Istanbul is a metropolis of great international significance due to its geographical location, cultural diversity, and trade volume. For foreign nationals and investors, Istanbul is an attractive center for both business and living. However, when foreigners reside in Turkey or engage in commercial activities, they may encounter various legal issues related to the Turkish legal system. At this point, foreign lawyers or legal consultancy services aimed at foreigners play a crucial role
What is a Foreign Lawyer?
A foreign lawyer refers to attorneys who provide legal support to foreign nationals, companies, and investors residing or operating in Turkey. These lawyers are well-versed in Turkey’s legal framework and the specific situations foreigners may encounter, offering consultancy services accordingly. Foreign lawyers in Turkey often provide multilingual services, making it easier for their clients to understand and resolve legal matters in their native languages.
Fees for Foreign Lawyers in Istanbul
The fees for foreign lawyers in Istanbul vary depending on the lawyer’s area of expertise, the complexity of the case or legal process, the type of service, and the lawyer’s experience. In Turkey, attorney fees are determined in accordance with the Attorneyship Law and the minimum fee schedule set by the Turkish Bar Association. However, working with foreigners requires expertise in language skills and international law, so the fees of lawyers providing services in this field may be slightly higher than standard legal fees.
Areas of Expertise for Foreign Lawyers in Istanbul
Immigration Law: Foreigners seeking legal advice on matters such as residence permits, work permits, and citizenship applications in Turkey often turn to foreign lawyers. Since Istanbul is one of the main hubs for business and tourism, immigration law is one of the most frequently encountered areas by foreign lawyers. Turkey’s immigration laws are quite strict, and managing these processes can be challenging for foreigners. For this reason, foreign lawyers guide clients through application processes, ensuring their legal rights are protected.
Commercial and Corporate Law: Foreign investors may find it difficult to understand the Turkish legal system when establishing a company or making business agreements in Turkey. Foreign lawyers in Istanbul guide investors through this process, helping them comply with the legal requirements of conducting business in Turkey. Matters such as company formations, drafting commercial contracts, capital increases, and share transfers often involve complex legal procedures for foreign investors.
Real Estate Law: For foreign nationals, purchasing or leasing property in Turkey is subject to specific legal regulations. Foreign lawyers ensure that their clients meet all legal requirements during the property acquisition process. Issues such as title deed procedures, property sale contracts, and zoning statuses can be complicated for foreigners. Foreign lawyers manage these processes professionally, preventing any legal issues from arising.
Family Law: Foreigners in Turkey may require the assistance of foreign lawyers in matters such as marriage, divorce, child custody, and alimony. The Turkish civil law system includes meticulous regulations on family law, and these processes can differ culturally and legally for individuals from different countries. Foreign lawyers in Istanbul offer clients the most appropriate legal solutions in these areas.
Choosing a Foreign Lawyer in Istanbul
Important points to consider when choosing a foreign lawyer include:
- Language Proficiency: Foreign lawyers should be able to speak their clients’ native languages. This ensures the accurate understanding of legal documents and allows for seamless communication.
- Area of Expertise: It is essential to check whether the lawyer has sufficient experience related to the legal issues the client is facing. Lawyers with experience in areas such as commercial law, real estate law, or immigration law can more effectively address their clients’ needs.
- References and Success Stories: Lawyers who have previously succeeded in similar cases can be a reliable choice for clients. References and success stories are critical for understanding the lawyer’s past performance.
- Multicultural Approach: Many foreign lawyers in Istanbul have experience serving clients from various countries. A multicultural approach helps in better understanding both the cultural and legal needs of clients.
One of the successful lawyers serving foreign clients in Istanbul is Attorney Esra Aslan. Specializing in immigration law, commercial law, and real estate law, Esra Aslan provides legal support to foreign nationals and investors living and conducting business in Turkey.
Advantages Provided by Foreign Lawyers
Some of the advantages that foreign lawyers provide to foreigners in Istanbul include:
- Guidance in Legal Processes: Foreign lawyers are professionals familiar with the complexities of legal processes in Turkey. Therefore, they provide foreign clients with the best legal solutions for the issues they encounter.
- Local Legal Knowledge: The Turkish legal system can be different and complex for foreigners. Foreign lawyers, with their local legal knowledge, protect their clients’ rights and expedite legal processes.
- Understanding of International Law: Foreign lawyers possess knowledge of international law, which allows them to ensure that clients are legally protected both in Turkey and on an international level.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Foreign lawyers understand the cultural norms of their clients’ home countries and take cultural sensitivities into account during legal processes. This helps foreign clients feel more at ease.
Istanbul is a dynamic city that offers many opportunities for foreign investors and individuals. However, obtaining legal consultancy is crucial for foreigners to operate successfully in Turkey. Foreign lawyers in Istanbul specialize in various fields, including immigration law, commercial law, real estate law, and family law, providing reliable legal services to foreign clients. Choosing the right lawyer minimizes the legal issues foreigners may face and helps them conduct their lives or business activities smoothly in Turkey. Therefore, working with a foreign lawyer in Istanbul offers significant advantages for foreign clients. It would be a wise step to contact experienced foreign lawyers in Istanbul to avoid the complexities of legal processes and receive professional support.