Court and legal interpreting in Thailand: duties, rules and preparation
In short
Where a party, witness or accused person cannot speak or understand Thai, the law requires an interpreter so that the proceedings remain fair. The interpreter takes an oath or affirmation to render statements accurately and must not add their own opinion to what is said.
Legal basis
Section 13 of the Criminal Procedure Code sets the rule on the use of Thai in proceedings and the provision of an interpreter where the speaker does not understand Thai. Civil matters follow court practice directions, so check the rules of the court hearing your case.
Preparing before the hearing
Send the pleadings, case file, names of participants and technical terminology in advance. Confirm the case number, courtroom and time, and ask whether the court requires identification or a professional background for the interpreter.
What the interpreter does and does not do
The interpreter renders what is actually said. They do not give legal advice, do not summarise, and do not answer on a party's behalf. If a question is unclear the interpreter asks for it to be repeated rather than interpreting its meaning.
Related pages
Content reviewed August 2026. General information only, not legal advice for a specific case. Requirements are set by the office handling your matter; see the Courts of Justice of Thailand and Department of Home Affairs — translating and interpreting. For availability and fees, contact us by phone, LINE or email.