Procedural Law
Civil Appeals in the TRNC: Procedure and Time Limits
Different time limits for final civil judgments, interlocutory applications and refused ex parte applications.
What is a civil appeal?
The Supreme Court acting as Court of Appeal reviews appealable decisions of lower civil courts. Section 37 of the Courts Law and the Civil Procedure Rules must be read together. Not every decision follows the same deadline or route.
General periods by type of decision
| Decision | General period | Starting point |
|---|---|---|
| Final civil judgment | 42 days | Date of judgment |
| Decision on an application in the case | 14 days | Date of decision |
| Refusal of an ex parte application | 4 days | Date of lower court refusal |
The steps
- 01Classify the decision
Distinguish a final judgment from an application or ex parte refusal.
- 02Calculate the deadline
Check the decision date, special legislation and any extension procedure.
- 03State the grounds
Identify the alleged legal or evidential error precisely.
- 04File the appeal notice
Observe the Civil Procedure Rules on filing, service, documents and costs.
- 05Follow the appeal hearing
Comply with applicable directions for oral or written submissions.
Scope, enforcement and recent change
Appeals are reviewed within the applicable grounds and statutory powers; all witnesses are not automatically reheard. An appeal does not invariably stay execution. A separate stay may be required. A January 2026 change to Order 35 permits written submissions in certain civil and family appeals.
A common mistake
These civil periods should not be transplanted into criminal or administrative proceedings. Misclassifying an application decision as a final judgment may result in missing a shorter deadline.
Sources
Relevant legislation and official sources
KKTC Mahkemeleri — hukuk istinafı süreleri9/1976 Mahkemeler YasasıKKTC Mahkemeleri — 2026 Emir 35 değişikliğiThis publication is for general information and does not constitute legal advice on a particular matter. Legislation and case law may change. Seek legal assistance promptly, especially where a court or application deadline may apply.