A legal translator is a language specialist with expertise in legal texts and an understanding of legal systems. Unlike general translators, legal translators have in-depth knowledge of legal terminology, contract law and how legal documents function in different countries, which is crucial for accurate and legally binding translation.
Competence and background
Legal translators often have a legal education such as a law degree or legal studies at university level, or extensive documented experience in legal translation with specialisation in contract law, corporate law or procedural law. They understand and use legal terminology precisely in both source and target languages. Many legal translators have worked within legal contexts such as law firms, courts or corporate legal departments, which gives them a practical understanding of how legal documents are used and what requirements are placed upon them.
What does a legal translator do?
A legal translator translates contracts, corporate documents, articles of association, judgements and legal decisions, as well as legal correspondence between solicitors and parties. They ensure that legal terms are translated correctly according to established legal practice, that contractual clauses retain their legal meaning in the target language and that a document follows the target country’s legal conventions. Legal translators use specialised legal dictionaries and databases, consult legal reference works to verify terminology and collaborate with lawyers when necessary to understand complex legal concepts. An experienced translation partner with legal translation expertise works according to ISO standards with ISO-certified system support and uses the four-eyes principle where at least two legal experts review a translation before delivery. We always recommend that the client’s solicitors review translated legal documents before use, as the translator is responsible for linguistic accuracy whilst legal advice requires a qualified solicitor. In certain cases, an authorised translator certified by Kammarkollegiet is required.