The Problem
The police have just placed you in handcuffs or told you that you are being detained. Your heart is racing, you cannot think clearly, and you need to know exactly what to do right now. Every minute matters because the decisions you make in the first few hours will shape your entire case. Most foreigners panic and either say too much or fail to assert their rights, both of which can have devastating consequences.
How the Law Works in Turkey
Under Turkish law, your fundamental rights upon arrest are codified in CMK Articles 147-156. You have the right to remain silent (susma hakkı), the right to an attorney (müdafi hakkı), the right to inform a family member (yakınlarına haber verme hakkı), and the right to know the charges against you (isnadı öğrenme hakkı). Police must read you these rights upon detention under Article 147 CMK. You cannot be held for more than 24 hours without being brought before a judge for standard offenses. Any evidence obtained through torture or inhuman treatment is inadmissible under Article 148 CMK.
What the Tourist Should Do
Step 1: Stay calm and do not resist physically, as resisting arrest is a separate crime under TCK Article 265. Step 2: Say clearly "Avukat istiyorum, susma hakkımı kullanıyorum" (I want a lawyer, I am exercising my right to remain silent). Step 3: Do not sign anything in Turkish that you do not understand. Step 4: Memorize or note the name and badge number of the arresting officer if possible. Step 5: Ask the police to contact your embassy or consulate under Article 27 of the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations. Step 6: Contact LetFix or a criminal lawyer immediately.
The Risks
The number one risk is speaking to police without a lawyer. Anything you say, even casual conversation, can be recorded and used as evidence. Physical resistance, even minor pushing, adds a separate criminal charge. Signing documents you cannot read may constitute a confession or waiver of rights. Attempting to use your phone to contact people before being formally processed may lead to your phone being confiscated as evidence. Losing your composure and shouting or threatening officers can escalate your charges significantly.
LetFix Solution
LetFix provides 24/7 emergency legal assistance. Call our hotline and we will dispatch a criminal defense lawyer to your location immediately, coordinate with your embassy, and ensure your rights are protected from the very first moment.
