Our Story

From Deep Roots to Enduring Growth

The story of Durukan + Partners is rooted in tradition and expertise, much like the ancient olive trees that symbolize our approach to legal practice.

Founded in Istanbul in 2017 by former Birsel Law Offices partner Begum Durukan Ozaydın and joined the same year by Hikmet Fadillioğlu Durukan + Partners set out to deliver partner-led legal counsel meeting global standards while retaining the personal attention that earns praise such as “extremely responsive, knowledgeable, reliable, creative, and commercial” (Chambers & Partners).

Since then, the firm has guided cross-border M&A, high-value restructurings, and complex financings for global investors and Turkish market leaders alike.

1990s
A Legacy of Legal Excellence

Begüm Durukan began her journey in law at Dokuz Eylul University, in a region renowned for its olive heritage — Izmir. She began her legal career in 1996 as a trainee under the mentorship of Prof. Dr. Mahmut Birsel, whose guidance would shape her career and vision for legal excellence.

After earning her LL.M. from Georgetown University in 1998, she returned to Istanbul and built a two-decade career at Birsel Law Offices, including ten years as partner. She led major cross-border transactions in banking, finance, M&A, and corporate law  helping shape Türkiye’s legal and business landscape.

2004 - 2016
Laying the Foundation

Meanwhile, Hikmet Fadıllıoğlu joined Birsel Law Offices in 2004 as a young lawyer. With an LL.M. degree, he also built a distinguished legal career, with a focus on corporate and commercial law. 

The future partners of Durukan + Partners developed a rich legal expertise while gaining invaluable business insights across diverse legal matters. Working together, they laid the groundwork for a shared vision rooted in integrity.

2017
Cultivating a Vision

With a vision of building a partner-led legal practice delivered at global standards, Durukan + Partners was founded in Istanbul. From day one, the firm combined strategic clarity with lasting client relationships - continuing a tradition of legal excellence shaped by decades of experience.

2017 - Present
Flourishing Growth

Since its founding, Durukan + Partners has advised on major cross-border M&A deals, high-value restructurings, and complex finance projects across sectors. The firm and its qualified team of lawyers act as trusted advisors to an increasing number of global investors and prominent local market leaders.

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Vision & Values

Explore Our
Vision & Values

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Draw Strength from
Our Promise

Draw Strength from
Our Promise

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Harvest Our
Insights

Harvest Our
Insights

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