A Thailand court may appoint a guardian for a person who is declared mentally or physically incapacitated, or who for some other reason cannot take care of him or herself.

Generally, individuals must be related to the incapacitated person in question to file for guardianship. Thai law requires guardians to be natural persons, rather than juristic entities like foundations or associations.

Duties, Powers, and Rights of a Guardian

A guardian makes all legal decisions for the incapacitated person (the ward). The guardian might pay bills, manage the ward’s property, decide where the ward lives and make medical decisions for the ward. A guardian can also decide whom the ward associates with and how the ward may spend money.

Limited guardianship restricts the power of a guardian, allowing the ward to retain some legal rights and freedoms. A limited guardianship is often advised if a ward is still capable of making certain decisions.