Section 12 bis — Psychologists and social workers
Statutory text (Thai original)
ในการร้องทุกข์ การสอบสวน การไต่สวนมูลฟ้อง
และการพิจารณา ถ้าบทบัญญัติใดกำหนดให้มีนักจิตวิทยาหรือนักสังคมสงเคราะห์เข้าร่วมด้วยแล้ว
นักจิตวิทยาหรือนักสังคมสงเคราะห์ดังกล่าวจะต้องมีคุณสมบัติตามที่กำหนดในกฎกระทรวง
ให้นักจิตวิทยาหรือนักสังคมสงเคราะห์ตามวรรคหนึ่งได้รับค่าตอบแทนตามระเบียบที่กระทรวงยุติธรรมกำหนดโดยได้รับความเห็นชอบจากกระทรวงการคลัง
English translation
In taking a complaint, conducting an inquiry, holding a preliminary examination and conducting a trial, if any provision requires a psychologist or a social worker to take part, that psychologist or social worker must have the qualifications prescribed in the ministerial regulation. The psychologist or social worker under paragraph one shall receive remuneration in accordance with the regulations prescribed by the Ministry of Justice with the approval of the Ministry of Finance.
This English translation is provided for reference only and has not yet been firm-verified — always rely on the Thai original.
Firm annotation
Section 12/2 is a supporting provision for the child- and vulnerable-witness safeguards found elsewhere in the Code, such as the rules requiring a psychologist or social worker to be present when children are questioned or testify. It ensures those professionals meet prescribed qualifications and are properly remunerated. The label "12 ทวิ" (12 bis) marks it as an inserted section supplementing the original Section 12.
Why this matters in practice
In cases involving child witnesses or victims, Section 12/2 backs up the requirement that a qualified psychologist or social worker take part, which is important for the admissibility and reliability of a child's evidence. If such a professional was required but absent or unqualified, that can be a ground to question the process. Families in these cases should confirm the safeguard was observed.
Frequently asked questions
When is a psychologist or social worker required in a Thai criminal case?
When another provision of the Code, such as the rules on questioning child witnesses, requires it. Section 12/2 then requires that person to have the qualifications set by ministerial regulation.
Are these psychologists and social workers paid?
Yes. Section 12/2 provides that they receive remuneration under the regulations prescribed by the Ministry of Justice with the Ministry of Finance's approval.