Phuket Attorneys

  For many, Thailand is the "Land of Smiles" and a premier destination for weddings. However, beyond the picturesque beaches and ornate temples lies a bureaucratic process that is both precise and rigorous. Whether you are a foreign couple planning a destination wedding or a mixed couple (one Thai national, one foreigner), understanding the legal landscape of marriage registration is essential to ensure your union is recognized both in Thailand and internationally. As of January 2026 , Thailand has cemented its status as a leader in regional civil rights following the full implementation of the Marriage Equality Act , which now allows couples of any gender to register their marriage with the same legal protections as heterosexual couples. 1. Legal Eligibility and The "New Normal" Before gathering paperwork, couples must meet the fundamental criteria set by the Thai Civil and Commercial Code. Age Requirement: Both parties must be at least 18 years of age . (The age ...

A prenuptial agreement (ante-nuptial agreement) in Thailand is a powerful planning tool — if it’s done to fit local law and procedure. Done well it clarifies what is “personal” property, allocates management of businesses or family assets, and reduces uncertainty if the marriage ends. Done badly (or not registered properly) it’s vulnerable to challenge and may be partly or wholly ineffective. Below is a focused, practice-oriented guide that explains what Thai law allows and forbids, the exact formal steps to make a prenup enforceable, common drafting traps, cross-border issues and a practical checklist you can use with your lawyer. Legal foundation and the single, non-negotiable formal rule Thai family law treats ante-nuptial agreements as special statutory instruments. To be valid a prenup must be in writing, signed by both parties and at least two witnesses, and registered at the time of the marriage registration at the district office (Amphur) ; if it is not properly registered at...

Due diligence in Thailand refers to the systematic investigation and verification of legal, financial, operational, and technical information before entering into a significant transaction. This process is especially critical for foreign investors, buyers of real estate, and parties involved in mergers, acquisitions, or joint ventures. Failure to conduct adequate due diligence can result in substantial financial loss, legal exposure, or acquisition of encumbered or unlawfully held assets. This article provides an in-depth legal overview of due diligence procedures in Thailand, focusing primarily on property transactions and corporate acquisition scenarios. It outlines what needs to be checked, where the information is sourced, and the implications of findings from a Thai legal and regulatory perspective. I. Legal Foundation and Importance Due diligence is not codified as a standalone requirement under Thai law. However, its practice is deeply rooted in contract law principles und...