The first-instance judgment is not the end of the road. The Turkish three-tier system provides several opportunities to revise the decision.

Appeal (istinaf)

A full re-examination of fact and law. Time to appeal: two weeks from notification. Filed at first instance, which forwards it to the regional appellate court.

Cassation (temyiz)

Limited legal review — facts are not re-examined. Only: was the law applied correctly? Was there a serious procedural error?

When to appeal

Substantial error in fact or evidence; new evidence emerging; doubt over the first-instance ruling.

When to seek cassation

A legal error — wrong statute applied, wrong interpretation, lack of jurisdiction. Cassation rarely changes facts.

Time discipline

Deadlines are strict. Missing them closes the door for good. If you're abroad, the start of the clock can differ — consult counsel immediately.