Our Commitment to Principled Legal Practice
thewaoyl was founded on the belief that legal counsel should be both thorough and accessible, grounded in professional standards and genuine respect for those we serve.
Return HomeAbout thewaoyl
thewaoyl was established in 2018 by a small group of legal professionals who recognized a need for law practice that balanced technical expertise with approachable client service. Based in Chiang Mai, we work primarily with individuals and businesses navigating property transactions, corporate governance matters, and cross-border trade relationships within Thailand and Southeast Asia.
Our name reflects our philosophy. "Thewa" draws from the Thai word for divine or sacred, representing our commitment to ethical practice and respect for the law. "Rights" speaks to our focus on protecting client interests and ensuring fair treatment under legal frameworks. Together, the name embodies our mission: to provide legal guidance that honors both professional standards and the dignity of those we serve.
The firm began with a focus on property due diligence for foreign investors entering the Thai real estate market. Over time, our practice expanded to include corporate compliance work and international trade advisory, responding to client needs and regional economic development. Today, we maintain offices in the historic Phra Sing district, a location chosen for its accessibility and connection to Chiang Mai's legal and business communities.
We approach each engagement with care, taking time to understand specific circumstances rather than applying template solutions. Legal work can feel complex and intimidating, particularly when crossing cultural or linguistic boundaries. Our team works to make the process clear, explaining options in plain language and providing honest assessments of risks and opportunities.
thewaoyl maintains relationships with specialists in complementary practice areas, allowing us to coordinate comprehensive support when matters extend beyond our core services. We also stay connected to developments in Thai law through continuing education, professional associations, and regular dialogue with regulatory bodies.
Our Legal Team
The thewaoyl team brings together diverse backgrounds in Thai law, international business, and cross-cultural communication. Each member contributes specialized knowledge and a shared commitment to client service.
Somchai Chaiwong
Managing Partner
Somchai oversees the firm's property and real estate practice. Licensed in Thailand with experience in land title examination and foreign ownership structures, he brings careful attention to documentation and regulatory compliance.
Pimchanok Niranam
Corporate Counsel
Pimchanok leads our corporate governance and compliance review services. With background in Thai corporate law and board advisory, she helps companies strengthen their governance frameworks and navigate regulatory requirements.
Anan Thanasukarn
Trade and Customs Advisor
Anan manages international trade advisory matters, including customs compliance, BOI incentive applications, and foreign business licensing. His knowledge of Thai trade regulations supports companies engaged in cross-border operations.
Professional Standards and Quality Assurance
We maintain rigorous standards for legal work, client communication, and professional conduct. Quality assurance is embedded throughout our practice.
Thai Bar Association Membership
All practicing attorneys at thewaoyl maintain active membership with the Thai Bar Association, participating in continuing legal education and adhering to the association's code of professional conduct.
Client Confidentiality Protocols
We implement strict confidentiality measures including secure document storage, encrypted communications, and limited information access. Client privacy is protected through written agreements and internal policies.
Documented Engagement Terms
Each engagement begins with a written agreement outlining scope, timeline, fees, and responsibilities. This ensures mutual understanding and provides clear reference points throughout the relationship.
Quality Review Process
Major deliverables undergo internal review before client delivery. A second attorney examines research, documentation, and recommendations to ensure accuracy and completeness.
Professional Development
Team members engage in regular professional development through seminars, workshops, and specialized training in Thai law, regional regulation, and legal practice management.
Transparent Communication
We provide regular updates on engagement progress, respond promptly to inquiries, and explain legal concepts in accessible language. Clients receive clear timelines and realistic expectations from the outset.
Legal Expertise Across Thailand's Business Landscape
thewaoyl brings practical knowledge of Thai legal frameworks affecting property ownership, corporate operations, and international commerce. Our attorneys understand the intersection between statutory requirements and business realities, helping clients make informed decisions within regulatory boundaries.
In property matters, we examine land classification systems, foreign ownership restrictions, and condominium regulations that shape real estate transactions. Our due diligence work includes verification of title documents, review of ownership chains, and assessment of encumbrances or liens. We explain these technical elements clearly, helping clients understand rights and limitations before committing to purchases.
Corporate governance work involves analysis of board structures, shareholder agreements, and compliance with Thai corporate law. We review documentation for accuracy and alignment with current regulations, identifying gaps that might create future risk. Our approach emphasizes practical improvement rather than criticism, working collaboratively with management to strengthen governance systems.
International trade advisory encompasses customs procedures, Board of Investment incentive programs, and Foreign Business Act licensing. We assist companies in structuring operations to comply with Thai regulations while maintaining business efficiency. This includes documentation preparation, regulatory correspondence, and strategic planning for market entry or expansion.
Throughout all services, thewaoyl maintains awareness of cultural context and communication preferences. Working with Thai nationals and international clients requires sensitivity to different business practices, decision-making styles, and expectations. We adapt our approach accordingly while maintaining consistent professional standards.
Work With thewaoyl
We welcome the opportunity to discuss your legal needs and explore whether our services align with your requirements. Contact us to schedule an initial consultation.