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Founding Attorney Aziz Emre YILMAZ | Criminal Law Specialist (Istanbul)

Aziz Emre YILMAZ, the Founding Attorney of our firm, is a Criminal Law Specialist who has built his legal career not only within Turkey but also through a strong international criminal law perspective. He approaches criminal defense with a holistic methodology that combines legal theory, courtroom practice, and strategic case management, with a particular focus on high-risk and high-stakes proceedings.

To deepen his academic and practical expertise, he completed one year of specialized training in International Criminal Law in Poland, and actively took part in various legal projects and professional initiatives across Europe. During this period, his work concentrated on cross-border crimes, international judicial cooperation, the use of foreign-sourced evidence in Turkish criminal proceedings, and fundamental rights / fair trial implications.

He holds a Master’s degree in Public Law and Criminal Law, and continues his academic work at the doctoral level. Importantly, his academic depth is not limited to theory; it is translated into effective defense strategies for Serious Crime Courts (Ağır Ceza Courts), investigation files, and complex criminal trials.

Fluent in English and Spanish, Attorney YILMAZ provides direct legal representation to foreign nationals and international clients without reliance on interpreters, particularly in cases involving international investigations, extradition requests, and multi-jurisdictional matters. This ensures clarity, speed, and transparency at every stage of the defense.

 

In addition, Attorney YILMAZ actively delivers Criminal Law trainings to legal professionals. Based in Istanbul, he and his highly specialized team provide top-tier legal representation and criminal defense services throughout investigation and prosecution phases, including serious crime litigation.

 

Why Us? | Strategic Criminal Defense for Your Freedom and Reputation

Criminal proceedings are among the most sensitive legal processes, capable of producing irreversible consequences. A criminal investigation, arrest, detention order, or allegation of a serious offense can threaten not only your liberty, but also your reputation, financial stability, career, and social life.

For this reason, at the decisive line between freedom and imprisonment, the quality of your criminal defense counsel—expertise, experience, and strategy—is critical.

 

1) Serious Crime Defense (Ağır Ceza) with a Proactive Strategy

Our firm handles serious criminal offenses under Turkish law with a proactive, structured, and evidence-driven approach—from the first moment of investigation to final judgment and beyond. We regard pre-statement preparation as a cornerstone of criminal defense, because even a single poorly-managed statement can create long-term legal damage.

 

2) Multilingual and International Representation (TR / EN / ES)

We remove the language barrier from your defense. With advanced professional proficiency in English and Spanish, we represent foreign clients and international cases directly, without losing accuracy or time due to translation layers.

 

3) Academic Depth + Courtroom Strength

Success in criminal law requires more than knowing the statutes. It requires understanding case-law trends, forensic/evidentiary standards, and how courts evaluate credibility and proof. We combine academic depth with strong courtroom experience to identify decisive details and build a defense that targets the outcome.

 

OUR MAIN PRACTICE AREAS (Criminal Law & Serious Crime Defense)

Our law office is highly specialized in Criminal Law and Serious Crime litigation in Istanbul and across Turkey, managing defense strategies from the earliest investigative stage to final decisions—and, when needed, to international legal remedies after domestic remedies are exhausted.

Each case is treated as more than a file: it is about the client’s freedom, reputation, professional future, and family life. Below are key offense categories where we provide focused, high-level representation:

Drug Trafficking, Drug Manufacturing, Transportation and Possession Offenses

Drug-related alegations are among the most heavily penalized offenses in Turkish Criminal Law, frequently resulting in prolonged detention and severe prison sentences. These cases often rely on surveillance, undercover operations, wiretaps, physical monitoring, and digital evidence.

Our defense focuses on the most decisive issues: the legal distinction between personal use and trafficking, the alleged substance amount/type, the chain of custody, and the legality of search/seizure and investigative measures. We carefully analyze whether the prosecution has established a clear and direct link between the client and the alleged conduct. In many serious cases, our strategies aim for release from detention, reduction of charges, acquittal, or substantial mitigation depending on the facts and the evidentiary record.

 

Criminal Organization: Establishing, Managing, or Membership Allegations

Organization-related cases are frequently subject to overly broad interpretation in practice. However, to legally establish the existence of a criminal organization, the prosecution must prove concrete elements such as hierarchical structure, continuity, coordination, and a unified criminal purpose.

We challenge unsupported “organization narratives” by demonstrating the absence of organic links, and by separating individual allegations from the legal definition of an organization. We also have strong experience with cases involving foreign-sourced digital evidence (e.g., ANOM, SkyECC, EncroChat), focusing on legality, reliability, admissibility, and fair trial implications.

 

Money Laundering, Financial Crimes and MASAK-Based Proceedings

Money laundering allegations often accompany drug, fraud, or organization cases and typically rely on MASAK reports, banking flows, crypto transactions, corporate structures, and cross-border transfers.

We do not treat MASAK reports as unquestionable proof. Instead, we evaluate them as technical assessments that must be tested against the presumption of innocence and criminal proof standards. Our approach examines legitimate sources of funds, ordinary commercial activity, documentation, and whether the alleged “criminal origin” is proven beyond reasonable doubt.

 

Aggravated Fraud, Cyber Fraud and Banking-Related Offenses

Fraud cases committed via information systems and banking tools have become one of the most common serious crime categories. These files often depend on IP data, transaction logs, alleged fake accounts, and third-party money routes.

We analyze intent, attribution, and technical reliability: whether the accused had real control, whether the evidence actually identifies the client, and whether the matter should legally be treated as a civil/commercial dispute rather than a criminal offense. Where appropriate, we pursue charge reduction, dismissal, or acquittal strategies based on evidence quality and legal classification.

 

Homicide, Attempted Homicide, Assault and Result-Aggravated Offenses

Offenses against life and bodily integrity are among the most sensitive and severely penalized areas of criminal law. In such cases, the legal outcome can turn on intent (mens rea), provocation, self-defense boundaries, and forensic evaluation.

We conduct detailed analysis of forensic reports, crime scene findings, CCTV footage, witness credibility, and the consistency of evidence. Where the proof threshold is not met, we focus on insufficiency and contradictions. Where the legal classification is disputed, we build a strategy on the correct characterization and mitigating legal doctrines.

Sexual Assault, Sexual Abuse and Sexual Harassment Cases

Sexual offense files are highly sensitive and often involve significant public pressure. However, criminal proceedings must remain anchored to presumption of innocence and concrete evidence.

Our defense approach is evidence-driven and legally precise: consistency analysis of statements, scientific/medical findings, timing, procedural legality, and proof standards are examined carefully. We ensure the case is evaluated under lawful evidentiary principles, not assumptions.

 

 

Weapons and Ammunition Offenses

Unlicensed possession/carrying, weapons trade, and ammunition-related allegations may appear alone or within organization files. These cases require close review of actual possession/control, the circumstances of seizure, and legality of search procedures.

We examine whether the alleged weapon can be legally attributed to the client, whether the client had effective control, and whether procedural violations undermine admissibility.

Migrant Smuggling and Human Trafficking

These accusations carry heavy penalties and can affect immigration status and cross-border travel. In practice, files may include misclassification—confusing humanitarian assistance with criminal conduct or conflating different legal categories.

We focus on the legal boundaries of the offense, the presence/absence of financial benefit, organizational structure, and evidence of intent, aiming to correct misclassification and protect the client’s rights.

 

Tax Evasion, Fake Invoicing and Economic Crimes

Tax and economic crime files often involve complex accounting and corporate realities. Allegations such as fake invoices and record manipulation require technical understanding and a defense grounded in commercial documentation and criminal liability boundaries.

We analyze corporate roles, management responsibility, transaction reality, and whether criminal intent is proven.

 

APPEALS & HUMAN RIGHTS LITIGATION: ISTINAF, SUPREME COURT (YARGITAY), CONSTITUTIONAL COURT & ECHR

In many serious criminal cases, the most decisive legal battle begins after the first-instance judgment. Errors in evidence evaluation, insufficient reasoning, and procedural violations can be corrected through higher courts—provided that appeals are prepared with precision, structure, and deep doctrinal support.

 

Istinaf (Regional Court of Appeal) – Full Legal and Factual Review

The Regional Court of Appeal examines the file from both factual and legal perspectives. Our istinaf work goes far beyond formal objections. We build comprehensive submissions highlighting:

 

  • contradictions in witness/statement evaluation
  • missing or unlawfully assessed evidence
  • incorrect legal qualification of the alleged act
  • procedural violations affecting fairness
  • proportionality issues in sentencing and measures

We create appeal strategies that are evidence-mapped, case-law supported, and outcome-oriented.

 

Yargıtay (Turkish Supreme Court) – High-Level Legal Review and Precedent-Based Advocacy

The Supreme Court phase requires rigorous legal argumentation and familiarity with established and evolving precedents. We prepare Supreme Court appeals by focusing on:

  • errors of law and legal qualification
  • violations of defense rights and fair trial safeguards
  • reasoning and justification deficiencies
  • unlawful evidence and admissibility issues
  • inconsistency with Supreme Court jurisprudence

Our approach is not generic: each ground of appeal is tied to the record, the governing legal doctrine, and the applicable jurisprudence.

 

Individual Application to the Turkish Constitutional Court

Where fundamental rights are violated—particularly right to liberty and security, fair trial, legality of crimes and punishment, and effective remedy—an individual application to the Constitutional Court may be required.

 

We build Constitutional Court applications with a rights-based structure, demonstrating:

  • the specific right violated
  • the concrete procedural or evidentiary failure
  • causation between the violation and the outcome
  • exhaustion of domestic remedies
  • the legal necessity of redress

 

European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) – International Human Rights Protection

After domestic remedies are exhausted, ECHR litigation may become essential in cases involving:

  • excessive or unjustified detention
  • unlawful evidence and systemic fair trial issues
  • ineffective investigations (including victims’ rights cases)
  • disproportionate restrictions and procedural unfairness

We prepare ECHR strategies through an international human rights lens, aligning arguments with Convention standards and case-law logic to seek effective remedies.

In Summary

We do not treat criminal proceedings as a single-stage event. We manage them as a multi-layered legal battle—from investigation to trial, appeal, constitutional review, and international litigation—always focused on the client’s freedom and the best achievable outcome.

Victims’ Rights and Effective Representation in Criminal Proceedings

Criminal justice is not only about suspects and defendants. The protection of the victim’s rights is a core aspect of Turkish Criminal Procedure. In practice, however, victims may be pushed into a passive position while their safety, compensation, and access to justice are overlooked.

Our firm represents victims proactively through:

  • complaint drafting and investigative requests
  • participation as “intervening party” (katılan) in trial
  • evidence collection and witness coordination
  • protection measures (including Law No. 6284)
  • compensation strategies (material and moral damages)
  • appeals and human rights-based remedies when investigations are ineffective

We also assist foreign victims in English and Spanish, ensuring clarity and strong procedural participation.

 

Investigation Stage: Detention, Judicial Control and Travel Ban (Exit Ban)

The investigation stage is often the most critical phase of criminal proceedings. Decisions taken at this time—detention, judicial control (reporting obligations, house arrest, bail), and travel bans—can immediately affect freedom, family life, and professional activity.

 

Our firm provides rapid and strategic defense actions including:

  • preparation for police/prosecutor statements
  • detention objections and release applications
  • judicial control reduction/removal motions
  • travel ban removal or temporary permission requests
  • proactive evidence collection during investigation
  • aiming for dismissal / non-prosecution decisions where appropriate

We treat early intervention as essential, because delays at the investigation stage can have lasting consequences.

 

CONCLUSION | Istanbul Criminal Defense Lawyer with Nationwide and International Reach

Led by Founding Attorney Aziz Emre YILMAZ (Criminal Law Specialist), our Istanbul-based law office provides high-level criminal defense representation not only in Istanbul but also across Turkey, and in international criminal matters involving the United States, Latin America, and Europe.

 

Criminal Defense in Istanbul and Across Turkey

We handle serious crime cases before:

  • Serious Crime Courts -High Penal Courts (Ağır Ceza Courts)
  • Criminal Courts of First Instance
  • Regional Courts of Appeal (Istinaf)
  • Turkish Supreme Court (Yargıtay)

with active practice extending to major cities such as Ankara, Bodrum, Izmir, Antalya, Bursa, Adana, Mersin, Gaziantep, Diyarbakır, Samsun, and Trabzon—reflecting a strong field-based capability, not only theoretical knowledge.

High Success Rate through Results-Focused Strategy

Our firm is focused on measurable outcomes. Depending on the file and evidence, we pursue:

  • non-prosecution / dismissal at investigation stage
  • release from detention and removal of judicial measures
  • acquittals, charge reductions, and significant sentencing mitigation
  • reversals and retrials through istinaf and Supreme Court appeals
  • constitutional and ECHR remedies for rights violations

 

This results-driven model is supported by detailed file analysis, strategic planning, and rigorous legal drafting.

 

International Criminal Cases, Extradition & Interpol-Related Proceedings

We take an active role in international criminal matters involving:

 

  • cross-border investigations
  • extradition requests and judicial cooperation
  • foreign-sourced evidence and fair trial challenges
  • Interpol-related proceedings, including Red Notice contexts
  • human rights-based defense under international standards

Our multilingual capacity (English and Spanish) allows us to communicate directly with foreign clients and coordinate efficiently with international stakeholders

 

Istanbul-Based, International-Level Criminal Law Office

Our practice is designed for complex cases: serious crime defense, international scope, multi-jurisdictional evidence, and advanced appeals. If you are seeking a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Istanbul, an International Criminal Lawyer in Turkey, or legal support for Interpol/extradition and human rights litigation, our team is prepared to act swiftly and strategically.

Contact us for professional representation in serious criminal allegations, investigation measures (detention/judicial control/travel ban), appeals, and international criminal matters.

 

 

Criminal Defense Lawyer in Istanbul: Premier Legal Representation & Litigation Services Across Turkey

 

At Attorney Aziz Emre YILMAZ & Associates, we are the definitive authority in Turkish Criminal Law. Based in Istanbul, our firm provides aggressive, evidence-based, and strategic defense for international and local clients facing investigation or prosecution under the Turkish Penal Code (TCK).

The Turkish criminal justice system is complex, strict, and fast-paced. Facing criminal charges in Turkey—whether you are an expat, a tourist, or a business executive—is a critical emergency that demands immediate, high-level legal intervention. The consequences of a conviction can include long-term imprisonment, deportation, heavy fines, and a permanent criminal record.

Our Criminal Litigation Department does not just represent you; we fight for you. From the moment of detention at a police station to the final verdict in the High Criminal Courts (Ağır Ceza), we utilize every procedural tool available in the Code of Criminal Procedure (CMK) to protect your freedom, your assets, and your reputation.

 

Why We Are the Top Choice for Criminal Defense in Turkey

 

 

1. Unmatched Expertise in Heavy Penal Courts

 

The most serious crimes in Turkey are tried in the Heavy Penal Courts (Ağır Ceza Mahkemeleri). These courts handle cases involving sentences of more than 10 years. Our team possesses deep experience in these specific courts, understanding the nuances of cross-examination, evidence presentation, and the psychology of the judge panels.

 

2. Comprehensive Crisis Management (24/7 Support)

 

Criminal investigations do not happen on a schedule. Whether you have been detained at Istanbul Airport, taken into custody during a traffic stop, or raided at your corporate office, we provide rapid legal response. We intervene immediately to prevent self-incrimination during police interrogations.

 

3. English-Speaking Criminal Attorneys

 

For foreign nationals, the language barrier is the biggest threat to a fair trial. We bridge this gap. We ensure you understand every allegation, every document, and every question asked by the prosecutor. We also handle the intersection of criminal law and immigration law, fighting Deportation Orders (Deport) that often accompany criminal charges.

 

Practice Areas: A Complete Breakdown of Turkish Criminal Law

 

We offer specialized defense strategies for every major category of crime defined in the Turkish Penal Code.

 

1. Drug and Narcotic Offenses (Uyuşturucu Suçları)

 

Turkey enforces extremely strict anti-narcotic laws. We provide rigorous defense for:

  • Drug Trafficking & Manufacturing (Madde Ticareti): Defending against charges of producing, importing, or exporting narcotics (TCK 188). These charges carry heavy prison sentences, and we focus on challenging the "intent" and the legality of the search.

  • Sale or Supply: Defense against allegations of selling or providing drugs to others.

  • Possession for Personal Use (Kullanmak İçin Bulundurma): We aim to convert potential prison sentences into probation or treatment programs (Denetimli Serbestlik), arguing that the substance was strictly for personal consumption, not trade.

 

2. Violent Crimes & Crimes Against Life

 

These cases require a forensic approach to evidence and a deep understanding of "Self-Defense" laws.

  • Intentional Homicide (Kasten Öldürme): Defense against murder charges, including premeditated murder and crimes of passion.

  • Negligent Homicide (Taksirle Öldürme): Representation in fatal traffic accidents, workplace accidents, and medical malpractice resulting in death.

  • Intentional Injury (Kasten Yaralama): Defense against assault charges, ranging from simple battery to aggravated assault with a weapon.

 

3. White-Collar & Financial Crimes

 

We represent executives, board members, and corporations in complex financial investigations.

  • Fraud & Qualified Fraud (Nitelikli Dolandırıcılık): Defense against allegations of using deceptive behaviors to gain financial advantage via banks, credit institutions, or public bodies.

  • Money Laundering (Suç Gelirlerinin Aklanması): Navigating complex MASAK investigations regarding the source of funds.

  • Embezzlement (Zimmet): Defending bank managers and public officials accused of misappropriating entrusted funds.

  • Forgery (Sahtecilik): Handling cases involving forged official documents, passports, IDs, and private contracts.

  • Bribery & Corruption (Rüşvet ve İrtikap): Representing both the alleged giver and receiver in corruption probes.

 

4. Sexual Offenses (Cinsel Suçlar)

 

These are the most sensitive cases in Turkish law, often relying heavily on victim statements. We ensure the presumption of innocence is respected.

  • Sexual Assault (Cinsel Saldırı): Defense against allegations of non-consensual acts against adults.

  • Sexual Abuse of Children (Çocuğun Cinsel İstismarı): Handling high-stakes cases involving minors with extreme diligence.

  • Sexual Harassment (Cinsel Taciz): Defense against allegations of verbal or behavioral harassment.

 

5. Cybercrimes & IT Law (Bilişim Suçları)

 

  • Unauthorized Access: Hacking or entering data systems unlawfully.

  • Credit Card Fraud: The misuse of bank or credit cards through digital systems.

  • Blocking or Destroying Data: Allegations of sabotaging IT infrastructure.

 

6. Crimes Against Liberty, Honor, and Privacy

 

  • Threat & Blackmail (Tehdit ve Şantaj): Defense against charges of coercion or threatening life/property.

  • Insult (Hakaret): Defamation cases, including insults against the President or public officials.

  • Violation of Privacy: Recording private conversations or spreading private images unlawfully.

  • Deprivation of Liberty: Unlawful detention or kidnapping charges.

 

7. Smuggling & Customs Offenses (Kaçakçılık)

 

  • Anti-Smuggling Law No. 5607: We defend clients accused of smuggling goods, alcohol, tobacco, or historical artifacts through customs borders (Airports and Borders).

 

The Criminal Procedure: How We Defend You

 

Our defense strategy is proactive, not reactive. We manage every stage of the legal process:

 

Phase 1: Investigation & Police Custody

 

The most critical phase. We attend the police station immediately to:

  • Monitor the taking of the statement.

  • Prevent unlawful interrogation techniques.

  • Gather immediate exculpatory evidence (camera footage, witness contacts).

  • Goal: To obtain a "Decision of Non-Prosecution" (Takipsizlik Kararı) before the case goes to court.

 

Phase 2: Arrest Review & Objection

 

If the prosecutor requests your arrest, we appear before the Peace Criminal Judge (Sulh Ceza Hakimliği) to argue for your release pending trial. We advocate for Judicial Control (probation/travel ban) instead of pre-trial detention.

 

Phase 3: The Trial

 

We construct a robust defense dossier. We cross-examine witnesses, challenge forensic reports, and present counter-evidence to dismantle the prosecution's narrative.

  • Goal: Acquittal (Beraat) or the minimum possible sentence with a deferral of the verdict (HAGB).

 

Phase 4: Appeals (Istinaf & Yargıtay)

 

If an unjust verdict is reached, we do not stop. We carry the case to the Regional Courts of Justice and the Court of Cassation to overturn errors in law or procedure.

 

International Criminal Law: Extradition & Interpol

 

Attorney Aziz Emre YILMAZ & Associates is also a leader in cross-border criminal matters.

  • Extradition Defense: We represent individuals facing extradition requests from foreign governments, ensuring human rights protections under Turkish and International law.

  • Interpol Red Notices: We assist in the legal process of challenging and removing Interpol Red Notices.

  • Transfer of Sentenced Persons: We facilitate the repatriation of foreign nationals convicted in Turkey to serve their sentences in their home countries.

 

Your Future Depends on Your Defense. Choose the Best.

 

When you are facing the power of the state prosecutor, you cannot afford a novice lawyer. You need a strategist. You need a fighter. You need Attorney Aziz Emre YILMAZ & Associates.

We understand that good people can find themselves in bad situations. We are here to guide you through the darkness of the legal system and bring you back to the light.

Contact us immediately for a confidential consultation. We are ready to defend your rights anywhere in Turkey.