A guide to legal translation: part 2

Accurate legal translation goes far beyond simply converting words from one language to another, it demands a deep understanding of legal terminology.

Because of the precision required, only qualified and experienced linguists should handle this type of work. Partnering with a reliable language service provider ensures your documents are both linguistically and legally sound.

In part 1 of our deeper look into legal translation we reviewed what legal translation is and why it’s important to use an experienced translation. In this second part we’ve included:

  1. How do I get a legal translation?
  2. How do you translate a legal document?
  3. How much does a certified translation cost in the UK?
  4. How can I be sure my documents remain confidential?
  5. What is an LLM in legal translation?
  6. How much does a legal translation cost per page?
  7. How can I ensure the legal translation is accurate?
  8. How do I get help with legal translation?

How do I get a legal translation?

Navigating the complexities of legal documents in multiple languages requires precision and expertise. This is why it’s crucial to use a trusted and experienced language solutions provider to obtain a professional legal translation, ensuring that transcribed documents meet the specifications, regulations, or legal standards required.

Here’s how you can request a legal translation through our website:

  • Use our convenient quote option. You will be prompted to provide some initial details about your requirements. This includes the type of document, source and target languages.
  • We’ll ask you what your deadline is, if you have one, which will help us to determine if we’re able to meet this based on availability.
  • You can share any special instructions you have and let us know if you require a specific output other than the standard PDF we’ll provide.
  • Include any legal jurisdictions we need to be aware of, so we can ensure we allocate a translator to the work who understands the appropriate terminology.
  • After we’ve received your request, we’ll be in touch to provide a full quote, detailing the work required, timescale and cost.
  • If you’re happy to accept we’ll just need confirmation, then we can book in your legal translation.

How do you translate a legal document?

Translating a legal document is a task that demands precision, expertise, and a deep understanding of both the source and target languages’ legal systems. That’s why we’d always recommend a trained professional undertake legal translations and strongly advise against using artificial intelligence and free online translation tools.

At NRL, our process for legal document translation encompasses meticulous steps to ensure accuracy and confidentiality. Each document is entrusted to a translator who is not only fluent in the necessary languages but also trained and experienced in the legal. This ensures that the translation is accurate, legally valid, and culturally sensitive.

We recognise the critical importance of using trained and experienced translators for legal document translation. Our dedicated legal translation professionals hold industry-recognisable qualifications, ensuring that even the most complex documents are translated accurately. These experts are well-versed in the intricacies of legal jargon and understand the importance of nuance in legal documents, where a single word can have significant implications.

Our specialty areas within legal translation cover a broad spectrum, such as contracts, patents, litigation documents, and immigration papers.

How much does a certified translation cost in the UK?

One of the most common reoccurring questions about legal translation services is pricing, which can vary significantly based on several factors. At NRL, rates are influenced by the document’s complexity, the language combination, and the subject matter expertise required. The longer the document it’s fair to say the more cost there will be involved in translating it.

Specialised content, such as legal terminology, often demands translators with niche expertise, which can lead to an increased cost due to their advanced knowledge and the added precision required.

How can I be sure my documents remain confidential?

Confidentiality is essential when handling legal documents, and any reputable language service provider should treat it as a top priority. At NRL, we take this responsibility seriously. All our translators are required to follow the Institute of Translation and Interpreting’s (ITI) strict code of conduct, which includes clear guidelines on client confidentiality.

For additional peace of mind, we’re also happy to sign non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) to formally guarantee the protection of your sensitive information throughout the translation process.

What is an LLM in legal translation?

An LLM, or Master of Laws, in Legal Translation demonstrates that a translator has obtained advanced specialisation in both legal systems and translation practices. This qualification equips professionals with the expertise to navigate complex legal terminology, jurisdictional nuances, and international legal standards, ensuring translations are not only accurate but contextually precise.

NRL’s community of translators have extensive experience working in legal translation, and upon request we can seek availability of a LLM qualified linguist to undertake your work. Translators with legal qualifications, such as an LLM, bring deep legal knowledge and language proficiency, ensuring your documents comply with the required legal standards.

How much does a legal translation cost per page?

Each page needs to be carefully reviewed before it can be translated, to ensure legal terminology is retained, before the full document undertakes proofreading to assure its accuracy.

Typically, the quote you’re provided will be based on the word count of your document, including how many pages there are. The cost per word, based on the number of pages, will vary depending on the language and complexity of the document, which we’ll discuss with you during the quotation stage.

Shorter documents may incur a minimum fee, which is reflective of the skills needed to undertake the translation and the subsequent proofreading and certification.

How can I ensure the legal translation is accurate?

Accuracy is absolutely critical when it comes to legal translations, because any error can lead to serious legal or financial consequences. To ensure the highest standards are met, below are a few steps you can take.

Choose a reputable provider

Partnering with a trusted translation service is the first step. Look for providers with established credentials and affiliations. For example, membership in professional bodies like the Institute of Translation and Interpreting (ITI) demonstrates a commitment to quality and ethical standards. At NRL, we’ve been a corporate member of the ITI since 2009, and all our legal translations include a certification letter for added assurance.

Check credentials and industry experience

Accuracy comes with experience. A provider with a proven history in legal translation will be better equipped to handle complex terminology and varying legal systems.

Ask for references or case studies

A credible provider should be transparent about their past work. Ask for references, case studies, or client testimonials to verify their ability to manage legal translation projects effectively. We’re happy to share examples and walk you through how we’ve supported clients with similar needs.

By taking these steps, you’ll have greater confidence in the accuracy and reliability of your legal translations.

How do I get help with legal translation?

If you need support with legal translations or have additional questions, we’re here to help. You can speak directly with our team or chat with Ayla, our AI-powered Customer Service Agent, for quick assistance.

Need tailored advice? Feel free to get in touch with our team.

CONTACT US