Early examples of the genre were criticized for using romance as mere decoration—a subplot that distracted from the procedural intrigue. However, recent acclaimed series (such as Cảnh Sát Hình Sự and Luật Sư Vô Danh arcs) have inverted this. The best modern phim pháp loan treat the romantic storyline as another form of evidence: a lens to examine character truth.

Because these relationships are socially unaccepted, many storylines end in tragedy or permanent separation rather than a "happily ever after". Summary for Viewers:

: Plots often hinge on hidden identities or long-held family secrets that, once revealed, complicate or ignite romantic feelings.