In Thailand, a minor is defined as any person under the age of 20. Under Thai law, minors cannot independently conduct legal transactions, especially those involving property. Therefore, any transfer or management of a minor’s property must be conducted by parents or legally appointed guardians. These transactions must always be executed in the best interest of the minor.

For families and individuals navigating these processes, consulting a lead law firm in Bangkok ensures that the transfer is legally compliant and fully protects the minor’s rights.

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When Can a Minor Conduct Legal Transactions Independently?

Although minors generally cannot perform legal transactions on their own, there are exceptions where they may act independently:

• Marriage

• Receiving unconditional gifts

• Creating a will (if the minor is 15 years or older)

• Buying or selling personal daily-use items, such as food or stationery

For all other transactions, parents or legal guardians must act on behalf of the minor.

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Parental Authority under Thai Law (Civil and Commercial Code, Section 1574)

Parents are authorized to manage their child’s property solely for the minor’s benefit.

However, for transactions that directly affect significant property, such as:

• Selling land

• Transferring property to the parents themselves

• Giving property as a gift

• Pledging property as collateral

Parents must obtain prior court approval before proceeding. Consulting a lead law firm in Bangkok can help prepare the necessary documents and legal arguments for court submission.

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Steps to Obtain Court Approval for Minor Property Transfers

1. Consult a Lawyer

A lawyer can prepare the court petition, explain legal requirements, and advise on the supporting documents needed for the transfer.

2. Prepare Essential Documents

Key documents typically include:

• Birth certificate of the minor

• Household registration

• Land title deeds

• Marriage or divorce certificates (if applicable)

3. Attend Court Hearing

Parents and minors may need to provide testimony at the Juvenile Court. Officials will:

• Examine the purpose and benefit of the property transfer

• Prepare a report with recommendations to the court

4. Court Investigation and Evidence Review

The court will review documents, testimony, and evidence. If it determines that the transfer benefits the minor, a court order granting approval will be issued.

5. Await Final Judgment

The final court order is usually issued within approximately 30 days after the hearing.

6. Execute the Transfer

Once the judgment is final, it can be used to complete the property transfer or other legal transaction.

Overall timeline: Approximately 2–4 months if there are no objections.

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Summary

Minor property transfers in Thailand cannot be performed by minors themselves, except in specific limited cases. Parents or legally appointed guardians must handle the transaction. For transfers involving significant assets—such as land sales, gifts, or pledges—court approval is required to ensure the transfer serves the minor’s best interests.

Working with a lead law firm in Bangkok helps ensure that all legal steps are followed correctly, making the process safe, compliant, and legally enforceable.