In Turkey, having an experienced criminal lawyer can make all the difference in your case.
More than 60% of acquittals in 2023 involved defence attorneys who understood the system well.
Whether you're living in or visiting Turkey, it's important to know your rights and how the legal system works.
This guide explains what criminal lawyers in Turkey do and how they help protect their clients.
Understanding the Turkish Criminal Law
Turkey’s legal system is unique and has its own rules and procedures.
Judges in Turkey take an active role in investigating cases, which makes having a strong defence strategy essential.
Recent changes to the law have put more focus on using forensic evidence and expert opinions in court.
Local knowledge is crucial, as laws can be applied differently depending on the region.
What Does a Criminal Lawyer Do in Turkey?
Criminal defense lawyers in Turkey help by reviewing evidence and defending your rights during police questioning.
They ensure you understand your rights, such as the right to stay silent and have a lawyer present.
Conversations with your lawyer are private, allowing you to speak openly and plan your defence.
Good criminal lawyers will challenge weak evidence and call on experts to support your case.
Types of Criminal Cases in Turkey
Criminal lawyers handle a variety of cases, including drug offences, theft, assault, and financial crimes.
As Turkey's economy grows, there has been an increase in white-collar crimes like fraud and embezzlement.
With the rise of technology, cybercrime cases, like hacking and online fraud, are also becoming more common.
Some cases involve international law, adding extra challenges for both the lawyer and the client.
The Legal Process: From Arrest to Trial
When someone is arrested, criminal lawyers step in to ensure their rights are respected during questioning.
If the accused is held in custody, lawyers push for bail or alternatives to detention.
Trials in Turkey take place over several hearings, and defence lawyers use this time to question evidence and protect their clients.
How to Choose the Right Criminal Lawyer in Turkey
Choosing the right lawyer is important for your defence.
Look for someone who knows the Turkish legal system well and has handled similar cases.
For serious cases, experience is key. Many top lawyers are also multilingual, which helps in communicating with international clients.
Ask about their track record, their approach to your case, and how well they know the latest legal changes.
Why Local Knowledge Matters in Turkish Criminal Defence
Knowing the local legal landscape in Turkey is crucial in criminal defence cases.
Cultural differences and court customs can influence how a case is handled.
A lawyer with local connections can help make the process smoother and more efficient.
It’s also important for lawyers to keep up with changing laws to best defend their clients.
The Role of Technology in Criminal Defence
Technology is becoming an important part of criminal defence in Turkey.
Digital evidence, such as emails or phone records, can be a major part of many cases.
Lawyers must know how to deal with both the law and the technology involved in these types of cases.
Protecting personal data is also a big concern in cases involving online crimes.
Criminal Law Services we provide
At CANKO Law Firm, we offer full criminal defense services to clients facing charges in Turkey.
We handle all types of cases, from straightforward charges to more complicated ones.
Our services also cover white-collar crimes like fraud, bribery, money laundering, and corruption.
Whether you’re facing a serious charge or a minor offense, we’re here to protect your rights and guide you through the process.