Can a hand-raised pet turtle survive if it is released into the wild

I've always been told that you can't release turtles, snakes, birds etc. that have been hand-raised and kept as pets into the wild. People tell me that it's because they won't be able to feed and defend themselves. I think that it is wrong, since turtles and snakes in particular seem to be more than capable of working out how to find prey and defend themselves.

So can, say, for example, a hand-raised long-necked turtle that has been a pet for multiple years be released into the wild and have a good chance of surviving happily?

No, that is a misconception. First, it is against the law to release pet animals into the wild. Second, most pets that are released into the wild die shortly after release because they do not know where in the release area they can find food, water, and shelter. Snakes and turtles often die, or if they do not, they often carry disease that infects native wild species. It is cruel and inhumane to consider releasing any pet. Find a shelter or rescue group and do the responsible thing and give the pet to a group that will see to it that it is properly cared for.

No one should ever get a pet unless they are prepared to keep the pet for its natural lifespan. Pets are not disposable.

I had a pet turtle and after three years we released him back into the wild, ummm im not sure if he made it but I bet he did! It is in their nature to be in the wild and they love the open space they have!

It should be no problem for a turtle or snake. It would be much more of a problem for a mammal or bird.