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AVUKAT SABRİ GÜNGEN
Siverek, Turkey

1 person in their team
AVUKAT SABRİ GÜNGEN is a Siverek-based legal practice serving clients in Şanlıurfa and across Turkey. Its stated focus is criminal defense and human rights law, with representation in criminal proceedings and individual applications to national and international human rights courts.The practice...
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What to expect after an alcohol-related driving stop in Siverek

In Siverek, an alcohol-related driving case may begin with a traffic stop, an alcohol test, and an administrative report or licence measure. Whether police or gendarmerie handle the stop depends on the road and their assigned area of responsibility.

The case may involve two separate issues: an administrative traffic penalty and, where the facts support it, a criminal investigation. A criminal matter may go through the prosecutor and court with jurisdiction over the incident; the exact route depends on the alleged offence and location.

Keep copies of the test record, notice, licence-seizure document, and any hospital records. If you dispute the test or the way it was conducted, get legal advice promptly because deadlines for challenging official decisions can be short.

When a lawyer can make a practical difference

  • You believe an alcohol reading was inaccurate, or the testing procedure or equipment was not properly documented.

  • You were stopped on a road outside Siverek town, and you need to establish which authority handled the stop or where the incident was recorded.

  • You received both a traffic penalty and notice of a criminal investigation, and need to understand how the two proceedings relate.

  • You refused a test or were unable to complete one, and need advice about the separate consequences that may follow.

  • You need to challenge a fine or licence measure and want to identify the correct procedure and deadline from the documents you received.

  • A collision, injury, or property damage is also involved, adding potential criminal and compensation issues to the alcohol allegation.

Turkish laws that apply to alcohol-related driving

The Highway Traffic Law (Karayolları Trafik Kanunu), Law No. 2918, was published on 18 October 1983. Article 48 sets rules on driving after consuming alcohol and provides for administrative consequences; the general limits are 0.50 per mille for private cars and 0.20 per mille for other motor vehicles.

The Highway Traffic Regulation (Karayolları Trafik Yönetmeliği), published on 18 July 1997, sets out rules implementing the traffic law, including provisions relevant to alcohol checks. The record of the test and the circumstances of the stop can matter when reviewing a case.

The Turkish Penal Code (Türk Ceza Kanunu), Law No. 5237, took effect on 1 June 2005. Article 179(3) concerns driving when alcohol, drugs, or another cause makes a person unable to drive safely; a criminal assessment may arise alongside administrative traffic action.

Frequently asked questions

Is it illegal to drive after any amount of alcohol in Siverek?

The general legal limit is 0.50 per mille for a private car and 0.20 per mille for other motor vehicles. Driving may also lead to criminal proceedings if the evidence shows the driver could not drive safely, even where the reading is below 1.00 per mille.

What happens if the test shows more than the legal limit?

Authorities may impose an administrative penalty and take action against the driver’s licence. Depending on the reading and evidence of impairment, the matter may also be referred for criminal investigation.

Can I refuse an alcohol test?

Refusing a lawful alcohol test can carry separate administrative consequences, including a fine and a period of licence withdrawal. Ask a lawyer to review the notice because the applicable consequence depends on the law and the facts recorded.

Can I challenge the test result?

You can ask a lawyer to review the test record, the procedure used, and any available medical evidence. Keep the original notices and seek advice quickly, rather than relying on an informal dispute at the roadside.

How long do I have to challenge a traffic fine?

An application against an administrative fine is generally due within 15 days of service under the Law on Misdemeanours. Other measures, including licence action, may involve a different route, so check each notice separately and act promptly.

Will every alcohol-related driving case go to criminal court?

No. Some cases involve administrative traffic action only, while others may lead to a criminal investigation under the Turkish Penal Code. The reading, driving conduct, and other evidence affect how authorities treat the case.

How much does a lawyer cost in Siverek?

Fees depend on whether the lawyer handles an administrative challenge, a criminal investigation, a court case, or several stages. Ask for a written fee agreement and clarification of any court or document expenses; the annual minimum attorney-fee tariff also applies.

Can I get a free or appointed lawyer?

Free legal aid may be available through the Şanlıurfa Bar Association for people who meet its eligibility requirements. A court-appointed defence lawyer is available in circumstances set by criminal procedure law, but not automatically for every traffic penalty.

How long does a case take?

There is no fixed timeframe for every case. An administrative challenge and a criminal investigation follow different procedures, and timing depends on the evidence, notices, and court workload.

Do I need a lawyer if no one was injured?

A lawyer is not automatically required for every administrative traffic matter. Legal advice may still be useful if you dispute the test, face licence consequences, or receive notice of a criminal investigation.

Does an alcohol-related traffic case affect a foreign driver differently?

Traffic rules apply to drivers in Siverek regardless of nationality. A foreign driver should also ask about licence and residence-related practical issues, and arrange translation of any official notice they do not understand.

Official resources in Siverek and Şanlıurfa

  • Traffic police or the gendarmerie: The authority that handled the stop can provide copies or information about the traffic record and notices, subject to applicable procedures.

  • Siverek Courthouse and Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office: These judicial offices handle matters within their jurisdiction, including criminal proceedings and court filings.

  • Şanlıurfa Bar Association: The bar association can provide information about finding a registered lawyer and applying for legal aid.

Steps to find and hire a lawyer

  1. Collect your paperwork today. Keep the test record, fine notice, licence document, police or gendarmerie paperwork, and any medical records together.

  2. Note every deadline immediately. Record when each notice was served and ask a lawyer to confirm the correct challenge period, ideally within one or two working days.

  3. Contact the Şanlıurfa Bar Association or search its official lawyer directory. Ask for a lawyer registered in Turkey who handles traffic and criminal matters.

  4. Arrange an initial consultation within a few days. Explain whether there was a collision, what test was given, and whether you received an administrative notice or criminal-case documents.

  5. Ask for a written plan and fee agreement. Confirm which filings and hearings are included, likely additional expenses, and who will monitor deadlines.

  6. Give the lawyer complete records promptly. Keep copies of anything submitted and follow up on filings and hearing dates through the lawyer or the relevant official channel.

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Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.

We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.