A guide to legal translation: part 1
Legal translation requires a specific set of skills to be able to change transcripts from one language to another whilst recognising the legal terminology.
Only experienced linguists can support with high quality legal translation, and we’d always recommend working with a trusted language solutions provider. In the first of our blogs, we take a look at what legal translation is.
Included in part 1 of this guide:
What is the meaning of legal translation?
Legal translation is a specialised form of language service that involves converting legal documents from one language to another while preserving their exact meaning, tone, and legal implications. Unlike general translation, legal translation requires a profound understanding of legal systems, terminology, and cultural nuances to ensure accuracy and compliance.
At NRL, we recognise that even the smallest error or misunderstanding in legal translation can have significant consequences, which is why precision and expertise are at the heart of our services.
Legal translation plays a crucial role in fostering accurate communication between individuals, businesses, and governments across linguistic and legal boundaries, ensuring that all parties have a clear understanding of their rights and obligations. Whether two companies from different countries are entering into a partnership or an individual is navigating the immigration process, expertly translated legal documents ensure compliance and clarity.
There’s a wide range of legal documents that often require translation, many of which demand specialised expertise. Examples include contracts, business agreements, court rulings, licenses, patents, wills, immigration paperwork, and financial regulations. NRL draws on decades of experience to provide accurate translations of these critical documents, tailoring our services to meet the needs of various industries and legal scenarios.
How can I maintain confidentiality with legal translation?
All reputable language solutions providers will maintain complete confidentiality when working on your legal translation.
Here at NRL we mandate that our translators must adhere to the Institute of Translation and Interpreting’s (ITI) code of conduct, and we are happy to sign non-disclosure agreements for added reassurance.
Can a solicitor certify a translation?
When dealing with legal documents in different languages, the term certified translation often enters the conversation. But what does it actually mean? A certified translation is one that has been formally declared as accurate by a qualified professional, and it typically bears a dated statement of certification with credentials to validate its authenticity. At NRL for example, our translations come with a certificate that is stamped for authenticity, that accompany all documentation.
In the UK, solicitors may play a role in legalising translations. While a translator can certify their own work, where a legalised translation is required, this may be available from a solicitor. It’s crucial to remember however that the solicitor must have exceptional knowledge of the target language, to be able to check its accuracy.
Solicitor certification isn’t the only route, that’s why we offer certified legal translation services as corporate members of the Institute of Translation and Interpreting (ITI). This ensures that our clients receive translations that are not just meticulously produced but also come with the appropriate certification.
What is a legalised translation?
Navigating the world of legal documentation can be complex, especially when those documents need to be recognised across international borders. That’s where legalised translation comes into play. A legalised translation is not merely a certified translation; it is officially authenticated for legal use in another country. This process is usually required for documents like marriage certificates, adoptions, court orders, or any legal paperwork that must be presented to foreign authorities.
While a certified translation attests to the accuracy of the translation, legalisation involves additional verification by an apostille or similar endorsement, to authenticate the transcribed document where it is required.
NRL has a proven track record providing legal translation, we ensure that your transcripts are translated to the highest standards by experts familiar with the intricacies of legal terminology. We also ensured that they’re legalised appropriately, respecting both the source and target countries’ legal frameworks.
How much does a legal translator cost?
One of the most common questions for legal translation services is regarding cost, and the answer depends on several key factors. At NRL, our pricing for legal translations varies based on the complexity of the document, the language pair required, and the level of expertise necessary to translate industry-specific terminology. For example, translating a straightforward document like a birth certificate into a widely spoken language may be less expensive than handling a complex legal contract in a rarer language that spans several pages.
For highly specialised translations, such as those involving technical legal or regulatory documentation, prices may fluctuate due to the need for experienced translators with industry-specific knowledge.
Who can officially translate a document?
When it comes to legal document translation, it’s essential to ensure the work is done by an official translator who meets legal standard in the UK. Accredited translators must have the expertise to produce accurate translations, especially in intricate legal contexts.
Choosing an accredited translator is vital for handling legal documents, as errors in translation could lead to significant consequences, including disputes or delays in legal proceedings. With extensive experience in the field, NRL is committed to the highest standards of accuracy and confidentiality, ensuring your translations are accepted by relevant authorities and meet stringent industry regulations.
What is a legally certified translation?
Understanding the nuances of legally certified translations is crucial for ensuring the accuracy and acceptance of your documents in legal settings.
We distinguish between certified translations, which are verified for accuracy by a qualified translator, and notarised translations, which go a step further by involving a Notary Public. This distinction is pivotal because notarised translations may be required for official purposes where the identity and qualifications of the translator must be authenticated.
Our legal translations are accompanied by a translation certificate that confirms its accuracy.
How can I get a reputable legal translation?
Selecting a reputable translation service is vital for legal documents, where accuracy and adherence to legal standards cannot be compromised. To ensure you are choosing a credible translation service, consider the following tips.
Verify Credentials
Ensure the translation company has the necessary credentials. This include holding membership with respected industry bodies, such as the Institute of Translation and Interpreting (ITI), to indicate adherence to professional standards and a commitment to quality.
Request references
Reliable companies can provide case studies or references from past legal translation projects, demonstrating their capability to handle complex legal documents. Testimonials from previous clients are available to view on our website, and we’re happy to discuss these in more detail.
Look for extensive experience
When you’re searching for a language solutions provider make sure they have a proven track record working with legal translations.
With over six decades of experience in delivering translation services, our long-standing expertise has equipped us to expertly handle nuanced legal translations effectively.
Looking for legal translation support?
If you have any more questions about legal translations, why not chat with Ayla our AI-powered Customer Service Agent or give our team a call.