
Turkey is planning to introduce a legal requirement for lawyer representation in certain high-value property transactions as part of the country’s proposed 12th Judicial Reform Package, Justice Minister Akın Gürlek has announced. The proposed measure would require buyers and sellers involved in property transfers above a financial threshold to be represented by a lawyer during the Title Deed process.
Speaking at an event organised by the Istanbul Bar Association No.2, Gürlek said the government is working on a range of legal reforms that aim to strengthen the role of legal representation in certain procedures.
He explained that the introduction of mandatory legal representation for property transactions exceeding a specific value is currently being prepared as part of the upcoming reform package, pending parliamentary approval.
Officials say the proposal is intended to reduce legal disputes, ensure transactions are completed with greater oversight, and provide additional protection for both buyers and sellers during the Title Deed transfer process.
The measure forms part of Turkey’s wider judicial reform strategy, which includes strengthening the role of lawyers in legal proceedings and improving access to legal safeguards within administrative and commercial processes.
According to Gürlek, introducing mandatory legal representation in certain transactions is among several reforms aimed at reinforcing the legal system and increasing trust in judicial processes. He said: “Some of these goals include introducing mandatory lawyer representation in certain procedures.”
He added that instructions have already been given to relevant departments within the Justice Ministry to prepare the necessary legal framework for inclusion in the 12th Judicial Reform Package.
If approved by parliament, the reform could introduce a new procedural requirement for certain real estate transactions across Turkey. Market observers say the measure may particularly affect higher-value property deals, including transactions involving international buyers and investment properties.
Analysts note that requiring legal representation in larger property transfers could increase transparency and strengthen investor confidence in Turkey’s real estate sector by ensuring that transactions are completed with full legal oversight.
Further details, including the specific financial threshold that would trigger the requirement, are expected to be clarified when the draft legislation is formally presented as part of the 12th Judicial Reform Package.