Understanding Legal Service Agreements in Turkey: A Guide for Foreign Clients
Introduction
Hiring a lawyer is an important decision, particularly when dealing with legal matters in another country. Whether you are purchasing property, establishing a company, applying for Turkish citizenship, resolving a commercial dispute or seeking advice on family law, you should clearly understand the professional relationship before legal work begins.
Many foreign clients assume that once they agree to legal fees or appoint a lawyer, the terms of the representation are automatically understood. In practice, professional legal services are commonly documented through a legal service agreement, sometimes referred to as a legal services contract, engagement agreement or retainer agreement.
A legal service agreement helps establish a clear understanding between the lawyer and the client by defining the scope of legal services, professional fees, payment arrangements, responsibilities, communication procedures and other important terms governing the professional relationship.
Far from being a formality, a carefully prepared agreement benefits both parties. It reduces misunderstandings, clarifies expectations and provides a written framework for how the legal matter will be managed from the beginning of the engagement until its conclusion.
This guide explains how legal service agreements generally work in Turkey, what they usually include, why they are important and what foreign clients should review before signing.
Quick Answer
A legal service agreement is a written contract between a lawyer (or law firm) and a client that defines the professional relationship and the legal services to be provided.
Although every agreement is different, it commonly explains:
- The legal services included
- The scope of representation
- Professional legal fees
- Payment terms
- Responsibilities of both the lawyer and the client
- Communication arrangements
- Confidentiality obligations
- Circumstances in which the agreement may end
- Additional work that may require a separate agreement or additional fees
Before signing, clients should carefully review the agreement, ask questions about any provisions they do not understand and ensure that the document accurately reflects the legal services they have requested.
At a Glance
| Clause | Why It Matters |
| Scope of Services | Defines exactly what legal work will be performed |
| Professional Fees | Explains how legal fees are calculated and paid |
| Payment Terms | Specifies when payments are due |
| Client Responsibilities | Explains what the client must provide |
| Lawyer Responsibilities | Describes the lawyer's professional obligations |
| Confidentiality | Protects sensitive legal information |
| Communication | Explains how updates and correspondence will be handled |
| Duration | Identifies when representation begins and ends |
| Termination | Explains how either party may end the relationship |
What Is a Legal Service Agreement?
A legal service agreement is a professional contract that governs the relationship between the lawyer and the client.
It explains what legal work will be performed, under what conditions, and what each party can reasonably expect from the other throughout the representation.
Rather than relying on verbal discussions or assumptions, the agreement records the essential terms of the engagement in writing.
A typical legal service agreement may address:
- the legal matter involved;
- the services to be provided;
- the limits of the representation;
- professional fees;
- payment arrangements;
- communication procedures;
- confidentiality;
- responsibilities of both parties.
By documenting these matters in advance, both the lawyer and the client have a clearer understanding of the professional relationship.
A Legal Service Agreement Is Not the Same as Legal Advice
One common misunderstanding is that signing a legal service agreement automatically determines the outcome of a legal matter.
It does not.
The agreement establishes the professional framework within which legal services will be provided. It does not guarantee:
- success in court;
- approval of a government application;
- a favourable settlement;
- a particular legal outcome.
Instead, it confirms the services the lawyer has agreed to perform while recognising that legal outcomes depend on many factors, including the facts, evidence, applicable law and decisions made by courts or government authorities.
Why Lawyers Use Legal Service Agreements
Professional legal services often involve complex responsibilities, confidential information and significant legal rights.
A written agreement helps ensure that both the lawyer and the client understand the professional relationship before legal work begins.
For the client, the agreement provides clarity regarding:
- the services included;
- expected legal fees;
- payment arrangements;
- communication procedures;
- responsibilities during the matter.
For the lawyer, the agreement helps define:
- the scope of representation;
- professional obligations;
- payment arrangements;
- confidentiality;
- procedures for handling additional work.
This written framework reduces misunderstandings and provides a clear reference if questions arise during the engagement.
Benefits for Both Parties
For Clients
A legal service agreement helps clients:
- understand what legal services are included;
- know what information and documents must be provided;
- understand how fees are calculated;
- clarify how communication will occur;
- identify any work that falls outside the agreed scope.
For Lawyers
A legal service agreement helps lawyers:
- define the professional engagement clearly;
- avoid misunderstandings regarding legal services;
- establish payment procedures;
- manage client expectations;
- document professional responsibilities.
Ultimately, the agreement supports a transparent and organised professional relationship.
Without an Agreement vs With an Agreement
| Without a Written Agreement | With a Legal Service Agreement |
| Expectations may be unclear | Scope of work is clearly defined |
| Verbal discussions may be misunderstood | Key terms are recorded in writing |
| Payment arrangements may become uncertain | Fees and payment terms are documented |
| Communication expectations may differ | Communication procedures are explained |
| Additional work may create disagreements | Scope changes can be managed clearly |
| Responsibilities may be assumed rather than agreed | Both parties understand their obligations |
When Is a Legal Service Agreement Used?
The need for a written agreement depends on the nature of the legal services being provided.
For straightforward consultations, the engagement may be limited to the consultation itself.
However, where a lawyer is expected to provide ongoing legal services or formal representation, a written legal service agreement is commonly used.
Examples include:
- Representation before Turkish courts
- Residence permit applications
- Turkish citizenship applications
- Property transactions
- Company formation
- Commercial contract drafting
- Shareholder disputes
- Debt recovery
- Family law proceedings
- Criminal defence
- Ongoing corporate legal advisory services
In these situations, documenting the engagement in writing helps establish a clear professional framework before substantive legal work begins.
What Does a Typical Legal Service Agreement Include?
Although the exact content varies depending on the legal matter and the law firm's practice, most professional legal service agreements include several common sections.
These typically address:
- Identification of the parties
- Description of the legal matter
- Scope of legal services
- Professional fees
- Payment terms
- Client responsibilities
- Lawyer responsibilities
- Confidentiality
- Communication arrangements
- Duration of the engagement
- Circumstances for termination
- Applicable law
- Signatures of the parties
Not every agreement will contain every clause, and some matters may require additional provisions depending on the complexity of the legal work.
The most important point is that the agreement accurately reflects the services both parties have agreed upon before representation begins.
Typical Agreement Structure
| Section | Purpose |
| Parties | Identifies the lawyer and the client |
| Legal Matter | Describes the legal issue being handled |
| Scope of Services | Defines the legal work included |
| Fees | Explains professional fees and payment structure |
| Expenses | Clarifies external costs and official fees |
| Client Obligations | Explains what the client must provide |
| Lawyer Obligations | Sets out the lawyer's professional role |
| Communication | Explains how updates will be provided |
| Confidentiality | Protects confidential information |
| Termination | Explains how the engagement may end |
Scope of Legal Services
One of the most important sections of any legal service agreement is the scope of legal services.
This section defines exactly what legal work the lawyer has agreed to perform and, equally importantly, what is not included.
Many misunderstandings between lawyers and clients arise because both parties assume they have the same understanding of the work to be performed. A clearly drafted scope of services helps avoid these misunderstandings by establishing clear expectations before legal work begins.
For foreign clients, this section is particularly important because legal matters often involve several stages, multiple authorities or separate legal issues that may require different legal services.
What Does the Scope of Services Define?
The scope of services usually explains:
- the legal matter being handled;
- the specific legal services included;
- the authority or court involved;
- whether representation includes negotiations;
- whether document preparation is included;
- whether applications will be submitted;
- whether court representation forms part of the engagement;
- whether appeals are included;
- whether future legal work requires a separate agreement.
The more clearly the scope is defined, the easier it becomes for both the lawyer and the client to understand what services have been agreed.
Why the Scope Matters
Two legal matters that appear similar may require completely different levels of legal work.
For example:
A client may initially request assistance with obtaining a residence permit.
Later, the same client may also require assistance with:
- a work permit;
- family residence permits;
- citizenship eligibility;
- property acquisition;
- company formation.
Although these matters may be related, they are often legally distinct and may require additional legal work beyond the original engagement.
A clearly defined scope helps determine whether additional services require:
- a revised agreement;
- an amended scope of work;
- additional professional fees;
- a separate engagement.
Examples of Scope of Services
The following examples illustrate how the scope may vary depending on the legal matter.
Property Purchase
The scope may include:
- reviewing legal documentation;
- conducting legal due diligence;
- reviewing the title deed;
- preparing legal opinions;
- attending the title deed transfer;
- advising on legal risks.
However, it may not automatically include:
- future litigation;
- tax disputes;
- citizenship applications;
- property management;
- tenancy disputes.
Residence Permit Application
The agreed scope may include:
- legal consultation;
- document review;
- preparation of the application;
- legal advice;
- communication with the relevant authority where appropriate.
It may not automatically include:
- appeals;
- litigation;
- future renewals;
- work permit applications;
- citizenship applications.
Commercial Litigation
The agreement may include:
- legal analysis;
- preparation of court submissions;
- attendance at hearings;
- communication with the client;
- negotiation where appropriate.
Additional appeals or enforcement proceedings may require separate agreements depending on the original terms.
Scope Comparison
| Clearly Defined Scope | Unclear Scope |
| Legal services specifically described | General descriptions such as "all legal work" |
| Included services identified | Uncertainty regarding responsibilities |
| Excluded work explained | Different expectations between lawyer and client |
| Future work addressed | Possible disputes regarding additional fees |
| Better project management | Greater risk of misunderstandings |
A detailed scope benefits both parties by reducing uncertainty throughout the engagement.
Legal Fees and Payment Terms
Another essential part of a legal service agreement concerns professional fees and payment arrangements.
Clients should understand not only how much legal services cost, but also how fees are calculated, when payment is due and which expenses are separate from the lawyer's professional fees.
A transparent fee structure helps prevent misunderstandings and allows clients to budget appropriately before legal work begins.
For a detailed discussion of pricing models and legal costs, please see our guide:
Lawyer Fees and Legal Costs in Turkey.
Common Fee Structures
Legal service agreements may use different fee models depending on the legal matter.
Examples include:
Fixed Fee
A single agreed fee for clearly defined legal work.
Often used for:
- company formation;
- residence permit applications;
- trademark registration;
- contract review;
- legal opinions.
Hourly Fees
The client pays according to the time spent performing legal work.
Common for:
- complex commercial advice;
- negotiations;
- international matters;
- ongoing advisory work.
Stage-Based Fees
Different stages of the legal matter have separate fees.
For example:
- initial consultation;
- document preparation;
- court proceedings;
- appeal;
- enforcement.
Retainer Agreements
Businesses or individuals with continuing legal needs may agree to ongoing legal support for a recurring monthly or annual fee.
Additional Costs
Clients should also understand which expenses are not included within the lawyer's professional fees.
These may include:
- court filing fees;
- government application fees;
- notary fees;
- certified translation;
- Apostille certification;
- expert witness fees;
- interpreter fees;
- travel expenses;
- courier services.
Professional legal fees and external expenses should normally be distinguished clearly within the agreement.
Fee Structure Comparison
| Fee Type | Best Suited For |
| Fixed Fee | Clearly defined legal matters |
| Hourly Fee | Complex advisory work |
| Stage-Based Fee | Litigation and multi-stage matters |
| Monthly Retainer | Ongoing legal support |
| Success Fee (where legally applicable) | Certain types of legal matters subject to applicable rules |
Client Responsibilities
A legal service agreement defines not only the lawyer's obligations but also the client's responsibilities.
Legal representation is most effective when both parties actively cooperate throughout the engagement.
Even the most experienced lawyer cannot provide accurate legal advice without receiving timely instructions, complete documentation and accurate information from the client.
Typical Client Responsibilities
Although each agreement differs, clients are commonly expected to:
- provide accurate information;
- disclose relevant facts;
- submit requested documents;
- respond within reasonable timeframes;
- attend meetings where required;
- notify the lawyer of important developments;
- review legal documents promptly;
- comply with agreed payment arrangements.
Why Client Cooperation Matters
Many legal procedures involve strict deadlines imposed by courts or government authorities.
Delays in providing information or documents may affect:
- procedural deadlines;
- application timelines;
- negotiations;
- court preparation;
- legal strategy.
For this reason, clients should notify their lawyer promptly whenever:
- they receive official correspondence;
- circumstances change;
- new evidence becomes available;
- another authority contacts them.
Client Responsibility Checklist
| Responsibility | ✓ |
| Provide complete information | □ |
| Submit requested documents | □ |
| Respond promptly to legal requests | □ |
| Inform the lawyer of new developments | □ |
| Review documents carefully | □ |
| Pay legal fees according to the agreement | □ |
| Keep contact information updated | □ |
Lawyer Responsibilities
Just as clients have responsibilities, lawyers also undertake important professional obligations under the legal service agreement.
These responsibilities are shaped by professional ethics, applicable legislation and the terms of the engagement.
Although no lawyer can guarantee a particular legal outcome, clients are entitled to expect professional legal services delivered with competence, diligence and integrity.
Typical Lawyer Responsibilities
A lawyer's responsibilities commonly include:
- providing legal advice within the agreed scope;
- protecting confidential information;
- acting independently;
- representing the client's lawful interests;
- preparing legal documents;
- explaining legal procedures;
- identifying significant legal risks;
- communicating important developments;
- complying with professional and ethical obligations.
What Lawyers Cannot Promise
Professional legal representation does not normally include guarantees regarding:
- court judgments;
- government approvals;
- administrative discretion;
- actions taken by opposing parties;
- future legislative changes.
Responsible lawyers explain legal risks, possible outcomes and available strategies rather than promising guaranteed success.
Lawyer Responsibilities vs Client Responsibilities
| Lawyer Responsibilities | Client Responsibilities |
| Provide professional legal advice | Provide accurate facts |
| Protect confidentiality | Submit requested documents |
| Explain legal procedures | Respond to requests promptly |
| Prepare legal documents | Review documents carefully |
| Represent lawful interests | Keep contact details updated |
| Inform the client of significant developments | Notify the lawyer of new information |
| Act professionally and independently | Follow agreed payment arrangements |
This shared cooperation forms the foundation of a productive and successful lawyer-client relationship.
Confidentiality
Confidentiality is one of the most important principles governing the relationship between a lawyer and a client.
Clients should feel comfortable discussing their legal matters openly, knowing that sensitive information will be handled professionally and in accordance with the applicable legal and ethical obligations.
A legal service agreement commonly includes confidentiality provisions to explain how information shared during the professional relationship will be treated.
For foreign clients, confidentiality is particularly important because legal matters often involve:
- Personal identification documents
- Immigration records
- Financial information
- Family disputes
- Commercial transactions
- Intellectual property
- Business strategies
- Cross-border legal issues
Clear confidentiality provisions help establish trust and encourage clients to provide complete and accurate information, allowing the lawyer to give informed legal advice.
Why Confidentiality Matters
A lawyer can only provide accurate legal advice when they understand the complete factual background.
Clients sometimes hesitate to disclose information because they believe it may weaken their legal position or because they consider certain facts embarrassing or unimportant.
However, incomplete information may prevent the lawyer from identifying legal risks or developing the most appropriate strategy.
Open communication allows lawyers to:
- assess legal risks accurately;
- anticipate possible legal challenges;
- prepare stronger legal arguments;
- identify procedural issues;
- recommend practical legal solutions.
Confidentiality therefore benefits both the client and the lawyer by supporting honest and complete communication.
Confidentiality Checklist
| Best Practice | ✓ |
| Provide complete information | □ |
| Use agreed communication channels | □ |
| Protect confidential documents | □ |
| Inform your lawyer about sensitive information | □ |
| Notify your lawyer if confidential documents have been shared incorrectly | □ |
For more information about secure communication, see:
Communicating With Your Lawyer in Turkey.
Changes to the Scope of Work
Legal matters sometimes evolve after representation has begun.
A client may initially instruct a lawyer to complete one legal task but later require additional legal services as circumstances change.
For example:
A client hires a lawyer to purchase property.
Several months later, the client also wishes to:
- apply for Turkish citizenship;
- establish a company;
- prepare commercial contracts;
- resolve a property dispute.
Although these matters are related, they often involve different legal work, additional documentation and new legal responsibilities.
For this reason, legal service agreements commonly explain how changes to the scope of work will be handled.
Examples of Scope Changes
The scope may change because:
- new legal issues arise;
- additional government applications become necessary;
- litigation begins;
- appeals become necessary;
- negotiations expand;
- additional parties become involved;
- new commercial transactions are requested.
When this occurs, the lawyer and the client may agree to:
- amend the existing agreement;
- prepare a supplementary agreement;
- agree on additional professional fees;
- define the new scope of services in writing.
Why Updating the Scope Is Important
Updating the agreement helps ensure that:
- responsibilities remain clear;
- professional fees reflect the additional work;
- communication expectations remain realistic;
- both parties understand the expanded representation.
Rather than relying on assumptions, documenting changes in writing reduces the likelihood of future misunderstandings.
Ending the Legal Service Agreement
Most legal service agreements also explain how the professional relationship may come to an end.
Ending the agreement does not necessarily indicate that a dispute exists between the lawyer and the client.
In many cases, representation simply concludes because the agreed legal work has been completed.
Common Reasons an Agreement Ends
Examples include:
- completion of the agreed legal services;
- successful conclusion of the legal matter;
- mutual agreement between the parties;
- completion of a particular stage of representation;
- replacement by a new agreement covering additional services.
Depending on the circumstances and the applicable professional rules, representation may also end if continuing the engagement is no longer appropriate.
The agreement itself often explains the procedures that apply if either party wishes to terminate the professional relationship.
Before Representation Ends
Clients should understand:
- whether any work remains outstanding;
- whether additional legal deadlines exist;
- whether original documents should be returned;
- whether any unpaid professional fees remain;
- whether future legal work will require a new agreement.
A clear conclusion to the engagement helps ensure an orderly transition and reduces uncertainty for both parties.
Legal Service Agreement vs Power of Attorney
Foreign clients frequently confuse a legal service agreement with a Power of Attorney (PoA).
Although both documents relate to legal representation, they serve entirely different purposes.
A legal service agreement defines the professional relationship between the lawyer and the client.
A Power of Attorney grants the lawyer the legal authority to act on the client's behalf before courts, government authorities, notaries or other institutions.
In many legal matters, both documents are used together.
Comparison Table
| Legal Service Agreement | Power of Attorney |
| Defines the professional relationship | Grants legal authority to act |
| Explains the scope of legal services | Specifies the legal powers granted |
| Sets out legal fees and payment terms | Does not normally regulate legal fees |
| Defines responsibilities of both parties | Authorises representation before authorities |
| Records communication arrangements | Enables legal actions within authorised powers |
| Usually signed before legal work begins | Required only where representation authority is needed |
Understanding this distinction helps foreign clients prepare the correct documentation before beginning legal representation.
For further information, see:
Power of Attorney in Turkey.
Common Clauses Explained
Although every legal service agreement is different, many contain similar contractual provisions.
Understanding these clauses helps clients feel more comfortable before signing.
Identification of the Parties
Identifies:
- the client;
- the lawyer or law firm;
- contact details;
- other relevant identifying information.
Description of the Legal Matter
Explains the legal issue forming the basis of the engagement.
Examples include:
- property purchase;
- residence permit application;
- commercial litigation;
- company formation.
Scope of Services
Defines the legal work included within the engagement.
Professional Fees
Explains:
- fee structure;
- payment schedule;
- VAT where applicable;
- external expenses.
Communication
May explain:
- preferred communication methods;
- response procedures;
- document sharing arrangements;
- contact persons.
Confidentiality
Explains how confidential information will be handled during the professional relationship.
Duration
Identifies when the agreement begins and, where appropriate, when it ends.
Termination
Explains the circumstances in which the professional relationship may conclude.
Amendments
Many agreements explain that changes should normally be confirmed in writing to avoid misunderstandings.
Applicable Law
Where appropriate, the agreement may identify the legal framework governing the contractual relationship.
Common Mistakes Before Signing
Most misunderstandings can be avoided simply by reading the agreement carefully before signing.
Clients should never feel uncomfortable asking questions about any provision they do not understand.
Assuming Everything Is Included
Clients sometimes believe that once a lawyer is retained, every future legal matter is automatically covered.
In practice, representation is generally limited to the services described in the agreement.
Focusing Only on the Fee
Professional fees are important, but they are only one part of the agreement.
Clients should also understand:
- scope of work;
- communication arrangements;
- client responsibilities;
- termination procedures.
Not Reading the Scope Carefully
A legal matter may involve several stages.
Clients should confirm whether the agreement includes:
- appeals;
- enforcement proceedings;
- negotiations;
- additional applications.
Ignoring Additional Costs
Government fees, notary charges, certified translations and other external expenses may be separate from professional legal fees.
Signing Without Asking Questions
A professional lawyer should be willing to explain the agreement before representation begins.
Clients should seek clarification whenever any provision is unclear.
Good Practice vs Risky Practice
| Good Practice | Risky Practice |
| Read the entire agreement | Sign without reading |
| Ask questions before signing | Assume verbal discussions are sufficient |
| Understand the scope | Assume every future matter is included |
| Review fee arrangements | Focus only on the total price |
| Clarify additional expenses | Ignore external costs |
| Keep a signed copy | Misplace important documents |
| Confirm communication arrangements | Assume response expectations |
Checklist Before Signing
Before signing a legal service agreement, consider the following questions.
| Question | ✓ |
| Have I read the entire agreement? | □ |
| Do I understand the scope of legal services? | □ |
| Are professional fees clearly explained? | □ |
| Do I understand which expenses are separate? | □ |
| Have communication arrangements been discussed? | □ |
| Do I understand my responsibilities? | □ |
| Have all my questions been answered? | □ |
| Have I kept a signed copy of the agreement? | □ |
Key Takeaways
- A legal service agreement defines the professional relationship between the lawyer and the client.
- It helps clarify the scope of legal services, professional fees, communication procedures and responsibilities before legal work begins.
- The agreement protects both parties by reducing misunderstandings and documenting important terms in writing.
- Clients should carefully review the agreement, particularly the scope of services, payment terms and termination provisions.
- A legal service agreement is different from a Power of Attorney, although both documents are commonly used together.
- If the legal matter changes during the engagement, the scope of work may need to be updated.
- Asking questions before signing helps establish a transparent and productive professional relationship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all lawyers in Turkey use legal service agreements?
Not always. The format and level of detail may vary depending on the lawyer, the law firm and the nature of the legal matter. However, for ongoing legal representation, commercial transactions, litigation, immigration matters, property transactions and corporate work, a written legal service agreement is generally considered good professional practice because it clearly defines the rights and responsibilities of both parties.
Is a legal service agreement legally binding?
A legal service agreement is generally intended to create a contractual relationship between the lawyer (or law firm) and the client. Like other contracts, its legal effect depends on its terms, the applicable law and the circumstances in which it was entered into.
Can I negotiate the terms of a legal service agreement?
In many situations, yes.
Before signing, clients may discuss the proposed terms with their lawyer, particularly regarding:
- the scope of legal services;
- communication arrangements;
- payment schedules;
- reporting expectations;
- timelines;
- practical working arrangements.
However, lawyers may not be able to modify provisions that are required by professional rules or applicable legislation.
What happens if I disagree with a clause?
You should discuss it with your lawyer before signing the agreement.
A professional lawyer should be willing to explain the purpose of each provision and clarify how it applies to your legal matter. Signing an agreement without understanding its contents may lead to misunderstandings later.
Does signing a legal service agreement guarantee success?
No.
A legal service agreement explains the professional relationship between the lawyer and the client. It does not guarantee:
- a successful court judgment;
- approval of an immigration application;
- a favourable settlement;
- a successful business transaction;
- any particular legal outcome.
Legal outcomes depend on the facts, available evidence, applicable law and decisions made by courts, government authorities or other parties.
Does the agreement explain exactly what my lawyer will do?
It should.
One of the main purposes of a legal service agreement is to define the scope of representation so both parties understand:
- which legal services are included;
- which services are excluded;
- what additional work may require a new agreement or additional fees.
Can the scope of work change later?
Yes.
Legal matters sometimes become more complex than originally anticipated. New legal issues may arise, appeals may become necessary or additional legal services may be requested.
Where the scope changes, the parties may amend the existing agreement or enter into a new agreement covering the additional work.
Can I terminate the agreement?
Depending on the terms of the agreement and the applicable legal and professional rules, clients may generally end the professional relationship.
However, before doing so, it is advisable to understand:
- whether important deadlines remain;
- whether legal documents should be returned;
- whether outstanding fees remain payable;
- whether another lawyer will need sufficient time to take over the matter.
Can the lawyer terminate the agreement?
In certain circumstances and subject to applicable legal and professional obligations, a lawyer may be able to end the professional relationship.
The agreement often explains how this process will be handled and what steps should be taken to protect the client's legal interests if representation ends.
Does the agreement include government fees?
Not necessarily.
Many legal service agreements distinguish between:
- professional legal fees;
- official government charges;
- court fees;
- notary fees;
- translation costs;
- expert fees;
- travel expenses;
- other third-party costs.
Clients should carefully review which costs are included and which are payable separately.
Is VAT included in the legal fees?
This depends on the terms of the agreement and the applicable tax rules.
Professional fee proposals commonly specify whether VAT is included or payable in addition to the agreed legal fees.
Can the agreement be signed electronically?
Depending on the nature of the engagement, the applicable legal requirements and the parties' arrangements, electronic execution may be possible in some situations.
However, certain legal documents or related procedures may still require original signatures or notarisation.
Can the agreement be bilingual?
Yes.
Many law firms representing international clients prepare legal service agreements in both Turkish and another language, such as English, Arabic or French, to help clients better understand the terms of the engagement.
Where bilingual agreements are used, the agreement should clearly specify which language version governs if any inconsistency arises.
Is a legal service agreement confidential?
The agreement itself often contains confidentiality provisions governing the lawyer-client relationship.
The confidentiality obligations applicable to the representation are generally separate from the commercial terms of the agreement.
What if I need additional legal services later?
If your legal matter expands beyond the agreed scope, your lawyer may recommend:
- amending the agreement;
- signing a supplementary agreement;
- agreeing on additional professional fees;
- opening a separate legal file for the new matter.
This ensures that both parties clearly understand the new scope of representation.
What if I have more than one legal matter?
Separate legal matters may require separate scopes of work.
For example, purchasing property, applying for Turkish citizenship and establishing a company may each involve different legal procedures, authorities and professional services.
Your lawyer can advise whether these matters should be covered by one agreement or by separate engagements.
Who keeps the original agreement?
Each party should retain a signed copy for their records.
Keeping a copy allows both the lawyer and the client to refer to the agreed terms whenever necessary during the representation.
Is a legal service agreement the same as a retainer agreement?
Sometimes the terms are used interchangeably, but they do not always describe the same arrangement.
A legal service agreement broadly defines the professional relationship for a particular legal matter or matters.
A retainer agreement often refers to an ongoing arrangement under which legal services are provided over a continuing period, such as monthly or annual legal support.
The terminology may vary between law firms and jurisdictions.
Can emails or later discussions change the agreement?
This depends on the wording of the agreement.
Many legal service agreements provide that significant amendments should be made or confirmed in writing to avoid misunderstandings.
If the scope of work changes during the engagement, it is generally advisable to document those changes clearly.
Should I ask questions before signing?
Absolutely.
A legal service agreement should never feel like a document that clients are expected to sign without understanding.
Professional lawyers should encourage clients to ask questions and should explain:
- the scope of legal services;
- legal fees;
- payment arrangements;
- communication procedures;
- responsibilities;
- any provisions that require clarification.
Understanding the agreement before signing helps build trust and establishes a stronger professional relationship from the outset.
Related Legal Guides
Continue exploring our Turkey Legal Knowledge Center with these related resources:
Getting Legal Help in Turkey
- How to Hire a Lawyer in Turkey
- Finding the Right Lawyer in Turkey
- Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Lawyer
- Legal Consultation in Turkey
Working With a Turkish Lawyer
- Communicating With Your Lawyer in Turkey
- How Your Legal Case Is Managed in Turkey
- Lawyer Fees & Legal Costs in Turkey
- Power of Attorney in Turkey
- Legal Documents You May Need in Turkey
Legal Processes & Documents
- Certified Translation in Turkey
- Apostille & Legalisation in Turkey
- Foreign Documents in Turkey
- Identity Verification in Turkey
Legal Notice
This guide is provided for general educational and informational purposes only. It is intended to help foreign individuals and businesses understand the purpose and typical content of legal service agreements in Turkey.
Every legal service agreement should be tailored to the specific legal matter, the agreed scope of representation and the applicable legal and professional framework. The content, structure and contractual terms of an agreement may vary depending on the nature of the engagement and should not be assumed to be identical in every case.
Before signing any legal service agreement, clients should read the document carefully, seek clarification regarding any provision they do not understand and ensure that the agreement accurately reflects the legal services requested.
Speak With Our Team
At Hukuk&Co, we believe that a clear legal service agreement is the foundation of a transparent and successful lawyer–client relationship.
Before any formal engagement begins, our multilingual legal team explains the proposed scope of work, professional fees, communication arrangements, anticipated timelines and the respective responsibilities of both the lawyer and the client. We encourage every client to ask questions and ensure they fully understand the terms of the engagement before signing.
Whether you are an individual, investor, entrepreneur or international business, we can assist you in understanding legal service agreements and provide tailored legal representation for a wide range of matters throughout Turkey.



