The Best Criminal Lawyer In Vietnam
Insights into Selecting a Professional Criminal Defense Lawyer in Vietnam
Imagine you have just arrived in Vietnam — a country full of vibrancy, opportunity, and cultural charm. As you explore new ventures or embrace local life, you may realize that understanding Vietnamese law is not just useful, but essential.
Among all areas of law, criminal law stands out as one of the most complex and sensitive.
And that is when you need the guidance and protection of a Criminal Lawyer in Vietnam — a professional who stands between you and the uncertainties of the legal system, safeguarding your rights, freedom, and reputation.
With over 20 years of practical experience in criminal defense, An Law Vietnam has represented numerous individuals and corporations in criminal proceedings across Vietnam.
Our legal team possesses deep knowledge of Vietnamese criminal procedure and is fully committed to protecting clients at every stage — from investigation and prosecution to trial — with diligence, professionalism, and integrity.
What Is a Criminal Lawyer in Vietnam?
A Criminal Lawyer in Vietnam — also known as a criminal defense lawyer — is a licensed legal practitioner who represents individuals or organizations accused of criminal offenses before investigative bodies, the prosecution, and the courts.
Their mission is to ensure that justice is served and that the rights of their clients are protected throughout every step of the criminal process.
While any licensed lawyer in Vietnam may technically engage in criminal defense, a specialized Criminal Lawyer in Vietnam is often someone with a strong litigation background, in-depth procedural expertise, or prior experience within law enforcement or judicial agencies.
Selecting the right criminal defense lawyer is therefore a strategic decision that can determine the outcome of your case — protecting your liberty, dignity, and financial interests.
The Role and Duties of a Criminal Lawyer in Vietnam
A professional Criminal Lawyer in Vietnam not only understands the law but knows how to apply it effectively to protect clients within the framework of justice. Their main responsibilities include:
- Analyzing the indictment and case files to identify critical legal issues;
- Engaging with investigative bodies, prosecutors, and courts to ensure procedural compliance;
- Participating in interviews, confrontations, expert assessments, and evidence appraisals;
- Collecting, reviewing, and presenting evidence in defense or mitigation;
- Advocating in court with well-founded legal arguments and persuasive reasoning;
- Drafting appeals, petitions, or clemency applications when necessary;
- Advising clients after the trial, including post-conviction remedies or record clearance.
A competent Criminal Lawyer in Vietnam does not only defend you in court — they also prevent future criminal risks, particularly for corporate clients and foreign investors.
When Should You Engage a Criminal Lawyer in Vietnam?
You should contact a Criminal Lawyer in Vietnam immediately in the following circumstances:
- When you or your relative is arrested, detained, or formally charged;
- When your company is under investigation or audit for alleged criminal conduct;
- When you are a victim, witness, or related party in a criminal case;
- When you are a foreign national facing criminal allegations in Vietnam and need legal counsel familiar with both Vietnamese law and international practice.
For foreign enterprises and expatriates, early consultation with a Criminal Lawyer in Vietnam is essential to prevent potential legal exposure in areas such as investment, taxation, contracts, and internal governance.
Legal Fees for Criminal Lawyers in Vietnam
The fee structure for hiring a criminal lawyer in Vietnam typically depends on:
- The seriousness and complexity of the charges;
- The procedural stage (investigation, prosecution, or trial);
- The volume of work and level of engagement required.
At An Law Vietnam, we emphasize transparency, fairness, and value. Each case is carefully assessed to propose a reasonable and result-oriented fee arrangement, ensuring clients receive the highest possible benefit.
“A good lawyer does not merely know the law — they know how to use it to deliver justice and preserve their client’s honor.”
How to Choose the Best Criminal Lawyer in Vietnam
When selecting a criminal defense lawyer, you should consider:
- Proven experience in criminal litigation;
- Track record of successful case outcomes;
- Testimonials or recommendations from previous clients;
- Clear communication and the ability to explain complex legal issues;
- Experience in representing foreign individuals and corporate clients.
An Law Vietnam brings together a team of dedicated Criminal Lawyers in Vietnam who have represented both local and international clients in a wide range of criminal matters.
We collaborate closely with our corporate, tax, and commercial law teams to provide comprehensive, confidential, and effective legal solutions.
The “Right to Remain Silent” and Its Application in Vietnam
While Vietnam does not explicitly recognize the “right to remain silent” as stated in some jurisdictions, the Criminal Procedure Code firmly upholds the presumption of innocence — meaning an individual is deemed innocent until proven guilty by a final court judgment.
In practice, this ensures that:
- You are not obliged to confess to any offense;
- The burden of proof rests with the investigating authorities;
- You have the right to remain silent when your statement may be self-incriminating.
In recent years, several criminal cases in Vietnam have demonstrated the importance of strategic silence — where defendants choose to remain silent or provide statements only in the presence of their legal counsel.
This practice fully complies with Vietnamese law and reflects the fundamental principle of the presumption of innocence, which lies at the heart of modern criminal procedure.
In reality, the right to remain silent must be exercised carefully and with legal guidance, as silence at the wrong time may be misunderstood as non-cooperation.
Therefore, having a Criminal Lawyer in Vietnam by your side from the very beginning is essential to ensure that your rights are protected and that the investigative and trial processes remain fair and lawful.
That is why having an experienced Criminal Lawyer in Vietnam by your side is vital — to help you act lawfully, protect your interests, and navigate the process effectively.
Why Choose An Law Vietnam?
| THE WORK OF AN LAW VIETNAM LAWYER IN CONSULTING AND PROVIDING LEGAL SUPPORT TO CLIENTS WHO HAVE JUST BEEN DETAINED | |||
| No | Work | Stage | Note |
| 1 | Find out the legal status of the arrested person | Just arrested and detained for investigation | At this stage, the lawyer has not officially contacted the detainee. |
| 2 | ➟ Authorised representative working with police agencies ➟ Support in completing procedures for making records of administrative violations and paying administrative fines ➟ Monitor and support the implementation of deportation procedures (in case the detainee is a foreigner and is subject to deportation) | ➟ There has been an official conclusion from the police that the behaviour has no signs of criminality or administrative handling. | At this stage, the lawyer is allowed to contact the detainee. |
| 3 | As a defence lawyer for the accused at the stages of prosecution ➜ investigation ➜ prosecution ➜ trial in court | There has been an official conclusion from the police agency that the behaviour exhibits signs of criminality, and a decision has been made to initiate criminal proceedings and prosecute the accused. | During the investigation stage (4-6 months or longer, depending on the complexity of each case), only defence attorneys have the right to contact the accused and the investigating police during interrogation sessions. |
- Over 20 years of experience in criminal defense and litigation;
- Bilingual English–Vietnamese legal team familiar with international standards;
- Extensive experience assisting foreign individuals and enterprises across Vietnam;
- Comprehensive services covering advisory, defense, and risk prevention;
- A commitment to absolute confidentiality, efficiency, and professional ethics.
“Conscientious in every case
Ingenious in the way of thinking
Safe in each legal solution”
This philosophy defines An Law Vietnam — your trusted partner in navigating Vietnam’s legal landscape with confidence and integrity.
Contact An Law Vietnam
If you, your family, or your business require the assistance of a Criminal Lawyer in Vietnam, do not hesitate to contact us for professional, responsive, and effective legal support.
📞 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