When you are exposed to violence or think you are at risk of violence, no matter who the source
of the violence is (spouse, lover, police, doctor, humanitarian aid worker, etc.). You can contact
various institutions for complaints and protection. If you are being subjected to violence, think
that you are at risk of being subjected to violence, or witness someone being subjected to
violence, you can apply using the information below.
WHERE YOU CAN TURN IF YOU ARE EXPOSED TO VIOLENCE
Application to the Police Headquarters or Gendarmerie Stations;
Under the Criminal Procedure Code (CMK), you have the right to request a lawyer. Make
your request to the police or gendarmerie. You are not obliged to give a statement without
the arrival of a lawyer. You can wait for the lawyer to come to testify and sign the minutes.
Application to Health Institutions: When exposed to violence or under such a risk, the nearest
health institution (such as health center, family medicine, emergency service of hospitals) can be
consulted. If violence has been experienced, the necessary treatment is carried out and a report
documenting the violence experienced is prepared. You can also reach us by calling 112
emergency help.
Legal Aid and Application to Bar Associations: Those who cannot afford to pay attorney fees
can request legal aid to the bar associations of their local areas. ID, residence certificate and

poverty certificate from the headman are sufficient for the application. If there is a Women’s
Counseling Center affiliated to the Bar Association , it is also possible to apply directly to these
centers. These centers also provide free legal assistance.
The Union of Turkish Bar Associations provides Arabic and Persian translation support to
lawyers. In order to avoid language problems when meeting with your lawyer, you can call
0312 292 59 59 and ask for translation support.
Application to the Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office: A person who has been subjected to
violence or is in danger of being subjected to violence may apply to the Public
Prosecutor’s Office in his / her place of residence and file a criminal complaint and
request that the necessary protection and measures be taken.