Law of Thailand
The laws of Thailand are based on the civil law, but have been influenced by common law (see also world legal systems).[1]
The Rattanakosin Kingdom and the four traditionally counted preceding kingdoms, collectively called Siam, had a largely uncodified constitution until 1932. In the King of Siam's preamble to the penal code promulgated on 1 April 1908, and came into effect on 21 September, the king said: "In the ancient times the monarchs of the Siamese nation governed their people with laws which were originally derived from the Dhamasustra of Manu, which was then the prevailing law among the inhabitants of India and the neighbouring countries."[2]
The principal law sources in Thailand are:
Public law[edit]
Constitutional law[edit]
The Constitution of Thailand is the supreme law of Thailand which prevails over other laws passed by parliament. The 2017 constitution of Thailand is the most recent constitution.[8] The Constitutional Court of Thailand has jurisdiction to make rulings over the constitutionality of parliamentary acts, royal decrees, draft legislation, appointment and removal of public officials and issues regarding political parties and civil liberties.
Criminal law[edit]
Criminal offences (that can lead to arrest and imprisonment) are enumerated in the Thai Penal Code (or Criminal Code)[9] as well as numerous other statutes. Criminal procedures are outlined in the Criminal Procedure Code.
Laws relating to foreigners[edit]
The Foreign Business Act of 1999 regulates foreign ownership of certain Thai industries and foreign companies. The Alien Business Law (N.E.C. Announcement 281) prohibits foreigners from holding certain professions which are reserved for Thai nationals.