Well known Greek Australian lawyer George Defteros has accused a client of threatening to kill him and his wife before extensively vandalising their practice, according to a Herald Sun report.

The Herald Sun says James Dassios allegedly told the criminal barrister and his wife, Sandy Petrovic-Defteros, he would “knock” the pair after repeatedly demanding money.

A writ filed to the County Court by Defteros’ lawyers claims Mr Dassios threatened the Defteroses at their Edmond St office on several occasions, ending in a paint attack on February 12 last year.

Mr Dassios is accused of causing $12,500 damage to the front of the property with a fire extinguisher or spray gun filled with non-removable paint.

Mr Defteros claims he lost almost $40,000 in revenue while the business was being repaired.

Police charged Mr Dassios over the incident but the charges were withdrawn when the matter went to Melbourne Magistrates’ Court this week.

Mr Defteros declined to comment on proceedings when contacted by the Herald Sun.