Commercial fraud and misrepresentation are among the most damaging risks for foreign businesses operating in unfamiliar legal environments. In Turkey, such risks include false invoicing, fake company identities, non-existent goods, misleading payment promises, or concealed liabilities. Without strong legal infrastructure, foreign companies may suffer financial loss or reputational harm. The best defense? Working proactively with an experienced Turkish Law Firm that anticipates and prevents commercial deception.
At ER&GUN&ER Law Firm, our English Speaking Turkish Lawyers represent foreign clients in commercial fraud prevention, due diligence, and litigation. This guide outlines how a Turkish Law Firm protects businesses against fraudulent practices and deceptive behavior in Turkish commercial transactions.
What Is Considered Commercial Fraud in Turkish Law?
Commercial fraud may involve:
- Presenting false documents or company records
- Selling non-existent goods or misrepresenting product quality
- Faking signatures or invoices to obtain payment
- Withholding material facts in a commercial negotiation
- Registering assets under third-party names to conceal ownership
Under the Turkish Penal Code (TCK), fraud is a criminal offense, and under the Turkish Code of Obligations, it may nullify contracts or allow compensation claims.
How a Turkish Law Firm Prevents Commercial Fraud
- Conducting pre-contractual legal due diligence
- Reviewing official company records and UETS notifications
- Drafting binding and enforceable bilingual contracts
- Including declaration and warranty clauses in agreements
- Advising on secure payment and delivery structures
- Requesting notarized and apostilled documents
Our contract risk management process protects clients from avoidable risks.
Common Misrepresentation Tactics We Encounter
- False declarations of company capital or licensing
- Promises of exclusive distribution without registration
- Incorrect product origin labeling (i.e., CE mark misuse)
- Undisclosed debt, litigation, or liens
- Using shell companies to avoid liabilities
Our Turkish Law Firm investigates counterparties and contracts before major commercial commitments are made.
Legal Mechanisms to Protect Your Business
- Due diligence on trade registries and tax records
- Anti-fraud clauses and indemnification terms
- Penalty and liquidated damage clauses for false representation
- POA-restricted authority checks
- Bank reference and KYC documentation
We also provide escrow structures and third-party verified payment mechanisms when needed.
Litigating Fraud and Seeking Remedies
When fraud occurs, our Turkish Law Firm represents clients in both criminal and civil courts. We initiate:
- Fraud complaints to the Public Prosecutor’s Office (Savcılık)
- Contract cancellation and compensation lawsuits
- Asset seizure and injunctive relief applications
- POA abuse litigation or annulment
We also support international clients in enforcing foreign judgments involving fraud through Turkish recognition and enforcement mechanisms.
Internal Resources to Explore
- Commercial Litigation and Enforcement
- Joint Venture Risk Management
- Secure Contract Drafting
- Arbitration Services in Turkey
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the punishment for commercial fraud in Turkey? Up to 7 years of imprisonment under TCK Articles 157–158.
- Can a foreigner file a fraud complaint in Turkey? Yes. We file criminal complaints and civil claims on behalf of foreign clients.
- Can I terminate a contract based on false information? Yes. Misrepresentation allows annulment and compensation.
- Can your law firm act without me being in Turkey? Yes. Through POA, our Turkish Law Firm fully represents you.
Contact Our Fraud Prevention and Litigation Lawyers
If you suspect commercial fraud or want to prevent contract deception before doing business in Turkey, contact ER&GUN&ER Law Firm. Our English Speaking Turkish Lawyers provide strategic due diligence, contract protection, and litigation support for international clients. Trust our Turkish Law Firm to secure your commercial relationships and protect your investment.