Divorce is one of the most challenging periods in a couple’s life, and during this process, alimony claims play a significant role. Alimony is financial support paid for a certain period to meet the needs of a divorced spouse. However, disagreements over alimony can lead to serious legal disputes between the parties. Therefore, it is important to defend your rights when filing an alimony case in Bursa. Since alimony cases involve many legal details, proper guidance is essential.

In this article, we will provide detailed information about the important steps to consider when filing an alimony case in Bursa, your legal rights, and how the alimony process begins. We will also answer frequently asked questions regarding alimony.

What is Alimony and Who Can Claim It?

Alimony is financial support paid by one spouse to the other for a certain period to ensure their livelihood after divorce. According to the Turkish Civil Code, alimony can be requested after divorce, and under certain conditions, one spouse may be required to pay alimony immediately following the divorce. Alimony is typically given to the spouse who struggles to maintain their standard of living after the divorce.

Types of Alimony:

• Need-Based Alimony (Yoksulluk Nafakası): Paid to the spouse who falls into financial hardship after divorce. This alimony is a continuous payment starting immediately after the divorce.

• Child Support (İştirak Nafakası): Paid to support the children of the divorced spouses, covering their care, education, and other essential needs.

• Temporary Alimony (Tedbir Nafakası): Paid temporarily to the spouse during the divorce proceedings. Temporary alimony is usually granted to maintain the living standards of both parties while the divorce case is ongoing.

Steps to Pursue Your Alimony Rights

If you plan to file an alimony case in Bursa, it is important to understand the type of alimony involved and how to defend your rights. A properly managed process can make the case faster and more effective.

1. Determine the Type of Alimony
   The first step is to identify which type of alimony you are requesting—need-based, child support, or temporary alimony. This decision affects how the case proceeds and ensures it is directed to the correct court.

2. Prepare an Alimony Petition
   An alimony petition must be prepared, stating the reasons for requesting alimony, the requested amount, and the financial situation of both parties. The petition should comply with legal requirements and be submitted to the court.

3. Gather Legal Evidence
   Collecting evidence is crucial in an alimony case. Documents showing the income of the parties, previous alimony payments, and reports proving the needs of the children can significantly impact the case. Complete and accurate evidence helps streamline the legal process.

4. File with the Bursa Family Court
   Alimony cases are filed at the Family Court, which handles all matters related to divorce, alimony, and children. Once the petition is submitted, the legal proceedings begin.

5. Determine the Alimony Amount
   The court decides the alimony amount based on the financial status of the parties, the number and age of the children, and other relevant factors. The amount can be increased or decreased if requested.

6. Legal Proceedings and Court Decision
   During the alimony case, the court hears both parties, reviews necessary documents, and determines the alimony amount. If there is a disagreement over the amount or duration, the court may suggest solutions for reaching an agreement.

Possible Outcomes of an Alimony Case

• Alimony Ordered: The court may rule that alimony must be paid and set payment schedules.

• Modification of Alimony: Alimony amounts can be increased or decreased depending on changes in the parties’ financial situations.

• Temporary Alimony Decision: The court may issue a temporary alimony order to ensure neither party faces hardship during the divorce proceedings.