Legal translation is a specialized field that requires a deep understanding of both the source and target languages, as well as the legal systems of both countries. Here are 12 helpful tips for doing legal translation:
Choose a qualified translator
Not all translators are created equal. When choosing a translator for your legal documents, make sure they have experience in legal translation and are familiar with the legal systems of both countries.Provide Clear Instructions
Give the translator as much information as possible about the document you need translated, including the purpose of the translation, the target audience, and any specific terminology that needs to be used.Review the translation carefully
Once the translation is complete, carefully review it to make sure it is accurate and error-free. If you are not familiar with the legal terminology, ask the translator to explain it to you.Get a second opinion
If you are still unsure about the accuracy of the translation, get a second opinion from another translator.Use a CAT tool
A CAT tool (computer-assisted translation tool) can help you to improve the accuracy and efficiency of your legal translations.Be aware of cultural differences
When translating legal documents, it is important to be aware of cultural differences between the two countries. For example, the term “reasonable” may have different meanings in different cultures.Use footnotes and glossaries
If there are any terms or concepts that are difficult to translate, you can use footnotes or glossaries to provide additional explanation.Be aware of the legal implications of the translation
A legal translation can have serious legal consequences, so it is important to make sure that it is accurate and error-free.Get the translation certified
If you need to submit the translation to a court or other official body, you may need to get it certified by a qualified translator.Keep track of your translations
It is a good idea to keep track of all of your translations, including the date, the translator, and the purpose of the translation. This will help you to avoid duplicating translations or losing track of important documents.Stay up-to-date on legal changes
The law is constantly changing, so it is important to stay up-to-date on the latest changes. This is especially important when translating legal documents.Use a professional translation service
If you are not comfortable translating legal documents yourself, you can always use a professional translation service.
