GKC Partners (in professional association with White & Case) > Istanbul, Turkey > Firm Profile
GKC Partners (in professional association with White & Case) Offices

Büyükdere Caddesi, No: 175, Kat: 10
34394 Esentepe, Istanbul
Turkey
GKC Partners (in professional association with White & Case) > The Legal 500 Rankings
Turkey > Banking, finance and capital markets Tier 1
As the first international firm established in Turkey, the 'responsive' team at GKC Partners (in professional association with White & Case) has deep experience in the local market and is consequently able to provide a 'top-tier service' to a lender-focused client base across a plethora of domestic and cross-border financings. Team head Güniz Gökçe has strong ties with domestic and international commercial banks, as well as IFIs which she regularly advises on big-ticket new money (including to facilitate local and cross-border M&A) and restructuring mandates. 'Excellent in seeing the bottom line', Ateş Turnaoğlu is also very accomplished at handling cross-border transactions, particularly in the context of syndicated loans provided for the purpose of infrastructure and energy projects. The team also has a market-leading reputation for both issuers and underwriters within the equity and debt capital markets, where it is appreciated for its ability to provide 'a good service on both local and international law'. Derin Altan spearheads this work and 'has a very pragmatic approach that helps clients through complex transactions', including on corporate bond issuances and on IPOs.Practice head(s):
Güniz Gökçe
Other key lawyers:
Ateş Turnaoğlu; Derin Altan; Gökçe Uluç; Aybike İplikçi; Can Argon; Kaan Alkan; Ekin Çınar; Sertaç Yüksel; Şehriban Ünlü; Segenay Kerimoğlu; Efe Soysal; Hasan Karakelle; Deniz Alkan; Göktuğ Yiğiter
Testimonials
‘The team brings a good service on both local and international law, a great perspective of the past, today and the trends and a good track-record on major transactions.’
‘The responsive team provides a top-tier service.’
‘Ateş Turnaoğlu is my key contact for cross-border transactions where we need assistance in foreign jurisdictions. I also take counselling from him on Turkish law matters as well, from time to time. He is excellent in seeing the bottom line and he almost always finds a way to get to the point.’
‘Derin Altan has a very good understanding of the capital markets domain and all stakeholders involved, he is extremely competent and has a very pragmatic approach that helps client through complex transactions.’
‘Derin Altan and Kaan Alkan are well-respected by issuers and investment banks alike and provide pragmatic advice on bond issuances.’
Key clients
Bank of China Turkey
European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD)
Borusan EnBW Enerji Yatırımları ve Üretim A.Ş.
Garanti BBVA
T.C. Ziraat Bankası A.Ş. (Ziraat Bank)
Yapı ve Kredi Bankası A.Ş. (Yapı Kredi Bank)
Türkiye İş Bankası A.Ş. (İş Bank)
Türkiye Vakıflar Bankası T.A.O. (VakıfBank)
Türkiye Halk Bankası A.Ş. (Halkbank)
Ziraat Katılım Bankası A.Ş. (Ziraat ParticipationBank)
Türkiye Halk Bankası A.Ş. (Halk Bank)
International Finance Corporation (IFC)
Proparco
Green For Growth Fund Southeast Europe
Türkiye Sınai Kalkınma Bankası (TSKB)
Vestel Elektronik Sanayi ve Ticaret A.Ş.
HSBC Bank
Work highlights
Turkey > Commercial, corporate and M&A Tier 1
Combining a ‘thorough understanding of the local market dynamics with global standards’ and also able to leverage the broader resources of the association with White & Case, GKC Partners (in professional association with White & Case) is a preferred choice for clients ‘seeking sophisticated legal counsel’ on complex and high-profile domestic and cross-border M&A transactions. The team is particularly skilled at handling work within highly regulated sectors including energy and financial services, recently advising TotalEnergies Renewables on its $160m acquisition of a 50% stake in Rönesans Enerji Üretim ve Ticaret. Appreciated for his ‘calm and practical approach’, team head Emre Özşar advises core client Zurich Insurance on its Turkish-based transactional activity and on commercial and contractual matters. The ‘very skilled’ Can Tolga Tezel also has ‘significant experience and know-how’ in the corporate/M&A field and is appreciated for his ‘calmness and hands-on approach’. Dual-qualified in Turkey and the UK, Gökçen Durgut continues to advise on matters governed by English law.Practice head(s):
Emre Özşar
Other key lawyers:
Can Tolga Tezel; Aslı Gülüm; Gökçen Durgut; Emrehan Mermer; Denizhan Uslu
Testimonials
‘GKC Partners stands out in the Turkish market for its deep expertise in handling complex and high-value M&A transactions.’
‘The team’s strength lies in its ability to provide pragmatic, strategic advice on domestic and cross-border deals. Their thorough understanding of the local market dynamics combined with global standards makes them a preferred choice for clients seeking sophisticated legal counsel in M&A.’
‘Emre Ozsar knows the industry very well and puts you in an advantageous position in the negotiations with his calm and practical approach.’
‘Can Tolga Tezel is a very skilled legal advisor with significant experience and know-how in the field of M&A/corporate advice in various sectors and a very quick mindset. His calmness and hands-on approach make us feel we are in good hands.’
‘Gokçen Durgut is an outstanding M&A lawyer whose expertise and strategic approach have been invaluable on numerous transactions we have worked on together. With her dual qualifications in law and economics, Gökçen brings a unique perspective that sets her apart, particularly in understanding the financial intricacies of deals.’
‘Gokçen Durut’s blend of legal acumen, commercial insight, and leadership skills makes her one of the most impressive M&A lawyers in the market.’
Key clients
Aksa Enerji Üretim A.Ş.
Zurich Insurance Company Limited
Fingen S.p.A.
TotalEnergies Renewables
Rönesans Holding
Ghitha Aeroinvest Holding
İş Enerji Yatırımları A.Ş.
Erikli Su ve Meşrubat Sanayi ve Ticaret A.Ş.
Greenbrier-Astra Rail B.V.
Work highlights
Turkey > Foreign firms Tier 1
GKC Partners (in professional association with White & Case) is recognised for its decades of activity in Turkey and strong reputation in M&A, banking and finance, disputes, and tax law. Representing lenders, borrowers, and alternative capital providers across various sectors and projects, the banking and project finance team is a particularly important source of work for the firm. The M&A client portfolio includes financial institutions, private equity and infrastructure companies, and wealth funds across a broad range of critical sectors. English-qualified Sebastian Buss continues to lead finance mandates for both international and Turkish clients.Practice head(s):
Sebastian Buss
Key clients
IFC
EBRD
Eczacıbaşı Group
Fernas Otoyol İşletmesi A.Ş.
SASA Polyester Sanayi A.Ş.
Work highlights
Turkey > Restructuring and insolvency Tier 1
GKC Partners (in professional association with White & Case) ‘stands out in a highly competitive field due to its distinctive blend of expertise, innovative approaches, and client-centric solutions’. The practice is led by restructuring specialist Güniz Gökçe and finance partner Ateş Turnaoğlu, who is frequently involved in multi-layered syndicated restructuring or debt re-profiling transactions. Both represented lenders in the $330m financial restructuring of a major company in the confectionery industry. The practice, which predominantly acts for banks, is known for its ‘responsiveness and proactive approach, adapting seamlessly to changing circumstances’.Practice head(s):
Güniz Gökçe; Ateş Turnaoğlu
Testimonials
‘GKC Partners’ practice offers legal services including regulatory compliance and financial restructuring, and provides tailor-made solutions aligning with clients’ specific business objectives. Their collaborative and client-centred approach ensures that all aspects of a client’s legal needs are covered. They are keen on pursuing the best interest of their clients and committed to building long-term relationships.’
‘Each team member brings a unique blend of qualifications that set them apart from their competitors. Their professionals are distinguished by their resilience in the face of challenges, their ability to devise creative, tailor-made solutions, and their unwavering commitment to quality—even in the smallest details. They are known for their responsiveness and proactive approach, adapting seamlessly to changing circumstances. The team operates with a deep-seated adherence to strong ethical values, ensuring that every action is grounded in integrity. Collaboration is at the heart of our practice, with each individual working harmoniously to achieve the best outcomes for our clients. High sensitivity to deadlines and a dedication to meeting client needs reflect their commitment to excellence in every aspect of their work.’
Key clients
T.C. Ziraat Bankası A.Ş. (Ziraat Bank)
VakıfBank
Yapı Kredi Bank
Halkbank
Ziraat Katılım Bank
Garanti BBVA
İşbank
Turkey > Project finance/projects Tier 2
GKC Partners (in professional association with White & Case) is frequently involved in high-profile projects in the energy, transport and infrastructure sectors, assisting IFIs, ECAs, Islamic financiers and commercial banks. Ateş Turnaoğlu ‘stands out for his strategic vision and leadership’. He co-leads the projects group with Güniz Gökçe, who frequently assists arrangers, lenders and multilateral financial institutions with complex infrastructure financing projects. Kaan Alkan ‘brings a level of technical expertise and precision that is truly impressive’.Practice head(s):
Güniz Gökçe; Ateş Turnaoğlu
Other key lawyers:
Kaan Alkan; Efe Soysal
Testimonials
‘GKC Partners has a prominent deal track record in their project finance practice. Their local market knowledge and extensive transaction experience help the clients to quickly resolve key legal matters and negotiation topics.’
‘Their clear and concise communications, commitment to deliverables, and multi-dimensional thinking and argumentation skills contribute to the client’s decision-making process.’
‘What truly sets this legal firm apart is their constant availability and hands-on approach. From the very start, they’ve been incredibly responsive, always ready to address our questions or concerns, no matter how complex or urgent. This level of accessibility has made a significant difference in our ability to move forward with confidence.’
‘In comparison to other firms we’ve worked with, their ability to combine accessibility with hands-on expertise has been unmatched. They are not just a service provider—they become an essential part of your team, ensuring you are supported every step of the way.’
‘The individuals we’ve worked with — Ateş Turnaoğlu, Kaan Alkan, and Efe Soysal — have consistently delivered exceptional service, and what sets them apart is their deep expertise combined with a uniquely personal, hands-on approach. Ateş Turnaoğlu stands out for his strategic vision and leadership. His ability to see the bigger picture while staying attentive to every detail has been invaluable. Ateş is not only highly knowledgeable but also incredibly responsive. Whether it’s a critical issue or a routine inquiry, he is always available to provide guidance, making us feel supported and confident. Ateş’s ability to simplify even the most complicated issues and communicate them effectively has been crucial to our decision-making process. He’s a partner in every sense of the word.’
‘Kaan Alkan brings a level of technical expertise and precision that is truly impressive. He excels in navigating complex legal matters with a clear, focused approach. What we’ve particularly valued about Kaan is his commitment to thoroughly understanding our needs and tailoring solutions that align with our business objectives. Efe Soysal’s collaborative nature and dedication to client success make him a pleasure to work with. Efe’s ability to simplify the issues and communicate them effectively has been crucial to me.’
‘Collectively, they are different. because they don’t just provide legal services—they offer a partnership built on trust, availability, and hands-on involvement. Their qualities of responsiveness, expertise, and commitment to client success have been invaluable, and they have truly gone above and beyond in every aspect of their work.’
‘The team is very diligent in every aspect of the matter. Not only do they provide legal advice but they also draw a pathway for the project so that the client would feel confident and in good hands. They are also very innovative and solution-oriented.’
Key clients
Fernas Otoyol İşletmesi A.Ş. / Fernas İnşaat A.Ş.
SASA Polyester Sanayi A.Ş. (SASA Polyester)
ICBC Turkey
Akbank T.A.Ş.
T.C. Ziraat Bankası A.Ş.
Deutsche Bank A.Ş.
Turkey > Energy Tier 3
GKC Partners (in professional association with White & Case) is renowned for its project financing expertise, particularly in the renewable energy sector. The team regularly advises lenders, IFIs, sponsors, and project developers on significant renewable energy mandates, with a strong regulatory understanding that is essential for clients’ energy transition projects. Güniz Gökçe is highly sought after by Turkish and international financial institutions for project finance matters. Ateş Turnaoğlu plays a key role in negotiations and regulatory communications related to project financing transactions.Practice head(s):
Güniz Gökçe; Ateş Turnaoğlu
Other key lawyers:
Aybike İplikçi; Baran Abur; Can Argon; Kaan Alkan; Ekin Çınar; Sertaç Yüksel; SegenayKerimoğlu; Efe Soysal; Hasan Karakelle; Deniz Alkan; Göktuğ Yiğiter
Testimonials
‘GKC Partners financing practice stands out for its deep industry expertise, client-focused approach, and commitment to innovation.’
‘Ateş Turnaoğlu is one financing partner who truly stands out. Known for strategic insight and extensive industry knowledge, Ateş brings an expertise that sets him apart in a competitive landscape.’
‘What differentiates Ateş from competitors is his unique blend of technical acumen and commercial pragmatism.’
‘We can confidently say that GKC provides high-quality, reliable service. They are flexible and stand out with their bespoke services.’
‘With his extensive legal and financial knowledge, Ateş Turnaoğlu has supported us in project finance negotiations.’
‘Ateş Turnaoğlu’s comments and insights in a recently regulated area (establishing and financing self-consumption-based power plants) were extremely helpful.’
‘GKC Partners are valuable professionals in their field, adept at identifying relevant legal issues and applying principles to specific facts to construct coherent arguments.’
‘Their problem-solving skills, including evaluating risks and devising strategies to overcome obstacles in legal practice, as well as their communication skills and accessibility, distinguish them from their competitors.’
Key clients
Societe De Promotion Et De Participation Pour LaCooperation Economique S.A
EBRD NoGaranti BBVA
Türkiye İş Bankası A.Ş.
Türkiye Vakıflar Bankası
Yapı ve Kredi Bankası A.Ş.
Türkiye Sınai Kalkınma Bankası
Work highlights
Turkey > Dispute resolution
GKC Partners (in professional association with White & Case) > Firm Profile
GKC PARTNERS is a full-service law firm established in Istanbul, Turkey.
White & Case works with GKC Partners in professional association on matters of Turkish law.
For further information please visit gkcpartners.com
Lawyer Profiles
Photo | Name | Position | Profile |
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Baran Abur | Senior Associate | View Profile |
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Mr Kaan Alkan | View Profile | |
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Derin Altan | Counsel | View Profile |
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Ahmet Bağcı | Local Partner | View Profile |
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Sebastian Buss | Partner | View Profile |
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Gökçen Durgut | Senior Associate | View Profile |
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Güniz Gökçe | Association Partner | View Profile |
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Aslı Gülüm | Counsel | View Profile |
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Emre Özşar | Partner | View Profile |
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Can Tolga Tezel | Local Partner | View Profile |
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Ateş Turnaoğlu | Partner | View Profile |
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Gökçe Uluç | Local Partner | View Profile |
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