Criminal Defense Lawyers in Thailand: A Comprehensive Guide for 2024

Criminal defense in Thailand can be a daunting process, especially for foreigners unfamiliar with the Thai legal system. Navigating this complex landscape requires a deep understanding of local laws, court procedures, and cultural nuances. At Thailand Bail, we specialize in providing expert legal representation to both Thai nationals and foreigners facing criminal charges. This article aims to shed light on the intricacies of criminal defense in Thailand and how our experienced legal team can assist you in achieving the best possible outcome.

Understanding the Thai Legal System

The Thai legal system is based on civil law, influenced by ancient Hindu and Buddhist traditions, as well as Western legal principles. The system is characterized by a formal and hierarchical structure, with the Constitutional Court at the apex, followed by the Supreme Court, the Courts of Appeal, and the Courts of First Instance. Criminal cases typically start in the Courts of First Instance, which include the Criminal Court, Provincial Courts, and District Courts.

Inside a Thai Court Room – What to Expect

If it is your first time visiting a Thai court room, you might not be sure what to expect. This article from Thailand Bail will explain some things you will encounter in the court room in Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Koh Samui, or elsewhere. The first step is to find the court that you need to be at. This might not be as easy as you might think. For example, in Bangkok there are over 10 courts. The courts in Bangkok are separated by criminal and civil matters, and then criminal matters are further separated into cases that have potential maximum penalties of up to 3 years and those that have higher maximum penalties. These two criminal courts are known as the district court and the provincial court. The provincial court handles the more serious cases. In other locations such as Phuket, there is also a separate building for the district court, not in the same location as the provincial court. In addition to the 2 types of criminal courts in Bangkok, there are many other courts in Bangkok. Below is a summary of some of the courts in Thailand:

1. Central Bankruptcy Court: This court specifically handles bankruptcy cases. It’s located in Bangkok and deals exclusively with financial insolvencies and restructurings.

We Win: Successfully Clearing a Drink Driving Case Over the Limit

Thailand Bail recently successfully cleared a drink driving case where our client was well over the legal limit of alcohol in his blood. In Thailand, there are various limits of blood-alcohol levels, including one limit over which the police are typically obligated to press criminal charges. This potentially lead to prison time as well as being deported and blacklisted from Thailand. However, Thailand Bail’s lawyers and case managers were able to successfully clear this case for our client in Nonthaburi, just north of the capital Bangkok. Read below for more information on our recent success, which is also highlighted in our “Success Story” webpage as Success Story #16.

Criminal Defense Lawyers in Thailand

Many people misunderstand what a criminal defense lawyer in Thailand can do for you if you were arrested in Thailand and are going through the courts. Thailand’s criminal law is based on the Criminal Code of Thailand as well as other laws. These include the Computer Crimes Act, the Narcotics Act, relevant anti-money laundering laws, as well as other laws in Thailand. However, an experienced criminal defense lawyer in Thailand can clearly explain all of this to you in order to help you make the right decision for your