Bayraktar Attorneys provides strategic legal representation in criminal matters in Turkey, for both individuals and companies. Criminal proceedings can have serious and lasting consequences, and they demand a thorough command of both the substantive law and the procedure. Our criminal lawyers handle each case with precision, confidentiality and a firm commitment to protecting your rights at every stage.
If you are a foreign national, a criminal matter in a legal system you do not know is frightening. We explain what is happening in clear English, protect your rights from the first questioning, and stand beside you through investigation, trial and, where needed, appeal.
Speak to an English-speaking criminal lawyer as early as possible. The first consultation is free and completely confidential.
Criminal law in Turkey is regulated primarily by the Turkish Penal Code and the Turkish Criminal Procedure Code. Together they define what counts as an offense, the sanctions that apply, and the procedures for investigation, prosecution and appeal.
The system is highly procedural. Strict compliance with the statutory rules is essential to a fair trial and a lawful outcome, and procedural mistakes can change the result of a case. Because of this technical nature, representation by an experienced criminal lawyer is not a luxury but a necessity. We provide careful legal analysis and a clear strategy, and we keep you fully informed throughout.
A criminal lawyer supports you at every stage of the process, protecting your fundamental rights under Turkish law. Our involvement typically includes:
We represent individuals and companies across the full range of criminal matters in Turkey:
Comprehensive defense for individuals and entities accused of an offense. From the earliest stage we protect fundamental rights, analyse the allegations, evaluate the evidence and build a robust defense, with close attention to procedural legality and evidentiary standards.
The investigation phase often decides the course of a case. We provide representation during police procedures, prosecutor interviews, detention and evidence assessment, aiming to prevent procedural violations and irreversible consequences before charges are even filed.
We represent clients before all levels of criminal court in Turkey, including the Criminal Courts of Peace, the Criminal Courts of First Instance and the High Criminal Courts. At trial we challenge unlawfully obtained evidence, examine witnesses and present detailed legal arguments.
After a conviction or unfavourable decision, we pursue the available remedies through appeal, objection and cassation. We review the trial record for procedural errors, misread evidence or breaches of substantive law, seeking reversal, a reduced penalty or a retrial where justified.
We advise companies and executives on financial crime, fraud, embezzlement, abuse of trust, tax offenses and cybercrime. The focus is on minimising legal risk, protecting reputation and ensuring compliance with the criminal rules that apply to business activity.
The hours after an arrest are often the most important. Under Turkish law a person who is detained has the right to remain silent, the right to a lawyer, and, for foreign nationals, the right to an interpreter and to have their consulate informed. Exercising these rights properly, from the first moment, can protect the whole case.
After questioning, a suspect may be released, released under judicial control, which can include conditions such as reporting requirements or a travel ban, or, in more serious cases, held on remand pending trial. We act quickly to seek release and the least restrictive measures, and we object to detention decisions where the law allows.
A criminal matter can also affect your right to remain in Turkey. A conviction, or even an ongoing investigation, may have consequences for your residence status and can lead to deportation proceedings. We look at the whole picture, defending the criminal case while protecting your immigration position and your residence permit where possible, and we keep you informed in clear English at every step.
We learn the facts, explain your rights and the likely process, and set out an immediate plan, especially if someone is in detention.
We attend questioning, safeguard your rights during detention and interrogation, and work to prevent procedural violations and unlawful evidence.
We analyse the evidence, identify weaknesses in the case against you, and build a defense tailored to the legal and factual background.
We represent you before the relevant criminal court, challenge unlawful evidence, examine witnesses and present your defense.
If the outcome is unfavourable, we pursue appeal, objection or cassation, and advise on sentence reduction and other remedies.
We defend foreign clients in Turkish criminal matters and work entirely in English.
We understand that timing is critical and act fast, including for detention and urgent matters.
We know that cases are often won on procedure, and we hold the prosecution to the rules.
We handle every case with discretion and keep you clearly informed through a stressful process.
Atty. Nevzat Oğulcan Bayraktar
Confidential, English-speaking criminal defense from the first questioning to the final appeal.
This page provides general information about criminal proceedings in Turkey in Turkey and does not constitute legal advice. For guidance on your specific situation, please contact Bayraktar Attorneys for a consultation.
