that continues to inspire us all at the Firm.
https://www.anatolh.com/topikanea/agiosnikolaos/timitiki-ekdilosi-afieromeni-ston-ioanni-drylleraki/