“Arrest Warrant” — Don’t Panic! You Can File a Petition to Revoke It If You’re Not Involved in the Case

The word “arrest warrant” often causes fear or confusion. In Thailand, an arrest warrant is a legal document issued by a court authorizing the police to detain a person in a criminal case. However, many people have been wrongfully issued a warrant, either due to mistaken identity or not being involved in the case at all.

If you find yourself in such a situation, you can file a petition to revoke the arrest warrant with the court.

What is an Arrest Warrant?

An arrest warrant is issued by a court at the request of an investigator, based on reasonable belief that a person has committed a crime and is unlikely to voluntarily appear in response to a summons.

Having a warrant can lead to immediate arrest, damage to your reputation, and denial of bail.

What to Do If You Have an Arrest Warrant

Stay calm and don’t ignore it. The first and most important step is to consult a lawyer immediately. If you’re not involved in the crime or didn’t intend to flee, your lawyer can help file a petition to revoke the warrant.

You may be eligible to revoke the warrant if:

• You never received a summons and did not intend to flee
• You were mistaken for someone else with the same name
• You have proof you’re not involved in the case
• You were abroad or medically unfit to appear

Don’t Surrender Without Preparation

Turning yourself in without legal support may result in detention without the chance to explain or request bail. A lawyer can coordinate with investigators, clarify facts, and prepare necessary petitions to protect your rights.

Steps to Revoke an Arrest Warrant

Since the process involves legal procedures, it’s best handled by a lawyer:

1.Verify the warrant – through police or national databases

2.Gather evidence – such as travel records, medical documents, or proof of non-involvement

3.File the petition – your lawyer will submit it to the court with all supporting documents

4.Await court decision – if the court is convinced, it may revoke the warrant

Why Act Quickly?

Delaying action increases your risk of arrest without warning or bail. You could also be seen as uncooperative or as having fled intentionally.

Lawyer’s Advice: “A warrant is not the end. If you’re innocent, act before you’re arrested.”

If you believe you’ve been wrongly targeted, revoking the arrest warrant is the best solution — and it must be done urgently.

Wongsakorn Law Office offers professional services to help investigate and file petitions to revoke arrest warrants. If you suspect or know there’s a warrant against you, don’t wait. Contact us immediately. We’ll help you handle it safely and legally.