Search and Rescue at Sea

Legal Consultancy and Search & Rescue Process Management in Maritime Missing Person and Drowning Incidents

Incidents of missing persons and drownings at sea present highly challenging processes for both the grieving families and the public institutions managing the response. It is of critical importance that search and rescue operations in our seas are conducted in full compliance with domestic legislation as well as national and international legal standards.

As an expert who served between 2022 and 2025 at the Coast Guard Marmara and Turkish Straits Regional Command, in positions including Deputy Search and Rescue Coordination Center Commander and Director of Operations, I understand that locating missing persons at sea requires significant experience due to variables such as weather conditions, sea state, currents, and environmental factors.

Key Elements to Consider in Search and Rescue Operations:

• Conducting search and rescue efforts in accordance with domestic legislation, national regulations, and international conventions
• Organizing operations transparently, rapidly, and in a well-planned manner
• Coordinating effectively with AFAD (Disaster and Emergency Management Authority), governorates, municipalities, and other public or civil institutions
• Officially communicating operational needs to relevant authorities via formal letters and following up on requests
• Utilizing technical capabilities and resources in a timely and effective manner
• Carefully following the judicial process and submitting all notifications to the prosecutor's office without deficiencies
• Scientifically evaluating sea conditions, currents, and environmental factors to increase the probability of locating the missing person

In this field, I offer legal consultancy services regarding:

• Informing the families of missing individuals during the search and rescue process
• Monitoring whether search and rescue operations are carried out in compliance with the law
• Overseeing the judicial process
• Handling all necessary official correspondence

Why Is This Important?

In maritime missing person cases, delays or procedural failures in search and rescue activities can reduce operational effectiveness and lead to legal grievances in the subsequent judicial process. Therefore, managing each stage of the process with an experienced team and legal support not only increases the chances of locating the missing person but also plays a vital role in safeguarding the rights of their families and loved ones.

Contact for Legal Support

For correct execution of legal processes following missing person or drowning incidents at sea, you may contact us for professional legal assistance throughout the search and rescue operations.

Legal Representation and Consultancy Under Law No. 7068 on Disciplinary Procedures for Law Enforcement

Law No. 7068 on Disciplinary Procedures for Law Enforcement is the primary piece of legislation that regulates disciplinary law for personnel of the General Directorate of Security (Police), the Gendarmerie General Command, and the Coast Guard Command. This law clearly defines the disciplinary rules that law enforcement officers must adhere to while performing their duties, the types of disciplinary sanctions, the procedures for their implementation, and the available channels for appeal.

For personnel facing disciplinary sanctions that directly impact their professional careers, legal assistance is of vital importance.