Criminal Law
Criminal law defines acts that constitute offences and the sanctions that apply to them. Our office provides legal support at every stage of criminal proceedings, from the investigation to the final judgment, as defence counsel for suspects and defendants and as counsel for victims and injured parties.
Main topics
- Defence counsel during statements and questioning at the investigation stage
- Applications against custody and pre-trial detention
- Representation of defendants at trial
- Representation of victims and injured parties, criminal complaints and intervention
- Victim–offender reconciliation (uzlaştırma)
- Appeals before the regional courts and the Court of Cassation
General information on the process
Criminal proceedings in Türkiye consist of an investigation conducted by the public prosecutor and a trial held before the court. Statements given and evidence collected during the investigation have a major influence on what follows, so it is important to seek legal support from the very first stage.
Time limits for appeals in criminal proceedings are short and start running from the pronouncement or notification of the decision. Keeping track of these limits and filing on time is decisive in avoiding the loss of rights.
Guide
I have been summoned to give a statement. What should I do?
A person summoned as a suspect has the right to the assistance of a lawyer before and during the statement. The right to remain silent is also guaranteed by law; no one can be compelled to make a statement against themselves or their relatives. Speaking with your lawyer about the subject of the file before giving a statement helps ensure that what you say is accurate and well considered.
A relative has been taken into custody. What are their rights?
A person taken into custody must be informed immediately of the accusation and of their rights. They have the right to see a lawyer and to have a relative informed of their situation. The custody period is limited by law; within that period the person is either released or brought before a judge.
Is there a time limit for filing a complaint?
For certain offences, an investigation can only be opened upon the victim's complaint. For these offences, the complaint must be filed within six months of learning of the act and the perpetrator; a complaint filed after this period has no effect. For offences not subject to complaint, the prosecutor opens an investigation as soon as the offence comes to their attention.
The information in this section is general in nature and does not constitute legal advice. The specific circumstances of each case must be assessed individually.