No one should give up rights because of cost. Turkish civil-procedure law guarantees legal aid (adli yardım) — fee waiver and free counsel.
Conditions
1) Financial need (income below a threshold), 2) Prospect of success, 3) Application with supporting documents (income certificate, rent, expenses).
Application
Written application to the competent court alongside the lawsuit. The court decides within 1–2 weeks. Rejection can be appealed.
What is covered
Court fees, advances for experts and witnesses, attorney fees within the statutory minimum tariff. Travel and accommodation are not covered.
Pro bono counsel
On approval, counsel is appointed by lottery through the bar association. Specialists in the subject are preferred.
Subsequent liability
If the needy party wins, the opponent pays costs. If they lose, they are exempt from paying the state.
Aid in criminal cases
The accused enjoys broader appointed-counsel rights. A constitutional right not requiring proof of need.