Autopsies

Autopsies are mandatory under Thai law. This when a death is unnatural—such as from suicide, homicide, animal attacks, accidents, or unknown causes. Likewise where it occurs in official custody (except executions). Additionally families must report such deaths and preserve the scene. In addition face a fine for failure to comply. You can also read the articles that we wrote on Thailand hemp laws as well as the article on a law firm in Thailand on here.

Likewise a certified pathologist leads the autopsy, which must be reported within seven days. Lastly dissections and exhumations may be ordered, and officials must provide detailed reports. If officials are involved in the death, a prosecutor must participate. Tampering with the body or scene before the autopsy is punishable by imprisonment or fines, with harsher penalties if done dishonestly. Likewise you can also read the following articles on this website such as construction law in Thailand as well as the article on a lawyer in Bangkok. 

Autopsies Law

Section 148

You will note that an autopsy is mandatory. This when a death is unnatural or if it occurs while under official custody (excluding deaths by execution). By “unnatural death” this will include suicide, homicide and any animal attack. Likewise an accidental death, or deaths with no apparent cause.

Section 149

Note that the family or guardians of the deceased must report an unnatural death. Where possible they have to keep the body where it was found. This until such time that the authorities arrive. Lastly yu will note that there is a 1,000 baht fine if you did not report or keep the body in place.

Section 150

Note that a qualified forensic pathologist must lead the investigation of an unnatural death. This with a number of contingencies outlined if the primary pathologist is unavailable (e.g., doctors from government hospitals or volunteers). Lastly the autopsy report must be submitted within 7 days after death with possible extensions and included in the investigation records. Should the death was caused by official action then a prosecutor must join the investigation.

Section 151

In order to find out what the cause of death was. The forensic officers can order a dissection of the body.

Section 152:

Likewise the doctors or government employees must provide a detailed report on the corpse or body parts. These will include the cause of death, if known.

Section 153:

If there is no public health risk and the body has already been buried. The coroner may order its exhumation.

Section 154:

The coroner must give an opinion on the cause and circumstances of death. Likewise when it is applicable identify potential perpetrators of a homicide.

Section 155:

The provisions for investigation apply to autopsies, and child witnesses (under 18). These will be treated with specific rules under Section 172 ter.

Section 155/1:

Where the person died in custody or from actions of officials. The prosecutor and investigator must prepare an investigation report. This with provisions for urgent cases where the prosecutor cannot immediately join.

Section 156:

The autopsy reports. Those in cases where death is not due to a criminal act. These reports are sent to the provincial governor.

Section 150 bis (New Addition):

Should anyone tamper with a corpse or the scene before the autopsy. They can be liable to an imprisonment (6 months to 2 years) or a fine (10,000 to 40,000 baht). This especially if the intent is to conceal evidence. If done dishonestly, the penalty is doubled.

Lastly also see the articles on Prosecutorial Decisions as well as the General Rules and Warrants of Detention and Imprisonment.

The information contained in our website is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advices. For further information, please contact us.