In this article
Reviewed September 2026
Reconciliation is a statutory process that can resolve certain criminal cases through a voluntary agreement between the suspect or defendant and the victim. It applies only to offences listed by law and does not mean that every dispute can be settled privately to end a prosecution.
1. What is reconciliation?
A trained reconciliation officer helps the parties discuss a possible remedy, such as repayment, compensation, an apology or another lawful commitment. Participation is voluntary. The mediator does not decide guilt or force either side to agree.
2. Offences eligible for reconciliation
The Criminal Procedure Code lists offences subject to reconciliation and may include certain complaint-based offences and specified crimes. The list can change, and legal classification matters. Check the current statute and whether the facts meet the elements of an eligible offence.
3. Situations excluded from the process
The law excludes some offences, including certain serious or public offences and cases involving a victim who cannot legally participate without a representative. Related offences or special statutory rules may also prevent reconciliation. Do not assume that an offence is eligible because the parties want to settle.
4. How does the process work?
If the prosecutor or court finds the case eligible, it is referred to the reconciliation process. The parties receive information and may negotiate through the officer. Any agreement should clearly state the obligation, amount, timing and method of performance. The person should understand the document before signing.
5. Legal effect of an agreement
The procedural result depends on when the agreement is reached and whether its terms are performed. A completed agreement can lead to a non-prosecution decision before trial or dismissal during trial under the applicable rules. Failure to perform may allow proceedings to continue or create enforcement consequences, depending on the agreement and statute.
6. Possible benefits for the victim and suspect
Reconciliation may provide a faster and more practical remedy and can reduce the burden of a criminal case. It may also require the suspect to accept a concrete obligation. Each party should consider the evidence, the scope of release or waiver and the consequences of non-performance before agreeing.
7. Conclusion
Reconciliation is available only where the law permits it, and its effects depend on a valid agreement and performance. Obtain legal advice if the proposed terms affect compensation, other claims or a person’s immigration status.
Sources
Original source titles and links are retained below in Turkish.
- [1] Görüşme Talebi Open source (in Turkish)
This article is general information, not legal advice. Check the facts and current rules in each case.