Best Child Support Lawyers in İskenderun

About Child Support Law in İskenderun, Turkey

Child support (known as "nafaka" in Turkish) is a legal obligation requiring a non-custodial parent to provide financial assistance for the upbringing and care of their child after a separation or divorce. In İskenderun, as in the rest of Turkey, the objective of child support is to ensure that the child's needs are met, regardless of the parents’ marital status. Turkish family law sets the framework for determining, enforcing, and changing child support. Local courts in İskenderun, specifically the Family Court (Aile Mahkemesi), play a key role in adjudicating and enforcing child support obligations.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Navigating child support issues can be emotionally and legally complex. You might need a lawyer in the following situations:

• Determining a fair and lawful amount of child support.
• Enforcing child support payments if the other parent does not comply.
• Modifying existing child support orders due to changes in financial circumstances.
• Resolving disputes regarding custody and visitation that affect child support.
• Understanding your rights and obligations if you are a non-Turkish citizen or if the case involves international aspects.
• Filing appeals against court decisions or challenging unfair rulings.

Local Laws Overview

Child support in İskenderun is governed under Turkish Civil Code (Turk Medeni Kanunu), which uniformly applies across the country. Some locally relevant aspects include:

• Child support (iştirak nafakası) is ordered based on the child's needs and the parents' financial situations.
• The obligation to pay normally lasts until the child turns 18, but can continue if the child is still in education or unable to support themselves.
• Applications for child support are filed at the İskenderun Family Court (Aile Mahkemesi).
• Enforcement of child support is managed by İcra Dairesi (Enforcement Offices) if payments are not made voluntarily.
• Failure to pay court-ordered child support can result in enforcement actions and, in serious cases, criminal prosecution.
• Both mothers and fathers can be ordered to pay child support, depending on custody and circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the process for applying for child support in İskenderun?

You must file a petition at the Family Court (Aile Mahkemesi) in İskenderun. The court will review the child’s needs and each parent’s financial situation before determining the support amount.

How is the child support amount calculated?

The court considers factors such as the child’s basic needs, education, healthcare, and the income and expenses of both parents.

Does child support end automatically when a child turns 18?

Normally yes, but if the child is still in education or unable to support themselves due to health reasons, the support may continue beyond 18.

Can child support amounts be changed?

Yes, either parent can request the court to change the support amount if there has been a significant change in finances or circumstances.

What happens if the parent responsible fails to pay?

Unpaid support can be enforced via the local enforcement office (İcra Dairesi). Persistent non-payment can lead to court-imposed penalties, including possible imprisonment.

Who can apply for child support?

The custodial parent or legal guardian of the child can apply for child support. In some cases, older children may also apply on their own behalf.

Does child support cover visitation or custody rights?

No, child support is a separate issue from custody and visitation. However, non-payment of support does not eliminate a parent’s visitation rights.

Is it possible to seek child support if one parent lives abroad?

Yes, although cross-border enforcement may be more complex. Local courts and international agreements may assist in receiving payments from abroad.

What documents are needed to apply for child support?

Typical documents include identification documents, proof of guardianship/custody, evidence of income and expenses, and information related to the child’s needs.

Can a lawyer help speed up the process?

A lawyer can ensure your petition is prepared correctly, provide guidance on legal options, and may help resolve the case more efficiently.

Additional Resources

Several resources and organizations can provide support and information regarding child support in İskenderun:

• İskenderun Family Court (İskenderun Aile Mahkemesi): Handles all child support cases locally.
• İskenderun Bar Association (İskenderun Barosu): Provides referrals to qualified family lawyers and legal aid.
• District Social Services Office (Sosyal Hizmet Merkezi): Offers family counseling and support services.
• Counseling and Social Services Departments (Danışma ve Sosyal Hizmetler): Governmental services for families and children in need.
• Legal Aid Centers (Adli Yardım Bürosu): Assist low-income individuals in accessing legal representation.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance with child support in İskenderun:

• Gather all relevant documents related to your income, expenses, and the child’s needs.
• Consult with a family lawyer—either privately or through the İskenderun Bar Association—about your specific situation.
• Prepare and file your petition at the İskenderun Family Court, either independently or through your lawyer.
• Attend all court dates and provide any additional documentation requested by the court.
• If needed, request enforcement at the İcra Dairesi if support is not paid after the court order.
• Seek assistance from governmental or social services if you face difficulty navigating the process or require emotional support.