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Recovering money in Turkey requires knowing how the enforcement system works. A debt collection lawyer in Turkey can start enforcement proceedings, trace and seize the debtor’s assets and challenge objections, often without a full lawsuit. We act for Turkish and foreign creditors, including companies collecting from Turkish customers.
Debt Collection Lawyer
Debt collection lawyer Istanbul: we start enforcement proceedings, trace and seize the debtor’s assets, handle objections and obtain recognition and enforcement of foreign judgments in Turkey, with regular reports to creditors abroad.
Enforcement Proceedings Without a Judgment
Turkish law allows a creditor to start enforcement proceedings without a prior court judgment (ilamsız takip) based on an invoice, contract or other evidence. The enforcement office sends a payment order to the debtor, who has seven days to object. If there is no objection, the debt becomes enforceable and assets can be seized.
If the debtor objects, the creditor can ask the court to set aside the objection or file a lawsuit to annul it. Where the objection is found unjustified, the debtor may be ordered to pay compensation.
Enforcement Based on Cheques, Promissory Notes and Judgments
- Bills of exchange, cheques and promissory notes allow a special, faster procedure.
- Court judgments and arbitral awards are enforced directly through the enforcement office.
- Mortgages and pledges are enforced through dedicated procedures.
Asset Searches and Seizure
We search for the debtor’s bank accounts, real estate, vehicles, salary and receivables through the electronic enforcement system and apply for seizure and sale. Precautionary attachment can be requested before or during proceedings where there is a risk that assets will be hidden.
Foreign Creditors and Foreign Judgments
A judgment or arbitral award obtained abroad must first be recognised and enforced (tenfiz) by a Turkish court before it can be executed in Turkey. We handle the recognition case and the subsequent enforcement. For commercial money claims, mediation is a mandatory step before a lawsuit; see our company lawyer page for corporate disputes.
Debtor Representation
We also represent debtors: filing objections, challenging irregular seizures, negotiating payment plans and defending against unjustified enforcement. We offer a free short preliminary consultation.
Can I collect a debt in Turkey without going to court?
Yes. Enforcement proceedings without a judgment can be started based on an invoice or contract. A lawsuit is only needed if the debtor objects.
How long does the debtor have to object?
Seven days from the service of the payment order in ordinary proceedings without a judgment.
What happens if the debtor objects?
The creditor can apply to the court to set aside the objection or file a lawsuit to annul it.
Can you find the debtor’s assets?
Yes. We search bank accounts, real estate, vehicles and salary through the electronic enforcement system.
Can a foreign judgment be enforced in Turkey?
Yes, after it is recognised and declared enforceable (tenfiz) by a Turkish court.
Is mediation mandatory for commercial debts?
Yes, for commercial money claims mediation is mandatory before filing a lawsuit.
Can I collect a debt from abroad?
Yes. We act under a power of attorney and keep you informed throughout.
Do you also represent debtors?
Yes. We file objections, challenge seizures and negotiate payment plans.
In the office or by video, we listen to your situation and review your documents.
We set out in writing which action to file, the estimated timeline and cost items.
Filings, hearings and evidence are followed by a single lawyer.
You hear from us on every development by WhatsApp or e-mail.