Disputes are a part of doing business. Whether you are dealing with contracts, commercial investments, or even cross-border transactions, conflicts can arise. Traditionally, people think about taking these conflicts to court. But litigation is often lengthy, expensive, and public. That’s where arbitration comes in — a more efficient, private, and internationally recognized method to resolve disputes.
At Siam Attorney, our team of experienced arbitration lawyers helps clients navigate arbitration processes in Thailand with confidence. We ensure your rights are protected and the outcome is fair, efficient, and enforceable.
Table of Content:
- What is Arbitration?
- Why Choose Arbitration in Thailand?
- Types of Arbitration Cases We Handle.
- How Does Arbitration Work in Thailand?
- Thailand Arbitration Laws and Institutions.
- Our Arbitration Legal Services.
- Enforcing Arbitration Awards in Thailand.
- Costs of Arbitration in Thailand.
- Why Choose Us?
- Conclusion.
- Frequently Questions.
Somsak Sureethorn
40+Years experience
1. What is Arbitration?
Arbitration is an alternative dispute resolution (ADR) process where the parties agree to submit their dispute to a neutral third party, called an arbitrator. The arbitrator reviews evidence and arguments and then makes a binding decision, known as an award.
Unlike court proceedings, arbitration is generally private, faster, and more flexible. It can be adapted to suit cross-border commercial needs, and it is especially popular for business contracts in Thailand.
2. Why Choose Arbitration in Thailand?
Thailand is a growing hub for business in Southeast Asia. It is also a signatory to the New York Convention, meaning arbitral awards in Thailand can be enforced in more than 160 countries worldwide.
Some of the key benefits of arbitration in Thailand include:
✅ Privacy — Arbitration hearings are confidential.
✅ Speed — The process is usually much faster than court litigation.
✅ Flexibility — Parties can choose language, rules, venue, and even the arbitrator.
✅ Enforceability — Thai arbitration awards are recognized internationally.
✅ Expertise — You can select arbitrators with industry-specific knowledge.
At Siam Attorney, we help clients draft clear arbitration clauses, represent them during arbitration, and even assist with enforcement of awards.
3.Types of Arbitration Cases We Handle
Our lawyers have represented clients in a wide range of arbitration matters, including:
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Commercial contracts
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Vehicle and Machinery Leasing
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Construction disputes
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Real estate and property disagreements
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Joint ventures and shareholder disputes
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International trade conflicts
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Technology and intellectual property
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Financial and investment disputes
Whether you are a local business, a multinational company, or an individual investor, Siam Attorney has the knowledge and experience to support you.
You may review the litigation at court process here to compare how difference: Litigation at Thai Court
4.How Does Arbitration Work in Thailand?
Let’s break down a typical arbitration process step by step:
1️⃣ Arbitration Agreement
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Usually, there is an arbitration clause in a contract. If not, parties can still agree to arbitrate after the dispute arises.
2️⃣ Appointing an Arbitrator
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Parties jointly select a neutral arbitrator (or a panel) who has the relevant expertise.
3️⃣ Preliminary Meeting
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Rules, language, timetable, and fees are agreed upon.
4️⃣ Submission of Claims and Defenses
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Both parties submit their evidence, claims, and counterclaims.
5️⃣ Hearings
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If needed, the arbitrator conducts hearings where each side presents its arguments.
6️⃣ Award
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The arbitrator issues a written, binding award which is enforceable by law.
Our team will support you at every stage — from selecting an arbitrator to preparing evidence, presenting your case, and enforcing the final award.
5.Thailand Arbitration Laws and Institutions
Thailand has a modern legal framework to support arbitration:
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Arbitration Act B.E. 2545 (2002), modeled on the UNCITRAL Model Law
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Thai Arbitration Institute (TAI) under the Office of the Judiciary
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Thailand Arbitration Center (THAC), an independent arbitration center
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International Commercial Arbitration under recognized international rules
Siam Attorney regularly handles cases under the rules of TAI, THAC, and international institutions such as the ICC or SIAC.
6.Our Arbitration Legal Services
At Siam Attorney, our arbitration services include:
✅ Drafting arbitration clauses and agreements
✅ Advising on the best forum and applicable law
✅ Representing clients before arbitrators
✅ Negotiating settlements during arbitration
✅ Managing witness statements and expert evidence
✅ Filing for enforcement of awards in Thailand
✅ Challenging invalid awards under Thai law
Whether you need preventive advice or full representation in arbitration, we have the resources to help you achieve a successful outcome.
7.Enforcing Arbitration Awards in Thailand.
Winning an award is not the end — you must enforce it if the losing party does not pay voluntarily. Thailand is a party to the New York Convention, so international awards can be recognized and enforced in Thailand with relative ease.
Our lawyers will assist you in:
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Filing the enforcement petition in Thai court
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Responding to challenges raised by the losing party
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Coordinating with international counsel for multi-jurisdiction enforcement
We make sure your arbitration victory translates into a real, enforceable result.
8.Costs of Arbitration in Thailand.
A common question is, “Is arbitration expensive?” In practice, arbitration often saves money compared to long and complex court litigation, especially when cross-border experts are needed.
Costs usually include:
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Arbitrator fees
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Administrative costs of the arbitration center
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Legal fees
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Evidence and expert fees
At Siam Attorney, we give clients a clear estimate of fees before the arbitration starts. We help you balance costs with the value of the dispute, ensuring no surprises later on.
9.Why Choose Siam Attorney for Arbitration in Thailand?
👉 Proven Track Record
Our arbitration lawyers have successfully handled high-profile local and international cases.
👉 Cross-Border Expertise
We work fluently in Thai and English, with experience in cross-border disputes across Asia, Europe, and the U.S.
👉 Client-Centric
We focus on strategic, practical solutions and work to protect your commercial interests.
👉 Full Service
From arbitration clauses to enforcing awards, we are a true one-stop service.
Our mission is simple: to help you resolve disputes efficiently and with confidence.
We verify at the area of problem
10.Conclusion
Arbitration in Thailand is a practical, fair, and internationally respected way to resolve disputes. With the right legal team, you can avoid lengthy litigation and protect your commercial interests more effectively. Siam Attorney is here to help you every step of the way — from drafting airtight arbitration agreements to enforcing your hard-won awards.
11.Frequently Asked Questions About Arbitration in Thailand.
✅ Yes — an arbitral award is legally enforceable, similar to a court judgment.
✅ Generally, arbitration awards are final, but they can be challenged on limited procedural grounds.
✅ It depends on the complexity, but usually 6–12 months is common, much faster than court litigation.
✅ It is strongly recommended. Skilled legal counsel helps you comply with complex procedures and improves your chances of success.
