On September 3, 2025, Wongsakorn Law Office had the honor of having Ms. Muttamas Siri, Managing Director of the company, represent Mr. Supasit Siri, Managing Director, in presenting certificates to the internship trainees from the Lawyers Council of Thailand under the Royal Patronage for the year 2025.
This certificate presentation marks another proud moment for our firm, as we continue to contribute to the development of young talents and legal professionals. Through practical training, the interns gained both professional knowledge and hands-on experience in legal work, which form the foundation for becoming high-quality lawyers in the future.
This year, Wongsakorn Law Office was delighted to host three interns from the Lawyers Council of Thailand: Ms. Poorichaya Choorusamee , Ms. Sirichom Sangsri , and Ms. Surattikan Saenkaeo. Throughout their training, they demonstrated true dedication, perseverance, and a strong commitment to developing themselves continuously in the legal profession.
The completion of this internship represents a significant milestone for each participant. Wongsakorn Law Office sincerely congratulates them and wishes all continued success in their professional journey, with the hope that the knowledge and experience gained here will be carried forward into their future careers and personal lives.
Finally, Wongsakorn Law Office reaffirms its commitment to supporting the growth of new generations in the legal field, with the firm belief that cooperation with the Lawyers Council of Thailand will continue to play an essential role in producing quality lawyers for Thai society.
Working abroad is a dream for many Thais, not only because of the higher income but also for the chance to gain new life and work experiences beyond Thailand. However, living overseas comes with unpredictable risks, especially if you get “arrested” by foreign police. This could happen due to misunderstandings, unintentional violations of local laws, or even being falsely accused. The key question is: in such situations, is it necessary to have a Thai lawyer who can handle cases across borders?
Differences Between Thai and Foreign Laws
Each country’s legal system is different from trial procedures, detention periods, to the rights of detainees. For example, some countries allow detainees to immediately contact their family and embassy, while others may temporarily restrict such rights. Without a clear understanding of local law, Thai workers abroad may find themselves at a legal disadvantage. Therefore, if arrested, having legal counsel familiar with both Thai and foreign law provides more comprehensive defense strategies.
The Role of the Embassy and Consulate
When a Thai national is arrested abroad, the Thai Embassy or Consulate is the first to intervene. They provide initial support such as contacting family members, helping find local lawyers, and ensuring that detainees receive basic legal rights under local law. However, the embassy cannot represent you in court. This is why having a Thai lawyer who speaks your language, communicates with your family, and coordinates with local lawyers is crucial.
Why Thai Lawyers Handling International Cases Are Essential
1.Cultural & Language Understanding – Communication is key. Misunderstandings can occur if relying only on local lawyers. A Thai lawyer fluent in both languages ensures accurate communication.
2.Liaison with Family in Thailand – Families back home are often anxious. A Thai lawyer experienced in foreign law keeps them informed with accurate updates.
3.Reduced Legal Disadvantage – Local lawyers may not understand the Thai worker’s context. A Thai lawyer provides additional legal protection.
4.Linking Thai & Foreign Law – Some cases involve evidence, witnesses, or background checks in Thailand. Thai lawyers play a vital role in bridging both systems.
Common Scenarios for Thai Workers Abroad
Arrested for working beyond visa limits or without proper permits.
Arrested on drug charges, where even minor possession can mean severe penalties, including death sentences in some countries.
Arrested for fights or violence, sometimes from self-defense but still prosecuted.
Arrested from misunderstandings or false accusations, especially when language barriers exist.
Steps to Take When Arrested Abroad
1.Request to see the Thai embassy staff immediately.
2.Exercise your right to legal representation.
3.Inform your family in Thailand to find a Thai lawyer specializing in international cases.
4.Keep all documents and evidence (arrest warrant, police records, work permits) for review by both Thai and local lawyers.
Advice for Thai Migrant Workers
Learn the basic laws of the destination country.
Always keep embassy and consulate contact numbers.
Never sign confessions without consulting a lawyer.
Plan ahead by having access to a Thai lawyer who can assist if arrested.
A Lawyer Is Your First Line of Defense
Unexpected arrests can happen to any Thai worker abroad. While embassies and local lawyers provide basic support, having a Thai lawyer who can handle international cases makes your legal defense more effective. They act as a bridge between Thai and local laws, while ensuring your family in Thailand stays informed.
If you or a loved one face legal prosecution abroad, being prepared with the right legal assistance is essential. Click >>Contact Us<< for professional consultation with our lawyers.
Nowadays,facial surgery or cosmetic procedures have become increasingly popular whether it’s rhinoplasty, eyelid surgery, chin augmentation, or overall facial contouring to boost confidence. Many aesthetic clinics compete by advertising beautiful before–after photos or making promises of guaranteed results. This often leads consumers to believe that the outcome will be just as advertised. Unfortunately, many patients end up disappointed, facing issues where the results of facial surgery do not meet expectations. Some even suffer permanent scars, infections, or facial disfigurement that severely affect their confidence and daily life.
Problems Caused by Failed Facial Surgery
When facial surgery does not deliver the expected results, various damages may occur:
Psychological damages – Many patients lose self-confidence, avoid social interactions, and some develop depression.
Economic damages – Expenses for corrective treatment, or loss of work opportunities.
These damages are significant and should not be overlooked. Consumers have the legal right to claim compensation from the clinic or surgeon.
Consumer Protection Laws
If your facial surgery results are not as advertised, you may rely on the following laws:
1.Consumer Protection Act B.E. 2522 (1979) If the clinic’s advertisements were exaggerated, misleading, or concealed material facts, it constitutes a violation. Victims may file a complaint with the Office of Consumer Protection Board (OCPB).
2.Civil and Commercial Code If a doctor or clinic caused harm during facial surgery, victims may claim damages under Section 420 (tort), including corrective medical costs, loss of future earnings, and compensation for emotional distress.
3.Private Hospital Act & Medical Ethics If a clinic failed to meet medical standards or a doctor breached ethical conduct, victims may lodge a complaint with the Medical Council of Thailand or the Ministry of Public Health.
Collecting Evidence for Compensation
If your facial surgery went wrong, gathering proper evidence is crucial:
Receipts and contracts from the surgery
Before-and-after photos
Advertisements or reviews used in making the decision
Medical certificates for subsequent treatment
Chat records or communications with the clinic/doctors
This evidence will support your case and can be used in lawsuits or settlement negotiations.
Steps to Claim Compensation
1.Contact the clinic or doctor directly – Inform them of the problem and request a remedy or compensation.
2.File complaints with relevant authorities – Such as OCPB or the Medical Council.
3.Take legal action in court – If negotiation fails, consulting a lawyer to file a lawsuit may be necessary.
Types of Compensation You May Claim
Victims of failed facial surgery may claim for:
Medical expenses (current and future)
Compensation for disfigurement
Loss of job opportunities
Loss of daily benefits or ability to function normally
Emotional damages
The court will consider the severity of harm, responsibility of the clinic or surgeon, and strength of the evidence.
What To Do When Cosmetic Surgery Doesn’t Meet Expectations?
Collect all evidence: receipts, brochures, before–after photos, and medical reports.
Request a medical certificate confirming the damages.
Negotiate with the clinic (sometimes they may agree to cover corrective costs).
File complaints with OCPB or the Department of Health Service Support.
Consult a lawyer for legal proceedings if negotiations fail.
Why Consult a Lawyer?
Many victims hesitate to pursue legal action due to embarrassment or fear of complications. However, delays may lead to loss of legal rights (statute of limitations). Having alawyerspecializing in consumer and medical cases ensures proper evidence gathering, effective negotiation, and stronger chances of fair compensation.
If you have suffered damages from facial surgery, consult a lawyer immediately to claim compensation.
Undergoing facial surgery is not a trivial matter, as any mistake can lead to long-term physical and psychological problems. If you or someone close to you has experienced cosmetic surgery that went wrong or did not match what was advertised, do not bear this suffering alone you have the legal right to seek justice.
If you are unsure how to begin, having a lawyer to guide you will ensure that your claim is handled correctly, efficiently, and with a higher chance of fair compensation.
A failed facial procedure should not be seen as mere misfortune, but as the starting point for reclaiming the rights you truly deserve. 👉 Click >>Contact Us<< to consult a lawyer.
In today’s digital era, company emails often contain critical business information and are considered valuable corporate assets. A common issue arises when employees resign and delete company emails or files, whether client data, partner communications, or important project documents. Such actions can cause employers significant business losses.
This leads to two key questions: “Is this action illegal?” and “What legal remedies are available to employers?”
Which Laws Are Involved in Deleting Company Emails?
1.Labor Law If an employee deletes company data while still employed, it may constitute serious misconduct under the Labor Protection Act B.E. 2541 (1998), Section 119, which allows an employer to terminate the employee without severance pay if the act was intended to cause severe harm to the employer. However, if the deletion occurs after the employee has resigned, it is no longer considered a violation under labor law, as the employment relationship has ended.
2.Civil and Commercial Code If deleting company data results in damages, such as the loss of a customer contract, it may be deemed a tort under Section 420 of the Civil and Commercial Code, which requires the wrongdoer to compensate the injured party.
3.Criminal Law and the Computer Crime Act If a former employee unlawfully accesses the company’s email system and deletes data, it may constitute an offense under the Computer Crime Act B.E. 2560 (2017), Section 9, punishable by up to 5 years’ imprisonment, a fine not exceeding 100,000 THB, or both.
Case Studies and Court Decisions
1.Central Labor Court Judgment In one case, an employee deleted sales records and client lists before resigning. The Labor Court ruled that this caused serious damage to the employer, allowing termination without severance pay under labor law.
2.Computer Crime Case In another case, a former employee used a password to access the company’s email after resignation and deleted project files related to a pending client contract. The Criminal Court sentenced the defendant to 1 year imprisonment (suspended) and a fine of 50,000 THB, as the act constituted unauthorized access and data destruction under criminal law.
What Can Employers Do Under the Law?
1.Preserve Evidence Collect logs, timestamps of deletions, and evidence of destroyed emails. These serve as key evidence in both civil and criminal cases.
2.Review Employment Contracts and Policies Check whether IT usage agreements or confidentiality clauses have been violated to support legal claims.
3.Exercise Civil Rights Employers may sue for damages if data deletion caused measurable harm, provided sufficient evidence exists.4.Exercise Criminal Rights If the act falls under the Computer Crime Act, employers may file a police complaint to initiate criminal prosecution.
Preventive Measures for Employers
1. Draft clear IT usage policies prohibiting deletion of work-related data.
2. Terminate system access immediately upon employee resignation.
3. Retain log files as admissible legal evidence.
4. Apply the law correctly:
o While still employed → Termination under labor law.
o After resignation → Civil lawsuit and/or criminal complaint.
5.Consult a Lawyer – Multiple legal aspects may overlap; professional guidance prevents employers from unintentionally violating laws themselves.
Why Should Employers Consult a Lawyer on This Matter?
In complex cases involving labor law, civil law, and criminal law, even a minor mistake in judgment could put an employer at a disadvantage or expose them to legal liability. Consulting a lawyer is therefore the most appropriate choice because:
A lawyer can assess which area of law should be applied in the situation.
They can review and verify the completeness of evidence, reducing the risk of unsuccessful litigation.
They can devise a sound legal strategy to prevent violations of labor rights or personal rights.
As mentioned, while employers do have legal rights, taking action without a proper understanding of the legal details may create risks, such as:
Unintentional violation of employees’ personal rights, for example accessing private data without authorization.
Incorrect exercise of rights, such as filing a lawsuit without sufficient evidence, which could result in unnecessary time and expenses.
Negative impact on labor relations, if other employees perceive the employer as overstepping legal boundaries.
Consult a Lawyer – The Safest Choice for Employers
In cases where an employee resigns and deletes company emails, such actions may not constitute a violation of labor law if committed after the termination of employment. However, they may still fall under other legal frameworks, such as civil law and criminal law, particularly the Computer Crime Act, which imposes clear penalties.
Employers should implement preventive measures, such as controlling access to company data and establishing clear agreements regarding the use of company email. If such an incident occurs, it is essential to preserve evidence and exercise legal rights properly.
Above all, consulting a lawyer is the most prudent choice. Legal counsel ensures that employers take the correct legal approach, minimizing the risk of making mistakes that could lead to unintended violations of the law. Most importantly, consulting a lawyer helps employers navigate the legal process appropriately and effectively. 👉 Click here tocontact us
When a road accident occurs, most people expect the insurance company of the liable party to take responsibility and compensate for damages as stated in the policy whether it be medical expenses, property damage, or other forms of compensation. However, in reality, many victims face a frustrating situation where the insurance company remains silent, refuses to act, or offers compensation far below the actual damages.
This article, from Wongsakorn Law Office, presents a real-life case involving an insurance dispute that happened to one of our clients. The victim was severely injured in a traffic accident, but the insurance company neglected its responsibility and offered an unfair settlement. Eventually, the case was taken to court, where the judge ruled that the insurance company must pay a significantly higher amount than what had originally been offered.
The Beginning: Accident and Insurance Company’s Negligence
The victim, who was riding a motorcycle, was struck by another vehicle and suffered severe injuries including fractures to the leg, wrist, and fingers. The motorcycle was also heavily damaged. The at-fault driver admitted negligence, and under the law, the insurance company was required to cover all damages.
Yet, during police investigation and negotiation, the at-fault party’s insurance company ignored its responsibility and failed to offer any compensation despite the insurer’s role being to ease the victim’s hardship and provide fair restitution.
Turning to a Lawyer After Unfair Treatment
Unable to accept such injustice and in pain both physically and mentally, the victim sought help from Lawyer Arm, an insurance litigation specialist at Wongsakorn Law Office, to pursue rightful compensation from the insurance company.
The law office began by filing a complaint with the Office of Insurance Commission (OIC.), the regulatory body overseeing insurance companies in Thailand, to demand justice for the victim.
The Unfair Settlement Offer
Following the complaint, the insurance company eventually responded by offering only 100,000 THB in compensation, claiming that this was appropriate for the victim’s injuries.
However, given the actual extent of damage, physical injuries, lost income, and severe property loss this amount was unreasonably low. This reflects a common tactic among insurance companies: offering minimal payouts to protect their own interests rather than genuinely supporting the victim.
Fighting in Court: Toward Fair Compensation
Since negotiations failed to bring justice, Wongsakorn Law Office filed a lawsuit against both the negligent driver and the insurance company.
After trial, the court ruled that the defendants must pay the victim 425,322 THB plus 5% annual interest, along with 8,000 THB in attorney fees and 3,000 THB in court costs.
Compared with the 100,000 THB initially offered, the difference is striking. This outcome proves that without legal representation, victims may be forced to accept unfair settlements or receive no proper compensation at all.
Why Having an Insurance Litigation Lawyer Is Essential?
1.Understanding Insurance Tactics Insurance companies have legal teams to protect their interests. Without a lawyer, victims are at a severe disadvantage.
2.Accurate Damage Assessment Lawyers can gather medical evidence, financial records, and property damage reports to prove the true extent of losses.
3.Preventing Exploitation Many victims accept low settlements due to lack of legal knowledge. Lawyers ensure victims receive fair and just compensation.
4.Proper Legal Procedures From filing complaints with the OIC. to litigating in court, experienced insurance lawyers handle cases efficiently and effectively.
An Important Lesson for All Accident Victims
Comparing the insurance company’s 100,000 THB offer to the court’s ruling of 425,322 THB clearly demonstrates the importance of legal representation. Without it, victims risk losing their right to fair compensation.
This case serves as an important reminder: never face an insurance company alone. Consulting a lawyer from the very beginning is the best way to protect your rights.
Consult a Lawyer Immediately. Don’t Let Insurance Companies Take Advantage
Accidents can happen anytime, and insurance claims follow. But insurance companies don’t always act fairly and many tried to minimize payouts.
That’s why victims and their families must recognize that having an insurance lawyer is not a luxury, but a necessity to ensure justice and proper compensation.
If you or someone you know is facing issues with an insurance company, do not wait.Consult an insurance litigation lawyer immediately. Insurance companies already have their own legal teams. So should you.
In today’s fast-paced business environment, whether you are running a small, medium, or growing enterprise, legal complexity is something you cannot avoid. From drafting contracts with partners, managing employees, handling taxation, to protecting intellectual property, the challenges are everywhere. Many companies seek legal help only after problems arise. However, having a legal advisor orcorporate legal counsel from the very beginning can help reduce risks, prevent potential disputes, and ensure your business moves forward securely.
This article will help you understand the role of a legal advisor, especially a corporate legal counsel, and why businesses without one should start considering this seriously.
What Is a “Legal Advisor” and How Is It Different from a “Corporate Legal Counsel”?
In the business world, a legal advisor refers to a professional who provides advice and solutions in a specific area such as a marketing consultant, accounting consultant, or legal consultant helping business owners make informed and correct decisions.
A corporate legal counsel, however, possesses direct legal expertise. They not only advise on compliance but also help prevent disputes, draft and review contracts, negotiate on behalf of the company, and even represent the business in court if necessary. The key difference lies in the legal specialization that a lawyer brings, enabling them to work both proactively (“prevention”) and reactively (“problem-solving”).
Why Should Businesses Have a Corporate Legal Counsel?
1.Prevent Problems Before They Occur Many business owners assume lawyers are only for litigation. In reality, acorporate legal counsel helps prevent disputes from happening in the first place by carefully reviewing contracts, advising on labor issues, and ensuring proper business setup.
2.Save Long-Term Costs Litigation and dispute resolution costs are often far higher than the cost of having a legal advisor from the start. Investing in preventive legal consultation saves businesses significant expenses in the future.
3.Boost Business Credibility Having a corporate legal counsel to review agreements and oversee compliance increases trust among partners, investors, and stakeholders, showing that your business is transparent and legally sound.
4.Immediate Support in Emergencies When facing lawsuits, government audits, or internal conflicts, having a legal advisor already familiar with your business ensures faster and more effective responses, minimizing potential damages.
Common Risks Businesses Face Without a Corporate Legal Counsel
Weak contracts → partners may exploit loopholes.
Labor issues → wrongful termination may lead to costly lawsuits.
Tax errors → risk of penalties or backdated audits.
Intellectual property infringement → unauthorized logo or trademark use may result in lawsuits.
Internal disputes → shareholder or partner conflicts could harm operations.
All of these risks can be prevented with the support of a corporate legal counsel from the beginning.
How to Choose the Right Corporate Legal Counsel for Your Business?
Selecting the right corporate legal counsel is not easy. Each business has unique needs, and choosing the wrong lawyer may result in poor advice or unnecessary costs. Before making a decision, consider:
1.Industry-Specific Experience – e.g., logistics businesses should seek counsel familiar with transportation law.
3.Proactive Consultation – a lawyer who prevents issues, not just reacts to them.
4.Transparent Fees – clear billing structures with no hidden charges.
A Good Advisor Helps Your Business Move Forward with Confidence
Having a legal advisor orcorporate legal counsel is not an unnecessary expense but a worthwhile investment. It ensures compliance, reduces risks, prevents disputes, and strengthens your business credibility.
If you are an entrepreneur without a legal advisor yet, now is the perfect time to start. Don’t wait for problems to arise, partner with a corporate legal counsel today to help your business grow steadily and sustainably.
👉 Need legal consultation? Click here >>Contact Us <<
Thailand is one of the most attractive countries for foreigners, whether for tourism, work, retirement, or even real estate investment. However, when it comes to “land,” a common question is: “Can foreigners buy land in Thailand?”
The answer is: in general, foreigners do not have the right to directly own land in Thailand, except in certain special cases permitted by law. Therefore, if you are a foreigner wishing to invest in land or property in Thailand, you should understand the legal requirements, proper procedures, and why it is important to have a lawyer as your legal advisor.
Thai Laws on Land Ownership by Foreigners
Under the Land Code B.E. 2497 (1954) and related laws, foreigners are not allowed to own land outright, except in the following cases:
1.Permission from the Minister of Interior Foreigners who invest at least 40 million baht in Thailand may be permitted to buy up to 1 rai of land for residential purposes, subject to the conditions set by the Ministry of Interior.
2.Ownership through a Thai legal entity For example, setting up a limited company with at least 51% Thai shareholders, where the company purchases the land for its business operations.
3.Inheritance from a Thai spouse If the spouse is Thai and leaves the land through a will, the foreigner may inherit it, subject to official approval and legal conditions.
4.Long-term leasehold Foreigners can lease land for up to 30 years, with an option to renew as allowed by law. This method is popular because it avoids changing ownership structures.
Steps for Foreigners to Legally Use Land in Thailand
Even with ownership restrictions, foreigners can still legally use land through permitted methods by following these main steps:
1.Assess eligibility and suitable ownership structure Such as long-term lease or forming a Thai company.
2.Prepare legally valid contracts Contracts must clearly specify rights, obligations, and conditions of the parties.
3.Register rights and transactions at the Land Office Transfers or leases over three years must be registered with the Department of Lands to be legally enforceable.
4.Pay applicable fees and taxes Such as transfer fees, specific business tax, or stamp duty.
Common Problems Foreigners Face in Thai Land Transactions
Despite clear procedures, many foreigners face issues such as:
· Poorly drafted contracts leading to loss of rights.
· Lack of understanding of Thai laws, resulting in unintentional violations.
· Being taken advantage of by sellers or other parties due to unfamiliarity with proper procedures.
· Incomplete documentation preventing registration of rights.
Why Should Foreigners Have a Lawyer in Land Transactions?
Buying, selling, or leasing land in Thailand as a foreigner is not simple. It involves various legal areas such as land law, civil and commercial law, tax law, and even specific requirements of each local Land Office. An experienced lawyer can help by:
1. Providing accurate legal advice to select the best and lawful ownership method.
2. Conducting due diligence on land title deeds, encumbrances, or usage restrictions.
3. Drafting and reviewing airtight contracts to prevent future disputes and protect foreign investors’ interests.
4. Acting as a representative at the Land Office to ease the process and overcome language barriers.
Example Case: Long-Term Lease by a Foreigner
Mr. David, a British national, wanted to build a vacation home in Chiang Mai. After consulting a lawyer, he was advised to enter into a 30-year land lease with an option to renew for another 30 years, and to register the leasehold rights at the Land Office. This allowed him to legally and safely use the land, with the ability to pass the lease rights to his heirs.
Whether Investing or Doing Business in Thailand, Always Have a Lawyer from the Start
Having a lawyer is a safeguard for land investment. Investing or doing business in Thailand especially in transactions involving land requires navigating complex laws and regulations that differ from those in a foreigner’s home country. A skilled lawyer can prevent legal mistakes, design ownership structures that comply with Thai law, review contracts, and act as a liaison with government offices. This ensures smooth transactions and minimizes risks.
Our Firm’s Expertise in Assisting Foreigners with Land Transactions
At Wongsakorn Law Office, we have extensive experience advising and handling land-related transactions for foreigners from various countries including those from Europe, Asia, and America. We are ready to help you understand Thai laws, follow correct procedures, and protect your interests to the highest degree. If you need legal advice, click >>Contact Us<<
Receiving a summons from theRevenue Department often causes taxpayers to worry. Many fear that it might lead to criminal charges or serious legal trouble. In reality, however, a summons is usually part of the normal process where officials request taxpayers to clarify certain information or correct misunderstandings in their tax filings. If you understand the procedure and prepare the necessary documents, the issue can usually be resolved without undue concern.
Why Does the Revenue Department Issue Summons?
Many wonder what it means to be summoned by the Revenue Department. The main reasons include:
1.Suspicious tax filings – for example, declared income does not match information reported by other agencies.
2.Errors in tax calculation – such as incorrect data entry or misinterpretation of tax deductions.
3.Discrepancy between income and spending – e.g., large bank transactions that do not align with declared income.
4.Random audits – sometimes officials conduct random checks to verify accuracy.
Thus, receiving a summons does not automatically mean wrongdoing; it is an opportunity to provide clarification.
What Should You Do If You Receive a Summons?
1.Read the summons carefully – It specifies the date, time, place, and purpose. Understand clearly why you were summoned.
2.Prepare relevant documents – such as income statements, withholding tax certificates, bank statements, expense records, or investment documents.
3.Verify your information before the meeting – Ensure that the filed data matches the actual documents.
4.Attend as scheduled – Ignoring the summons could escalate the matter unnecessarily.
Meeting with the Revenue Department Is Not as Intimidating as It Seems
Many fear they will be accused immediately, but in reality, the meeting is a chance to explain. If errors are found in your tax return, you can file an amended return. With proper documentation, officers are usually willing to accept corrections.
Situations That Require Extra Caution
Filing taxes that do not match actual income, which may appear as intentional evasion.
Lacking proof of income or expenses, which could affect tax deductions.
Failing to appear after being summoned, which may result in fines or legal action.
In such cases, consult an expert such as a tax expert. A lawyer can help you respond properly and minimize risk.
Why Should You Consult a Lawyer When Dealing with the Revenue Department?
A summons may cause anxiety, but having a lawyer by your side can make the process far smoother. Lawyers can:
1.Analyze and review documents – Identify errors or weak points in your filing.
2.Communicate with officials effectively – Legal and tax language may be clearer when explained by a lawyer.
3.Prevent misinterpretation – A lawyer ensures that your statements are not misunderstood as tax evasion.
4.Suggest solutions – Such as filing an amended return or negotiating reduced penalties.
Having aknowledgeable lawyer helps you prepare accurate explanations, avoid unnecessary penalties, and proceed with confidence.
A summons from the Revenue Department is not something to fear. Contact us to consult with a lawyer who understands tax law.
How Can Tax Issues Be Resolved?
Amended returns – Correct inaccurate information by filing additional forms.
Back tax payments – Settle unpaid taxes along with surcharges.
Tax appeals – If you disagree with the assessment, you may file an appeal under the law.
👉 A summons from the Revenue Department is not something to fear. It is an opportunity to clarify matters and resolve misunderstandings. The key is preparation, proper documentation, and, if necessary, professional legal support. Click >>Contact Us<< for professional tax legal consultation.
The Revenue Department is not to be panick. If you are truthful, prepared, and well-advised, any issue can be resolved!
The term“Nominee” is often mentioned in economic crime cases, especially regarding foreign investment and business operations. Many may mistakenly think it is just a normal business arrangement, but in fact, acting as a nominee can be considered illegal under Thai law. If investigated, it may lead to a summons from the Economic Crime Suppression Division (ECD). Understanding its meaning and knowing your rights in giving explanations is therefore essential.
What is a Nominee?
A nominee means allowing one’s name to be used in a business or transaction on behalf of someone else, without being the real investor or decision-maker. Common examples include:
A Thai person holding shares on behalf of a foreigner to meet Thai legal requirements.
Opening a bank account under a Thai person’s name but used by a foreigner.
Holding land in the name of a Thai person for a foreigner’s benefit.
Even if done without bad intent, Thai law treats this as potentially violating the Foreign Business Act B.E. 2542 (1999) or related laws, with penalties of both imprisonment and fines.
Why the Summons from the ECD?
The ECD investigates complex financial and economic crimes. A nominee summons often arises when officials find signs such as:
Thais holding shares on behalf of foreigners.
Suspicious financial flows, e.g., large unclear transactions.
Abnormal company structures inconsistent with actual business.
Complaints or links to “grey businesses.”
When such signs exist, the ECD will issue a summons for clarification. Ignoring the summons can lead to more serious legal consequences.
How to Prepare Before Explaining?
If you receive a nominee summons, do not panic or ignore it. Instead, you should:
Review the summons details – who filed, reasons, and meeting schedule.
Gather documents – company documents, joint venture contracts, lease agreements, financial records.
Reassess your actual role – whether you were genuinely involved or just lending your name.
How to Explain to the ECD?
On the day of meeting the officers, you should:
Stick to facts – Do not exaggerate or conceal information.
Support with documents – Written contracts, financial statements, or minutes of meetings can help prove good faith.
Avoid vague statements – Ambiguous answers may be interpreted as tax evasion or law avoidance.
Have a lawyer assist – A lawyer can communicate legally, making explanations clearer and stronger.
Risks of Inadequate Explanation
Even without bad intent, incomplete or unclear explanations may be interpreted as acting as a nominee. Consequences include:
Criminal charges.
Heavy fines.
Revocation of business or land ownership rights.
Thus, proper and complete explanation is the key to resolving the matter during investigation without going to court.
Key Legal Advice
The first step when receiving a nominee summons should be consulting a lawyer because:
A lawyer can assess whether your actions fall under nominee rules.
A lawyer can draft explanations that align with the law.
A lawyer can represent you before authorities and reduce pressure.
Being a nominee is no small matter. If you receive a summons from the Crime Suppression Division, you must have a lawyer to advise you.
Being summoned as a nominee by the ECD is not trivial. An unclear explanation may lead to severe legal consequences. But with knowledge of your rights, proper documentation, and legal representation, the case can often end at the investigation stage. Since such cases involve economic, criminal, and tax law, having a lawyer is your best safeguard to present explanations that are logical, solid, and legally correct.
👉 If you or someone close to you has received a nominee summons,consulting a lawyerimmediately is the safest first step.
In the legal profession, “knowledge from textbooks” may only cover half the journey. The other half lies in real-world experience, earned through hands-on training in the field. That is why internships are a crucial step that every aspiring lawyer must go through. Today, we hear from Supasit Siri, also known as Lawyer Arm, owner of Wongsakorn Law Office, as he shares his insights, reasons, and intentions behind mentoring law interns.
Q: Why is an internship such an important step before becoming a full-fledged lawyer?
A: My definition of being a lawyer is providing legal services. If you’ve never worked, never interned, and never been in the field from gathering facts and evidence to understanding the context you simply won’t grasp the realities. Without that, when you start working as a lawyer, you might expect to be paid, say, 25,000 baht per month without actually knowing how to do anything. Employers will be baffled and unwilling to hire you. This is why I emphasize the need to understand the role before stepping into it.
Q: How is a legal internship different from other professions?
A: In law, even small details matter like writing petitions, motions, or statements. If you’ve never done it, you won’t know where to start. You might not even know which door to use at a prison, or the correct procedure in court. Sure, using the court’s standard forms is easy, but for me, that’s not enough. You need to understand and explain why bail should be granted?.
Q: What does an internship teach that universities cannot?
A: Universities in Thailand train students to make legal conclusions but rarely teach the process. For example, in a theft case where a suspect stole from a convenience store, law school might teach the legal principles, but not the practical steps: who to speak to first, what documents to prepare, and how to frame the case. Internships give you this hands-on procedural knowledge.
Q: How does an internship shape a lawyer’s ethics?
A: It teaches you to act in ways that do not violate morality, placing ethics above all else. For example, there’s a difference between fabricating evidence and creating admissible evidence. If a client lacks funeral expense receipts, you can prepare a statement on their behalf this is legal and ethical.
Q: Are there any memorable events from your internship days?
A: My first internship involved a mediation at the Thonburi Civil Court. I was working for an insurance company’s side. I saw unethical tactics deliberately dragging out the process to frustrate the opposing party so they’d give in. This was wrong, and I’m glad I realized it early.
Q: Have you encountered interns who feel discouraged? How do you advise them?
A: Many interns don’t fully understand the true nature of legal work. In law, mistakes can mean losing a case there are no “retakes.” Interns should be grateful for the opportunity to learn, because practical experience is what leads to professional competence.
Q: How should the internship system improve in the future?
A: Some lawyers just sign off on internship forms without real training this is harmful. Many students choose internships purely based on convenience, without considering the real-world demands of legal practice. A true lawyer should be ready to work anywhere in Thailand or even abroad, such as in arbitration cases in France, copyright disputes in Japan, or contract disputes requiring proceedings in China.
Q: Some see internships as just a requirement for the bar exam. What’s your message to them?
A: That mindset is dangerous. Internships are part of entering the justice system, and all legal careers require this preparation to work effectively.
Q: How does Wongsakorn Law Office train and support interns?
A: We expose interns to cases from the very start whether at prisons, police stations, or client meetings while instilling ethical principles. For example, we don’t let clients treat us to meals, as this could lead to conflicts of interest.
Q: What inspired you to offer internship opportunities?
A: Early in my career, I lacked opportunities to intern at an actual law firm. Over time, I realized that internships need not be limited to law offices. My goal is to recruit talent through internships and train them to a professional standard, even starting from zero experience.
Q: Any final advice for law students or future interns?
A: Don’t limit yourself with preconceived notions about where to intern. From my 10+ years in practice, I believe the most valuable internships are at police stations or law offices places where you truly learn the legal process.
For Lawyer Arm, an internship is not just the first step toward passing the bar—it’s an immersion in the realities of legal work, from handling real cases to mastering the ethical standards of the profession. At Wongsakorn Law Office, interns are more than temporary assistants; they are nurtured to become future professionals. If you truly want to gain practical experience and understand the full legal process, you are welcome to join our internship program. We are committed to helping the next generation of legal talent grow.
