Thailand

Chandler MHM continues to cement its standing among domestic disputes players through its growing caseload and mature team. With an experienced team of veteran litigators on board, the firm has tackled increasingly complex mandates for numerous industry-leading companies. The group represents local and international clients, and covers a spectrum of disputes such as regulatory, insolvency, construction, insurance, employment, intellectual property, civil, and tax and customs. It has significant expertise with court proceedings in the local courts, including specialised ones such as the labour and IP courts, and in domestic and international arbitration forums. The key contacts are dispute resolution head Waree Shinsirikul and partner Nathee Silacharoen.

Client feedback

"The team provided clear opinions and legal advice, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of litigation proceedings." – Labor and employment 

"They emphasised the importance of good planning and strategy in order to win the case." – Real estate 

Tawatchai Boonmayapan 

"He is focused on the litigation, solutions and dispute resolution." 

As one of the leading names in disputes globally, Herbert Smith Freehills in Thailand wins accolades from peers for its longstanding experience and stellar clientele. The practice focuses on commercial disputes and international arbitration in a range of industry sectors, including banking, mining, energy and construction, and technology, media and telecommunications. The team is respected by the market for its leading class action lawsuit expertise. The team remains active in supporting Japanese clients on disputes arising out of their inbound investments, operations and joint ventures in Thailand. A notable highlight had the firm represent an SOE in a significant arbitration dispute regarding a gas pipeline. It successfully navigated the legal complexities to secure a favorable outcome for the client. The disputes leaders are managing partner Warathorn Wongsawangsiri, partner Pariyapol Kamolsilp and senior consultant Chinnawat Thongpakdee.

Client feedback

"The Thai legal system is difficult to navigate, and the Herbert Smith team in Thailand led by Chinnawat Thongpakdee did excellent work, got us great outcomes, and was good at explaining issues that may not have been obvious to foreign lawyers. " – Banking and financial services 

"The team handled the case until the court issued an order in our favour, allowing us to receive compensation from the opposing party." – Construction 

Warathorn Wongsawangsiri 

"He is the team leader and created excellent strategy for the case." 

IAS Advisory law firm in Thailand, specialising in dispute resolution and corporate work. The disputes team is led by Anuwat Ngamprasertkul, who has over 20 years of experience and a strong record of advising clients on contentious legal and tax issues. Another name to note is Chumphon Macharoen. A recent highlight had the firm act for a HNWI in a lawsuit against a construction company after major defects were discovered upon the delivery of a high-end condominium unit the client purchased. In another key matter, the team represented a Thailand stock exchange-listed company in a contract dispute with a bank.

Ilawasia was established in 2011 and features a dispute resolution group headed by managing partner Somphob Rodboon. The firm offers comprehensive litigation coverage, particularly in commercial, civil, intellectual property, international trade, labour and employment, and insolvency matters. The team is increasing its position in high-value real estate and construction disputes. The firm operates in Lao PDR and has an affiliate operation in Myanmar. The firm recently acted for Sbang Corporation in a breach of contract dispute.

Client feedback

"They did well to gather and summarize the data to provide to court. " – Technology and telecommunications 

Kanyamol Phupapeiw 

"He is smart and polite."  

Kridtaporn Sirisereephap 

"She was able to combine all the detailed documents and created a perfect summary of all the issues." 

Kudun and Partners’ well-rounded disputes offering comprises no less than 15 seasoned litigators who have acted before all levels of court, as well as in national and international arbitrations. Peers have noted the firm’s visibility on high-stakes, large disputes. Clients range from domestic industry giants to overseas-based multinationals. The firm is experienced in complex commercial litigations and white-collar crime matters and regularly handles litigations and arbitrations related to construction and employment. The four key partners of the dispute resolution practice Somboon Sangrungjang, Niruch Winiyakul, Emi Rowse and Kongwat Akaramanee.

A recently highlight was assisting client FS International SPA in the successful settlement of a multi-million dollar construction dispute against a prominent Thai conglomerate. The team also represented Mazda Thailand in a product liability dispute involving claims from car owners of the Mazda CX-5 models. The case arose from allegations that certain owners did not adhere to the terms of a prior class action settlement. The team successfully defended Mazda against these claims. Key clients of the firm include Advanced Info Service Public Company, Asia Wealth Securities, Big Camera, Digital Phone Company, LG Electronics, Mimo Tech, RHB Securities and Volvo Group.

Client feedback

"They have consistently demonstrated exceptional expertise in dispute resolution, rivaling that of global firms, particularly in handling complex local matters with a deep understanding of the legal landscape. We appreciate their client-focused approach." – Government and regulatory 

"Highly responsive in providing strategic solutions, ensuring that we feel well-supported throughout the process. Their commitment to client satisfaction, responsive communication, and proactive approach mirrors the best practices seen in leading international firms." – Government and regulatory 

Somboon Sangrungjang 

"Somboon Sangrungjang possesses analytical and negotiating skills that go beyond emotional intelligence, which is important in circumstances where the emotional load of the parties can often overcome rational reasoning. He is never afraid to tell us the bitter truth and also thinks a few steps ahead and comes up with incredibly fascinating and inventive yet commercially viable strategies for some of our most difficult problems. He is fierce, always able to think out of the box and has an excellent team. " 

Lexpertise Law Firm, founded in July 2023, has quickly established itself in Thailand's legal market, focusing on commercial, corporate and dispute resolution matters. It has particular expertise in e-commerce and digital platform regulation, and intellectual property (IP), telecommunications and data protection laws. The firm is adept at handling complex disputes and regulatory challenges. Managing partner Nandana Indananda has over 30 years of experience, including a 15-year tenure as a senior partner at Tilleke & Gibbins. Recent highlight cases include representing leading fund management companies in a significant public fraud case, and successfully challenging a contractor in an arbitration dispute related to energy projects, resulting in a favourable ruling on jurisdiction.

The firm boasts a strong IP disputes practice, adept at handling cases involving trademark infringement, copyright challenges, and patent disputes. One notable case had the team act for a major e-commerce platform in a copyright infringement dispute with a renowned Japanese animation studio. Lexpertise successfully negotiated on behalf of the client, leading to a favorable settlement and clarifying the legal standards surrounding online content and copyright in Thailand. This matter involved one of the first applications of the safe harbour provision under the amended Thai Copyright Act, setting important precedents for e-commerce platforms in the country. 

Client feedback

"Lexpertise Law Firm is skillful and confident in handling complex intellectual property cases, including trademark, patent, copyright, and trade secret protection." – Intellectual property 

Nandana  Indananda 

"Nandana Indananda is highly skilled in his legal practice, with a deep understanding of the complex intersections between the areas of intellectual property, business law, and corporate litigation. His in-depth knowledge enables him to provide well-rounded legal advice and strategic counsel to clients." 

LS Horizon has a respected dispute resolution practice led by two partners. It has a notable commercial and regulatory litigation track record that has included some of the country’s most high-profile commercial cases in the last decade. Key individuals include partners Lersak Kancvalskul and Wanchai Yiamsamatha, both of whom are highly regarded in the field. One notable case involved representing Prueksachart Property in a dispute over servitude rights, resulting in a favourable settlement that protected the client's substantial investment in a data centre project. Another highlight case had the team act for Bangkok Aviation Centre in a case against Airports of Thailand Public Company, alleging unlawful collection of airport fees during pilot training. The Supreme Administrative Court ruled in favour of the client. This judgement set a precedent that the notification waiving airport fee was still effective.

Pisut & Partners is a distinguished law firm in Thailand known for its expertise in various legal areas, including dispute resolution, labour and employment, and commercial transactions. The firm has a strong reputation for handling complex cases and has successfully navigated high stakes disputes. Key individuals include Managing partner Pisut Rakwong, Yaowalak Suleesathira and Supachoke Pongdasakorngamjai. One recent highlight had the team represent over 160 co-owners in a high-profile lawsuit against a developer, seeking THB 3 billion for breach of contract. Another notable case involved defending a major telecommunications company in a complex labour dispute that affected thousands of employees.

Client feedback

"Provided practical advice and professionally handled the case." – Construction 

"Their expertise in labour and employment issues ensured someone could provide prompt responses with strong knowledge and professional advice to the client." – Labor and employment 

"Provided reliable and professional litigation services with reasonable fees by using a chart/flowchart for better understanding." – Labor and employment 

Creighton Franz 

"Solid knowledge, timely responses. " 

Yaowalak Suleesathira 

"She is very careful and pays attention to detail in the information and legal advice provided to the client, ensuring that it is accurate and suitable for the client's business. She thoughtfully considers the advantages for the client and provides better solutions, demonstrating strong knowledge and confidence in the matters she oversees." 

"She enthusiastically advises her client with well-researched legal statues and precedent cases. She is persistent, optimistic, and very resourceful." 

"Yaowlak was very helpful. We were impressed with her responsiveness and ability to quickly grasp and address our pain points. The firm's efficiency is truly commendable."

The sizable dispute resolution team at Rajah & Tann Thailand has the bench strength to handle important litigation. The firm boasts an experienced team of lawyers that covers the full spectrum of contentious Thai law matters, including civil, criminal and administrative litigation, domestic and international arbitration, government investigations, compliance proceedings and IP litigation. The team has a strong track record for shareholder disputes, professional negligence issues, trade matters, and restructuring and insolvency proceedings. Recently, the firm represented major retail and wholesale operators in a landmark antitrust case regarding a business merger worth over $10 billion. The firm's senior partner Surasak Vajasit is widely recognized as a litigation heavyweight, known for his success in domestic and international arbitration proceedings. The other key individuals are Melisa Uremovic, Supawat Srirungruang, Pakpoom Suntornvipat, Ittichai Prasongprasit, Chotiwit Ngamsuwan and Krida Phoonwathu. For trade and customs matters, deputy managing partner Uremovic is highly regarded.

SCL Nishimura & Asahi is an alliance between Japanese firm Nishimura & Asahi and local outfit, SCL Group, an integration that was completed formally three years prior. The dispute resolution group has no less than seven dedicated litigation and arbitration lawyers, and is led by three partners. Its offering covers the full spectrum of disputes management and representation, from general commercial and labour disputes to international arbitration and tax dispute resolution. Notably, the firm has a respected contentious intellectual property practice. Key figures for the firm’s dispute resolution practice are managing partner Chavalit Uttasart, partners Vira Kammee, Punjaporn Kosolkitiwong and counsel James Rix. The firm is acting for DEMCO in an ongoing $8 million arbitration related to construction claims. The team is also advocating for Donki in a $7.17 million dispute over tenancy agreements, successfully countering a landlord's claims. 

Regional powerhouse Tilleke & Gibbins is a firm of choice for international clients for dispute resolution in Thailand. From its commercial litigation strength to its prowess in contentious intellectual property, peers and clients acknowledge the firm’s presence at the top end of the league tables. It boasts more than 30 attorneys in the Bangkok office that specialise in litigation and alternative dispute resolution. In addition to Thai matters, the Bangkok team regularly advises on litigation throughout the region in collaboration with litigators based in the firm’s offices in Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Vietnam. The team is notable in the areas of arbitration, aviation, employment, energy, insurance, intellectual property, product liability, and trade and customs. The firm’s disputes client roster includes many global corporations and industry leaders.

Four partners and five counsels lead the sizable dispute resolution practice. The main contacts are the directors of dispute resolution, Chusert Supasitthumrong and John Frangos. Other key partners include Nuttaphol Arammuang and Suebsiri Taweepon.

One notable case involved representing a client in a high-stakes arbitration related to a construction project, where the firm secured a favourable award. The team successfully defended a major pharmaceutical company against product liability claims linked to its COVID-19 vaccine. On the IP side, the firm advocated for an international cosmetics company in a trademark infringement dispute. The client discovered that a local competitor was using a similar brand name and packaging that could confuse consumers. After thorough legal proceedings, the court ruled in favour of the client, ordering the competitor to cease using the infringing mark and to pay damages.

TTT+Partners’ dispute resolution profile continues to growth strength on strength after two years since its inception. The firm's litigation and arbitration practice is led by Pathorn Towongchuen and it handles high-stakes cases across diverse sectors, including securities, telecoms, infrastructure, and energy. Recent highlights include successfully defending a securities company against allegations of unlawful termination of an underwriting agreement and securing a landmark victory for a bondholder group in a major debenture default case. The firm also recently acted for Kasikornbank in a significant case against Stark Corporation, securing a court ruling for THB 5.3 billion in damages after a high-profile default.

Client feedback

"They help us navigate our case strategically and offer clear guidance. their expert advice and preparation were valuable in achieving a favourable outcome." – Class actions 

"The commercial arbitration team understands the strengths and weaknesses of the counterparty's attorney. They have the ability to object and highlight key issues before the court, and they are responsive to the client's requests to negotiate with the counterparty, providing valuable advice to successfully settle the matter." – Commercial arbitration 

"The family and matrimonial team takes prompt action and coordinates effectively with lawyers from other countries." – Family and matrimonial 

Jittipong Champreechar 

"Responsive, knowledgeable on litigation and court procedures, and provides valuable advice." 

Yindee Limpives 

"Attentive and reliable in handling litigation work." 

Pathorn Towongchuen 

"He has good legal knowledge and communication. He is experienced with a lot of expertise and knowledge." 

Poonpat Vasupongpipat 

"He is quick to find solutions even in challenging situations. He is able to analyze complex issues, think strategically, and communicate clearly. He has strong analytical skills and excels in communication." 

Weerawong C&P’s litigation and arbitration practice complements its market-leading transactional offerings. The firm consistently holds top-tier status for commercial and corporate disputes, as well as contentious government and regulatory, trade and customs, and employment matters. Its bench of seasoned litigators provides a comprehensive range of dispute resolution services before all court levels and global arbitration forums. The firm acts for clients across all industry sectors in both domestic and cross-border matters. Senior counsel Phisit Dejchaiyasak leads the firm’s dispute resolution practice group, which includes partners Sakchai Limsiripothong, Phatsawat Siwawej, Raweepun Pitakchatiwong, Akaraporn Kulvijit and trade and customs specialist Apisith John Sutham. The firm successfully represented Bangkok Mass Transit System to recover unpaid debts and defended Syn Mun Kong Insurance in legal battles over COVID-19 insurance policies.

Client feedback

"The cases done by Weerawong C&P required delicate work, innovation and creativity, alongside strong strategical and analytical thinking. The firm did all these extremely well and beyond our expectations." – Banking and financial services 

"Excellent in preparation, client services, filing and in court performance." – Commercial and transactions 

Akaraporn Kulvijit 

"Highly intelligent and focused of mind, able to clearly and succinctly understand objectives and give feedback honestly." 

Phatsawat Siwawej 

"Mr. Phatsawat is a strategist. His ability to handle complex and sophisticated matters is extremely strong. He dealt with one difficult case where we rarely had hope. He found a solution where no one else could. He has an exceptional track record of winning. His client service is very strong. Phatsawat and his team provided excellent services and demonstrated dedication to the client, particularly in case preparation. We engaged him to assist in a case involving multiple commercial and legal issues of concern and crossing various areas of law. He is our only go-to lawyer in Southeast Asia if we really want to win."