Bail recipients get counselling

Courts adopt fresh approach to reducing rate of recidivism by helping ease suspects’ stress levels with raft of measures, writes Wassayos Ngamkham

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Psychosocial counsellors appointed by the courts are playing an important role in preventing defendants released on bail from reoffending, easing mental strain during judicial proceedings and reducing reliance on financial sureties, court officials say.

Although still relatively uncommon, the practice recently drew public attention following the case of Rybena “Nana” Intachai, a former celebrity charged with fraud and violations of the Loan Fraud Act.

The Criminal Court granted her bail set at 1 million baht, imposed a travel ban, and, in an unusual move, ordered her to undergo psychosocial counselling under court-appointed supervision starting on Dec 4, after prosecutors filed a detention request.

Court officials say the decision reflects a broader effort to address persistent challenges in the justice system.

Figures indicate that reoffending during bail periods remains a concern, prompting courts to look beyond traditional measures such as financial guarantees, travel restrictions and electronic monitoring.

The psychosocial counselling system within the judiciary dates back to 2009, when the Thonburi Criminal Court established a clinic to provide counselling for drug offenders.

Asimilar clinic was later set up at the Pathum Thani Provincial Court in 2014. The initiative, developed in cooperation with multiple agencies, was eventually formalised through a memorandum of understanding, allowing the programme to expand nationwide.