Haris & Associates Phuket Thailand Legal Blog

Thailand may be known to have flexible laws, but this doesn’t mean that foreigners are exempted. Just like in other countries, Thai laws are to be respected. Otherwise, you can be put behind bars. In fact, it is not that surprising to find tourists being arrested for assault, drug possession or other crimes.

Getting locked up abroad.

If you’re a tourist exploring the islands and you find yourself in sticky situation with the authorities, here is what you need to do:

1.  Do not panic. If you’re in panic, you won’t be able to think straight and do what needs to be done to resolve the issue.

2. Calm yourself and avoid saying anything. Under Thai laws, anything you say without a Thai lawyer in Phuket can and will be held against you, which could worsen the situation.

3. Inform your embassy or consulate of your ordeal. They may not necessarily be able to get you out of jail, but they can inform your family and friends back home about your situation. They can, however, advice you regarding the Thai legal procedure so you will know what to do. They will also provide you a list of local Phuket international lawyers who may be able to legally represent you in court.

4. Choose a  Thailand lawyer that speaks both English or your native language and Thai. This is important so you and your  law attorney can properly communicate while he is also able to carry on with Thai conversations with the local authorities. With an English or native speaker for a legal representative, you can be sure that your best interests will be clearly represented.

In case you don’t have a Phuket law attorney, you will be assigned one by the court. But this can be a problem because most court-appointed lawyers are usually inexperienced and non-English speakers.

1. You may be eligible for bail after you are arrested. But this is only possible for minor cases and can be paid at the police station upon arrest. For more serious cases, you can only post bail after your court appearance due to flight risk.

2. Do not refuse a drug or alcohol test. Your refusal can only be used as evidence in court and extend your penalty period.

To avoid getting into trouble with law, you have to make sure that you respect local laws, wherever you are.