Interview to POLITIS DIONYSIS
Background and Motivation
Can you share more about your journey from being a highly motivated and resourceful PhD candidate to becoming a Founder and Managing Director at MASO STRATEGIC? What motivated this transition?
My transition from being a highly motivated and resourceful PhD candidate to the Founder and Managing Director at MASO STRATEGIC was motivated by a desire to apply my legal expertise in a broader context in the lobbying industry. Establishing Athanasiou & Associates LLC, law firm in Cyprus, allowed me to handle complex cases spanning national and international law, particularly emphasizing Admiralty and Shipping Law, Corporate Law, and Civil Law.
As a lawyer and founder, what inspired you to establish Athanasiou & Associates LLC, and what has been your primary focus in handling complex cases encompassing national and international law?
The inspiration behind founding Athanasiou & Associates LLC was to provide effective legal representation. My focus has been on representing parties before Cypriot Courts, honing my skills in legal research, preparing legal briefs, and presenting arguments. Analyzing complex legal issues and providing effective solutions has been developed through years of experience representing clients in diverse legal matters.
Teaching Experience
Your roles as a Visiting Lecturer at International Training World and the University of Nicosia involve teaching complex legal subjects. How do you approach the challenges of teaching Energy Law, Maritime Law, and other legal topics to diverse groups of legal practitioners and undergraduate students?
Teaching Energy Law, Maritime Law, and other legal topics to legal practitioners at International Training World and undergraduate students at the University of Nicosia and European University involves a nuanced approach. My teaching method is informed by a deep understanding of the complexities of Maritime Law, Energy Law and the unique challenges in the Oil and Gas industry in the Middle East.
How has your teaching experience at European University and Cyprus Maritime Academy informed your approach to communicating complex legal concepts, particularly in subjects like Maritime Law, Company Law, and Private International Law?
My teaching experience at European University and Cyprus Maritime Academy has shaped my approach to communicating complex legal concepts. Whether in subjects like Maritime Law, Company Law, or Aviation Law, I prioritize precise preparation and effective use of e-learning platforms.
Legal Consulting and Maritime Expertise
In your role as a Legal Consultant at Cyprus Maritime Academy / Intercollege, you’ve been tasked with resolving intricate maritime disputes. Can you elaborate on the specific challenges you’ve encountered and your approach to resolving them?
As a Legal Consultant at Cyprus Maritime Academy, I’ve dealt with intricate maritime disputes, gaining expertise in drafting maritime labor contracts. The challenges involve navigating the complexities of maritime law and providing comprehensive legal advice to clients.
How has your experience in drafting maritime labor contracts, charterers and ship-owners agreements, and representing parties in legal proceedings contributed to your expertise in maritime law?
My role requires a deep understanding of the intricacies involved in drafting commercial maritime agreements, allowing me to offer local and international clients comprehensive legal advice on maritime law matters.
Court Representation and Litigation
As a litigator, you’ve represented clients before Cypriot Courts, particularly in Admiralty and Shipping Law, Criminal Law, and Family Law. Can you share a notable case where your skills in legal research, preparation of legal briefs, and presenting arguments were crucial in achieving a favorable outcome?
In my role as a litigator, a notable case where my skills in legal research, preparation of legal briefs, and presenting arguments were crucial involved Admiralty and Shipping Law. This experience allowed me to navigate the intricacies of the legal system and collaborate effectively with clients, legal professionals, and court officials.
How do you navigate the intricacies of the legal system, collaborating with clients, legal professionals, and court officials to ensure positive results for your clients?
Navigating the legal system involves a collaborative approach to achieve positive outcomes for clients. This includes a keen understanding of relevant laws, regulations, and procedures
University Involvement
Your roles as a Visiting Lecturer and Lecturer at various institutions involve a significant commitment to undergraduate teaching. How do you maintain a rigorous and stimulating learning environment, and what strategies do you employ to foster a lifelong dedication to scholarship and learning among your students?
Maintaining a rigorous and stimulating learning environment at various institutions, including the University of Nicosia – Cyprus Maritime Academy, involves meticulous preparation and an unwavering dedication to undergraduate teaching. I strive to foster a lifelong dedication to scholarship and learning among students.
Could you provide insights into your role at the University of Nicosia – Cyprus Maritime Academy, specifically in supervising students’ thesis projects in the field of Maritime Law and/or Law of the Sea?
At the University of Nicosia – Cyprus Maritime Academy, my role includes supervising students’ thesis projects in the field of Maritime Law and/or Law of the Sea. This entails fostering intellectual curiosity and guiding students in their research endeavors.
Phd Question
“Maria, given your extensive background and expertise in law, I’m curious about your PhD research. Could you share the topic of your doctoral thesis and provide a brief overview of the focus and findings of your research?”
My doctoral research centers on the maintenance and installation of underwater pipelines, with a specific focus on the associated legal perspectives. In my study, I explore the intricate legal considerations surrounding the planning, construction, and ongoing maintenance of underwater pipelines. This includes examining regulatory frameworks, environmental impact assessments, and the resolution of legal issues that may arise during the lifecycle of such projects. I aim to contribute valuable insights to the legal aspects of underwater pipeline management, an area crucial for both environmental protection and the sustainable development of maritime industries.
