Decriminalizing civil relations: A spring message to the business community

Lawyer Ho Vuong Quoc Su (CEO of LS Law Firm) – Every Spring, what the business community looks forward to is not only new policies, but also the reassurance that the law will stand by their side, rather than become an obstacle. In economic life, disputes are inevitable. Yet the way a society confronts disputes reflects the maturity of its legal institutions. There, the law either serves as a tool to protect trust—or inadvertently becomes a source of insecurity for those striving in the marketplace.

One of the greatest concerns for businesses today is the risk of criminalizing civil and economic relations. This concern does not stem from an attempt to evade responsibility, but from the reality that legal boundaries are sometimes applied inconsistently.

When criminal law becomes the “Shortcut” to disputes

In not a few cases, when a contractual breach occurs, instead of pursuing a civil lawsuit—a process that requires time and patience—one party chooses to file a criminal complaint to create pressure. From being a tool to protect social order, criminal law is drawn into the role of a “quick fix” for business disputes.

As a result, law enforcement agencies are often confronted with cases that are not truly criminal in nature, while enterprises fall into a heavy legal whirlpool, even though they may simply be suffering from objective business risks.

The cost of legal insecurity

A decision to initiate criminal proceedings is not merely a legal issue—it is also a psychological and economic shock to a business. Reputation is damaged, partners become hesitant, banks tighten credit, and projects are stalled. In many cases, businesses do not collapse because of the dispute itself, but because of the consequences of being criminalized.

At the macro level, this sense of insecurity spreads, diminishing the attractiveness of the investment environment. Investors, especially foreign ones, always seek stability and predictability in the legal system. A market where business risks can be criminally prosecuted at any time is a market unlikely to retain long-term capital.

Decriminalization – Let the law play its proper role

Decriminalizing civil relations does not mean tolerating wrongdoing. On the contrary, it allows criminal law to focus on truly dangerous acts—organized fraud, deliberate asset appropriation, and conduct harmful to society.

When business risks are resolved through civil mechanisms, enterprises have the opportunity to remedy, restructure, and continue contributing to the economy. When genuine economic crimes are strictly punished, public trust in the rule of law is strengthened. This balance is essential for a healthy market economy.

A spring message for a sustainable business environment

Spring is the season of hope. Hope that the legal system will continue to evolve toward greater transparency, consistency, and humanity in addressing economic relations. Hope that entrepreneurs will be protected from objective risks, so they can innovate, invest, and dedicate themselves with peace of mind.

Decriminalizing civil and economic relations, therefore, is not merely a legal requirement—it is a Spring message to the business community: have confidence in doing honest business, for the law will accompany and support your growth.

LS LAW FIRM – Always accompany your development