Laws in Thailand derive from two major sources; the legislative and executive branches of both central and local governments. There are other sources of law which it derives from as follows. Keep in mind that it is not that long since laws have been codified. Speak to a lawyer in Thailand about the laws in Thailand.
Judicial decisions are not really followed as they are in the West with regards to the creation of law. Hence there are very few case law books on a whole in Thailand when comparing it to the US or British legal system. They may at times view another matter that has been heard before and apply the same decision however it is very rare for them to ever overturn a previous decision from another court. Within Thai law they view each case as being very different and hence do not always apply any form of case law.
There is also Constitutional Laws in Thailand which was created to govern the relationship between the Government and its citizens with regards mainly to human rights and the responsibility of government. There are also Act which have been passed such as the Copyright Act which governs Intellectual Property rights in Thailand. There are also a Royal Decree and an Emergency Decree. There are also what is known as Codes in Thailand. There is as an example the Civil and Commercial Code, the Penal Codes and the Criminal Procedures codes. In the West these codes would what one would consider the varies Acts in the West. In Thailand the system is not the same. There are also Administrative Agency orders and Municipal Codes.
From time to time Cabinet Resolutions are also issued and followed. The system in Thailand was not as orderly as what it is today as Thai laws had not been codified for that long. One could view the current system as being in a long term transition period. If you have any questions with regards to Thai Laws and the administration of Justice in Thailand – speak to any of our consultants online, or speak to one of our attorneys in person. You will be glad you spoke to us with regards to any legal questions you may have.