How is a Turkish court decision translated into English?
Uğur Arı — sworn translator (Kartal 12th Notary Office) · Updated: 18 August 2026
Court decisions such as divorce, custody or recognition-and-enforcement rulings are translated into English by a sworn translator; use abroad usually needs notarization and an apostille. It is important that the ruling is translated together with its finality annotation (kesinleşme şerhi); otherwise it may be rejected.
Exceptions and special cases
A non-final decision is rejected by most institutions; obtain a copy bearing the finality annotation from the court and have that translated.
Making a foreign court decision effective in Turkey (recognition/enforcement) is a separate lawsuit; this page concerns the translation, and the destination country may ask for extra documents.
Step-by-step process
- 1Send the decision
Send a clear photo or PDF of the ruling with its finality annotation on WhatsApp. Free pre-review within 30 minutes.
- 2Written quote
Per-page translation fee and any notary fee, before payment.
- 3Sworn translation
Turkish ↔ English sworn translation, then notarization if required.
- 4Apostille and delivery
An apostille is added for use abroad; the certified document is delivered.
What does a divorce decree need to be valid abroad?
A sworn English translation of the ruling with its finality annotation, usually notarization and an apostille. Additional requirements are set by the destination institution.
Why does the finality annotation matter?
It shows the decision is final; without it, foreign institutions usually will not accept the ruling.
Requirements and acceptance are ultimately set by the receiving institution, notary office or authority; practices vary and cannot be guaranteed. This page is general information, not legal advice.