Facing a criminal investigation, whether as a suspect or as a victim, is one of the most difficult moments in a person's life. Knowing your rights and taking the right steps from the very beginning can directly affect the outcome.
How we can help
Investigation stage
Giving statements to the police or the public prosecutor, custody and arrest procedures, judicial control measures and objections to them. Criminal Procedure Code No. 5271 grants suspects the right to the assistance of defence counsel at every stage.
Prosecution stage
Defence of the accused in the trial that follows the acceptance of the indictment: assessment of the evidence, preparation of the defence and attendance at hearings.
Representing victims and intervening parties
Filing the complaint of a person harmed by a crime, following the investigation, joining the proceedings and protecting their rights throughout the trial.
Appeals
Appeals on points of fact and law against judgments, and objections to detention and other protective measures.
Reconciliation
For offences listed in the law, assessing the possibility of resolution between the parties through reconciliation.
Foreign nationals
A suspect or accused who does not speak Turkish has the right to the free assistance of an interpreter at every stage of criminal proceedings. Meetings with foreign nationals can be held in English and, where needed, partly in Arabic.
What to know from the first moment
- You have the right to remain silent; you can ask to speak with a lawyer before giving a statement.
- Keep every document and notification given to you, and note its date.
- Avoid corresponding with the other party or with witnesses about the case.
Frequently asked questions
- I have been summoned to give a statement. Do I need a lawyer?
It is not mandatory, but at every stage of the investigation you have the right to the assistance of a lawyer and the right to remain silent. Your lawyer may be present while you give your statement (Criminal Procedure Code, Articles 147 and 149).
- How long do I have to file a complaint?
For offences prosecuted only upon complaint, the time limit is six months from the date you learn of the act and the offender (Turkish Criminal Code, Article 73). For other offences, the prosecutor investigates of their own motion.
- I do not speak Turkish. How will I be assisted in the proceedings?
A suspect or accused who does not speak Turkish is provided with an interpreter free of charge at every stage of the investigation and prosecution (Criminal Procedure Code, Article 202).
This page is for general information only; every case must be assessed on its own facts.