The Role Of Lawyers In Criminal Cases
Criminal Defense Law Firm in Vietnam – The Role of Lawyers in Criminal Cases | An Law Vietnam
In the field of criminal law in Vietnam, lawyers play a vital role in defending the legitimate rights and interests of clients, as well as ensuring justice, fairness, and due process throughout the criminal litigation.
At An Law Vietnam, a leading criminal defense law firm in Vietnam, our professional team of Vietnam criminal lawyers is dedicated to assisting clients at every stage of criminal proceedings — from investigation, prosecution, and trial to appeal, cassation, and retrial.

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The Role of Criminal Defense Lawyers in Vietnam
A lawyer may participate in a criminal case from the initial stage of investigation or at any later point to:
- Protect the legitimate rights and interests of the client – the core mission of An Law Vietnam’s criminal defense attorneys.
- Clarify the objective facts of the case, ensuring an accurate, prompt, and lawful resolution.
- Maintain independence and objectivity during the criminal process, thereby upholding justice and procedural fairness.
Criminal lawyers not only help clarify the nature of the offense but also play a crucial role in reducing penalties, mitigating charges, or securing acquittals, while protecting the rights of victims, civil plaintiffs, and civil defendants involved in the case.
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Who Can a Criminal Lawyer Represent in Vietnam?
Lawyers from An Law Vietnam can represent and defend the legal rights of:
- Suspects: Individuals or legal entities under criminal investigation.
- Defendants: Persons or organizations formally brought to trial by the court.
- Victims: Individuals, agencies, or organizations suffering moral, material, or reputational harm due to a criminal act.
- Civil Plaintiffs: Those claiming compensation for damages caused by a criminal offense.
- Civil Defendants: Persons or entities legally responsible for compensating damages.
- Persons with Related Rights and Obligations: Individuals or organizations whose legal interests are associated with the criminal case.
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Legal Services Provided by An Law Vietnam’s Criminal Defense Lawyers
During the Investigation and Prosecution Stages
- Examine and analyze case files and relevant laws.
- Gather evidence, documents, and witness statements supporting the defense.
- Meet and consult with clients, providing both legal and psychological support.
- File petitions with investigative authorities or the People’s Procuracy for additional evidence or clarification.
- Participate in interrogations, confrontations, identification procedures, voice recognition, and other lawful investigative activities.
Procedural Requests and Petitions
Criminal defense lawyers in Vietnam have the right to:
- Request replacement of procedural officers, experts, or interpreters.
- Petition to cancel or modify preventive or coercive measures.
- Request the summoning of witnesses and relevant persons.
- Demand re-examination, re-evaluation of assets, or supplementary evidence collection by competent authorities.
At the Trial Stage
- Assess and evaluate evidence; present legal arguments before the court.
- Conduct questioning and public debate during the hearing.
- File complaints against unlawful procedural acts or decisions.
- File appeals on behalf of minors or clients with physical or mental impairments, as provided by law.

Under Vietnamese criminal procedure law, an accused person or their representative has the right to appoint a criminal defense lawyer.
Competent authorities must forward a defense request within:
- 12 hours for persons under arrest or temporary detention;
- 24 hours for persons held in temporary custody.
If the accused does not name a lawyer, a relative or representative may request An Law Vietnam to assign a criminal defense attorney to protect the accused’s lawful rights and interests.
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Why Choose An Law Vietnam – Leading Criminal Defense Law Firm in Vietnam
- Extensive Experience in Criminal Litigation: Our team of Vietnam criminal lawyers has represented hundreds of criminal cases for both local and foreign clients.
- In-depth Legal Expertise: We have a comprehensive understanding of Vietnam’s Criminal Code and Criminal Procedure Code, helping clients avoid procedural mistakes.
- Commitment to Justice and Client Interests: At An Law Vietnam, we are dedicated to protecting our clients’ rights and achieving the most favorable outcomes possible.
Criminal proceedings in Vietnam are highly procedural and complex. Without proper legal assistance, defendants and litigants may miss critical procedural steps, potentially compromising their legal rights and interests.
With many years of experience, the criminal defense lawyers at An Law Vietnam have successfully defended hundreds of Vietnamese and foreign clients involved in criminal cases across the country.
We take pride in being a trusted legal partner for individuals and corporations, consistently placing our clients’ interests first.
Therefore, if you or your organization are involved in any criminal litigation in Vietnam, contact An Law Vietnam — a reputable criminal defense law firm in Vietnam — for comprehensive legal advice and professional representation.
Contact An Law Vietnam
📞 Phone: (+84) 986 995 543
📧 Email: info@anlawvietnam.com
📍 Head Office: Diamond Plaza, 34 Le Duan Street, Sai Gon Ward, Ho Chi Minh City
🏢 Vung Tau Branch: Vo Thi Sau Street, Vung Tau Ward, Ho Chi Minh City