Criminal law in Turkey is governed by the Turkish Penal Code No. 5237 and the Criminal Procedure Code No. 5271, which regulate crimes, penalties, criminal investigations, and judicial processes. As a full-service Turkish Law Firm, we provide legal representation for individuals and companies involved in criminal proceedings, including suspects, victims, and witnesses. Our English Speaking Turkish Lawyers specialize in complex criminal litigation, defense strategy, and cross-border criminal cases.
Criminal Defense Services for Defendants
If you are under investigation or prosecution in Turkey, it is vital to exercise your right to legal counsel from the earliest stage. Our firm provides representation during:
- Police interrogation and detention
- Prosecutorial examination and charging
- Criminal court hearings and trials
- Appeals and cassation before the Court of Cassation (Yargıtay)
We defend clients charged with offenses ranging from fraud, embezzlement, money laundering, assault, drug trafficking to cybercrime and organized crime.
Representation for Victims and Complainants
Our firm also assists victims in filing criminal complaints (suç duyurusu), representing them in criminal cases, and claiming compensation through criminal or civil remedies. Victim rights in Turkey include:
- Participation in prosecution as an intervening party (müdahil)
- Demanding protective measures (restraining orders, witness protection)
- Claiming material and moral damages
Criminal Investigations and Procedure
Criminal investigations in Turkey typically proceed as follows:
- A criminal complaint or police report triggers an investigation
- The prosecutor gathers evidence, questions suspects and witnesses
- Search and seizure, forensic examination, and arrest may follow
- A public indictment is prepared if sufficient evidence exists
Our team ensures that investigative procedures comply with due process, and we intervene to prevent unlawful detention or evidence tampering.
Common Criminal Charges in Turkey
- Drug Crimes: Possession, trafficking, or manufacturing of narcotics
- White-Collar Crime: Fraud, bribery, money laundering, tax evasion
- Cybercrime: Online fraud, unauthorized access, data breaches
- Violent Offenses: Assault, domestic violence, homicide
- Sexual Crimes: Harassment, sexual assault, exploitation
Defense Strategy and Procedural Rights
We build a strong and proactive defense by:
- Challenging illegally obtained evidence (fruits of the poisonous tree doctrine)
- Demanding expert witness examination
- Filing motions for release pending trial
- Negotiating plea agreements and sentence reductions when appropriate
International Criminal Cases
We represent foreign nationals and dual citizens in complex criminal cases involving:
- Interpol Red Notices and extradition requests
- Cross-border money laundering and fraud
- Cybercrime affecting foreign systems or institutions
- Diplomatic and consular notifications and liaison
We work closely with international law enforcement bodies and liaise with foreign consulates to protect the rights of our clients abroad or under investigation in Turkey.
Internal Resources and Related Legal Guides
- Criminal Trial Process in Turkey
- Freedom of Expression vs. Criminal Liability
- Interpol and Extradition Law
- Cybercrime and IT Investigations
Contact a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Turkey
If you are facing criminal charges, have been arrested, or are under investigation in Turkey, immediate legal assistance is critical. Our English Speaking Turkish Lawyers provide fast, strategic, and confidential legal defense. Contact our Turkish Law Firm to safeguard your rights and future.
