Court-appointed interpreter
An interpreter the court provides when an accused, party or witness cannot speak or understand Thai.
Authority: The trial court, under Office of the Judiciary rules.
Thai courts use two main routes: an interpreter arranged by the court when a party or witness cannot communicate in Thai, and an interpreter the party arranges and asks the court to allow. Either way the interpreter takes an oath or affirmation before serving and must render meaning faithfully rather than advise on law. Written translations filed with the court are a separate matter from live interpreting.
An interpreter the court provides when an accused, party or witness cannot speak or understand Thai.
Authority: The trial court, under Office of the Judiciary rules.
An interpreter nominated and engaged by a party, who must be allowed by the court before acting in the hearing.
Authority: Subject to the court’s permission.
A translation of a foreign-language exhibit filed with the case file, with the translator’s certificate of accuracy.
Authority: Court filing rules and the directions given in each case.
| Criterion | Court-appointed interpreter | Party-arranged interpreter | Written translation filed with the court |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who arranges it | The court, when it considers an interpreter necessary | The party, who nominates the interpreter to the court | The filing party prepares the translation |
| Oath or affirmation | Sworn or affirmed before the court prior to acting | Sworn or affirmed in the same way | No courtroom oath; the translator signs a certificate of accuracy |
| Scope of the role | Renders courtroom speech faithfully, without summarising or opining | The same scope, and never a substitute for counsel | Renders the document as it stands, in full |
| Objections | The opposing party may raise concerns about suitability | More exposed to objection where an interest in the case exists | The other side may dispute accuracy and ask for a fresh translation |
| Documents usually needed | Identification details as the court requests | Evidence of language ability and identification as directed | The original or certified copy, the translation and the translator’s certificate |
| Use outside the courtroom | Limited to the proceedings in that case | The party may keep the same interpreter for out-of-court preparation | The translation may serve other agencies if they accept that certification format |
Checked on 2026-08-03; confirm with the authority before filing.
The exact steps depend on the receiving authority in each case. Contact our team to confirm the checklist and timing.