Best Wrongful Termination Lawyers in Tekirdağ

About Wrongful Termination Law in Tekirdağ, Turkey

Wrongful termination, known as "haksız fesih" in Turkish law, refers to a situation where an employment contract is ended by the employer without a just cause as defined by the Turkish Labour Law. In Tekirdağ, which is governed under national Turkish labour legislation, wrongful termination protections are particularly significant due to the region's growing industrial and business sectors. Employees are protected against unjust dismissals through well-defined legal processes that enforce both contractual and statutory rights.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Facing termination can be distressing and confusing. A lawyer’s expertise can be crucial in several situations, such as:

• If you believe you were terminated without a legal reason or due to discrimination.
• If your employer did not follow proper procedures (like not giving written notice or severance pay).
• If you are unsure whether your working relationship qualifies as formal employment under Turkish law.
• If you were dismissed while on legal leave (such as maternity or sick leave).
• If you were terminated after reporting illegal or unethical conduct (whistleblowing).
• If you need to calculate and claim your rightful compensation or severance.
• If you want guidance through mediation (arabuluculuk), which is mandatory before filing a lawsuit.
• To assess the validity of any settlement offers made by your employer.

Local Laws Overview

Tekirdağ follows national Turkish employment laws, primarily the Turkish Labour Law No. 4857, but local application can differ slightly due to the city’s specific industrial makeup and work culture. Some key legal aspects include:

• Termination Procedures: Employers are required to provide written notice of termination and specify the reasons, particularly for employees with more than six months of tenure and workplaces with more than 30 staff members.
• Unlawful Termination: Dismissals lacking a valid reason (such as poor performance, redundancy, or misconduct), or motivated by discrimination (race, gender, union membership), are generally considered wrongful.
• Mandatory Mediation: Since 2018, mediation is a compulsory first step before pursuing a court case for wrongful termination.
• Reinstatement Rights: If the court or mediator finds in favor of the employee, reinstatement and/or compensation may be ordered.
• Statute of Limitations: Claims for wrongful termination must typically be filed within one month of the end of employment.
• Severance and Notice Pay: Eligible employees are entitled to notice and severance payments as per the length of their service.
• Proof of Cause: The burden to prove justified cause for termination lies with the employer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifies as wrongful termination in Tekirdağ, Turkey?

Wrongful termination occurs when your employer dismisses you without valid or legally recognized reasons such as economic redundancies, poor performance, or misconduct, or if the dismissal is based on discrimination or retaliation.

What should I do if I believe I was wrongfully terminated?

Gather all written documents (employment contract, termination letter, correspondence) and seek legal advice promptly. You have to apply for mediation within one month of your termination date before taking legal action.

Is written notice required for all terminations?

Yes, employers must provide written notice outlining the reason for termination for employees with at least six months of tenure in workplaces with more than 30 employees.

Can I be fired while on leave?

Generally, it is unlawful to dismiss employees while they are on certain types of legally protected leave, such as maternity or health leave.

What compensation am I entitled to if dismissed unlawfully?

You may be eligible for reinstatement, back pay, severance pay, notice pay, and compensation for damages depending on case specifics.

Is mediation required before going to court?

Yes, mediation is mandatory for employment disputes including wrongful termination in Turkey since 2018. Only if mediation fails can you proceed to court.

How long do I have to file a claim?

You must apply for mediation within one month after the termination of your employment. Delays can result in losing your right to claim.

Can I claim wrongful termination if I was under a probation period?

During the probation period (usually up to two months), either party can terminate employment without notice. Protections against wrongful termination may be limited in this period.

Do union members have additional protections?

Yes, dismissals based on union membership or activities are strictly prohibited and can be grounds for wrongful termination claims.

Are foreigners employed in Tekirdağ protected by these laws?

Yes, both Turkish citizens and foreign employees working legally in Tekirdağ are protected by the Turkish Labour Law regarding wrongful termination.

Additional Resources

Several official and community-based organizations can assist individuals facing wrongful termination in Tekirdağ:

• Tekirdağ Bar Association (Tekirdağ Barosu): For lawyer referrals and free initial advice.
• İŞKUR (Turkish Employment Agency): Provides information on workers’ rights and unemployment benefits.
• Local Labour Courts (İş Mahkemeleri): Where employment disputes are resolved if mediation fails.
• Ministry of Labour and Social Security (Çalışma ve Sosyal Güvenlik Bakanlığı): Publishes up-to-date guidance on Turkish labour rights.
• Local Mediation Centers: Most cases require you to start with a licensed mediator-check for mediators registered in Tekirdağ.

Next Steps

If you believe you have been wrongfully terminated in Tekirdağ:

1. Collect documentation: Gather your employment contract, termination letter, pay slips, and related correspondence.
2. Act quickly: Time limits for filing are strict; start the mediation process within one month.
3. Consult a local lawyer: Tekirdağ-based labour lawyers can assess your situation and represent your interests during mediation or in court.
4. Apply for mediation: This is a compulsory step before court proceedings for wrongful termination.
5. Consider further action: If mediation fails, your lawyer can guide you in submitting your case to the local labour court for a decision.
6. Stay informed: Consult official bodies like the Tekirdağ Bar Association, İŞKUR, or the Ministry of Labour for additional guidance and support.

Remember, early legal advice greatly improves the chance of a fair resolution after wrongful termination.