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Turkish judicial and penal system reforms

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2026-09-07 10:31 UTC → 2026-09-07 15:38 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Turkey is preparing to introduce the 13th Judicial Package to the Grand National Assembly in October, featuring significant reforms to family law and professional benefits for legal practitioners. A central component of the package is the restructuring of alimony. Following a Constitutional Court ~~decision,~~ decision to annul the provision for indefinite alimony, the government proposes replacing ~~indefinite alimony~~ it with a graduated system where payment durations are linked to the length of the marriage. ~~For instance, a three-year marriage might result in a maximum of five years~~ Under the draft, alimony duration may be calculated as half the length of ~~alimony, while a ten-year marriage could see payments~~ the marriage, though marriages lasting ~~between 12 and 15 years. A minimum threshold of five~~ only 6 months to 1 year could still entitle recipients to at least 5 years ~~is also under consideration.~~ of support. Judges will retain discretionary power to extend these periods based on factors such as age, health, professional experience, or the recipient's ability to re-enter the workforce. The regulation also explores the possibility of lump-sum alimony payments. Existing alimony payments finalized under current laws are expected to continue for at least one year after implementation. To accelerate divorce proceedings, Justice Minister Akın Gürlek announced that judges may be permitted to separate the divorce decree from secondary disputes, such as custody, alimony, and financial settlements. This measure aims to prevent couples from remaining legally married for extended periods while waiting for ancillary issues to be resolved. The package also seeks to reduce the statute of limitations for property division to five years. Furthermore, the Ministry aims to set specific targets for judicial efficiency, including completing rent determination cases within nine months and eviction cases within 1.5 years. As part of the 2025-2029 Judicial Reform Strategy, the government also announced new benefits for lawyers, including a 50% discount on firearm license fees and no fees for renewals. This strategy further aims to support young lawyers and address violence against legal professionals.

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