Best Marriage Lawyers in İskenderun

About Marriage Law in İskenderun, Turkey

Marriage in İskenderun, a district within Hatay Province in Turkey, is regulated by the Turkish Civil Code and overseen by local municipal authorities. In Turkey, marriage is a civil contract, not a religious act, meaning only marriages conducted and registered by civil authorities are legally recognized. Couples wishing to marry must fulfill a set of requirements and complete the necessary administrative procedures to ensure their marriage is valid under Turkish law.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

While many marriages in İskenderun proceed without complicated legal issues, there are circumstances where consulting a lawyer can be crucial. Common scenarios include dealing with international marriages, ensuring the validity of documents for foreign nationals, disputes over prenuptial agreements, complications related to previous marriages or divorces, and situations involving property division or inheritance rights due to marriage. A lawyer can help clarify your rights, guide you through unfamiliar procedures, represent you in court if disputes arise, and ensure all requirements are met for your marriage to be legally recognized.

Local Laws Overview

Key aspects of marriage law in İskenderun include:

• Legal Age: The minimum legal age for marriage is 18. In exceptional cases, individuals aged 17 can marry with parental consent and court approval.
• Civil Registration: Only civil marriages performed and registered at the local municipality (municipality marriage office / evlendirme dairesi) are legally valid. Religious ceremonies have no legal effect unless the civil marriage is completed first.
• Required Documents: Both parties must provide identification, birth certificates, health reports (showing absence of certain communicable diseases), and, if previously married, proof of divorce or spouse’s death.
• Foreign Nationals: Additional documentation such as proof of single status and notarized translated documents may be needed when one or both parties are foreigners.
• Prohibited Degrees of Relationship: Marriages between certain relatives are strictly forbidden.
• Marriage Bans: Polygamy is illegal in Turkey. Only monogamous marriages are recognized.
• Property Regimes: The default property regime is “participation in acquired property” unless a different agreement is made through a notarized contract.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the legal age to get married in İskenderun, Turkey?

The legal age is 18 years. In specific cases, those aged 17 can marry with court and parental consent.

Is a religious marriage ceremony recognized by law?

No. Only civil marriages registered at the municipality are legally valid.

Can foreigners marry in İskenderun?

Yes. Foreigners can marry Turkish citizens or other foreigners in Turkey by providing required documents such as a certificate of no impediment and translated passports.

What documents are required for marriage?

Typically, valid IDs, birth certificates, passport photos, health reports, and (if applicable) divorce decrees or death certificates for previous spouses are required.

Do we need witnesses for the civil marriage?

Yes. At least two witnesses (who are not immediate family) are required for the civil marriage ceremony.

Can same-sex couples marry in Turkey?

No, same-sex marriage is not legally recognized in Turkey.

Can I register my marriage in İskenderun if I got married abroad?

Yes. Turkish citizens can register a foreign marriage at the local civil registration office provided all legal documents are submitted.

What is a prenuptial agreement, and is it valid?

A prenuptial agreement allows couples to choose a property regime different from the default under Turkish law. It is valid if notarized before marriage.

What are the health requirements for marriage?

Both parties must provide health reports (usually including blood tests) to check for certain infectious diseases and compatibility.

How long does the marriage process take?

It depends on the completeness of the submitted documents and the municipality's schedule but typically takes a few weeks from application to ceremony.

Additional Resources

If you need additional assistance or information, consider reaching out to the following:

• İskenderun Municipality Marriage Office (Evlendirme Dairesi): Handles all marriage applications and registrations.
• Turkish Directorate General of Civil Registration and Nationality: Responsible for civil status records, including marriage certificates.
• Bar Association of Hatay: For referrals to local lawyers experienced in family and marriage law.
• Ministry of Justice (Turkey): For guidance on legal procedures and regulations.
• Notary Offices (Noterlik): For notarization of prenuptial agreements and translated documents.

Next Steps

If you believe you need legal assistance regarding marriage in İskenderun, start by compiling all relevant documents (identification, proof of marital status, health reports, etc.). If your situation is complex—for example, involving foreign nationals, previous marriages, or property agreements—schedule a consultation with a local lawyer who specializes in family law. Contact the İskenderun Municipality Marriage Office to clarify any procedural questions. For personalized legal advice or dispute resolution, reaching out to a member of the Hatay Bar Association is recommended. Taking these steps early on can help ensure a smooth and legally sound marriage process.