BANGKOK: Kan Jom Phalang is preparing to take legal action against The Icon Group, consulting with the Lawyers Council to initiate a civil lawsuit. The initiative, led by Kanthas Pongpaiboonwet, also known as Kan Jom Phalang, and Kongtri Thanakrit Jit-Areerat, Assistant Minister to the Ministry of Public Health, aims to support a group of victims in reclaiming their lost property.
According to Thai News Agency, Kan Jom Phalang stated that while criminal proceedings are under police jurisdiction, the victims may not be aware of how to pursue civil cases. The Lawyers Council has expressed its willingness to assist the victims in filing civil lawsuits. Victims are initially encouraged to lodge complaints at their local police stations. For those unable to travel, further discussions with the Lawyers Council will be held to determine assistance options. It is expected that over 90 percent of the victims who have filed complaints will eventually consult with the Lawyers Council to proceed with civil lawsuits.
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l. Col. Thanakrit Chitareerat, initially responsible for prosecuting illegal medical practitioners connected to the case, will now act as a lawyer, supported by the Lawyers Council of Thailand’s extensive network. The network is prepared to offer power of attorney and document support, enabling injured parties to file civil lawsuits without charges. A class action lawsuit is anticipated, although victims can opt to hire private attorneys for expedited proceedings.
Concerns have arisen about the impact of The Icon Group’s help center, which requires individuals to submit personal information. Kan Jom Phalang assured that victims who have not received compensation can still pursue legal action. Discussions will be held for those who have received compensation.
Mr. Weerasak Chotiwanich, Vice President for Technology and Information and Deputy Spokesperson for the Lawyers Council of Thailand under Royal Patronage, highlighted the availability of over 10,000 trained volunteer lawyers nationwide to provide free a
ssistance. For those already represented by lawyers, it is the lawyer’s responsibility to proceed with the case.
The Lawyers Council has a nationwide network, including a central office and regional committees. Victims must submit comprehensive information about their damages and the circumstances leading to their victimization for lawsuit convenience. In criminal cases, details of filed complaints may be combined for consolidation.