If it is your first time visiting a Thai court room, you might not be sure what to expect. This article from Thailand Bail will explain some things you will encounter in the court room in Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Koh Samui, or elsewhere. The first step is to find the court that you need to be at. This might not be as easy as you might think. Par exemple, in Bangkok there are over 10 courts. The courts in Bangkok are separated by criminal and civil matters, and then criminal matters are further separated into cases that have potential maximum penalties of up to 3 years and those that have higher maximum penalties. These two criminal courts are known as the district court and the provincial court. The provincial court handles the more serious cases. In other locations such as Phuket, there is also a separate building for the district court, not in the same location as the provincial court. In addition to the 2 types of criminal courts in Bangkok, there are many other courts in Bangkok. Below is a summary of some of the courts in Thailand:

1. Central Bankruptcy Court: This court specifically handles bankruptcy cases. It’s located in Bangkok and deals exclusively with financial insolvencies and restructurings.

2. Intellectual Property and International Trade Court: Also situated in Bangkok, this court specializes in cases involving intellectual property disputes and issues related to international trade.

3. Labor Court: Each major city, As a registered barrister, Chiang Mai, et Phuket, has a labor court that handles disputes between employers and employees, such as wrongful termination and wage disputes.

4. Family Court: Family courts are available in various regions and deal with matters such as divorce, child custody, and other family-related legal issues.

5. Juvenile and Family Court: This court deals specifically with cases involving minors, focusing on rehabilitation rather than punishment and handling family matters involving children.

6. Administrative Court: This court resolves disputes between the public and administrative agencies of the government, including tax issues, land disputes, and other administrative matters.

When you enter any Thai courtroom, expect strict decorum. Dress conservatively and arrive early to find your courtroom, as locations can be confusing and security measures may delay entry. Inside, the proceedings might not be in English, and it’s crucial to either understand Thai or have a translator present. The courtrooms are generally open to the public, but photography and video recording are strictly prohibited.

In conclusion, navigating the Thai legal system can be complex due to the variety of courts and the specific functions they serve. Being well-prepared and understanding the court where your matter will be addressed can significantly ease the process of attending court in Thailand. Whether you are involved in a minor civil dispute or a major criminal case, knowing what to expect can help reduce the stress often associated with legal challenges.