BANGKOK, Thailand – Compensation for victims and acquitted defendants in criminal cases has been increased under a new ministerial regulation published in the Royal Gazette, with the maximum payment raised to 300,000 baht. Deputy Government Spokesperson Lalida Periswiwatana said the regulation took effect on March 3 and updates compensation rates to better align with current economic and social conditions.
Under the revised rules, compensation in cases where a victim dies has been raised from the previous range of 30,000 to 100,000 baht to a maximum of 300,000 baht, with related expenses combined under a single ceiling. For surviving victims, medical treatment costs can be reimbursed up to 80,000 baht based on actual expenses, while physical and mental rehabilitation costs are capped at 50,000 baht. Compensation for other physical or psychological harm can reach up to 100,000 baht, and cases involving organ loss or permanent disability can receive up to 300,000 baht.
The regulation also provides compensation for defendants who are criminally prosecuted but later acquitted by the court. If a defendant dies as a result of the legal proceedings, compensation may reach up to 300,000 baht. For those who survive, medical treatment costs can be reimbursed up to 80,000 baht, while rehabilitation expenses are capped at 50,000 baht.
Defendants cleared of charges may also receive reimbursement for legal expenses of up to 30,000 baht. Lalida said the updated structure allows assistance to better match the damages experienced by affected individuals while simplifying procedures and improving flexibility in the review process so compensation can be delivered more quickly. (NNT)
