Criminal Law
Defence during investigation and trial, representation of victims, complaints and reconciliation.
Criminal procedure is governed by Code of Criminal Procedure No. 5271 (CMK), and offences and penalties by Turkish Criminal Code No. 5237 (TCK). Proceedings begin with an investigation by the public prosecutor; if charges are brought, the trial stage begins before the court.
Main topics
- Defence of suspects and defendants: legal assistance during statements, questioning and hearings
- Representation of victims and intervening parties: complaints, evidence, joining the proceedings
- Challenges to custody, detention and judicial control decisions
- Reconciliation procedures (CMK Art. 253)
- Challenges to decisions not to prosecute
Time limit for complaints
For offences prosecuted only upon complaint, the complaint must be filed within six months of learning of the act and the offender (TCK Art. 73). After that, the right to complain lapses.
Suspects and defendants have the right to the assistance of defence counsel when giving a statement (CMK Arts. 147, 149).
Time limits for challenges and appeals in criminal matters are short. Note the date of any decision served on you or read out to you.