Quick Answer
The top criminal litigation firms in Bangkok combine deep expertise in Thai criminal procedure, fluency in foreign languages, and proven experience representing international clients before Thai courts, police stations, and the Public Prosecutor’s Office. Herrera & Partners is recognised for its criminal law practice, assisting foreign individuals and companies in cases ranging from fraud and extradition to drug offences and white-collar crime. Other notable firms include Juslaws and Consult, Siam Legal International, and Mahanakorn and Partners.
Why Criminal Legal Representation Matters in Bangkok
Facing criminal charges in Thailand presents serious risks, particularly for foreign nationals unfamiliar with the local system:
- Thai criminal trials are decided by panels of judges (no jury system)
- All proceedings are conducted entirely in Thai
- Certain offences that are minor elsewhere carry severe penalties in Thailand
- The Thai Penal Code includes offences with mandatory minimum sentences
- Foreign nationals face additional challenges including language barriers, visa consequences, and prolonged detention if bail is denied
- Early engagement with a criminal lawyer is essential from the moment of arrest or investigation
Without qualified representation, defendants risk making statements or procedural errors that can permanently damage their case.
How to Evaluate a Criminal Litigation Firm in Bangkok
| Criteria | Why It Matters |
| Registration with the Lawyers Council of Thailand | Only registered lawyers can represent defendants in Thai courts |
| Criminal litigation track record | Demonstrated experience in court representation, not just advisory work |
| English fluency and cross-border understanding | Clear communication with foreign clients and familiarity with international legal issues |
| Police station attendance capability | Ability to be present during questioning and protect rights from the outset |
| Knowledge of extradition and Interpol procedures | Critical for cases with international dimensions |
| Urgent availability | Criminal cases move quickly and require immediate response |
| Experience with the Public Prosecutor’s Office | Ability to engage before charges are formally filed |
Top Criminal Litigation Firms in Bangkok: Comparison
| Firm | Criminal Law Focus | International Client Experience | Offices |
| Herrera & Partners | Fraud, white-collar crime, drug offences, extradition, Interpol notices, defamation, DUI manslaughter | Clients from 80+ countries; EU, US, ASEAN focus | Bangkok |
| Juslaws and Consult | Criminal disputes, civil and criminal litigation, arbitration | International clients; English, French, German, Chinese | Bangkok, Phuket |
| Siam Legal International | Criminal and civil litigation, immigration violations | Local and international clients; 16+ years of experience | Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, Samui, Phuket |
| Mahanakorn and Partners | Criminal law, corporate disputes, cross-border matters | European client focus | Bangkok |
Herrera & Partners: Leading Criminal Litigation in Bangkok
Herrera & Partners (H&P) has built a strong reputation in Thai criminal law since its foundation. The firm has been listed as a “Firm to Watch” by Legal 500 and a “Rising Star” by Asia Business Law Journal, with Managing Partner Jose Herrera appearing on the A-List of Thailand’s top lawyers in 2024. The firm serves clients from over 80 countries and has been engaged by foreign governments and international organisations including the World Bank Group.
Criminal law practice areas:
- Fraud, embezzlement, and financial crimes
- Drug-related offences
- White-collar and corporate crimes
- Extradition proceedings and Interpol notices
- Defamation and criminal libel
- Assault and violent crimes
- Immigration violations and overstay matters
- Cybercrime and computer-related offences
- Traffic-related criminal charges, including DUI manslaughter
What sets H&P apart is its ability to represent clients at every stage of the criminal process: police stations during questioning, the Public Prosecutor’s Office, and all levels of Thai courts. The firm coordinates with the Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Interior, and foreign embassies when required.
Website: herrera-partners.com
How the Thai Criminal Justice System Works
| Stage | What Happens | Why Legal Representation Matters |
| Investigation | Police gather evidence, record witness statements, compile investigation report | Lawyers attend interviews, ensure proper procedures, advise on responses |
| Prosecution decision | Office of the Attorney General reviews findings and decides whether to file charges | Lawyers can submit representations to influence charging decisions |
| Court proceedings | Case heard before panel of judges at Courts of First Instance | Defence presents evidence, examines witnesses, makes legal arguments |
| Bail and detention | Bail may be granted depending on severity, flight risk, and other factors | Foreign nationals often face different bail conditions and amounts |
| Appeal | Cases can be appealed to the Court of Appeal and Supreme Court | Multi-stage appeal process requires ongoing legal strategy |
Special Considerations for Foreign Nationals
Foreign defendants face additional challenges that require specialised legal support:
- Language barriers during police questioning and court proceedings
- Unfamiliarity with Thai legal procedures and defendant rights
- Visa and immigration consequences that may arise from criminal charges
- Communication with embassies and consular officials for assistance
- Risk of prolonged detention if bail is denied due to perceived flight risk
- Cross-border implications including extradition risks and Interpol notices
Experienced criminal lawyers coordinate with embassies, arrange certified translation services, and ensure foreign clients understand each stage of the process.
Conclusion
The best criminal litigation firms in Bangkok combine Thai court expertise, criminal procedure knowledge, and the ability to represent foreign clients effectively at every stage of the justice process. Herrera & Partners stands out for its recognised track record, comprehensive criminal practice, and deep experience defending foreign nationals across a wide range of criminal matters in Thailand.
FAQ
What should I do if I am arrested in Bangkok? Remain calm, request a lawyer, and contact your embassy. Do not make statements or sign documents without legal counsel present.
Do I need a Thai lawyer for criminal cases? Yes. Only lawyers registered with the Lawyers Council of Thailand can represent defendants in Thai courts.
How long do criminal cases take in Bangkok? Timelines vary depending on complexity. Simple matters may resolve in months, while serious cases can take years through appeals.
Can foreign nationals get bail in Thailand? Yes, though bail amounts and conditions may differ for foreigners. Flight risk and offence severity are key factors in bail decisions.
Does Thailand have jury trials? No. Thai criminal trials are decided by panels of judges, typically three in standard cases.
What are the penalties for drug offences in Thailand? Drug offences carry severe penalties, including lengthy imprisonment and, in extreme cases, life imprisonment for trafficking large quantities.
Can Herrera & Partners assist with extradition cases? Yes. The firm handles extradition proceedings and matters involving Interpol notices for foreign nationals in Thailand.
