Those with experience compiling legal translations are finding themselves in growing demand. As international travel becomes more and more widespread, the world is getting that little bit smaller. The impact of this is that different cultures are coming together more frequently, and with different cultures come different languages. Legal documentation is an important part of everyday life so it should come as no surprise that those offering legal translation services are being sought out to assist when those that speak different languages meet in the eyes of the law.
What Is Legal Translation?
Essentially, legal translation is the translation of legal texts or documents retained within the judicial system. This may indeed be a rather simple premise but the implementation of such is actually not as simple as you might believe it to be, as we shall see later.
Legal translations are required when there is a need to establish the legality of documents that are written in a non-native language. For example, if a non- English speaking foreign national is being tried within a U.S. court, they would be entitled to have all documentation translated to their native language. With this information at hand they would be able to give a more accurate representation of themselves.
The type of documents to be translated is extensive, and varies widely. Here is a list of examples of the documents that may be translated:
- Contract
- Last Will and Testament
- Court proceedings
- Court notes
- Court transcription
- Appeal and court preparation
- Criminal evidence
- Accounts
- Legal files and notes
- Legal recordings
- Legal letters
Legal translating may prove extremely influential in how a judicial investigation or case is carried out. By being able to share documentation such as that listed above with all parties involved, it is likely that a truer viewpoint of the individual aspects of a case can be better achieved.
The Difficulties of Legal Translation
Earlier we alluded to the fact that implementing legal translation is not as simple as it may appear on the surface. This is mainly due to the fact that legal writings tend not to be the easiest things to read even in your own mother-tongue. By definition, legal writings are used to define often complex issues such as the rights and duties of any individual.
This means that accuracy is paramount when it comes to translating documents. This is in contrast to the ‘informal’ translation techniques used when looking at literature (particularly fiction) and other non-legal documentation. There is no room for ambiguity so each word is mulled over, with all connotations and implications being considered.
As such, many formal translators do not take on legal translating. Instead it falls to those that have experience and expertise in the field. For example, unlike a traditional translator, a legal translator is expected to have background experience within the field of law before they commence work. They are also expected to have immaculate command of both languages that are involved within any one scenario before they take on any legal translations.




