One of the most common legal issues faced by Turkish citizens living abroad is collecting their inheritance shares in Türkiye and understanding how inheritance cases are conducted. For Turks residing in Germany, the topic of How to File an Inheritance Case from Germany to Türkiye? Attorney Guide 2025 (Wie erhebt man eine Erbschaftsklage von Deutschland in der Türkei?) carries significant importance. Since the legal systems of two different countries are involved, procedural mistakes may lead to serious loss of rights.
Is It Possible to File an Inheritance Case from Germany to Türkiye?
Yes, it is. For properties, bank accounts and other assets located in Türkiye, an inheritance case must be filed before Turkish courts. Legal procedures carried out in Germany do not directly apply in Türkiye. Therefore, working with a lawyer who is knowledgeable in both Turkish and German law is essential.
In this process, Turkius Law & Mediation & IP Services provides comprehensive legal assistance with its offices in Germany and Türkiye. With the expertise of Attorney Fatma Karakülah and her German-speaking legal team, clients are professionally represented to ensure their rights are fully protected.
Who Can File an Inheritance Case?
After the passing of the deceased, legal heirs can file a claim. These may include:
- Spouse
- Children
- Parents and siblings
- Individuals appointed as heirs through a will
How Does the Inheritance Case Proceed in Türkiye?
1️⃣ Obtaining the Certificate of Inheritance
The legal proof of being an heir must be obtained. This can be done through the civil court of peace or a notary public in Türkiye.
2️⃣ Asset Identification
All types of assets such as real estate, vehicles, and bank deposits are identified and registered.
3️⃣ Inheritance Distribution or Reduction Claims
If there is a conflict between heirs, a case may be filed for the distribution of inheritance. If the reserved portion is violated, a reduction claim may be necessary.
Are Documents Issued in Germany Valid in Türkiye?
For most documents to be valid in Türkiye, they must be apostilled and translated by a sworn translator with notarial certification. Turkius Law supports clients throughout all documentation procedures to ensure correctness.
How Are Court Decisions in Germany Enforced in Türkiye?
For a foreign court decision to be enforceable in Türkiye, a recognition and enforcement (tanıma–tenfiz) case must be filed. Without this, the decision cannot be legally applied in Türkiye.
Is It Mandatory to Work with a Lawyer?
While not obligatory in every case type, inheritance disputes are legally complex. Therefore, working with an attorney will prevent losses of rights. For cross-border inheritance issues, legal representation becomes even more crucial.
Secure and Efficient Legal Process with Turkius Law
With its offices in Istanbul, Cologne, Zurich, St. Gallen and Fribourg, Turkius Law acts as a bridge between Germany and Türkiye. Through its strong network of trusted partners in over 70 countries, it provides fast, tailored and reliable legal consultancy in inheritance law.
To protect your inheritance rights in Türkiye without delay or risk, and to ensure the legal process progresses flawlessly in 2025 under the current legislation, consulting a lawyer specialized in this field is of great importance.
If you reside in Germany and need legal support regarding inheritance matters in Türkiye, contacting Turkius Law is all you need. Our professional team will accompany you through each step and ensure your rights are safeguarded in the most effective way.