Criminal courts and trial hearings in Turkey

Understand the court named in the papers

Asliye Ceza Mahkemesi and Ağır Ceza Mahkemesi have different statutory jurisdictions. Sulh Ceza Hâkimliği has particular judicial functions, including certain investigation related decisions. The name, court number and case reference should be taken from the official document. Avoid applying the court structure of another country to determine what a Turkish body can do.

Before the hearing

Review the indictment, hearing notice and any preparatory court directions. The lawyer can identify unresolved document requests, witness issues and the need for interpretation. Tell the lawyer about health or travel difficulties well before the hearing. A private arrangement with another party does not by itself cancel a scheduled appearance.

Personal attendance

Appointment of a lawyer does not automatically remove the defendant’s attendance obligations. Whether an exemption, a particular method of examination or another procedural request is available depends on the case. Only an applicable decision or rule can resolve that issue; assumptions based on residence abroad can lead to a missed hearing.

Judgment and reasons

A hearing outcome and the full reasoned judgment are distinct documents. The written reasons, remedy information and notification may be essential to a challenge. Keep all records of service and provide them to the lawyer. A defence review considers the evidence, reasoning and operative terms of the judgment together.

What to have ready

Full case number and the authority handling the matter
Your procedural role and current country of residence
Original decisions and notification or service records
A dated timeline and the evidence already available
Known hearing dates, travel plans and your questions

Common questions

Is there a jury trial?

Ordinary Turkish criminal trials are decided by judges rather than a jury.

Can a lawyer attend while I remain abroad?

This depends on the case and attendance rules. A power of attorney alone does not settle the issue.

Legal sources and further reading

Further information in Turkish →

These guides address Turkish law. The relevant law, procedural deadlines and possible remedies must be assessed against the individual documents. A website description cannot establish the outcome of a case.