Best Same Sex & LGBT Lawyers in Tarsus

About Same Sex & LGBT Law in Tarsus, Turkey

Same sex and LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender) related legal issues in Tarsus, Turkey, are governed by both national laws and local attitudes. While homosexuality is not criminalized in Turkey, the legal framework does not provide comprehensive protection against discrimination or full recognition of LGBT rights. Social acceptance and understanding of LGBT issues can also vary across different regions, including Tarsus, which is a historic city in southern Turkey. While progressive in some respects, Tarsus still experiences challenges common throughout the country, such as instances of discrimination, issues regarding freedom of expression, and lack of legal recognition for same-sex partnerships.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are several situations where individuals may require legal help with respect to same sex and LGBT matters in Tarsus. These can include experiences of discrimination or harassment in the workplace, in housing, or accessing services; dealing with issues related to family law, such as inheritance or parental rights; defending oneself against unfair dismissal or school exclusion due to sexual orientation or gender identity; encountering hate speech or violence; and seeking legal gender recognition for transgender individuals. Given the potentially sensitive and complex nature of these cases, having the right legal advice and support can be crucial in ensuring your rights are protected.

Local Laws Overview

The key aspects of local and national laws most relevant to same sex and LGBT individuals in Tarsus are as follows:

• Consensual same sex relationships are legal in Turkey and in Tarsus; there are no laws criminalizing homosexuality.
• There are no laws that specifically protect individuals from discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity in employment, education, health services, or housing.
• Same sex marriages and civil partnerships are not recognized by Turkish law. Consequently, same sex couples do not have access to spousal rights, such as inheritance and joint adoption.
• Transgender individuals can change their legal gender following a court process and meeting specific criteria, which can be complicated and require medical documentation.
• While freedom of assembly is constitutionally protected, local authorities sometimes restrict or prohibit LGBT events, such as Pride marches, citing concerns about public order.
• Hate crimes and hate speech based on sexual orientation or gender identity are not explicitly addressed in Turkish criminal law, although general provisions may be used in some cases.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is homosexuality legal in Tarsus, Turkey?

Yes, homosexuality is legal in Tarsus and across Turkey. There are no laws that criminalize consensual same sex relationships between adults.

Are there anti-discrimination laws protecting LGBT individuals?

There are no comprehensive laws that specifically ban discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity in Turkey. Some general provisions against discrimination exist, but they are not always interpreted to include LGBT issues.

Can same sex couples get married or enter a civil partnership in Tarsus?

No, Turkish law does not recognize same sex marriages or civil partnerships. Married rights and recognition are only available to heterosexual couples.

What can I do if I experience discrimination at work because I am LGBT?

You can seek guidance from a lawyer to explore the possibility of raising the issue with your employer, seeking mediation, or starting a legal complaint based on general labor law principles, although direct protection is limited.

Is gender reassignment surgery and legal gender change available?

Yes, transgender individuals can legally change their gender after surgery, but the process is complex and usually requires court approval, medical reports, and proof of surgery.

Can LGBT individuals adopt children in Tarsus?

Adoption by same sex couples is not recognized. Single individuals may apply for adoption, but being openly LGBT may affect the approval process due to social attitudes and legal uncertainties.

Are there LGBT organizations or support networks in Tarsus?

While there may not be dedicated LGBT organizations based specifically in Tarsus, national organizations such as KAOS GL and Lambdaistanbul can offer support and legal advice to people across Turkey, including online assistance.

What should I do if I face hate speech or violence?

If you experience threats or violence, you should report the incident to the police. You may also wish to seek assistance from a lawyer and LGBT support groups for help with documentation and follow-up.

Can I host or participate in an LGBT event or pride march?

While freedom of assembly is protected, local authorities sometimes deny permits for LGBT events. Legal advice is recommended before organizing any public gatherings.

Are my rights to privacy and family life protected as an LGBT person?

Yes, the Turkish Constitution and international agreements to which Turkey is a party protect the right to privacy and family life, although these rights are not always equally applied in practice for LGBT individuals.

Additional Resources

If you are seeking legal advice or support as an LGBT individual in Tarsus, you may find the following organizations and resources helpful:

• KAOS GL: One of Turkey’s longest-running LGBT organizations, offering legal advice and support.
• Lambdaistanbul: Provides advocacy, support services, and legal information for LGBT individuals.
• SPoD (Social Policies, Gender Identity, and Sexual Orientation Studies Association): Offers legal counseling, support groups, and resources.
• Bar Associations: The Mersin Bar Association (serving Tarsus) can guide you to lawyers experienced in LGBT issues.
• United Nations and European Court of Human Rights: For cases involving human rights violations, these bodies can sometimes provide additional recourse.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance in matters related to same sex or LGBT issues in Tarsus:

• Document any incidents of discrimination, harassment, or violence, including dates, details, and any available evidence.
• Contact a local lawyer, preferably one with experience in LGBT rights or human rights cases. The Mersin Bar Association can offer referrals.
• Reach out to national LGBT organizations for advice, support, and possibly legal representation.
• If your case involves criminal activity or threats, report it to the police and seek their protection.
• If you are uncertain where to start, begin by consulting with an NGO or legal hotlines provided by advocacy organizations.