Family & Inheritance Law

Family and inheritance matters are deeply personal, and when they involve international elements, they can become legally complex. Whether you are a foreign national married to a Turkish citizen, an expatriate family living in Turkey, or an heir to an estate with assets in the country, you need sensitive and expert legal counsel. BV Law provides clear and compassionate guidance on all aspects of Turkish family and inheritance law for our international clients.

Cross-border legal issues require a nuanced understanding of how different legal systems interact. We specialize in navigating these complexities. In family matters, we assist with international divorce proceedings and the recognition of foreign court decisions. In inheritance matters, we guide you through the process of securing your rights to an estate in Turkey, from obtaining certificates of heirship to managing the distribution of assets. Our goal is to protect your rights while handling your case with the utmost discretion and professionalism.

Our core services in Family & Inheritance Law include:

Representing international clients in divorce and child custody proceedings in Turkey.
Handling the recognition and enforcement of foreign divorce decrees and court orders.
Assisting foreign heirs in obtaining Turkish certificates of inheritance.
Managing the legal processes for the distribution and transfer of inherited assets located in Turkey.

01. I got divorced in another country. Is my divorce automatically valid in Turkey?

No, a divorce decree issued by a foreign court is not automatically valid in Turkey. For it to be legally recognized, you must file a "recognition and enforcement" lawsuit in a Turkish family court. Once the Turkish court recognizes the foreign decree, it becomes valid and enforceable in Turkey, allowing you to remarry or update your civil status.

02. As a foreigner, can I inherit property in Turkey?

Yes, in general, foreign nationals can inherit property in Turkey, subject to the principle of reciprocity (meaning Turkish citizens should have similar inheritance rights in your home country). The process involves obtaining a certificate of inheritance from a Turkish court and then completing the necessary procedures at the land registry and tax offices to transfer the property.

03. What happens if a foreign national dies in Turkey without a will?

If a person dies without a will (intestate), the distribution of their assets in Turkey is governed by the Turkish law of succession. The estate is typically distributed among the legal heirs, which include the surviving spouse and children. The specific inheritance shares are determined by statutory rules.

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