A simple legal document in plain English is already difficult for many of us to comprehend. Imagine having them in an entirely foreign language. There’s no space for errors when it comes to documents involving the law. In this article, we’ll be touching on the essentials of a certified legal translation service.
What legal documents need to be translated in Singapore?
Legal documents are not restricted to just written words on paper. It also encapsulates documents in a virtual format like a text message, media like photos and videos, and even other hard-copy documents like receipts.
All these documents can be sent to you in another language which will be hard to understand; they need not be in English during the discovery stage of the trial. It only needs to be in English in Singapore’s courts once it’s presented in the courtroom itself.
Thus, this can leave you blindsided which puts you at a disadvantage.
Contrary to popular beliefs, legal documents are involved more often out of the court than in it.
When you run a business, contracts and terms & conditions agreements need to be written up from time to time. Having a translator that specialises in legal translation service can be very helpful in these situations.
Core skills a good legal translator should have
Knowledgeable in legal content & legal translation service
Only court interpreters and qualified persons may translate legal documents.
The language used in law has its own vocabulary, grammar, punctuation, etc. One missing comma can change the meaning of the entire sentence. And using the wrong words can be disastrous.
Example: The two sentences: “Let’s eat, Grandma!” and “Let’s eat Grandma!” have two completely different meanings.
The legal translator that you engage should know not just the two languages in translation but also the linguistic structure of the legal language. Being able to have good syntax and select the right words is key.
Proficient in the languages involved
This is a given but it’s the most important skill that your translator should have. The best way to prove proficiency would be by having the right certifications for the job.
A bachelor’s or a master’s degree in any discipline is a requirement to be a qualified translator. Without it, you can’t be a professional translator in Singapore.
In addition, to increase the chances of getting more projects, have good command in languages other than English and your mother tongue.
How to be a certified legal translator
There is a grey area when it comes to translating legal documents as it is not stated what qualifications are required from a private translator in The Rules of Court and the Supreme Court Practice Directions to translate documents for court. In this case, an expert witness might need to be involved.
Also, an affidavit has to be drawn up by a person who is qualified to do the translation. This should be accompanied with the original and translated documents when received, filed, or used in court.
Conclusion
When you are handling legal or even medical documents, be sure to hire qualified legal translator that are right for the job. And if you want to be a translator in this area, ensure that you have the certifications, knowledge, and skills to do so.
Interested to join Translated Right as a legal translator? Contact us today!
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