Child support is a core legal obligation under Turkish family law, designed to ensure the well-being of children whose parents are divorced, separated, or living apart. In Turkey, the parent who does not have physical custody of the child is legally responsible for making monthly financial contributions to cover the child’s education, housing, healthcare, and general living expenses. This obligation is not merely moral—it is enforceable by law and backed by judicial authority.
At our Turkish Law Firm, we represent both custodial and non-custodial parents in child support proceedings across Turkey. Our team of English speaking Turkish lawyers handles everything from initiating claims in Family Court to enforcing court-ordered child support through execution offices. As a highly experienced best lawyer firm in Turkey in family and civil procedure, we guide clients through complex legal processes with clarity, empathy, and results-oriented strategy.
Who Pays Child Support Under Turkish Law?
According to Articles 182 and 327 of the Turkish Civil Code, both parents are responsible for the financial support of their children. However, in practice, the parent who does not reside with the child—usually following a divorce or custody ruling—is ordered to pay child support (nafaka) to the custodial parent. This obligation continues until the child reaches the age of 18, or longer if the child remains in education or is unable to support themselves due to disability.
Our Istanbul Law Firm ensures that these obligations are clearly defined and enforced in line with the child’s best interests. We frequently assist foreign parents who live abroad but have child support responsibilities in Turkey. With the guidance of our English speaking Turkish lawyers, these obligations are translated into enforceable court orders—ensuring both compliance and fairness.
Also read: how court judgments are enforced for foreign residents in Turkey
How Is the Amount of Child Support Determined?
Child support in Turkey is not based on fixed percentages but rather on a case-by-case judicial assessment. Courts evaluate several key factors when calculating the monthly amount:
- The child’s educational, health, and living needs
- The income and financial capacity of both parents
- The standard of living the child had prior to the separation
- Extraordinary expenses such as disability care or private schooling
At our Turkish Law Firm, we prepare detailed income declarations, expense reports, and bank records to support child support claims or defenses. As a best lawyer firm in Turkey for family law matters, we build evidence-based applications that are realistic, fair, and legally compelling. Our English speaking Turkish lawyers also assist with negotiating settlements or adjustments when financial circumstances change after the initial court ruling.
Can Child Support Be Increased or Decreased?
Yes. Turkish law allows either parent to request a revision of child support payments if there is a significant change in financial circumstances or in the needs of the child. For example, if the paying parent’s income increases substantially, or if the child’s educational or medical costs rise significantly, the custodial parent may file a child support increase lawsuit (nafaka artırımı davası). Conversely, if the paying parent loses employment or experiences a verified financial downturn, they may request a reduction.
Our English speaking Turkish lawyers assist clients in filing these applications with clear supporting documentation. This includes updated income statements, school expense records, and medical reports. As a full-service Turkish Law Firm, we also negotiate consensual revisions to avoid unnecessary litigation. Our reputation as a best lawyer firm in Turkey for child support matters stems from our strategic planning, financial transparency, and strong courtroom advocacy.
Also read: privacy of family court records and personal data under Turkish law
What Happens If Child Support Is Not Paid?
Failure to pay court-ordered child support is a legal violation in Turkey and can trigger enforcement actions through the Enforcement Office (İcra Dairesi). If the debtor-parent ignores the payment obligation, the custodial parent may initiate a debt collection process, leading to asset seizure, bank account freezing, or salary garnishment. In persistent cases, the non-paying parent may also face criminal complaints under Article 344 of the Turkish Penal Code, which provides for imprisonment for intentional non-compliance with a final court ruling.
Our Turkish Law Firm guides custodial parents through every step of this process, ensuring procedural accuracy and timely action. Our English speaking Turkish lawyers coordinate enforcement filings, interact with execution officers, and secure court orders to protect children’s rights. As a best lawyer firm in Turkey for enforcement-related family law, we act quickly to prevent arrears from accumulating beyond recovery.
See also: how to collect unpaid court judgments in Turkey
Recognition of Foreign Child Support Orders in Turkey
If a parent has obtained a child support judgment abroad and wishes to enforce it in Turkey, the foreign ruling must first be recognized through a process called tanıma ve tenfiz (recognition and enforcement). Turkish courts evaluate whether the foreign judgment complies with due process, reciprocity, and Turkish public order. Once recognized, the foreign judgment becomes enforceable like a local court order and can be pursued through Turkish enforcement offices.
Our Istanbul Law Firm prepares all necessary documentation for the recognition process, including certified translations, apostille endorsements, and procedural briefs. We regularly represent foreign parents seeking to enforce UK, US, German, and Gulf-country judgments in Turkey. Our team of English speaking Turkish lawyers ensures smooth coordination across jurisdictions, timely filings, and full enforceability. Choosing a Turkish Law Firm with cross-border experience is essential for success in such cases.
Related: how to enforce foreign divorce judgments in Turkish courts
Yargıtay Decisions on Child Support Enforcement
The Turkish Court of Cassation (Yargıtay) has developed strong jurisprudence in child support enforcement cases. Courts consistently rule that child support must reflect the child’s standard of living, and failure to pay cannot be excused by mere claims of financial hardship unless well documented. In one notable case, Yargıtay confirmed that even minimal or irregular income does not release a parent from responsibility if the child’s needs are not otherwise being met. Courts also require that any proposed reductions be proportionate and supported by credible evidence.
Our Turkish Law Firm uses these precedents to support claimants and defend against baseless reduction claims. As a best lawyer firm in Turkey for family law enforcement, we prepare our cases with an eye toward both evidentiary strength and judicial expectation. Our English speaking Turkish lawyers ensure that every filing meets procedural accuracy and persuasive narrative for positive outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What age does child support stop in Turkey? Normally at age 18, but it may continue for education or disability reasons.
- Can child support be enforced through Turkish courts? Yes. Court orders are enforceable through the Enforcement Office.
- Can the amount be changed later? Yes. Either parent may request revision through the Family Court.
- Is unpaid support a criminal offense? Yes, in repeated non-compliance, it may trigger criminal penalties.
- How is child support calculated? Based on the child’s needs and the parents’ financial capacity, evaluated case by case.
- Can foreign judgments be enforced? Yes, with recognition and enforcement by Turkish courts.
- Do I need a lawyer? Not legally, but a Turkish Law Firm improves enforcement success and protects rights during litigation.
Protect Your Child’s Rights with Trusted Legal Support
Child support is not only a legal obligation but also a matter of moral and social responsibility. Whether you're seeking to enforce a judgment, respond to an unfair demand, or secure a cross-border claim, expert legal guidance can make the difference between delay and resolution.
At our Istanbul Law Firm, our experienced team of English speaking Turkish lawyers delivers full-scope legal representation in child support matters—both domestic and international. Recognized as a best lawyer firm in Turkey for family law, we work to secure fair outcomes for parents and, most importantly, for children.