Who is a Criminal Lawyer According to the Turkish Legal System?

Who is a Criminal Lawyer According to the Turkish Legal System? The Turkish legal system defines criminal law as one of the most complex and significant branches of law, dealing directly with the protection of public order and individual rights. Understanding who is a criminal lawyer according to the Turkish legal system is essential for both citizens and foreigners seeking legal representation or facing legal consequences in Turkey. This article explores the core responsibilities of criminal lawyers, types of criminal cases, the role of the heavy penal court, and how to find the best defense lawyer in Turkey.

What is a Criminal Lawyer? What Are the Duties of a Criminal Lawyer?

What is a criminal lawyer? A criminal lawyer is a legal professional who specializes in representing individuals or organizations accused of committing a criminal offense. What are the duties of a criminal lawyer? Their role includes legal counseling, defending clients in court, preparing legal strategies, cross-examining witnesses, negotiating plea bargains, and ensuring fair trial rights are upheld under Turkish criminal procedure law.

What is Crime?

Under Turkish law, a crime is defined as an act or omission that violates the criminal law and is punishable by sanctions such as imprisonment or judicial fines. Crimes in Turkey are categorized into misdemeanors and felonies, and they are codified under the Turkish Penal Code (TPC).

Core Elements of Crime

• The act (actus reus)
• The intent (mens rea)
• The absence of legal justification or excuse
• Specific result or consequence in many crimes (e.g., injury, damage)

Who is The Victim?

Who is the victim? In Turkish criminal law, the victim is the individual, group, or entity who suffers harm, injury, or loss as a result of a criminal act. Victims have legal rights, including filing complaints, requesting compensation, and attending hearings. Lawyers often represent victims in private prosecution or as interveners in criminal trials.

What is Punishment?

What is punishment? Punishment refers to the legal sanction imposed on an individual found guilty of a crime. Under Turkish law, punishments include:

• Short-term or long-term imprisonment
• Judicial fines
• Security measures (e.g., probation, electronic monitoring)
• Loss of certain civil rights

What Types of Cases Does a Criminal Lawyer Deal with?

Criminal lawyers in Turkey handle a wide variety of cases, including:

• Drug trafficking and possession
• Theft, robbery, and burglary
• Homicide and attempted murder
• Sexual offenses
• White-collar crimes (fraud, embezzlement, cybercrime)
• Assault and domestic violence
• Terrorism and organized crime (tried before heavy penal courts)

They represent clients during investigations, trials, appeals, and even constitutional complaints if necessary.

Who is a Criminal Lawyer Under Turkish Law?

Who is a criminal lawyer under Turkish law? A criminal lawyer must be a registered attorney with a Turkish Bar Association and must hold a law degree from an accredited Turkish law faculty. Many also pursue postgraduate training in criminal law or criminal procedure. Their license permits them to represent clients in all criminal proceedings across Turkey.

What is the Duty of the Heavy Penal Court Under Turkish Law?

The duty of the heavy penal court under Turkish law is to try the most serious criminal offenses, including crimes punishable by more than ten years of imprisonment. These courts are specialized in complex cases such as:

• Intentional homicide
• Aggravated sexual offenses
• Major financial crimes and organized crime
• Terror-related crimes

Heavy penal courts consist of a panel of judges and often require specialized defense by experienced criminal lawyers.

What Are the Qualifications A Serious Crimes Lawyer Should Have According to Turkish Law?

What are the qualifications a serious crimes lawyer should have according to Turkish law? A defense lawyer handling serious criminal cases should possess:

• Strong knowledge of the Turkish Penal Code and Criminal Procedure Law
• Proven trial experience before heavy penal courts
• Exceptional research, negotiation, and litigation skills
• Confidentiality and strategic thinking
• Ability to interact with prosecutors and judges effectively

In high-stakes criminal trials, especially involving terrorism or complex fraud, these qualifications are not just optional—they are essential.

What are the Differences Between Criminal Defense Lawyers and Serious Crime Defense Lawyers According to Turkish Law?

What are the differences between criminal defense lawyers and serious crime defense lawyers according to Turkish law? While all criminal defense lawyers can theoretically handle any case, serious crime defense lawyers typically:

• Work predominantly before heavy penal courts
• Handle cases involving long-term imprisonment or aggravated penalties
• Often collaborate with forensic experts, criminologists, and technical analysts
• Possess more extensive courtroom experience and specialized knowledge

The key difference lies in the level of expertise and the gravity of cases they manage.

What is the Consultation Fee of a Criminal Lawyer under Turkish Law?

What is the consultation fee of a criminal lawyer under Turkish law? Fees vary depending on the case complexity, lawyer’s experience, and city. According to the 2025 Union of Turkish Bar Associations’ fee schedule, the average consultation fee ranges from 1,500 to 5,000 TRY. For serious crimes or representation before heavy penal courts, full representation fees can exceed 50,000 TRY.

How to Find the Best Criminal Defense Lawyer

How to find the best criminal defense lawyer in Turkey involves careful research and evaluation. Here are some steps:

• Search Bar Association directories and legal platforms
• Check lawyer credentials, specialties, and court experience
• Look for client reviews and peer recommendations
• Ask about success rates in similar criminal cases
• Arrange an initial consultation to evaluate legal strategy

Ensure the lawyer is responsive, transparent about fees, and explains your rights and options clearly.

Key Legal Frameworks Governing Criminal Law in Turkey

• Turkish Penal Code No. 5237
• Code of Criminal Procedure No. 5271
• Law on Execution of Penalties and Security Measures No. 5275
• Relevant international treaties (e.g., European Convention on Human Rights)

Conclusion

Understanding who is a criminal lawyer according to the Turkish legal system and the scope of criminal defense in Turkey is critical for anyone involved in or affected by criminal proceedings. From simple theft cases to major trials before heavy penal courts, criminal lawyers play an irreplaceable role in protecting the rights of defendants and ensuring due process. Whether you’re a victim, suspect, or family member seeking legal help, choosing a qualified lawyer can make all the difference in achieving justice and fair treatment under Turkish law.