Ottoman Court Document Armenian Lawyer representing Muslim Citizen 1882 Armenia Empire

Ottoman Court Document - Bidayet Mahkemesi, Summons for Ahmed Nazif’s Case, 1882

Description:
An original Ottoman court summons document (Birinci Davetiye Varakası), issued by the Bidayet Mahkemesi (First Instance Court, precursor to today’s Court of Appeals) and dated 12 Kanun-ı Sani 1297 (24 January 1882). The document is addressed to Gürcüyan Karabet Efendi, an Armenian lawyer representing Ahmed Nazif Bey, and instructs him to appear in person at the 2nd Civil Court on the specified day and hour regarding an ongoing lawsuit.

The presence of Gürcüyan Karabet, an Armenian attorney, illustrates the integration and active participation of Armenians in the Ottoman legal and professional sphere, as Muslim Ottoman citizens frequently chose Armenian lawyers to represent them in court. This is a tangible example of the multi-ethnic coexistence and cooperation within the Ottoman Empire’s judicial and social life.

The document bears official stamps, signatures, and seals, as well as revenue stamps, adding to its authenticity and historical value.

Key Features:

• Type: Court summons (Birinci Davetiye Varakası)

• Court: Bidayet Mahkemesi (First Instance Court)

• Date: 12 Kanun-ı Sani 1297 (24 January 1882)

• Parties Involved: Plaintiff/defendant Ahmed Nazif Bey; attorney Gürcüyan Karabet Efendi (Armenian lawyer)

• Language: Ottoman Turkish

• Details: Case scheduled at the 2nd Civil Court; lawyer’s personal attendance required

• Authentication: Contains stamps, signatures, and official seals

• Significance: Rare legal document illustrating the role of Armenian professionals in Ottoman society and the interwoven lives of Muslim and Armenian citizens