What should I do if I'm arrested in Thailand?

If arrested in Thailand as a foreigner: **Immediate steps:** 1. **Stay calm** — do not resist or argue 2. **Ask for your embassy/consulate** — this is your right under the Vienna Convention 3. **Do NOT sign anything** you don't understand, especially in Thai 4. **Request a lawyer** — you have the right to legal counsel 5. **Request an interpreter** — you have the right to understand the charges **Your rights:** - Right to know the charges against you - Right to contact your embassy - Right to legal counsel (court-appointed if you can't afford one) - Right to interpreter - Right to bail (for most offenses) - Right to remain silent - Cannot be detained more than 48 hours without court order **Bail:** Available for most offenses. Amounts vary: THB 50,000-500,000+ depending on severity. A lawyer can apply for bail. Passport may be surrendered. **Embassy services:** Can visit you, provide lawyer lists, communicate with family, monitor trial — but cannot get you out of jail or override Thai law.