CRIMINAL DEFENCE

Criminal Defence & Litigation Services

Facing investigation, arrest, or prosecution in Thailand? Clear representation from the first police contact through final judgment, in Rayong, Pattaya, Chonburi and Bangkok.

Under investigation or arrested?

Contact our criminal defence lawyer immediately for legal assistance. We respond within 15–60 minutes.

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Protecting your rights in Thailand

Criminal defence involves legal representation for individuals who are under investigation, charged, or prosecuted for criminal offences in Thailand. Our expert criminal defence lawyer provides legal services for foreign and international clients at every stage of the criminal process, from police investigation to court proceedings and final judgment.

Our experienced criminal defence lawyers represent clients facing criminal allegations in Rayong, Pattaya, Chonburi, Bangkok and across Thailand. We provide clear English-language guidance throughout the whole legal process.

Right to counsel — the 48-hour rule

Under Thai law, authorities may detain an alleged offender for up to 48 hours for investigation. If further time is required, the police must obtain a court order. During this window, you're entitled to:

  • Right to information — be informed of charges and shown a valid arrest warrant
  • Right to counsel — privately consult a lawyer present at every step
  • Right to silence — remain silent or provide testimony at your discretion
  • Language support — a court-appointed or police-provided interpreter
Process

Stages of a criminal case in Thailand

Our criminal defence lawyer provides legal representation and advice at each stage to protect your rights and interests.

1

Police investigation

Legal guidance during questioning, evidence collection, and assessment of whether formal charges will be filed.

2

Arrest and bail application

Immediate legal assistance following arrest, including preparation and submission of bail applications where detention occurs. See our Bail Bond Services.

3

Public prosecutor review

Review of the case file by the public prosecutor to determine whether the matter proceeds to court.

4

Criminal court proceedings

Legal defence during court hearings, witness examination, and presentation of evidence.

5

Judgment and appeal

Legal advice on court judgments and representation in appeal proceedings where applicable.

Common criminal charges involving foreign nationals

Our expert criminal defence lawyer regularly represents foreign and international clients facing criminal charges in Thailand, including:

  • Drug-related offences
  • Assault and physical injury cases
  • Fraud and financial crime allegations
  • Theft and property-related offences
  • Traffic and DUI offences
  • Immigration-related criminal offences

Why choose Walailak Law for criminal defence?

Our expert criminal defence lawyer provides representation for foreign and international clients facing investigation, arrest, and prosecution in Rayong, Pattaya, Chonburi and Bangkok. Our expertise lies in:

1

Strategic preparation

Developing meticulous legal documentation tailored to your specific case.

2

Expert testimony

Guiding you through the nuances of testifying in Thai courts.

3

Aggressive advocacy

Representing your interests before investigating officers and judges to secure the best outcome.

Contact us for immediate assistance

If you or a loved one is being investigated, detained, or charged, contact our criminal defence lawyer immediately.

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Related services: All Legal Services Bail Bond Services
FAQ

Common criminal defence questions from foreigners

If you are arrested in Rayong, Pattaya, or Bangkok, you have the legal right to remain silent and the right to legal counsel. It is critical to contact a criminal litigation specialist at Walailak Law Firm before signing any documents or making statements to the police. We provide immediate assistance at police stations and courts to ensure your rights under the Thai Criminal Procedure Code are protected from the moment of arrest.
Yes. Bail may be requested at multiple stages of a criminal case, including during trial. The court considers the severity of the offence, flight risk, and the security offered. See our Bail Bond Services page for more detail.
Yes. Non-Thai speakers are entitled to a court-appointed or police-provided interpreter during investigation and court proceedings.