A prominent lawyer accused of harassing a woman reveals three legal points on sexual misconduct and professional violations. Meanwhile, Lawyer Kerdpol expressed disappointment, saying he has been unable to sleep after reading Lawyer Kaew's Facebook post and is still awaiting the lawyer's explanation of the facts.
The well-known Facebook page "ThanPao" publicly detailed on social media the incident involving a "prominent lawyer" accused of harassing a 19-year-old female student, alleging inappropriate touching in private areas. This scandal has drawn significant public attention and raised questions about the ethics of legal professionals.
Subsequently, Lawyer Kaew, or Dr. Monchai Jongkairatankul, responded to the online criticism on his Facebook page, expressing his regret and apologizing to the family, close associates, and those affected by the incident. He affirmed that he would not provide details or comment on the allegations at this time to avoid harming the rights and dignity of all parties, especially the involved individuals. He stated that if necessary, he would clarify through an appropriate, transparent, and fair process. He also urged the media and public to exercise discretion in receiving information and to respect the fact-finding process. Following his statement, widespread public reactions emerged overnight, including both supportive messages and expressions of disappointment.
On 22 Jan 2026 GMT+7, Thairath Online's special team interviewed Lawyer Kerdpol Kaewkird, a well-known lawyer and professional peer. Lawyer Kerdpol said that if the reports are true, although he still respects Lawyer Kaew, he admits feeling disappointed because, as a public figure, legal professional, and member of the Lawyers Council—a trusted individual in society—he should uphold ethics higher than the general public. He should consider the other party merely as a child or someone’s offspring, not exploit his position as a man. Such behavior disrespects both the involved party and their guardians.
“As lawyers, we must protect the vulnerable, not use our fame and reputation to harm society,” he said.
Lawyer Kerdpol added that while individuals have freedom of expression and action, any behavior constituting sexual harassment—whether through words, looks, gestures, or actions—constitutes unwelcome conduct without the other party's consent, which is legally wrong. Moreover, if the victim is under 15, any such act is illegal regardless of consent.
When someone is subjected to non-consensual acts, damage occurs. Even if it does not amount to rape, all such acts qualify as sexual harassment. Penalties depend on the act’s nature: sexually suggestive looks or words are considered inappropriate sexual behavior, whereas touching constitutes indecent acts, punishable more severely.
Lawyer Kerdpol explained the law divides sexual harassment acts into three categories:
1. Using words or gestures to sexually harass without physical contact
- This constitutes sexual harassment.
2. Physical touching without sexual intercourse
- This constitutes indecent acts.
3. Sexual intercourse by any means
- This constitutes rape.
All three categories apply regardless of the gender of the perpetrator or victim.
Lawyer Kerdpol noted that in this case, the victim is 19 years old, so compensation negotiations are possible. However, regardless of age, the law prohibits any touching or indecent acts toward others. Age is only a factor when determining penalties. If the facts are true, the victim may file a complaint with the Lawyers Council, as this constitutes an ethical violation, potentially leading to penalties ranging from license suspension to disbarment.
Finally, Lawyer Kerdpol feels that Lawyer Kaew remains reserved, which is understandable given his legal background and the need to avoid prematurely accepting allegations that could be used as evidence. Nonetheless, if the facts are true, he should take responsibility and show sincerity to society. He emphasized that if innocent, Lawyer Kaew should clearly assert his innocence; if guilty, he should admit it, as the most important thing is to acknowledge one's actions.