LEGAL MATTERS IN THAILAND
Americans traveling or living in Thailand are subject to the laws of the Kingdom of Thailand. Please bear in mind that the United States Consulate is limited by jurisdiction in the assistance it can provide to Americans arrested in Thailand. Also, the United States Government is unable to fund your legal fees or other related expenses.
While the American Citizen Services Unit cannot provide legal advice, we can provide a list of local attorneys and help you to find legal representation. We cannot, however, assume any responsibility for the caliber, competence, or professional integrity of these attorneys.
The American Citzen Services unit will do its best to protect your legitimate interests and ensure that you are not discriminated against under local law.
A Consular Officer cannot:
- release prisoners
- provide guarantees of prisoner comportment
- provide funds for bail
If you are arrested, immediately ask that a Consular Officer at the United States Embassy or Consulate be notified. If you are unsuccessful, try to have someone get in touch with us on your behalf.
Upon learning of your arrest, a United States Consular Officer will do the following:
- visit you
- provide a list of local attorneys
- inform the Department of State of your arrest
- contact family or friends in the United States or elsewhere, if requested
Consular Officers can also help you transfer money, food, and clothing from your family and friends. They will also try to get relief if you are held under inhumane or unhealthful conditions or are treated less equitably than others in the same situation.
The Consulate has compiled the following list of Thai law firms willing to assist English speakers with a wide variety of legal concerns. Most of the firms listed have English speaking attorneys on staff and in many cases, are able to conduct correspondence in English. To assist communication, at times it may be necessary for Americans to hire their own translator.
