Educational Information Only
The content on this page is for general educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Every legal situation is unique. For matters involving investigation, arrest, litigation, or formal proceedings, consult a qualified legal professional.
Assault & Violence Penalties in Thailand
Criminal penalties for assault, bodily harm, and violence offences under the Thai Criminal Code.
Overview
Assault and violence offences in Thailand range from simple assault (minor injuries) to grievous bodily harm and attempted murder, with penalties scaling accordingly.
Penalties Table
| Offence | Statute | Fine Range | Prison Range | Foreigner Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Simple assault (minor bodily harm) | Criminal Code, Section 295 | Up to THB 20,000 | Up to 2 years | Compoundable offence — can be settled out of court |
| Serious bodily harm | Criminal Code, Section 297 | Up to THB 40,000 | 2-10 years | Not compoundable — prosecution proceeds even if victim withdraws |
| Assault causing death | Criminal Code, Section 290 | Up to THB 40,000 | 3-20 years | Very serious — bail may be denied |
| Assault with weapon | Criminal Code, Section 296 | Up to THB 40,000 | Up to 4 years | Using any object as a weapon increases the penalty |
| Bar fight / mutual assault | Criminal Code, Sections 295-296 | Up to THB 20,000 each | Up to 2 years each | Both parties can be charged even if one 'started it' |
| Domestic violence | Domestic Violence Victim Protection Act B.E. 2550 (2007) | Up to THB 6,000 | Up to 6 months | Protection orders available; separate from criminal assault charges |
Important Notes
Simple assault (Section 295) is compoundable — victim and offender can settle and charges are dropped
Serious bodily harm and above are NOT compoundable — prosecution continues regardless
Self-defense is a valid legal defence if proportionate to the threat
Foreigners involved in violence may face visa revocation in addition to criminal penalties
Alcohol is NOT a mitigating factor — it may actually increase the penalty
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Penalties shown are statutory provisions and actual sentences may vary based on case circumstances and judicial discretion. Always consult a qualified Thai lawyer for specific legal advice.
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