Knowledge centre

Changing lawyers in Türkiye: what happens to the previous power of attorney?

Giving a new lawyer a power of attorney and ending the previous lawyer’s authority are separate steps. In a pending Turkish civil case, how the change is reflected in the court file also matters. The new document alone does not answer that question.

These explanations provide general information and do not replace an assessment of individual circumstances.

The document and representation in the case

Article 81 of the Turkish Code of Civil Procedure makes the effect of dismissal or withdrawal on the court and the other party subject to notification requirements. A new power of attorney should not simply be treated as a substitute for notifying the end of the earlier authority.

Keeping track during the handover

The case reference, next hearing, documents served and dates of notifications can be kept together. This helps clarify the transition between periods of representation. Such a record does not itself determine procedural deadlines.

Short questions

Are dismissal and withdrawal the same?

Dismissal is initiated by the person granting authority; withdrawal is initiated by the representative. The law treats these situations separately. The stage of the case and notifications matter to the assessment.

Does changing lawyers restart the case?

A change of representative is different from the start of proceedings. The existing file, earlier steps and upcoming dates should be considered together. Deadlines should not be assumed to restart automatically.

Official source

Nurbanu Ömeroğlu