Alimony in Turkey is a legal mechanism designed to provide financial support to a spouse following divorce or separation. It helps balance economic disparities and protect the standard of living for financially dependent spouses. In this guide, ER&GUN&ER Turkish Law Firm, a trusted Istanbul Lawyer Firm, outlines everything you need to know about alimony in Turkey—from legal grounds and types to international enforcement challenges.
Divorce Procedures in Turkey
Alimony claims are raised within the scope of a divorce case. Divorce in Turkey can occur through:
- Uncontested Divorce: Both parties agree on all terms, including alimony, custody, and asset division.
- Contested Divorce: Parties disagree, and alimony claims are resolved by the Family Court.
Who Can Claim Alimony?
Either spouse may apply for alimony, but it is generally granted to the financially weaker party. The decision depends on income, living standards, fault in the marriage breakdown, and ability to work or earn.
Types of Alimony in Turkey
- Temporary Alimony (Tedbir Nafakası): Awarded during divorce proceedings until the final decision.
- Spousal Alimony (Yoksulluk Nafakası): Long-term support granted to the spouse who falls into financial hardship after divorce.
- Child Support (İştirak Nafakası): Paid to the custodial parent for the child’s expenses.
- Contributory Alimony (Yardım Nafakası): Awarded to relatives in financial need under certain conditions.
Factors Affecting Alimony Amount
- Duration of marriage
- Age and health of both parties
- Income and assets
- Custodial obligations (children)
- Fault in divorce (in contested cases)
Cross-Border Alimony Issues
When ex-spouses reside in different countries, enforcing or modifying alimony becomes complex. Considerations include:
- Applicable international treaties (e.g., Hague Convention)
- Recognition and enforcement of Turkish court decisions abroad
- Tax implications and currency conversion
Legal assistance is essential in international alimony enforcement. Our English-speaking Turkish Lawyers guide you through all cross-border proceedings.
How to Modify or Terminate Alimony
Alimony can be revised or terminated if there is a significant change in circumstances, such as:
- Remarriage of the recipient
- Improvement in the recipient’s financial condition
- Retirement or loss of income for the payer
A petition must be filed in the Family Court, and the burden of proof lies on the applicant.
Legal Support for Alimony Cases
At Istanbul Lawyer Firm, our family law attorneys in Turkey offer legal support in:
- Filing and defending alimony claims
- Negotiating settlement terms
- Drafting divorce and alimony agreements
- International enforcement procedures
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