A failed business transaction can generate both civil and criminal allegations, but the existence of a monetary dispute does not automatically answer whether criminal liability is made out.
The legal analysis may turn on the conduct alleged, the intention attributed to the parties, representations made, the contractual relationship and the evidence.
For someone accused of cheating or breach of trust, the chronology can be critical. What was represented at the beginning? What happened later? Was there an alleged dishonest intention from the outset, or did the dispute arise from subsequent non-performance?
For a complainant, the same questions should be examined before choosing the legal route.
The right legal characterisation can prevent a dispute from being reduced to the wrong category.
This article is for general information only and is not legal advice. Every matter turns on its own facts. Please take professional advice before acting.