Turkish criminal law is complex and constantly evolving. Whether you are a foreigner, an expatriate, or a Turkish citizen, navigating criminal investigations and court proceedings can be overwhelming. Having experienced Turkish criminal lawyers on your side ensures that your rights are protected at every stage.
At Akkas & Associates Law Firm, we have been providing full-service legal solutions in Istanbul since 1992. Our multilingual team offers strategic representation, fast communication, and a results-oriented approach for both individuals and corporations.
Table of Contents
- Understanding Turkish Criminal Law
- What Turkish Criminal Lawyers Do
- Choosing the Right Criminal Defense Attorney in Turkey
- Why You Need an Experienced Turkish Criminal Lawyer
- Common Criminal Cases in Turkey
- Key Stages of the Criminal Process in Turkey
- How Akkas & Associates Law Firm Assists Clients
- Working With Foreign Clients and Expats
- Choosing the Right Criminal Lawyer in Turkey: What to Look For
- FAQs About Turkish Criminal Lawyers
- 1. Do I need a lawyer during a police interrogation in Turkey?
- 2. Can foreigners hire criminal lawyers in Turkey?
- 3. How long does a criminal case take in Turkey?
- 4. Can criminal convictions affect my residence permit or citizenship application?
- 5. What should I do if I receive a summons from the prosecutor?
- 6. Can your firm represent clients outside Istanbul?
- 7. Do you help with Interpol Red Notice cases?
- Contact our Turkish Criminal Lawyers
Understanding Turkish Criminal Law
The Turkish criminal justice system operates under the Turkish Criminal Code (Türk Ceza Kanunu) and the Criminal Procedure Code. These legal frameworks govern everything from minor offenses to serious felonies. Criminal cases in Turkey can be incredibly complex, requiring attorneys who possess deep knowledge of both substantive criminal law and procedural requirements.
Turkish criminal lawyers handle a wide range of cases including fraud, theft, assault, drug offenses, white-collar crimes, cyber crimes, and more serious charges such as homicide. The Turkish legal system requires criminal defense attorneys to be well-versed in constitutional protections, evidence rules, and courtroom procedures.
What Turkish Criminal Lawyers Do
Criminal defense attorneys in Turkey provide crucial services throughout every stage of the criminal process. From the moment of arrest, a qualified lawyer can protect your rights and ensure proper legal procedures are followed.
Initial Consultation and Case Assessment: Your criminal lawyer will review the charges against you, examine evidence, and develop a strategic defense plan. This early intervention is critical for building a strong case.
Police Station and Prosecution Phase: During questioning by law enforcement or prosecutors, having legal representation ensures your rights are protected. Your attorney can be present during interrogations and prevent self-incrimination.
Court Representation: Turkish criminal lawyers represent clients in criminal courts, presenting evidence, cross-examining witnesses, and arguing legal motions. Their courtroom experience is invaluable when facing serious charges.
Appeals and Higher Courts: If convicted, your criminal attorney can file appeals to higher courts, including the Turkish Court of Appeals and Constitutional Court.
Choosing the Right Criminal Defense Attorney in Turkey
Selecting an experienced criminal lawyer is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when facing charges. Here are key factors to consider:
Experience and Specialization: Look for attorneys who specialize in criminal defense rather than general practitioners. Experience handling cases similar to yours is particularly valuable. Law firms in Istanbul like Akkas & Associates have decades of criminal defense experience.
Track Record: Research the lawyer’s success rate and past case outcomes. While past results don’t guarantee future success, they indicate competence and skill.
Communication Skills: Your attorney should explain complex legal concepts clearly and keep you informed throughout the process. Language capabilities matter, especially for international clients who may need multilingual legal services.
Resources and Support: Established law firms offer advantages like investigative resources, expert witnesses, and support staff that solo practitioners may lack.
Why You Need an Experienced Turkish Criminal Lawyer
Criminal allegations in Turkey can escalate quickly. Police investigations, custody procedures, digital evidence collection, and court hearings require strong legal knowledge. An experienced criminal defense lawyer:
- Protects your constitutional rights
- Ensures due process throughout the investigation
- Prepares a comprehensive defense strategy
- Challenges unlawful evidence
- Represents you during police questioning and court hearings
- Negotiates settlements or plea options when applicable
Our firm provides representation from the very first moment of detention or investigation, ensuring that nothing is missed during critical early stages.
Common Criminal Cases in Turkey
Turkish criminal lawyers handle a wide array of criminal matters. Some of the most common cases include:
- Fraud and financial crimes
- Cybercrimes and online defamation
- Drug-related offenses
- Assault and battery charges
- Sexual offenses
- Extradition and Interpol Red Notices
- Theft, robbery, and property crimes
- Immigration-related offenses
Each of these areas includes detailed technical requirements under the Turkish Penal Code (TPC). Properly analyzing the facts and evidence is vital for building a successful defense.
Key Stages of the Criminal Process in Turkey
Understanding criminal procedures helps clients feel more prepared. These are the major stages:
1. Investigation Phase
This stage begins with a complaint, police report, or prosecutor’s action. Police may collect statements, digital data, and physical evidence. A suspect has the right to remain silent and to be represented by a lawyer.
2. Detention and Custody
If detained, the suspect must be informed of their rights. Lawyers must be present during all interrogations to prevent unlawful procedures.
3. Prosecution and Indictment
If evidence suggests probable cause, the prosecutor prepares an indictment. A defense lawyer may challenge insufficient or unlawful evidence.
4. Court Hearings
Criminal trials in Turkey may involve multiple hearings. Lawyers argue procedural violations, cross-examine witnesses, and request expert analyses.
5. Appeals and Higher Courts
Unfavorable decisions can be appealed to the Regional Appeal Court or the Court of Cassation.
How Akkas & Associates Law Firm Assists Clients
Our criminal law department offers comprehensive services including:
- Criminal defense for suspects and defendants
- Representation of victims and complainants
- Filing criminal complaints
- Attendance at police stations and prosecutor offices
- Preparing petitions, defense files, and appeals
- Cybercrime and digital evidence assistance
- Cross-border criminal matters
We also provide guidance on navigating legal processes for foreigners who may be unfamiliar with Turkey’s judicial system.
Working With Foreign Clients and Expats
Foreign nationals often face unique challenges such as language barriers, unfamiliar legal rules, or immigration consequences. At Akkas & Associates Law Firm, we offer representation in English, Turkish, German, French, and Russian languages.
Our lawyers also cooperate with foreign law firms and consular authorities when needed.
Choosing the Right Criminal Lawyer in Turkey: What to Look For
When selecting a criminal lawyer, consider the following:
- Years of experience in Turkish criminal law
- Availability during emergency detentions
- Communication in your preferred language
- Proven track record in similar cases
- Ability to work with digital evidence and forensic reports
- Transparent fee structure
Akkas & Associates focuses on tailored strategies, early intervention, and ethical advocacy.
FAQs About Turkish Criminal Lawyers
1. Do I need a lawyer during a police interrogation in Turkey?
Yes. A lawyer should always be present to protect your rights and prevent unlawful questioning. You have the right to remain silent until your lawyer arrives.
2. Can foreigners hire criminal lawyers in Turkey?
Absolutely. Foreign nationals have the same rights to legal defense. Our team regularly represents expats, tourists, and foreign business professionals.
3. How long does a criminal case take in Turkey?
It depends on the complexity, evidence volume, and court workload. Some cases conclude within months, while major felony cases may continue longer.
4. Can criminal convictions affect my residence permit or citizenship application?
Yes. Certain convictions can impact immigration status or citizenship eligibility. It’s crucial to work with a lawyer familiar with both criminal and immigration laws.
5. What should I do if I receive a summons from the prosecutor?
Contact a criminal lawyer immediately. Avoid making statements without legal guidance, as even small errors can affect your case.
6. Can your firm represent clients outside Istanbul?
Yes, Akkas & Associates Law Firm provides representation across Turkey through our experienced nationwide legal network.
7. Do you help with Interpol Red Notice cases?
Yes. We provide legal defense for extradition, international investigations, and Red Notice challenges.
Contact our Turkish Criminal Lawyers
If you require skilled Turkish criminal lawyers, criminal defense attorneys in Turkey, or legal representation for investigations, trials, or appeals, Akkas & Associates Law Firm is here to support you. Our experienced team is ready to defend your rights with professionalism and dedication.
Akkas & Associates Law Firm’s team of experienced Turkish criminal lawyers is committed to providing expert defense, protection, and comprehensive legal services to navigate the intricacies of criminal cases, including white-collar crimes.
Contact us today to receive personalized legal support tailored to your unique circumstances. Your rights, reputation, and future are our top priorities.
