Employment Lawyer for Employers in Istanbul: Contracts, Payroll and Dismissal

Define the scope of the engagement

Ongoing advice, a specific dismissal review, mediation representation and court proceedings are separate services. Start by identifying the company, employee groups, sites and the decisions that require review. The engagement should state the work included, reporting method, timetable and fee arrangements.

• Company and workplace details
• Workforce and contract categories
• Immediate decisions and existing disputes

Review contracts and actual practice together

A written contract is only one part of the relationship. Compare its provisions with payroll, working hours, benefits, remote-work practice and workplace policies. A discrepancy between the written rule and actual practice may be central to a future dispute.

• Contracts and amendments
• Wage, bonus and benefit arrangements
• Working-time and leave records

Prepare a dismissal file before the decision

The stated reason, evidence, relevant dates and required procedure should be reviewed together. Performance cases differ from misconduct or operational changes. Avoid producing a generic dismissal text without examining the underlying facts, applicable defence requirements and alternatives.

• Chronology and decision-makers
• Warnings, defence and evaluation records
• Payments, notice and communication plan

Mediation and litigation preparation

A settlement budget should distinguish each claim, prior payments, payroll treatment, payment dates and the agreed scope of release. In litigation, allegations should be matched to records and witnesses with direct knowledge. A continuing advisory agreement does not automatically include every lawsuit or appeal.

• Claim and evidence schedule
• Authority to negotiate and sign
• Separate scope for mediation, trial and enforcement

Related guides

Official sources

The linked statutory texts and official guidance are in Turkish. The applicable regime and rules at the relevant date must be considered for an individual case.

• Ministry of Labour — employment legislation
• Labour Courts Act No. 7036
• International Labour Force Directorate — work permits