LEGAL

 

Pattaya has more than it’s share of people masquerading as lawyers. Beware! The American Embassy has a list of credible lawyers on file in Bangkok. Only three are listed for Pattaya.

Lawyers - Finding a real one. When you visit an attorney’s office, ask to see the Diploma on the wall. Ask to see his attorney’s card. Ask if the attorney is licensed to practice in the court. If the “attorney” says yes he can go before the court but that isn’t really necessary.... Run don’t walk from that attorney.

TIP: The Embassy of the USA has a list of attorneys that they have vetted. See  http://bangkok.usembassy.gov/root/pdfs/attorneylist/pdf

Bail - If you are arrested, you may be allowed to make bail.  Some insurance policies provide for bail in vehicle accidents. Check with your agent. AA insurance offers bail bond insurance. Cash only for bail. If the police do not set bail or you can not make bail, Thai law requires that you come before a judge within 48 hours.

Telephone call privilege - You are allowed to make a phone call, however, you are not allowed to talk on and on. Keep it brief. Tell the person you are talking to that you need money for bail, or to call your friends about where you are or to come to the police station to get your room keys and get cash from your room for posting bail.

Court Appeal - An appeal is allowed in the Thai court system

Rescheduling a Court Hearing - If your attorney fails to show up on your scheduled court date, your hearing can be rescheduled.

Police Report - If you lose or have stolen your driver’s license you will need a police report to get a new one.