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EnglIsh-SpeakIng Lawyer In Istanbul, Turkey – Trusted Legal ServIces for Expats, ForeIgn Investors, and International ClIents

Thinking of moving to Istanbul? Already living here and suddenly facing a legal issue?
Maybe you’re buying a house, going through a divorce, starting a business, or applying for Turkish citizenship. Whatever your reason, one thing’s for sure: dealing with the legal system in a foreign language can be overwhelming.

That’s where I come in. I’m an English-speaking lawyer based in Istanbul, and I help expats, foreign nationals, and international investors confidently navigate Turkish law without the language barrier, confusion, or unnecessary stress.

Whether you’re here short-term or building a life in Turkey, having the right legal support in English can save you time, money, and a lot of headaches.

Why You Need an English-Speaking Lawyer in Turkey

Many legal situations in Turkey require clear communication, detailed documentation, and expert representation. Whether you're facing a divorce, criminal charges, buying property, or applying for Turkish citizenship, an experienced English-speaking attorney ensures:

• You fully understand your legal rights and options

• Your case is handled with cultural and legal sensitivity

• Legal documents are accurately prepared and translated

• You receive strong representation before Turkish courts and authorities

About Attorney Abdullah Gürsu – Internationally Educated and Multilingual Legal Expert

Av. Abdullah Gürsu, a founding partner at Maya Law Office, is a prominent Turkish attorney with vast experience representing both domestic and international clients.

• Academic Excellence: Graduated top of his law class as valedictorian

• Master’s Degree: Completed an advanced thesis on “The Principle of Fair and Equitable Treatment in International Investment Law”, published as a book

• PhD Candidate: Currently pursuing doctoral studies in international law

• Language Skills: Fluent in English, with intermediate French and Arabic

• Global Education: Studied law in the U.S. (Indiana University – Purdue University Indianapolis), Belgium (Antwerp), and Egypt (Cairo) 

As an academic and practitioner, Av. Gürsu brings scholarly depth, international insight, and practical experience to every case.

Practice Areas – Legal Services for Foreigners and Expats in Turkey

Our firm offers a wide range of legal services to meet the diverse needs of expats, foreign investors, and international clients in Turkey.

1. Family Law for Foreigners in Turkey

Family matters involving international elements require a delicate and strategic legal approach. We represent clients in:

• Divorce: Including international divorces and recognition of foreign judgments

• Suspension and Removal: If you are subject to violence or threats of violence, you need to get a restraining order quickly.

• Child Custody and Support: Cross-border custody and visitation rights, personal relationship with the child, international child abduction

• Alimony and Asset Division: Equitable distribution of marital assets

• Prenuptial/Postnuptial Agreements: Drafting and enforcement under Turkish law

• Adoption and Guardianship: For Turkish and international families

We provide full transparency, confidentiality, and compassionate counsel during these personal legal matters.

2. Criminal Defense for Foreign Nationals

If you are a foreigner accused of a crime in Turkey, you need a criminal defense lawyer who understands Turkish criminal law and can communicate effectively in English. We handle:

• Criminal Investigations: Representation during police questioning, arrest, detention

• Court Representation: Defense in theft, fraud, assault, sexual assault,  and more

• Drug Offenses: Possession, trafficking, and related charges

• White Collar crimes: public corruption, health care fraud, mortgage fraud, securities fraud, and money laundering

• Cybercrime and Defamation: Digital evidence and online misconduct cases

• Appeals and Extradition: Post-conviction relief and international arrest issues, European Court of Human Rights' Applications.

We act swiftly to protect your rights, liberty, and reputation.

3. Immigration and Foreigner Law

Turkey offers various paths for foreigners to live, work, and even obtain citizenship. Our immigration law services include:

• Residence Permits: Short-term, family-based, student, or long-term

• Work Permits and Blue Card Applications

• Citizenship: Through real estate investment, marriage, or long-term stay

• Deportation Defense: Legal recourse against removal decisions

• Asylum and Protection: Assistance for vulnerable individuals seeking international protection

We help ensure full legal compliance and minimize bureaucratic delays.

4. Investment and Real Estate Law

Turkey is a prime location for foreign real estate investors and entrepreneurs. Our legal team ensures that your transactions and investments are secure:

• Property Acquisition: Due diligence, Tapu (title deed) checks, and risk analysis

• Real Estate Development: Zoning, permits, and project compliance

• Rental and Lease Contracts: Drafting and resolving disputes

• Citizenship by Investment: Legal navigation from property purchase to passport

• Business Formation: Company registration and commercial contracts

We combine legal precision with practical market understanding.

5. Commercial and Contract Law

If you’re doing business in Turkey, we provide legal support for:

• Company Formation and Registration

• Shareholder and Partnership Agreements

• Commercial Contracts: Drafting, review, and dispute resolution

• Compliance and Regulatory Law

• International Trade and Customs Issues

We help international businesses succeed in Turkey’s growing economy.

6. Inheritance and Probate Law

Whether you're a foreign heir or a Turkish national with assets abroad, we offer services in:

• Inheritance Planning: Wills and succession plans compliant with Turkish and international law

• Cross-Border Estates: Legal representation in multi-jurisdictional matters

• Probate and Executor Services

• Recognition of Foreign Inheritance Judgments

What Sets Us Apart

✅ Fluent English Communication – We eliminate language barriers and legal confusion
✅ Cross-Cultural Experience – We understand the expectations and challenges faced by expats and foreign clients
✅ Academic and Legal Expertise – Led by a published international law expert
✅ Wide Network – Collaborations with translators, notaries, and government offices
✅ Tailored Service – Every client receives personalized legal strategies

Who We Serve

• Foreigners living in Turkey (expats, retirees, digital nomads)

• Investors purchasing property or establishing a business

• Turkish citizens married to foreigners

• Tourists or students in legal trouble

• Foreign heirs of Turkish estates

• International businesses with operations in Turkey

Contact a Trusted English-Speaking Lawyer in Istanbul

Whether you're facing legal challenges or proactively protecting your interests, working with a qualified English-speaking lawyer in Istanbul makes all the difference. We combine legal excellence with international perspective to serve you effectively and efficiently.

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Let’s schedule a confidential consultation to discuss how we can help.