In this guide, we’ll break down what attorneys in Thailand do, how to choose the right one, and when you might need legal representation.
🏛️ What Does an Attorney Do in Thailand?
In Thailand, attorneys (sometimes referred to as lawyers or legal consultants) provide a wide range of legal services including:
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✅ Legal consultation and document drafting
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✅ Representation in court
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✅ Company registration and business licensing
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✅ Contract review and drafting
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✅ Immigration and visa services
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✅ Family law (marriage, divorce, custody)
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✅ Property purchase and due diligence
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✅ Criminal defense or civil litigation
🧑⚖️ Thai attorneys must be licensed by the Lawyers Council of Thailand and may also act as notaries.
🇹🇭 Do Foreigners Need a Thai Attorney?
Yes—especially when:
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Buying land or a condo
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Starting or registering a business
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Applying for work permits or long-term visas
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Going through divorce or child custody proceedings
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Dealing with criminal or civil court cases
⚠️ Foreigners cannot own land in Thailand directly, so legal advice is critical to avoid scams or legal trouble.
📄 Common Legal Services Offered
| Legal Area | Services Provided |
|---|---|
| Business & Corporate | Company registration, BOI applications |
| Immigration Law | Visa extensions, work permits, PR |
| Real Estate Law | Title searches, sales contracts, leases |
| Family Law | Prenups, divorce, child custody |
| Criminal Law | Defense representation, bail procedures |
| Wills & Inheritance | Estate planning, probate support |
💼 How to Choose a Good Attorney in Thailand
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✅ Check license – Must be registered with the Lawyers Council of Thailand
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✅ Language – Look for English-speaking attorneys (or native language support if needed)
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✅ Experience – Especially in areas like real estate, immigration, or international law
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✅ Transparent fees – Avoid vague hourly rates without written agreement
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✅ Client reviews – Look for testimonials or ask for referrals
🏢 Top Law Firms in Thailand (2025)
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Siam Legal International
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Tilleke & Gibbins
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Baker McKenzie Thailand
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Chaninat & Leeds
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Silk Legal
These firms offer English-speaking legal services and cater to expats, businesses, and international clients.
💬 Attorney vs. Notary vs. Legal Consultant
| Role | Can Represent in Court? | Common Use Cases |
|---|---|---|
| Attorney (Lawyer) | ✅ Yes | All legal matters, court, contracts |
| Notary Public | ❌ No | Certifying documents, official stamps |
| Legal Consultant | ❌ No | Advice only, document preparation |
📝 Do I Need an Attorney to Buy Property in Thailand?
Yes. While foreigners can legally own condominiums, buying property in Thailand can be risky without legal guidance. An attorney can help with:
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Title deed verification (Chanote)
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Contract review and translation
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Land Office registration
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Lease agreements or Thai company setup (if applicable)
💰 How Much Does a Thai Attorney Cost?
| Service Type | Typical Fee (THB) |
|---|---|
| Legal Consultation | 1,000 – 3,000/hour |
| Company Registration | 10,000 – 30,000+ |
| Real Estate Contract | 8,000 – 25,000 |
| Divorce Proceedings | 15,000 – 50,000+ |
| Litigation Support | 50,000 – 200,000+ |
🔍 Fees vary based on location, complexity, and attorney experience.
✅ Final Thoughts
Whether you’re an expat, investor, or Thai citizen, working with a licensed attorney in Thailand ensures your rights are protected and legal procedures are followed correctly. From business registration to family law, the right lawyer can save you time, money, and stress.
📞 Don’t wait for a legal problem to arise—consult an attorney early for peace of mind.
