Child Custody and Contact in Thailand
The rules differ for unmarried and married couples
When a relationship comes to an end the Thai court system or the parents themselves can decide who will have custody of any child and what any contact arrangements and rights will be.
The rules differ for married and unmarried couples.
When the couple is not married to one another the mother will have sole or full custody of the child. A father will have to legitimize any child by registering for legitimation of the child at the local Amphur or via court proceedings etc. A DNA test may also required by the Thai Court as are witnesses in support of the father and the relationship with the child. This process is required to be undertaken before any father can enter into any legal joint custody arrangements or agreements with the mother of any child.
Child Custody and contact in Thailand together with child legitimation.
Unmarried fathers do not automatically have parental rights that may come as standard in their home countries whether married or not.
Many biological fathers do not understand that if they are not married to the mother of the child that even though the their name appears on the birth certificate they are not the legitimate father of the child and have no legal rights over the child or the child’s upbringing unless they have the child legitimized.
Things to consider when unmarried that may be required are DNA tests from the child and father and witnesses to support the relationship.
Where legitimized or where married , both parents can agree to consent and decide who will have primary care and custody of any child. Where parties agree during any uncontested divorce proceedings an agreement can be made between them to decide on custody sole or shared and can agree about such things as where the child will live, go to school, financial support, medical issues, visitation, holidays and contact etc.
Where agreement cannot be reached between the parties or where court proceedings are required the Thai court will decide the child custody and contact in Thailand arrangements, thus taking away the control of the respective parents. The court will place what is best for the child above all else.

Speak to us at Anglo Siam Legal in order to know and understand your rights and where necessary have one of our experienced and compassionate Thailand family lawyers represent you in either the uncontseted or contested proceedings in order to protect the relationship with your child.
There is nothing more important than a relationship with your child who is an innocent party to any relationship breakdown.
Contact Us https://anglosiamlegal.com/contact-us/
Not in pattaya why not contact our sister company Isaan lawyers http://www.isaanlawyers.com

