Sema Tut Arslan Attorney & Legal Counsel TR/EN

Family Law

Protecting your rights with care in divorce, custody, maintenance and property regime cases.

Family law touches people's lives more directly than almost any other area. Divorce, custody, maintenance and the division of matrimonial property are not only legal processes but deeply personal ones. I handle every file with regard for both my clients' legal rights and the stability of their family.

I plan uncontested and contested divorce proceedings from the outset, and prepare custody, visitation, maintenance and compensation claims on concrete evidence. In matters such as the liquidation of the matrimonial property regime, annotation of the family residence and protective measures against domestic violence, I act quickly and with a focus on practical outcomes. Foreign nationals married in Türkiye, or Turkish citizens living abroad, can conduct proceedings through a power of attorney without travelling.

Scope of Services

  • Uncontested and contested divorce proceedings
  • Custody, visitation and variation of custody
  • Interim, child and spousal maintenance
  • Pecuniary and non-pecuniary compensation claims
  • Liquidation of the matrimonial property regime
  • Family residence annotation
  • Protection orders under Law No. 6284
  • Recognition and enforcement of foreign divorce decrees

Family Law in Hatay

I handle family law matters from my office in Antakya and appear before the courts of Hatay — principally Antakya and İskenderun — as well as across the province. For clients abroad, meetings can be arranged by telephone or video conference and the file conducted under a power of attorney.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do divorce proceedings take in Türkiye?

An uncontested divorce is usually concluded in a single hearing, within a few weeks to a few months. A contested divorce typically takes one to three years depending on the evidence, the number of witnesses and the court's caseload. Building the right strategy at the outset is what keeps the timeline predictable.

Can a foreign divorce decree be recognised in Türkiye?

Yes. A divorce granted abroad must be recognised (or enforced) by a Turkish court before it takes effect in Turkish civil records. Since 2018 certain uncontested cases can also be registered through the civil registry office. The decree must be final and accompanied by an apostille and a sworn translation.

Do I have to be in Türkiye for the proceedings?

No. Once a power of attorney is issued — before a Turkish notary, or at a Turkish consulate if you are abroad — the file can be conducted on your behalf. Attendance is only required for hearings where the court specifically requires the party in person, such as the hearing in an uncontested divorce.

This page is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult an attorney regarding your specific situation.