Is Adultery Illegal in Turkey?
- Özgür Kurucuk
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
Adultery is one of the most discussed legal and social issues in Turkey. Many people, especially foreigners and expats, often ask: “Is adultery illegal in Turkey?” The short answer is no, adultery is no longer a criminal offense in Turkey. However, it still has serious consequences in family law, particularly in divorce cases. In this article, prepared by Kurucuk and Associates, a leading Law Firm in Istanbul, Turkey, we will explain the history, current status, and legal consequences of adultery under Turkish law.
Adultery Law in Turkey – Quick Overview
Is Adultery Illegal in Turkey?
No. Adultery was decriminalized in Turkey after reforms in the Turkish Penal Code (TPC).
Turkish Penal Code and Adultery
The old Turkish Penal Code Article 123 criminalized adultery, but it was repealed in the early 2000s, largely due to Turkey’s EU membership process and modernization of Turkish law.
Adultery in Turkish Civil Code
Although adultery is no longer a criminal offense, it remains a legal ground for divorce under the Turkish Civil Code.
Historical Background of Adultery Laws in Turkey
History of Adultery Laws in Turkey
The criminalization of adultery, or zina laws in Turkey, existed in older versions of the Turkish Penal Code.
When Did Turkey Decriminalize Adultery?
Adultery was decriminalized in 1996 for men and later for women as well, following reforms led by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s vision of modernization and Turkey’s EU candidacy requirements.
Repeal of Adultery Law Turkey
The repeal of adultery law in Turkey was connected to political debates and EU pressure for gender equality and human rights.
Legal Consequences of Adultery in Turkey
Adultery as Grounds for Divorce in Turkey
Under the Turkish Civil Code, adultery (zina) is one of the strongest grounds for divorce.
Adultery and Divorce Laws in Turkey
If a spouse can prove adultery, Turkish courts may:
Grant divorce based on adultery
Award compensation to the innocent spouse
Consider adultery in child custody cases
Legal Consequences of Cheating on Your Spouse in Turkey
While you cannot be sent to jail, cheating in Turkey can cost you your marriage, property division, alimony, and custody rights.
Infidelity and Family Law in Turkey
Family law in Turkey treats adultery seriously, even though it is not part of the criminal code anymore.
Social and Cultural Perspectives
Social Views on Adultery in Turkey
Adultery is still considered a moral crime in Turkish society, especially in conservative regions.
Islamic Law and Turkish Secular Law
Although Islamic law (zina laws) still prohibit adultery, Turkey’s secular legal system no longer criminalizes it.
Women’s Rights and Adultery in Turkey
The debate around adultery laws was strongly tied to women’s rights in Turkey. Many argued that the old laws unfairly targeted women.
Practical Legal Questions People Ask
What Is the Punishment for Adultery in Turkey?
There is no criminal punishment, but in divorce cases, the guilty spouse may lose financially.
Does Turkey Have Laws Against Extramarital Affairs?
Yes, but only within family law, not criminal law.
Is Infidelity a Crime in Turkish Law?
No. Infidelity in Turkey is not a crime, but it is recognized by Turkish courts as valid divorce grounds.
Zina Laws Turkey – What Do They Mean Today?
The term “zina” is still used in legal and social discussions, but only in relation to divorce cases, not criminal charges.
Local Intent & Legal Assistance
Lawyer for Adultery Case Turkey
If you are dealing with an adultery-related divorce case in Turkey, you need an experienced family lawyer.
Istanbul Infidelity Lawyer
At Kurucuk and Associates, a top Law Firm in Istanbul, our lawyers in Turkey provide professional legal guidance in adultery and divorce cases.
Why Choose Kurucuk and Associates?
Experienced divorce and family law lawyers in Turkey
Deep knowledge of Turkish Civil Code adultery provisions
Offices in Istanbul, Turkey with international client support
Get Expert Legal Help in Adultery & Divorce Cases in Turkey
If you are facing issues related to adultery, infidelity, or divorce in Turkey, don’t navigate the complexities of the Turkish Civil Code alone. The experienced team at Kurucuk and Associates, a trusted Law Firm in Istanbul, is here to protect your rights. Contact our lawyers in Turkey today for professional guidance and effective legal representation.
