Best Juvenile Law Lawyers in Bangkok

About Juvenile Law in Bangkok, Thailand:

Juvenile Law in Bangkok, Thailand, focuses on the treatment and approach to youths that have committed criminal offences. These laws determine how to proceed with cases involving individuals below 18 years old, considering their age and level of maturity. They aim to rehabilitate and correct the behavior rather than just punish. Bangkok’s legal system takes into account the best interests of the child, seeking resolutions that are conducive to their development as responsible adults.

Why You May Need a Lawyer:

There are several reasons why you might need legal advice or a lawyer in the field of Juvenile Law. This could be because a child has been accused of a crime, or their rights have been violated and legal help is required to reinforce them. For families going through particularly complex situations, a lawyer can also provide guidance on understanding legal documents and the court proceedings. In addition, if dealing with an institution such as a school, a lawyer can act as a representative to ensure the child's rights are protected.

Local Laws Overview:

Thailand’s Juvenile Act B.E. 2543 focuses on three main areas: Measures to prevent children from violating the law, measures to combat offenses committed by children and procedures for trial and punishment for child offenders. It stipulates that a child under 7 years old cannot be accused of a crime and those between 7 and 14 years old can only be accused if it is proven they understood their actions were wrong. For teenagers between 15 to 18, typical legal punishments apply, but they are often milder compared to adult sentences.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is the age of legal responsibility in Bangkok, Thailand?
Children under 7 years old cannot be held legally responsible for crimes. Between ages 7 to 14, a child may be held responsible only if it can be proven they understood their actions were wrong.

What rights do juveniles have in legal proceedings?
Juveniles have the right to legal representation, the right to remain silent, the right to be accompanied by a guardian or trusted adult in all legal proceedings, and the right to private and confidential proceedings.

Can parents be held responsible for their child's actions?
This depends on the circumstances and the type of offense committed. Sometimes, if the negligence of the parents contributed to the child's offense, they could be held partly responsible. It's best to consult a legal expert in this situation.

What happens if a juvenile is found guilty?
If found guilty, the aim of the Juvenile law system in Thailand is more focused on rehabilitation than punishment. The court might order corrective measures like supervision, counselling, community service, or probation rather than imprisonment.

Can juvenile records be sealed or expunged?
It's possible for juvenile records to be sealed or expunged in some cases, which could prevent them from impacting future opportunities. This typically depends on the nature of the offense and the individual’s subsequent behavior.

Additional Resources:

The Central Juvenile and Family Court and the Ministry of Justice are government bodies that focus on issues related to juvenile law and offer resources and support. Non-governmental organizations such as the Child Safety Promotion and Injury Prevention Centre also work towards ensuring rights and protection of children.

Next Steps:

If you believe you need legal assistance in Juvenile Law, first seek a consultation with a reputable lawyer specializing in this field. They can provide you with personalized advice based on your situation and guide you through the necessary legal processes. It’s important to be open with your lawyer to help them understand your situation and enable them to provide the most accurate advice possible.