Navigating the legal landscape in Thailand can feel like a journey through a complex labyrinth of traditional civil law and rapidly evolving modern regulations. Whether you are a multinational corporation looking to enter the ASEAN market or an expat navigating property laws, finding the right legal partner is your first step to success.
As of late 2025, the Thai legal market is more competitive than ever. Here is a guide to the best law firms in Thailand, categorized by their strengths and international reach.
The “Big Four” Tier 1 Powerhouses
According to the latest 2025 rankings from Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners, these firms consistently dominate the market across almost every practice area, from Banking & Finance to Corporate M&A.
| Firm | Type | Best Known For |
| Baker McKenzie | International | The largest firm in Thailand; a “one-stop shop” for massive cross-border deals and tax. |
| A&O Shearman | International | Newly merged giant providing elite-level international capital markets and finance advice. |
| Tilleke & Gibbins | Regional | The undisputed leader in Intellectual Property and the oldest firm in the country. |
| Weerawong C&P | Local | A dominant local force known for handling Thailand’s most high-profile litigation and M&A. |
Best Firms for Specific Needs
While the giants handle the billion-dollar deals, several other firms offer specialized excellence that might be a better fit depending on your specific requirements.
1. Best for Intellectual Property: Tilleke & Gibbins
If you are looking to protect a trademark, patent, or copyright in Southeast Asia, Tilleke & Gibbins is the gold standard. They even house a “Museum of Counterfeit Goods” in their Bangkok office to educate clients on the nuances of Thai IP law.
2. Best for Dispute Resolution & Litigation: Herbert Smith Freehills
When things go to court or arbitration, Herbert Smith Freehills (Thailand) is widely regarded for its aggressive and effective commercial litigation team. They are particularly strong in the energy and construction sectors.
3. Best for Startups & Modern Business: Kudun & Partners
A younger, more “disruptive” firm that has quickly climbed the rankings. Kudun & Partners is known for its commercial-mindedness and is a popular choice for tech startups and venture capital firms looking for agile legal advice.
4. Best for Expats & Real Estate: FRANK Legal & Tax
For individuals or smaller businesses, the massive “Tier 1” firms can often be prohibitively expensive. FRANK Legal & Tax offers a more boutique, personalized experience with a focus on real estate, work permits, and inheritance law for the international community.
How to Choose: Local vs. International?
Choosing the “best” firm depends largely on the scope of your project:
- Choose an International Firm (e.g., Baker McKenzie, Linklaters, DLA Piper) if your deal involves multiple countries, requires English-law contracts, or involves financing from international banks.
- Choose a Local Powerhouse (e.g., Siam Premier, Chandler MHM, LS Horizon) for deep-rooted connections with Thai regulatory bodies (like the SEC or the Board of Investment) and a more nuanced understanding of local court procedures.
Pro-Tip: Always check if the firm has experience with the Board of Investment (BOI). A firm that can help you secure BOI promotion can save your business millions in taxes and allow for 100% foreign ownership.
Final Thoughts
There is no single “best” firm for everyone, but there is a “best fit” for your specific problem. For high-stakes corporate work, Baker McKenzie and Weerawong C&P remain the titans. For IP, it’s Tilleke & Gibbins. For everything else, look for a partner who communicates clearly and understands your industry.
