Thai AN EVALUATION OF A PRO BONO PROGRAM WITHIN METROPOLITAN POLICE STATIONS

Abstract

          The objective of this study was to evaluate the pro bono program at the Metropolitan Police Station using the Product Evaluation, Impact Evaluation, Effectiveness Evaluation, Sustainability Evaluation and Transportability Evaluation or CIPPIEST Model. The study involved 25 participants, including members of the Lawyers' Council Project Committee, volunteer lawyers at the police station, police investigators, and service users, who provided assessments.The results of the evaluation showed that: in terms of the context, the program was aligned with the National Strategic Plan, the government policy in promoting access to justice, and other relevant agencies’ policies. And in for inputs, in implementing the Volunteer Lawyer Program at police stations, no feasibility study or assessment of necessary requirements has been conducted. However, lawyers are provided by the court in cases where there is a demand from the public. And in terms of effectiveness, it was found that the pro bono lawyers provided legal consultations using their knowledge and communication skills cost-effectively. The assessment of service satisfaction, based on participants' interviews, revealed that the program was highly beneficial and should be continued. The study recommends utilizing the assessment for knowledge management, arranging coaching programs where pro bono lawyers mentor new lawyers, and providing suitable venues. Additional recommendations include enhancing information technology, assigning lawyers with specific expertise to certain police stations, and adjusting operational hours to fit the needs of specific stations. Furthermore, the study emphasizes the importance of coordinating with other organizations, identifying public needs for legal advice, developing indicators for legal counseling, and exploring alternative sources for public legal consultation.