Bangkok is the primary commercial and legal hub of Southeast Asia, acting as a crucial magnet for global investment. The city’s legal market is fiercely competitive, combining the strength of elite international law firms (known for cross-border finance and M&A) with powerful independent Thai firms (known for deep local regulatory and IP expertise).
This list compiles the top-tier commercial law firms consistently ranked in Band 1 across core practice areas like M&A, Capital Markets, Energy, and Intellectual Property.
Top 10 Commercial Law Firms in Bangkok
| Rank (Approx.) | Firm Name | Category/Standing | Key Practice Dominance | International Linkage |
| 1 | Tilleke & Gibbins | Regional Powerhouse | Intellectual Property (IP), Corporate/M&A, and Litigation. | Strong regional network (CLMVT). |
| 2 | Baker McKenzie | Global International | M&A, Banking & Finance, and Tax. Largest global firm presence. | Massive global network. |
| 3 | A&O Shearman | UK/US Global | Elite Banking & Project Finance, and high-value Corporate/M&A. | Magic Circle/Global merger (A&O + Shearman). |
| 4 | Linklaters | UK Magic Circle | Capital Markets, Complex Finance, and high-stakes M&A. | Global Magic Circle network. |
| 5 | Weerawong, Chinnavat & Partners (Weerawong C&P) | Elite Independent Thai | Top-tier M&A, Capital Markets, and Corporate Restructuring. | Independent local leader. |
| 6 | Chandler MHM Limited (CMHM) | Established Thai-Japanese | Leading in Energy & Project Finance, M&A, and infrastructure. | Association with Mori Hamada & Matsumoto (Japan). |
| 7 | Herbert Smith Freehills (HSF) | UK/Australian Global | Leading Dispute Resolution/Litigation, and Energy & Resources. | Strong Asia-Pacific and Global Network. |
| 8 | Kudun and Partners | Fast-Growing Independent | Highly recognized for Capital Markets, Corporate, and M&A in emerging sectors. | Independent local firm. |
| 9 | DFDL (Thailand) | Regional Indochina Specialist | Strong focus on Tax Advisory, Energy, and foreign direct investment (FDI). | Deep Indochina (CLMVT) network. |
| 10 | Siam Premier International Law Office Ltd. | Reputable Local Firm | Full-service, particularly strong in Corporate, Dispute Resolution, and Banking. | Long-respected independent firm. |
๐ก Core Strengths of the Bangkok Legal Market
-
Energy and Project Finance: Thailand’s continuous investment in infrastructure, power, and renewable energy (such as solar and wind projects) makes this a dominant field. Firms like A&O Shearman, Linklaters, and Chandler MHM are routinely mandated on the largest financing and development deals.
-
Intellectual Property (IP): As a major manufacturing and creative hub, Thailand requires robust IP protection. Tilleke & Gibbins is globally renowned for its strength in IP litigation, anti-counterfeiting campaigns, and managing regional trademark/patent portfolios.
-
Cross-Border Transactions: The competition for large-scale M&A and Private Equity work is intense, involving global giants like Baker McKenzie and A&O Shearman advising multinational corporations, alongside elite local firms like Weerawong C&P handling transactions for major Thai conglomerates.
These top firms are the essential legal navigators for capital investment and commercial activity within the vibrant Thai economy.
