Problem in Thailand; If You Are Arrested in Thailand There Are Things You Need to Do

While staying in Thailand it goes without saying that you are subject to the laws of the country. It is easy to forget this and many a problem inThailand occurs because people are in a holiday mood and believe that the normal rules don't apply and that they can get away with anything. Thailand does want to encourage tourism, and there does seem to be a bit of pressure on the police not to hassle tourists too much, but you are still expected to follow the laws of Thailand completely.

If you end up being arrested in Thailand do not in any way try to resist arrest. Causing a scene or insulting the police officers would be a bad mistake; a small problem in Thailand could quickly turn into a big problem. Calmly follow the directions of the police officers. If you are taken to a police station then you will first off want to know what laws of Thailand you have broken. Most police stations will have someone who speaks English; in tourist areas they almost definitely will have. In fact the bigger tourist areas in now have foreign volunteer police assistants who will be able to act as translators. These foreign assistants dress like police but the main aim of their work is to help the police communicate better with tourists who have any problem in Thailand; they are there to help you.

The most important thing that you need to do if arrested in Thailand is to contact your embassy or consulate straight away; do not sign anything or agree to anything before doing this. It is your embassy's role to offer assistance to their nationals who develop a legal problem in Thailand. They will not be able to act as your legal representative, but they will be able to put you in touch with a suitable local lawyer or attorneys who understand the laws of Thailand and have experience with foreigners who have been in a similar position to you. The representative from your embassy or consulate will offer assistance in ensuring that you are treated lawfully and that your rights are not infringed. Some embassies can liaise with your family and friends so that you can receive finances and other forms of help.

Tourists who end up with a legal problem in Thailand are rare considering the number of tourists that travel here. If you abide by the laws of Thailand you are unlikely to need to deal with the local police at all. If you are arrested in Thailand then don't resist arrest and contact your embassy as soon as possible.