Best Private Client Lawyers in Istanbul

Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.

Free. Takes 2 min.

Oran Partners

Oran Partners

1 hour Free Consultation
Istanbul, Turkey

Founded in 2016
10 people in their team
English
Turkish
Oran Partners stands out as the only law firm in Turkey focused entirely on medical malpractice. Our team of committed trial lawyers specializes in representing international individuals affected by medical negligence and their families. We bring a wealth of insight from both the medical and legal...
Lexin Legal

Lexin Legal

1 hour Free Consultation
Istanbul, Turkey

Founded in 2018
12 people in their team
English
Turkish
Arabic
Russian
Italian
German
Kurdish
Armenian
Hebrew (modern)
Lexin Legal is a law firm established by two founding partners, Onur Calisici and Oruc Aygun with the primary objective of providing legal services in an efficient and effective manner. Lexin legal’s international composition draws experts from a wide range of countries mainly including Turkey,...
View profile
Selim Law Firm
Istanbul, Turkey

Founded in 2017
5 people in their team
Turkish
English
French
Selim Law Firm is a Turkish law firm in Istanbul that serves global and local clients. Providing our clients with the highest quality service and solutions within the limits of professional and international principles is our the most important mission. Selim Law Firm established with its great...

English
Avukat Gürkan APAYDIN (Avukatlık ve Arabuluculuk Ofisi) is a distinguished law firm located in Bandırma, Balıkesir, offering comprehensive legal services across various practice areas. The firm specializes in civil law, criminal justice, divorce, estate litigation, family law, labor relations,...

Founded in 2020
English
Yılmaz & Çolak Hukuk Bürosu, 2020 yılında Av. Yusuf Çolak, Av. Samet Yılmaz ve Av. Mustafa Keser tarafından Karabük'te kurulmuş olup, 2022'nin sonlarında Av. Ümithan Kaplan'ın katılımıyla yönetim kadrosunu genişletmiştir. Karabük'ün en geniş avukat kadrosuna sahip olan büro,...
Lex Lata Consulting & Law
Istanbul, Turkey

Founded in 2022
3 people in their team
Turkish
English
Russian
Arabic
Armenian
Chinese
Bulgarian
Croatian
Finnish
French
Greek
German
Georgian
Hebrew (modern)
Italian
Norwegian
Romansh
Polish
Spanish
Lex Lata Consulting and Law Firm, stationed in Istanbul, Turkey, emerges as a leading entity dedicated to offering nuanced legal and consulting services in international law among other legal realms. Their mission orbits around empowering both local and multinational corporations in navigating...
VC Law & Consultancy

VC Law & Consultancy

30 minutes Free Consultation
Istanbul, Turkey

Founded in 2022
7 people in their team
English
French
German
Russian
Arabic
Chinese
Turkish
Spanish
VC Law & Consultancy: Leading Legal and Business Consultancy | Trusted Advisors for Your SuccessAt VC Law & Consultancy, we stand for your victory and represent a commitment to ethical principles in every case. Specializing in law and business consultancy across diverse scales, our mission...
Just & Fair Law Firm
Istanbul, Turkey

Founded in 2002
15 people in their team
English
Turkish
French
Arabic
Russian
Providing high caliber legal consultancy, mediation, arbitration, litigation and education services to domestic, regional and global companies, organizations, governments, NGO’s and individuals since 2002.The way we do business reflects the fact that we are, as a team of, a full service,...

Founded in 2014
English
Established in 2014 by Attorney Ferhat SATAN, A&S Hukuk ve Danışmanlık Ofisi has become a prominent legal institution in Yalova, Turkey. The firm offers comprehensive legal services across various domains, including estate litigation, administrative law, criminal justice, divorce proceedings,...
AS SEEN ON

About Private Client Law in Istanbul, Turkey

Private Client law in Istanbul, Turkey, focuses on providing legal services to individuals and families rather than corporations or government bodies. This area of law typically covers matters such as estate planning, inheritance, family businesses, wealth management, real estate, and tax advice. Given Istanbul's unique position as an economic and cultural hub, Private Client law here often involves cross-border elements, making legal guidance particularly important for expatriates, foreign nationals, and Turkish citizens with assets abroad.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Lawyers specializing in Private Client matters are vital for anyone looking to manage personal wealth, ensure smooth transfer of assets to future generations, or resolve disputes with sensitivity and confidentiality. Common situations where you may require legal assistance include:

  • Drafting or updating a will to ensure your wishes are respected
  • Navigating complex inheritance laws, especially when multiple jurisdictions are involved
  • Establishing trusts or foundations for asset protection or philanthropy
  • Handling property transactions, including buying, selling, or transferring ownership
  • Planning for tax efficiency and compliance with Turkish laws
  • Resolving family disputes, such as divorce or division of property
  • Assisting with immigration and residency issues for yourself or family members
  • Ensuring legal guardianship and succession for minors or vulnerable family members

An experienced Private Client lawyer in Istanbul can help you navigate these challenges while ensuring full compliance with local and international laws.

Local Laws Overview

Private Client matters in Istanbul are primarily governed by the Turkish Civil Code, Inheritance Law, Tax Law, and Real Estate Law. Some key aspects include:

  • Inheritance Laws: Turkish law includes forced heirship rules, which guarantee statutory shares for children, spouses, and parents, limiting complete testamentary freedom.
  • Wills and Estate Planning: Specific formalities must be followed for wills to be valid. This includes written, notarized, or official declarations witnessed by authorized officers.
  • Property Ownership: Foreign nationals can own property in Turkey, but there are restrictions and certain registration requirements. Legal advice ensures compliance with local regulations.
  • Marriage and Divorce: Marital property regimes and prenuptial/postnuptial agreements are recognized, with implications for asset division upon divorce.
  • Taxation: Wealth transfers, gifts, and inheritances may be subject to taxes. Proper planning can reduce the tax burden and prevent disputes with the tax authorities.
  • Cross-Border Issues: Istanbul’s international nature often brings cross-border succession or property matters, requiring coordination with foreign legal systems.

The local legal environment is dynamic. Consult a qualified lawyer to stay updated on the latest laws and procedures relevant to your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What documents are needed to draft a will in Istanbul?

Typically, you will need your identification, proof of assets, and details about your beneficiaries. It is recommended to work with a notary to ensure that your will meets Turkish legal standards.

How does inheritance law work for foreigners owning property in Istanbul?

Foreigners can inherit property in Turkey. However, the legal process involves Turkish law, and certain restrictions may apply depending on your nationality. Legal representation can help navigate these complexities.

Can I establish a trust in Turkey?

Turkish law does not formally recognize trusts as in common law jurisdictions. Alternative structures, such as foundations or specific corporate entities, may be considered for asset protection or estate planning.

What are the inheritance shares for spouses and children?

Under Turkish law, children and spouses are entitled to fixed shares of an estate. For example, if both spouse and children survive the decedent, the spouse receives one-fourth, while children share the remaining three-fourths equally.

Is it possible to disinherit an heir?

Forced heirship rules in Turkey limit your ability to disinherit statutory heirs like children and spouses. Only under specific circumstances, such as severe misconduct, may disinheritance be permitted.

What are the taxes on inheritance and gifts?

Inheritance and gift taxes apply in Turkey, with rates depending on the relationship between the parties and asset values. Rates are progressive and typically range from 1 percent to 30 percent.

How can I ensure my foreign assets are included in my Turkish will?

Proper coordination between Turkish and foreign wills is essential. Consult a lawyer who understands international estate planning to minimize conflicts and ensure your assets are distributed as intended.

What are the requirements for a valid marriage contract?

Marriage contracts such as prenuptial or postnuptial agreements must comply with Turkish Civil Code provisions and be notarized to be legally binding and enforceable.

Can I appoint a legal guardian for my children?

Yes, Turkish law allows parents to designate legal guardians for minor children in case of death or incapacity. This is usually done through a will or a separate legal declaration.

Are legal services in English or other languages available in Istanbul?

Many law firms in Istanbul offer services in English and other languages, especially for expatriates and foreign investors. Be sure to confirm language capabilities when choosing a legal advisor.

Additional Resources

If you require further assistance or information on Private Client law in Istanbul, you may find the following resources helpful:

  • Istanbul Bar Association - Provides information on licensed lawyers and legal aid
  • Turkish Notaries Union - Details about notarization procedures and notary offices
  • General Directorate of Land Registry and Cadastre - For property and real estate transactions
  • Turkish Revenue Administration - Guidance on tax regulations and inheritance taxes
  • Local Consulates and Embassies - Can assist foreign nationals in connecting with qualified local legal professionals

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance with Private Client matters in Istanbul, consider the following steps:

  • Gather all relevant personal documents, such as identification, proof of assets, and existing legal agreements
  • Define your objectives clearly, including any cross-border considerations or special circumstances
  • Contact a reputable law firm or individual lawyer experienced in Private Client matters
  • Verify their credentials with the Istanbul Bar Association
  • Arrange an initial consultation to discuss your needs and receive tailored advice
  • Request a fee estimate and clarify the scope of services before proceeding
  • Stay informed throughout the process and maintain open communication with your legal advisor

Getting the right legal support will help you protect your family’s interests, comply with local laws, and secure your assets for future generations.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Istanbul through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Private Client, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Istanbul, Turkey - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

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.