**Will in Turkey: Why is a Will Necessary and How is it Prepared?

A will is an important legal document that allows a person to determine how his or her assets will be distributed after his or her death. In Turkey, this process is governed by the Turkish Civil Code, which regulates the rules on the preparation, amendment and revocation of wills.

For foreign nationals who own real estate or other assets in Turkey, the will is even more important, because in the absence of a will, the division of inheritance is made according to Turkish law, which may lead to undesirable consequences.

**Why a Testament is Necessary in Turkey

A will provides for the distribution of assets according to the will of the testator. Main advantages:

• You can specify the people you want to see as heirs.

• You can clearly define the share of each heir.

• You can exclude some people from your inheritance within the limits set by law.

• You can leave your inheritance to non-relatives, third parties or charitable organizations.

• You prevent the automatic application of Turkish inheritance law.

Who Should Consider Making a Will?

**1. Foreigners with Real Estate in Turkey

Turkish inheritance law may differ from the rules in the person's home country. A will prevents disputes arising from these differences.

2. Families with Multiple Heirs

A will prevents the majority of domestic problems that may arise in inheritance sharing.

**3. Those who want to leave their assets to third parties

In the absence of a will, the inheritance passes entirely to the legal heirs.

4. Business People and Business Owners

A will ensures the orderly, uninterrupted and correct transfer of the business or company structure.

How to prepare a will in Turkey

In Turkey, a will can be prepared in three ways:

1. Written Will

It is handwritten by the heir.

2. Oral Will

It applies only in extraordinary circumstances (danger of death, war, etc.).

3. Notarized Official Testament (The Safest Method)

It is the most preferred method because:

• Taken into official record

• Greatly reduces the risk of appeal

• It is the most legally strongest type of will

Basic Stages of Preparing a Will

1. Determination of assets

2. Determination of heirs and sharing ratios

3. Drafting the will in accordance with Turkish law

4. Notarization

All of these transactions require professional legal knowledge.

**Why Should You Choose Us?

The preparation of a will is a sensitive process that requires the correct application of the details of the Turkish Civil Code.

As Tuncay & Barcin Law Office:

• The document is prepared in full compliance with Turkish law,

• Special arrangements according to your wishes,

• Protection of your assets,

• Ensuring that your rights are guaranteed

we provide.

With our many years of experience, we offer professional will services to both Turkish citizens and foreigners.

Conclusion

Putting off making a will is risky for both your estate and your family's future.

An accurate and professionally prepared will:

• Ensures fair and smooth sharing of inheritance

• Prevents family disputes

• Secures your assets

Preparedness is the strongest legal protection.