How to File and Pursue a Lawsuit in Turkey?

What Are the Elements of the Lawsuit Process in Turkey?

The lawsuit process in Turkey consists of six interrelated elements: the language of proceedings, pre-lawsuit steps, the court structure, the stages of proceedings, appeals and legal costs. The lawsuit process in Turkey is complex, and each of these elements can directly affect the outcome of the case:

1. Language: The official language of the courts in Turkey is Turkish. Petitions, legal documents and all proceedings at hearings are conducted in Turkish, and documents in a foreign language are submitted with their Turkish translations. Therefore, working with a litigation lawyer who is fluent in Turkish is essential for effective communication during the lawsuit process. Foreign clients usually work with an English-speaking lawyer in Turkey who explains each step of the Turkish-language proceedings.
2. Pre-Lawsuit Procedures in Turkey: Before filing a lawsuit in Turkey, steps such as sending a formal notice (demand letter), mediation or arbitration are usually followed to resolve the dispute. For certain disputes, applying to a mediator is a precondition for filing a lawsuit; pre-lawsuit procedures can shorten the process and reduce costs.
3. Court Structure in Turkey: Turkish courts are generally divided into three main categories: civil courts, criminal courts and the administrative judiciary. Each category includes specialised courts focusing on different legal matters, so understanding the court structure and applying to the correct court is crucial in the lawsuit process in Turkey.
4. Litigation Process in Turkey: Litigation in Turkey includes preparing the petition, presenting evidence, hearing witnesses, on-site inspections (keşif) and expert examinations where necessary, and finally the discussion of the claims before a judge or panel. The lawsuit process in Turkey is typically time-consuming and may involve multiple hearings.
5. Appeal Process in Turkey: If a party is dissatisfied with a court decision, they can have the decision reviewed by a higher court. In the ordinary judiciary, the appeal process in Turkey begins with an appeal (istinaf) before the Regional Court of Appeal and, where available, continues with an appeal on points of law (temyiz) before the Court of Cassation; this stage also requires careful preparation and legal arguments.
6. Legal Costs in Turkey: The lawsuit process in Turkey involves court fees, the advance on costs, attorney fees and expert fees. Understanding the legal costs and developing a financial strategy before filing a lawsuit in Turkey is important; a litigation lawyer informs their client about these costs and helps manage them effectively.

The complexity of the lawsuit process in Turkey necessitates understanding these elements and collaborating with a legal professional. An experienced lawyer provides guidance and develops an effective strategy to protect the client’s rights, ensuring the legal process is managed successfully.

Is Mediation Mandatory Before Filing a Lawsuit in Turkey?

Under Turkish law, applying to a mediator before filing a lawsuit is a precondition for certain disputes listed in the law, and a lawsuit filed without completing mediation in these disputes is dismissed on procedural grounds. Mandatory mediation was introduced to reduce the courts’ workload and to help the parties reach a settlement faster. If no agreement is reached in mediation, the final report (son tutanak) is attached to the statement of claim.

The main disputes subject to mandatory mediation in Turkey are:

• Employment Disputes: Employee or employer receivables and severance and termination compensation claims are subject to mandatory mediation. Reinstatement claims fall within the same scope (Article 3 of Labour Courts Law No. 7036).
• Commercial Disputes: Receivable and compensation claims in commercial lawsuits concerning the payment of a sum of money (Article 5/A of Turkish Commercial Code No. 6102).
• Consumer Disputes: Consumer lawsuits falling outside the jurisdiction of consumer arbitration committees (Article 73/A of Law No. 6502).
• Lease, Condominium, Neighbour and Partition Disputes: Since 1 September 2023, disputes arising from lease relationships, condominium ownership and neighbour law, as well as partition actions concerning movable and immovable property (Article 18/B of Law No. 6325). A rent determination lawsuit in Turkey filed to set the rent also falls within this scope. Lawsuits seeking eviction of a tenant are also subject to mediation; however, eviction through enforcement proceedings without a judgment falls outside this scope.

If the mediation final report is not attached to the statement of claim, the court requests it within a one-week final time limit; if it is not submitted in time, the lawsuit is dismissed on procedural grounds. In addition, the time spent in mediation is not counted in limitation periods and statutory time limits (Article 16/2 of Law No. 6325). The mediation application in Turkey is made to the mediation office at the courthouse, which appoints a mediator.

Under Turkish law, failing to apply to a mediator before filing cannot be remedied later. In its decision Court of Cassation (Yargıtay) General Assembly of Civil Chambers, Docket No. 2023/995, Decision No. 2023/1251, dated 13.12.2023, concerning employee receivables, the General Assembly held that the mediation requirement cannot be completed after the lawsuit is filed. Where a lawsuit is found to have been filed without applying to a mediator, it must be dismissed on procedural grounds without any further step. For this reason, the mediation final report must be issued before the lawsuit is filed in Turkey.

Outside mandatory mediation, the parties may resort to voluntary mediation in any private law dispute, or to arbitration if their contract provides for it. Mediation in Turkey is governed by the Law on Mediation in Civil Disputes No. 6325, in force since 2013, and voluntary mediation remains widespread in practice. The Singapore Convention on Mediation, in effect for Turkey since April 2022, has facilitated the enforcement of settlement agreements reached through mediation in international commercial disputes.

Arbitration, in turn, allows specialised arbitrators chosen by the parties to decide with more flexible procedures and more quickly, which is why arbitration clauses are increasingly common in commercial contracts given the heavy caseload of Turkish courts; lengthy proceedings can result in a loss of rights.

How to File a Lawsuit in Turkey?

In Turkey, a lawsuit is filed by determining the legal nature of the dispute, submitting the petition to the competent court, paying the court fees and the advance on costs, and having the petition registered in UYAP. Initiating the process to file a lawsuit in Turkey requires starting in the correct court with an appropriate petition. The six steps that answer how to file a lawsuit in Turkey are explained below.

1) EVALUATE THE SITUATION

Before taking steps to file a lawsuit in Turkey, the legal dimensions of the incident must be evaluated thoroughly. It is essential to begin by assessing the situation to understand how to file a lawsuit in Turkey; conducting a comprehensive analysis that covers all aspects of the incident lays a healthy foundation for the legal process. The main points to address in this evaluation are:

• Definition of the Legal Issue: The first response to how to file a lawsuit in Turkey is the necessity to clearly define the encountered situation. Determining the legal issues involved in the incident is a vital step towards initiating the correct legal process.
• Identification of the Relevant Branch of Law: During the evaluation process, it is necessary to determine which branch of law the incident pertains to. For instance, a matter related to property usually requires approaching civil courts, whereas an administrative action may necessitate approaching administrative courts.
• Checking Time Limits and Limitation Periods: If the time limit for filing a lawsuit is a statutory forfeiture period, missing it extinguishes the right itself; a limitation period, by contrast, must be raised by the opposing party. Therefore, the first task is to calculate the time limits applicable to the dispute.
• Analysis of Potential Legal Consequences: Evaluating the legal dimensions of the incident involves foreseeing potential legal consequences. This includes assessing expected outcomes before filing the lawsuit in Turkey to determine the strategy.
• Need for Interim Protection: Where obtaining the right would become difficult before the case ends, it is assessed whether to request an interim injunction (Article 389 of the Code of Civil Procedure No. 6100) or, for monetary claims not secured by a pledge, a precautionary attachment to prevent the debtor from disposing of assets (Article 257 of the Enforcement and Bankruptcy Law No. 2004). A precautionary attachment protects the debtor’s assets until the claim is collected through enforcement proceedings in Turkey.
• Collection of Evidence: During the evaluation phase, it is crucial to gather existing evidence related to the incident and ensure comprehensive documentation. Presenting evidence effectively increases the likelihood of a favorable outcome for the lawsuit.

2) HOW IS THE COMPETENT COURT DETERMINED IN TURKEY?

Under Turkish law, the court with subject-matter jurisdiction is determined by the subject and type of the case, and the court with territorial jurisdiction by the place where the case must be filed; as a rule, the court of the defendant’s domicile has jurisdiction. Choosing the correct court is one of the most crucial steps in filing a lawsuit in Turkey. Perhaps the most important step in understanding how to file a lawsuit in Turkey is determining the competent court; correct classification prevents time loss and ensures effective protection of legal rights in Turkey.

• Determining Court Types: There are different types of courts such as civil courts, criminal courts and administrative courts, each focusing on specific legal issues or types of cases. Rules on subject-matter jurisdiction are of public order; the court examines its jurisdiction ex officio at every stage of the proceedings.
• Selecting the Appropriate Court According to the Nature of the Case: Choosing the competent court depending on the nature of the case is critical. For example, civil courts should be chosen for cases related to property, while tax courts are preferred for tax-related matters.
• General and Exclusive Territorial Jurisdiction: The court of general jurisdiction is the court of the defendant’s domicile at the time the lawsuit is filed (Article 6 of the Code of Civil Procedure). However, in actions concerning rights in rem over immovable property, the court where the property is located has exclusive jurisdiction (Article 12 of the Code of Civil Procedure), and the parties cannot agree otherwise. For example, a title deed cancellation and registration lawsuit in Turkey must be filed in the court where the property is located.
• Consequences of Filing a Lawsuit in the Wrong Court: Applying to the wrong court leads to loss of time and money. If, after a decision of lack of jurisdiction, the transfer of the file is not requested within two weeks from the date the decision becomes final (from its service if it was final when given, or from service of the decision dismissing the appeal if an appeal was filed), the lawsuit is deemed not to have been filed (Article 20 of the Code of Civil Procedure); if a statutory time limit has expired by then, an irreversible loss of rights may occur. In its decision Court of Cassation (Yargıtay) General Assembly of Civil Chambers, Docket No. 2026/116, Decision No. 2026/148, dated 11.03.2026, the Turkish Court of Cassation upheld a ruling deeming the lawsuit not filed because the transfer of the file to the competent court had not been requested within two weeks after the decision of lack of jurisdiction became final. The decision shows that missing this time limit in Turkey ends the lawsuit entirely.

Choosing the right court is a fundamental step in successfully completing the lawsuit process in Turkey. It is crucial for preventing loss of time, costs and rights, and ensures the effective and fair execution of the legal process, thereby protecting the plaintiff’s rights.

3) HOW ARE EVIDENCE AND DOCUMENTS COLLECTED FOR TURKISH COURTS?

Under Turkish law, the petition must state which evidence will prove each alleged fact, and the documents in hand must be attached to it. In the process of pursuing a lawsuit in Turkey, gathering evidence and documents that support the petition and strengthen the claims is a critical step towards a successful outcome. However, presenting unnecessary evidence can complicate the case file and lead to important evidence being overlooked by the judge. The key points to consider during the evidence collection phase include:

• Identifying Documents that Support the Claims: The first step is to identify documents that will bolster and support the claims. Understanding the key points that form the basis of the case helps determine the types of documents needed.
• Choosing the Types of Evidence: In civil proceedings, documents, witnesses, expert opinions, on-site inspections and oath are the main types of evidence. Legal transactions that the law requires to be proven by documents cannot be proven by witnesses; evidence should therefore be selected according to the nature of the transaction.
• Avoiding Unnecessary Documents: Alongside identifying necessary documents, it is crucial to avoid unnecessary ones. Overcrowding the file with unnecessary documents can complicate the evaluation process by the judge.
• Assessing the Legal Admissibility of Documents: The legal admissibility of collected documents must be assessed. Evidence obtained unlawfully cannot be taken as the basis of the judgment (Article 189/2 of the Code of Civil Procedure) and can lead to an unfavorable outcome for the case.
• Organizing and Classifying Evidence: Organizing and classifying collected documents is important for maintaining the file’s structure. Categorizing evidence by relevant topics helps the judge evaluate them more effectively.
• Timely Collection of Documents: The timing of document collection can impact the course of the case. Since claims generally cannot be expanded after the exchange of petitions, gathering documents promptly prevents future complications and expedites the lawsuit process.

The selection and preparation of documents are crucial for the successful resolution of the lawsuit before the Turkish courts. Carefully chosen and organized documents strengthen the claims and contribute to a fair resolution of the case.

4) HOW IS THE PETITION PREPARED UNDER TURKISH LAW?

Under Turkish law, the statement of claim must contain the mandatory elements listed in Article 119 of the Code of Civil Procedure No. 6100 and be signed by the plaintiff or their attorney. Initiating a lawsuit begins with the submission of a petition to the court, which serves as the foundational document for the case. The key elements that should be included in the petition are:

• Court Name: The petition must clearly state which court it is addressed to. The name of the court should be accurately written.
• Information of the Parties: The petition should include the full name, surname and address of the plaintiff and the defendant, and the Turkish Republic identification number (TC Kimlik No) of the plaintiff. Additionally, information about legal representatives of the parties and the plaintiff’s attorney should be provided if applicable.
• Subject Matter and Value of the Claim: The subject matter of the claim must be clearly stated in the petition. In cases concerning property rights, the value of the claim should also be specified.
• Alleged Facts: Clear, numbered summaries of the facts upon which the plaintiff’s claim is based should be listed in the petition. It should also specify which evidence will support each alleged fact.
• Legal Grounds: The legal grounds upon which the plaintiff relies should be clearly stated in the petition. This forms the legal basis of the claim.
• Relief Sought and Signature: The petition should clearly state the relief sought by the plaintiff. Additionally, it should include the signature of the plaintiff, their legal representative if applicable, or their attorney.
• Inclusion of Documents: The originals or copies of the documents referred to in the petition should be attached. As many copies of the petition as there are defendants are attached to it (Article 118/1 of the Code of Civil Procedure).

If the parties’ names and addresses, the plaintiff’s Turkish ID number, the details of a legal representative or attorney, the relief sought or the signature is missing, the judge grants the plaintiff a one-week final time limit to remedy it; otherwise the lawsuit is deemed not to have been filed (Article 119/2 of the Code of Civil Procedure). Careful attention to these fundamental elements when preparing the petition ensures the healthy progression of the legal process in Turkey, and presenting documents in a complete and organized manner strengthens the case.

5) HOW DO YOU APPLY TO COURT IN TURKEY?

In Turkey, the petition is submitted physically to the courthouse registry (tevzi bürosu) or electronically through UYAP, and the lawsuit is deemed filed on the date the petition is entered in the court register (Article 118/1 of the Code of Civil Procedure). The stage of applying to court in Turkey occurs after preparations have been completed. The important points to consider during this process are:

• Payment of Fees and Costs: To complete the filing, the application fee, the advance court fee and the advance on costs must be paid. No further steps are taken until the court fees are paid (Article 32 of the Law on Fees No. 492); in practice the petition is entered in the register once the application fee and the advance court fee are paid. Leaving the fee to the last day can therefore lead to loss of rights in time-limited cases. If the advance on costs is not paid or is incomplete, the court grants a final time limit; if it is not completed within that limit, the lawsuit is dismissed on procedural grounds (Articles 114/1-g and 115/2 of the Code of Civil Procedure). If the advance proves insufficient during the proceedings, the plaintiff is given a two-week final time limit (Article 120/2 of the Code of Civil Procedure). In its decision Court of Cassation (Yargıtay) 1st Civil Chamber, Docket No. 2023/5833, Decision No. 2025/301, dated 03.02.2025, the Turkish Court of Cassation held that granting a one-week final time limit instead of the statutory two weeks has no legal effect, and the lawsuit cannot be dismissed on the basis of such a limit.
• Submission of Petition and Documents: The prepared petition and required documents should be submitted to the court. The petition should be clear and concise, containing all necessary information and supported by documents that substantiate the claims.
• Preliminary Order and Service: After the lawsuit is filed, the court issues a preliminary order (tensip zaptı) preparing the file and has the petition served on the defendant. At this stage the petition and documents are checked, and any deficiencies must be remedied.
• Time Limit for the Response: The defendant files a statement of defence within two weeks from service of the petition; in compelling cases the court may grant a one-time additional period not exceeding one month (Article 127 of the Code of Civil Procedure).
• Progress of the Lawsuit Process: After the exchange of petitions, the court summons the parties to the preliminary examination hearing. The court hears statements from the parties, examines evidence and conducts other proceedings related to the case.

Applying to court in Turkey marks the beginning of the lawsuit process. The carefully prepared petition and documents play a critical role in achieving a favorable outcome, and ensuring that the application is complete and organized contributes to the smooth progress of the court proceedings and proper management of the lawsuit.

6) HOW IS THE LAWSUIT FILE PREPARED AND KEPT UP TO DATE?

Once the lawsuit is filed in Turkey, a copy of every document in the court file should be organized chronologically and the file should be monitored regularly through UYAP. The lawsuit process in Turkey, after applying to the court, involves organizing the file and meticulously preparing the necessary documents. Important steps for preparing the lawsuit file include:

• Court Record and Responses: After receiving the petition, the court issues a preliminary order. The opposing party responds to the lawsuit and the statement of defence is added to the court file; it is then served on the plaintiff.
• Reviewing the File: It is necessary to review the lawsuit file either through the UYAP system or by visiting the court. Reviewing all documents and proceedings in the file is important for monitoring the progress of the case.
• Sorting and Copying Documents: To ensure proper management of the lawsuit, create a lawsuit file where copies of all documents are arranged chronologically. This organization makes the file more understandable and manageable.
• Petition and Attachments: In a physical filing, as many copies as there are defendants are attached to the original petition (Article 118/1 of the Code of Civil Procedure). The original remains in the court file, while the copies are served on the defendant(s).
• Completing Missing Documents: There may be documents that were not submitted or served. Therefore, completing any missing documents ensures the smooth progress of the court process in Turkey.
• Updating the Lawsuit File: Throughout the lawsuit process in Turkey, if new documents emerge or changes occur, the lawsuit file should be kept up to date. This ensures that any additional information for the court is provided in a complete manner.

Having a well-organized and complete lawsuit file contributes to the effective management of the court process and lawsuit monitoring. Following the mentioned steps diligently helps in successfully completing the lawsuit process in Turkey.

Filing a lawsuit in Turkey consists of six consecutive steps. A mistake in one step can directly affect the following steps and the outcome of the case:

Can You File a Lawsuit Online in Turkey Through E-Devlet and UYAP?

In Turkey, civil and administrative lawsuits can also be filed electronically through the UYAP Citizen Portal, and a lawsuit filed this way has the same legal effect as a physical filing. Access to the UYAP Citizen Portal (UYAP Vatandaş Portal) is via an e-Devlet password, e-signature or mobile signature. After the petition and attachments are uploaded and the court fees and advance on costs are paid online, the case is assigned to the court.

The main points to consider when filing online in Turkey are:

• Identity Verification and Signature: The portal can be accessed with an e-Devlet password to check files, but a lawsuit is filed electronically using a secure electronic signature (e-signature or mobile signature) (Article 445/2 of the Code of Civil Procedure).
• Selecting the Court: The type of jurisdiction, province and court must be selected correctly in the system; choosing the wrong court leads to a decision of lack of jurisdiction.
• Content of the Petition: An electronic petition must also contain the mandatory elements under Article 119 of the Code of Civil Procedure; filing electronically does not change the requirements of the petition.
• Time Advantage: For electronic filings, a time limit ends at the end of the day (Article 445/4 of the Code of Civil Procedure), which is a significant convenience in time-limited cases.

What Happens After a Lawsuit Is Filed in Turkey?

A civil lawsuit under the written procedure in Turkey proceeds in five stages: exchange of petitions, preliminary examination, taking of evidence, oral hearing and judgment. Each stage has its own time limits and restrictions. In cases subject to the simplified procedure (for example before civil courts of peace and labour courts), the exchange of petitions is shorter and some stages are combined (Article 316 et seq. of the Code of Civil Procedure).

Under the written procedure applied by Turkish civil courts, the stages of the case are, in order:

1. Exchange of Petitions: The stage in which the parties set out their claims and defences through written submissions.
2. Preliminary Examination: The stage in which procedural requirements and preliminary objections are examined and the points of dispute are identified.
3. Taking of Evidence: The stage in which evidence is collected and examined.
4. Oral Hearing: The stage in which the parties’ final statements are taken.
5. Judgment: The stage in which the court announces its decision and serves the reasoned judgment.

1. What Is the Exchange of Petitions in a Turkish Lawsuit?

The exchange of petitions in Turkey is completed by the mutual submission of the statement of claim, the statement of defence, the reply and the rejoinder. The reply and the rejoinder are filed within two weeks from service of the previous submission (Article 136 of the Code of Civil Procedure). After this stage, the parties as a rule cannot expand or change their claims and defences (Article 141 of the Code of Civil Procedure).

2. What Happens at the Preliminary Examination Hearing?

At the preliminary examination hearing in Turkey, the court examines the procedural requirements and preliminary objections, identifies the points in dispute and encourages the parties to settle or mediate (Articles 137–142 of the Code of Civil Procedure). If a procedural requirement is missing, the case may be dismissed on procedural grounds without examining the merits; jurisdiction, legal interest, mandatory mediation and the advance on costs are among the main requirements. The taking of evidence cannot begin before the preliminary examination is completed (Article 137/2 of the Code of Civil Procedure); witnesses, on-site inspections and expert examinations belong to the taking of evidence stage.

3. What Happens During the Taking of Evidence?

In civil proceedings in Turkey, the taking of evidence is the stage in which evidence is collected and examined; witnesses are heard, expert reports are obtained and on-site inspections are carried out at this stage. The court collects the evidence indicated by the parties, and failure to comply with final time limits for advancing the costs of evidence may result in losing the right to rely on that evidence. When the taking of evidence ends, the parties are given the opportunity to comment on its results.

4. How Do the Oral Hearing and Judgment Take Place?

In Turkey, once the court declares the taking of evidence closed, it moves to the oral hearing in the same session, asks the parties for their final words and gives its judgment (Articles 184–186 of the Code of Civil Procedure). At the request of either party, the oral hearing is adjourned for at least two weeks (Article 186/1 of the Code of Civil Procedure). The reasoned judgment is written later and served on the parties. Time limits for appeal generally start running with service of the reasoned judgment.

How Do You Appeal a Court Decision in Turkey?

In the Turkish ordinary judiciary, first-instance decisions are appealed (istinaf) before the Regional Court of Appeal, and appeal decisions may, where permitted, be challenged on points of law (temyiz) before the Court of Cassation. The istinaf appeal is a second-tier review in which the decision is re-examined both on the facts and on the law. The temyiz appeal is a third-tier review limited to points of law; a case cannot go to the Court of Cassation without first passing through the appeal stage.

• Time Limit for Appeal (İstinaf): In civil cases, the time limit for appeal is two weeks from service of the judgment on the parties (Article 345 of the Code of Civil Procedure). Decisions below the monetary threshold set by law are final and cannot be appealed.
• Time Limit for Appeal on Points of Law (Temyiz): The time limit for appealing a Regional Court of Appeal decision to the Court of Cassation is two weeks from service of the decision (Article 361 of the Code of Civil Procedure); appealable decisions and the monetary threshold are set out in Article 362.
• Administrative Cases: The time limit for appeal and appeal on points of law against administrative and tax court decisions is 30 days from service of the decision (Articles 45 and 46 of the Administrative Procedure Law No. 2577).
• Criminal Cases: The time limit for appeal and appeal on points of law against criminal judgments is two weeks (Articles 273 and 291 of the Code of Criminal Procedure No. 5271).
• Dismissal of the Appeal: If the Regional Court of Appeal dismisses the appeal on the merits and the decision is open to temyiz, the Court of Cassation can be applied to within two weeks; otherwise the decision becomes final.

What Is Required to File a Lawsuit in Turkey?

To file a lawsuit in Turkey, a properly drafted petition, the supporting documents, identity details and the court fees with the advance on costs are generally sufficient; if the lawsuit is filed through a lawyer, a power of attorney granted to the lawyer is also required. The requirements to file a lawsuit in Turkey can vary depending on the type of case. Therefore, obtaining professional legal support on the requirements to file a lawsuit is crucial for navigating this process effectively and safely. When filing through a lawyer, the steps generally followed are:

1. Agreement with a Law Firm: The first step is to reach an agreement with a law firm or lawyer. During this process, the lawyer’s expertise, experience and references should be carefully considered to select the right professional.
2. Granting a Power of Attorney before a Notary: A litigation power of attorney is executed before a Turkish notary and granted to the agreed-upon lawyer. The power of attorney is an official document authorizing the lawyer to conduct legal proceedings on behalf of the client.
3. Client-Lawyer Consultation: A detailed consultation between the client and lawyer is arranged. During this meeting, the client communicates the details of the case, the evidence and their expectations to the lawyer to formulate a legal strategy.
4. Preparation of the Lawsuit Petition: Based on the information received from the client, the lawyer prepares the lawsuit petition. The petition should include legal claims, be supported by evidence and be organized for submission to the court; the lawsuit petition is fundamental in initiating the lawsuit process.
5. Submission of the Lawsuit Petition to the Court: The prepared lawsuit petition is submitted to the relevant court and the fees and advance on costs are paid. At this stage, the application to initiate the lawsuit is filed.
6. Service during the Lawsuit Process: During the lawsuit process in Turkey, the lawyer provides services to the client. This includes attending hearings, preparing defenses and representing the client at every stage of the legal process.

How Can You Give a Power of Attorney to a Turkish Lawyer from Abroad?

A person living abroad can authorize a lawyer in Turkey to file a lawsuit without travelling to Turkey, through a power of attorney executed at a Turkish consulate or before a foreign notary. A power of attorney issued at a Turkish consulate can be used directly in Turkey. A power of attorney executed before a foreign notary must bear an apostille (or consular legalisation in countries not party to the Apostille Convention) and be translated into Turkish. Before granting a power of attorney, people living abroad can have their case assessed through online legal consultation without travelling to Turkey.

How Long Does It Take to File a Lawsuit in Turkey?

The question of how long it takes to file a lawsuit in Turkey covers two different periods: the time limit within which the lawsuit must be filed by law and the time it takes for the case to be decided. The answer to how many days it takes to file a lawsuit in Turkey is short: once the petition is ready and the court fees are paid, the lawsuit itself can be filed on the same day; however, reaching a judgment may take months or years depending on the type of dispute, the court’s workload and the evidence. For this reason, it is not possible to give a definitive answer.

1. What Are the Time Limits for Filing a Lawsuit in Turkey?

The time limit for filing a lawsuit in Turkey varies by case type, and some of these limits are statutory forfeiture periods. A lawsuit filed after a forfeiture period has expired is dismissed by the court even if the other side does not raise it. Common time limits for filing a lawsuit include:

• Administrative Lawsuits: Unless otherwise provided in special laws, the filing period is 60 days before the Council of State and administrative courts and 30 days before tax courts (Article 7 of the Administrative Procedure Law No. 2577). In tax disputes in Turkey, where service is made, the period starts on the day following service (Article 7/2-b of Law No. 2577).
• Public Receivables: An objection may be lodged with the tax objection commission within 15 days from service of a payment order (Article 58 of Law No. 6183) and within 15 days from the enforcement (or, if made in absence, service) of a precautionary attachment (Article 15 of Law No. 6183).
• Reinstatement: A mediator must be applied to within one month from service of the notice of termination; if mediation fails, the lawsuit must be filed in the labour court within two weeks from the date of the final report (Article 20 of Labour Law No. 4857, Article 3 of Law No. 7036).
• Limitation Periods: Under the law of obligations, the general limitation period is ten years (Article 146 of the Turkish Code of Obligations No. 6098), and five years for claims such as rent and periodic payments (Article 147). Unlike forfeiture periods, a limitation period is taken into account only if the other party raises it.

2. How Long Do Lawsuits Take to Conclude in Turkey?

The completion time of the lawsuit process in Turkey varies significantly; the judicial statistics published by the Ministry of Justice show that average case durations differ considerably by type of court and by year. How long a case will take can therefore only be estimated once the type of dispute and the competent court are known. The main factors influencing the duration of a lawsuit are:

• Conduct of the Parties: Whether the parties comply with procedure, requests for extensions and problems with service directly affect the process.
• Court Workload: The court’s workload and the intervals between hearings are among the most important factors determining the duration. Under an amendment in force since 31 July 2026, the interval between hearings cannot exceed three months; in compelling cases such as a prolonged expert examination or letters rogatory, the judge may set a longer interval with reasons (Article 147/3 of the Code of Civil Procedure).
• Collection of Evidence: Cases requiring expert examination, on-site inspection or service abroad take longer.
• Complexity of the Dispute: Cases that are more complex and require more time for resolution can extend the duration; appeals further increase the total time.

3. When Does the Judicial Recess End in Turkey and How Does It Affect Time Limits?

The judicial recess in Turkey starts on 20 July and ends on 31 August each year; during this period, as a rule, only urgent matters listed in the law are heard (Articles 102 and 103 of the Code of Civil Procedure). Petitions can still be filed and notifications served during the recess (Article 103/3 of the Code of Civil Procedure), and time limits continue to run.

In matters subject to the recess, if a time limit expires during it, the limit is deemed extended by one week from the day the recess ends (Article 104 of the Code of Civil Procedure); the effect of the recess must therefore always be taken into account when calculating time limits. Turkish courts do not close entirely during the judicial recess; they continue to hear the urgent matters listed in the law. As to when courts reopen in Turkey, the law is explicit: the judicial recess ends on 31 August and the new judicial year begins on 1 September (Article 102/1 of the Code of Civil Procedure).

How Much Does It Cost to File a Lawsuit in Turkey?

The cost of filing a lawsuit in Turkey consists of the application fee, the advance court fee and the advance on costs, and varies according to the type of case, the value of the claim, the number of parties and witnesses, and the need for expert examination and on-site inspection. Since court fees are redetermined every year, it is not possible to give a fixed amount. Here is a general overview of filing costs in civil, administrative and criminal matters:

• Civil Courts: Filing costs in civil courts vary based on the value of the claim, the number of parties, the number of witnesses, expert opinions and on-site inspection requirements. In claims with a determined value, one quarter of the decision fee of 68.31 per thousand of the claim value is collected in advance when the lawsuit is filed; in claims without a determined value, a fixed fee applies (Law on Fees No. 492).
• Administrative Courts: Filing costs in administrative courts also vary depending on factors such as the number of parties, witnesses, requests for hearings, requests for a stay of execution and requests for on-site inspection. These factors can influence whether filing costs in administrative courts increase or decrease.
• Criminal Courts: Criminal cases are initiated through an indictment prepared by the public prosecutor, and no fees or costs are paid for a criminal complaint. Individuals file a complaint with the prosecutor’s office; if the prosecutor finds sufficient suspicion at the end of the investigation, they prepare an indictment and initiate the case in the criminal court (Article 170 of the Code of Criminal Procedure No. 5271). For example, prosecution of the crime of insult under Turkish law depends on a complaint, and the complaint must be filed within six months from learning of the act and the offender; for insult, the complaint period cannot in any case exceed two years from the date of the act (Article 73/2 of the Turkish Criminal Code No. 5237).

There is no definitive answer to how much it costs to file a lawsuit in Turkey, as costs vary depending on the type of case, the value of the claim and whether the appeal process in Turkey is used. Lawsuit costs generally include attorney fees, court fees, expert fees, on-site inspection expenses and other related expenses. It is important to have a detailed discussion with your lawyer regarding costs and fees before proceeding with legal action.

1. Does the Losing Party Pay the Costs in Turkey?

Under Turkish law, the costs of the proceedings and the opposing party’s attorney fees are as a rule borne by the party against whom judgment is given; if each party is partly successful, the costs are shared according to their degree of success (Articles 323 and 326 of the Code of Civil Procedure). Costs of proceedings include court fees, service, witness and expert costs and the attorney fee determined under the Minimum Attorney Fee Tariff. Before filing, the costs payable to the other side if the case is lost should therefore also be taken into account.

2. Can You File a Lawsuit Free of Charge with Legal Aid in Turkey?

Under Turkish law, persons who cannot pay the costs of proceedings without hardship to themselves and their family may benefit from legal aid, provided their claims are not clearly unfounded (Article 334/1 of the Code of Civil Procedure). For foreigners, legal aid is also subject to reciprocity (Article 334/3 of the Code of Civil Procedure). A legal aid request is made to the Turkish court, with documents showing the applicant’s income, when filing or during the proceedings.

If legal aid is granted, court fees and the advance on costs are temporarily not paid; where representation by a lawyer is needed, the court may order that a lawyer be provided, with the fee paid later (Article 335/1-ç of the Code of Civil Procedure). In addition, bar associations also appoint lawyers through their legal aid offices (Article 176 of the Attorneys’ Act No. 1136).

• Scope: Legal aid covers temporary exemption from court fees and costs of proceedings, exemption from providing security and, where necessary, the appointment of a lawyer (Article 335 of the Code of Civil Procedure).
• Temporary Nature: Legal aid is not a final waiver; legal aid is revoked if the person’s financial situation sufficiently improves; deferred costs are collected from the party that loses the case (Articles 338 and 339 of the Code of Civil Procedure).

Is It Possible to Sue Someone Living Abroad in Turkey?

Where Turkish courts have jurisdiction, it is possible to sue someone who lives abroad in Turkey; in that case the petition and the hearing date are served at the foreign address in accordance with the rules on international service. Suing someone living abroad in Turkey is possible; however, this involves specific procedures and international legal regulations. The key points to know about suing someone living abroad in Turkey are:

1. If the Person is a Turkish Citizen: If the person living abroad is a Turkish citizen, the lawsuit petition is sent to their address in the foreign country. Service of process (tebligat) is carried out through the Turkish consulate in that country (Article 25/a of the Notification Law No. 7201).
2. If the Person is Not a Turkish Citizen: If the person living abroad is not a Turkish citizen, service of process depends on whether there is a bilateral or multilateral judicial assistance treaty between that country and Turkey. If such a treaty exists, service is conducted under its provisions.
3. Service of Process via Request for International Judicial Assistance: Even in the absence of a treaty, Turkish courts can request service through letters rogatory (diplomatic channels). In this case, the Turkish court requests assistance from the foreign authorities to arrange for service of process.

Suing someone living abroad in Turkey involves adherence to international legal procedures and may take time. Because service abroad can take months, the duration of the case increases; however, by complying with existing regulations, the lawsuit can be properly brought to the attention of the person abroad. It is important to seek legal advice and manage the process correctly in such cases.

Can Foreigners Sue in Turkey?

Under Turkish law, foreign individuals and companies can file lawsuits before Turkish courts and can be sued in Turkey. The procedural rights of foreigners are determined under Turkish law on foreigners and the rules of international procedural law.

However, a foreigner who files a lawsuit, joins proceedings or initiates enforcement proceedings in Turkey must provide security, determined by the court, to cover the costs of proceedings and the opposing party’s damages (Article 48 of the Law on International Private and Procedural Law No. 5718). The court exempts the foreigner from security on the basis of reciprocity (Article 48/2 of Law No. 5718); exemptions under international conventions to which Turkey is a party are also preserved (Article 1/2 of Law No. 5718).

How Is Litigation Managed in Turkey?

Managing a lawsuit in Turkey means attending hearings, submitting petitions and evidence within the final time limits set by the court, and monitoring developments in the file through UYAP. Litigation in Turkey refers to the judicial process pursued to resolve legal disputes; it begins with the filing of a lawsuit and concludes with a decision of a judge or panel. Litigation in Turkey involves defending the client’s legal rights or presenting their claims to the court and generally includes the following elements:

• Preliminary Review: The litigation process starts with evaluating the situation and making a decision to file a lawsuit based on legal grounds. Legal expertise and consultation help understand the client’s rights and options.
• Filing a Lawsuit: In appropriate cases, a lawsuit is filed and an application is made to the court. The petition forms the basis of the lawsuit and is submitted to the court.
• Taking of Evidence and On-Site Inspection: The parties submit their evidence to the court; the court hears witnesses and, where necessary, orders expert examination and on-site inspection. Turkish law has no discovery in the common law sense: evidence is taken under the court’s direction rather than through document disclosure between the parties.
• Settlement Negotiations: Within the court process, parties may engage in negotiations to reach a settlement. The parties may settle at any stage of the proceedings; the plaintiff may withdraw the claim and the defendant may accept it (Articles 307–315 of the Code of Civil Procedure).
• Hearings: If the parties do not reach a settlement, the case continues with hearings. The parties present their claims and defences, witnesses are heard and the evidence is discussed.
• Decision Stage: The court evaluates the parties’ arguments and reaches a decision. This decision is made in accordance with legal rules and laws.

1. How Can You Check a Case File Online in Turkey?

A case file in Turkey can be checked through the “Case File Inquiry” (Dava Dosyası Sorgulama) service on e-Devlet or through the UYAP Citizen Portal. After logging in to the UYAP Citizen Portal with an e-Devlet password, e-signature or mobile signature, the progress of the file, hearing dates and its current status can be viewed. The parties can send documents to their files and pay fees and costs through UYAP; access to the content of documents may require an e-signature or mobile signature.

2. How Do You Find Out That a Lawsuit Has Been Filed Against You in Turkey?

Under Turkish law, a lawsuit filed against you becomes known through service of the petition, which is made to your address in the address registration system or to your electronic notification address. The time limit for the statement of defence starts running from proper service. Refusing to accept service does not prevent the time limit from running; regularly checking the case file inquiry screen on e-Devlet therefore prevents loss of rights.

The litigation process in Turkey is generally long and complex. It can be costly and may involve expert opinions, technical reviews and preparation of legal documents. Guidance and expertise from a litigation lawyer in Turkey play a critical role in defending the client’s legal rights throughout the litigation process.

Can You File a Lawsuit Without a Lawyer in Turkey?

Since there is no mandatory legal representation under Turkish law, individuals can file and pursue their lawsuits without a lawyer. However, preparing the petition correctly and effectively is the most critical stage of the process. The risks of filing a lawsuit without a lawyer in Turkey include:

• Petition and Procedural Rules: A lawyer prepares the petition in accordance with procedural and substantive rules, ensuring compliance with the court’s requirements.
• Defective Petitions and Risks: In practice, many cases are lost because of defective petitions. Lack of legal knowledge or procedural errors can turn a rightful party into a losing one; it is therefore important that the petition is drafted flawlessly.
• Importance of Filing with a Lawyer: Filing through a lawyer identifies the area of law suited to the case. An experienced lawyer masters the complexity of court proceedings and applies all procedural and substantive rules correctly, drafting the petition flawlessly and representing the client in the best possible way.
• Determining the Area of Law and the Court: The lawyer directs the case to the correct area of law and court. This is critical for the success of the case; identifying the area of law allows the right legal arguments to be used. For example, a Turkish commercial law case and a labour law case differ in the competent court, the procedural requirements and the applicable procedure.
• Final Time Limits: Failure to comply with final time limits set by the court results in the loss of the right to take the relevant step. In cases pursued without a lawyer, most losses of rights arise from missing these time limits.
• Attending Hearings: Attending hearings is an important part of defending your rights in court. A person pursuing a case without a lawyer must attend the hearings prepared, present their arguments effectively and comply with court rules.

Filing a lawsuit without a lawyer in Turkey is possible; however, a complete and effective petition and well-prepared attendance at hearings are essential. To prevent loss of rights and follow a fair process, the guidance of a lawyer is generally the safer choice.

Why Is It Important to Work with a Litigation Lawyer in Turkey?

A litigation lawyer in Turkey is a professional lawyer who represents the client in legal disputes and is responsible for managing the case before civil courts, administrative courts and other judicial bodies. Working with a litigation lawyer prevents losses of rights arising from procedural errors and missed final time limits. The main duties of a litigation lawyer are:

1. Client Representation: The lawyer represents the client’s legal interests in court. Defending the client’s rights, protecting their legal entitlements and working to achieve a favourable outcome is the lawyer’s core responsibility.
2. Legal Advice: The lawyer provides legal advice to the client; before the lawsuit is filed, the lawyer explains how the process will work and informs the client of their rights and obligations.
3. Case Preparation: Once the lawsuit process begins, the lawyer collects the necessary documents, evaluates the evidence and prepares to strengthen the client’s claims. This stage includes preparing the petition, the list of witnesses and other legal documents.
4. Representation in Court: The lawyer represents the client throughout the court process. At hearings, the lawyer defends the client’s rights before the judge, presents evidence, ensures that witnesses are questioned and conveys legal arguments to the court to obtain a favourable outcome for the client.
5. Service and Communication: The lawyer informs the client of court decisions and notifications and keeps the client in contact with the court. In cases pursued through a lawyer, notifications are served on the lawyer; the lawyer keeps communication channels open so that the client can make informed decisions.
6. Dispute Resolution: Together with the client, the lawyer strives to resolve disputes out of court where possible. The lawyer considers alternative dispute resolution methods such as settlement and mediation.

As a professional with legal knowledge and experience, a litigation lawyer works to meet the client’s legal needs in the best possible way. Since every case has its own features, the lawyer’s role in Turkish litigation is shaped by the particulars of the case.

Being an effective litigation lawyer requires not only legal knowledge but also years of experience; the technical command of hearings needed for effective representation before the Turkish courts significantly affects the lawyer’s success. The ability not merely to know legal matters but to explain them clearly in court, together with the ability to present documents correctly and convey legal arguments effectively, completes a litigation lawyer’s expertise.