What is Lawyer Called in Turkey?
- Canko Law Firm
- Feb 5, 2024
- 5 min read
Updated: Jan 26
When you need help with a legal problem in Turkey, it's important to know who to call. In Turkey, lawyers have a special name. So, what is a lawyer called in Turkey? In Turkey, a lawyer is called an "avukat." This guide will explain who avukats are, what they do, and how you can become one. Explore expert legal services tailored to your needs in Turkey.
1. What is a Lawyer Called in Turkey?
In Turkey, a lawyer is known as an avukat. Avukats help people with legal issues. They give advice, represent clients in court, and help with important documents like contracts and wills. Avukats play a key role in making sure everyone follows the law and gets fair treatment.
2. Types of Legal Professionals in Turkey
While avukat is the main term for lawyers, there are other important legal roles in Turkey:
a. Avukat (Lawyer)
Avukats are the main legal helpers. They can work in different areas like criminal law, business law, family law, and more. Avukats talk to their clients, understand their problems, and find the best legal solutions.
b. Hakim (Judge)
Hakims are judges. They make decisions in court cases. Judges make sure that trials are fair and that the law is followed correctly.
c. Savcı (Prosecutor)
Savcılar are prosecutors. They bring charges against people who are accused of crimes. Prosecutors work to prove that someone did something wrong in court.
d. Noter (Notary)
Noters are notaries. They check and certify important documents like property deeds and wills. Notaries make sure these documents are legal and valid.
3. How to Become an Avukat in Turkey
Becoming an avukat in Turkey involves several steps:
a. Get a Law Degree
First, you need to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Law from a Turkish university. Legal education usually takes four years. During your studies, you will learn about different laws and how the legal system works.
b. Complete an Internship (Staj)
After getting your law degree, you must do a one-year internship. During this time, you work with an experienced avukat. This helps you gain practical experience in legal profession and learn how to apply what you studied in real-life situations.
c. Pass the Bar Association Exam
Next, you need to pass the Bar Association Examination (Baro Sınavı). This test checks your knowledge of Turkish law and your ability to use it correctly.
d. Join the Bar Association
After passing the exam, you join a regional Bar Association (Baro). Turkish Bar membership allows you to practice law as an avukat in Turkey.
4. What Do Avukats Do?
Avukats have many important jobs, including:
a. Representing Clients in Court
Avukats stand up for their clients in court. They present evidence, question witnesses, and make arguments to help their clients win their cases.
b. Giving Legal Advice
Avukats help people understand their rights and responsibilities under the law. They give advice on what to do in different legal situations. Advice on cross border legalities.
c. Drafting Legal Documents
Avukats write and review important documents like contracts, wills, and agreements. They make sure these documents are correct and protect their clients’ interests.
d. Negotiating Settlements
Sometimes, avukats help settle disputes without going to court. They negotiate with the other side to reach an agreement that works for everyone.
5. Specializations Within the Avukat Profession
Avukats can choose to focus on specific areas of law. Some common specializations include:
a. Criminal Law
Avukats in criminal law defend people accused of crimes. They work to ensure their clients get a fair trial and that their rights are protected.
b. Corporate Law
Corporate avukats help businesses with legal matters. This includes creating contracts, handling mergers, and ensuring the company follows all laws.
c. Family Law
Family law avukats deal with issues like divorce, child custody, and inheritance. They help families resolve disputes peacefully.
d. Real Estate Law
Real estate avukats assist with buying and selling property. They ensure that all legal aspects of the transaction are handled correctly.
e. Intellectual Property Law
Intellectual property avukats protect creations like inventions, designs, and brands. They help clients secure patents and trademarks.
f. Immigration Law
Residence permit, Turkish citizenship law applications
6. The Turkish Legal System
Understanding how the legal system works in Turkey helps you see the role of avukats:
a. Civil Law System
Turkey uses a civil law system, which is based on written laws and codes. This system relies more on statutes than on court decisions.
b. Court Hierarchy
The Turkish court system has different levels:
Local Courts: Handle small cases.
Regional Courts of Appeal: Review decisions from local courts.
Supreme Court of Appeals (Yargıtay): The highest court for civil and criminal cases.
Constitutional Court (Anayasa Mahkemesi): Ensures laws follow the Turkish Constitution.
c. Administrative Courts
These courts handle disputes between individuals and government agencies, making sure that government actions are lawful.
7. How to Choose the Right Avukat in Turkey
Picking the right avukat is important for your legal success. Here are some tips:
a. Look at Their Specialization
Choose an avukat who specializes in the area of law you need help with. This ensures they have the right expertise for your case.
b. Check Their Experience
Find out how long the avukat has been practicing and what kinds of cases they have handled before. Experienced avukats are better prepared to handle complex issues.
c. Read Reviews and Ask for Recommendations
Look for reviews online or ask friends and family for recommendations. A good reputation means the avukat is trusted and reliable.
d. Meet for a Consultation
Many avukats offer a first meeting for free. Use this time to discuss your case and see if you feel comfortable working with them.
e. Understand Their Fees
Ask about how the avukat charges for their services. Make sure you understand their fee structure before hiring them.
Key Points
In Turkey, lawyers are called avukat.
Avukats provide legal advice, represent clients in court, and draft legal documents.
Becoming an avukat requires a law degree, an internship, passing the Bar Exam, and joining the Bar Association.
Avukats can specialize in areas like criminal law, corporate law, family law, and more.
Choosing the right avukat is important for successful legal outcomes.
By knowing what an avukat is and the role they play, you can navigate legal matters in Turkey with confidence and ensure you get the help you need.
