Legal Translation may seem like a straightforward profession to newbies. But in reality, there are many different types of Legal Translation that you should learn about before pursuing this career path.
This article will go over the different types of Legal Translation to help you become more knowledgeable on the subject matter and figure out if this type of career is right for you.
To begin with, there are two main types of Legal Translation: simultaneous interpretation and consecutive interpretation.
Legal Translation – Certified Translator
In the most common form of Legal Translation, a certified translator will translate documents from one language to another. Their work must then be reviewed by another translator who is qualified and can prove that they are competent in both languages.
The primary benefit to having certified translators perform your Legal Translation needs is that you can rest easy knowing that you’ll have true cultural accuracy across your translations. The drawback is costs; not only will you pay for two translators for each project. But you’ll also need to outlay more cash for third-party certification and review.
However, if you require Legal Translations that are as close to perfect as possible, certified translation may be your best option.
Localization Translator
A localization translator is what you likely think about when someone says the legal translator. These are generally native speakers who translate text from their mother language into another. A localization translator must be able to have a general understanding and knowledge of each legal system and culture. As well as a solid grasp of legal terminology.
The translation of documents will often require additional research on behalf of a localization translator. Many times, it’s not enough just to know how to say something correctly.
One also needs to know why it’s correct within that specific context. Localization translators can usually expect a higher rate than some other types of legal translators. This is because their work requires such extensive expertise.
Legal Translation with Machine Translation
A simultaneous interpreter listens to a speech or presentation in one language. Then translates it into another language while speaking it aloud. In courts and other legal settings, these interpreters typically sit next to an attorney and directly interpret everything that is said. This can be stressful for those who aren’t used to performing under pressure. But those who are comfortable doing so should have no problem finding work as a simultaneous interpreter.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics does not show many job prospects for simultaneous interpreters. However, many employers will hire their employees based on referrals from other clients. So, if you know someone who has worked with a particular translator before. Ask them about their experience. Then ask whether they would be willing to pass along your contact information to their employer.
One thing you may want to keep in mind when looking for work as a simultaneous interpreter. Although there is often plenty of demand for court-based translators.
Simultaneous Interpreter
If you’re in an area where multiple languages are spoken, a simultaneous interpreter can prove valuable. Often operating from a booth, these interpreters translate each sentence a speaker says. They must be able to understand every word and phrase used by each individual involved in a conversation and not just one or two words at a time.
As you might imagine, simultaneous interpreting isn’t easy. It requires top-notch language abilities and attention to detail. And, because many simultaneous interpreters do both voiceovers and written translations, they need excellent writing skills as well. All in all, if you have a knack for languages and like working under pressure, consider becoming a simultaneous interpreter.
Telephone Interpreter
If you’ve ever seen a court case being broadcast on TV, there’s a good chance you’ve watched an interpreter work their magic. While most jobs in legal translation fall into one of these four categories. There are plenty more opportunities to specialize if you have a niche skill or expertise. Some additional roles include trainee interpreters, document writers, and copy editors.
Still, it is important to have diverse skills when translating in any field so that if one client leaves another can quickly fill his shoes. That way, you can keep charging those increasingly-inflated legal fees! After all, what good is high-quality Legal Translation if you don’t know how to keep up with your customer’s needs?
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Consecutive Interpreter
This usually takes place by telephone or in person in a courtroom setting where an interpreter is present on site.
While simultaneous interpretation requires two interpreters. Consecutive interpretation requires only one interpreter because it’s more difficult.
For example, if you were an interpreter for a law firm. And someone called asking for help understanding documents they’d received from their landlord over possible lease violations. You could interpret back and forth between Arabic and English until they were satisfied with your work.
Notarized Translations
In some cases, a document needs to be notarized. A notary public is an officer appointed by a government body. Whose job it is to witness signatures, take oaths and affirmations and authenticate official documents.
If you are translating a document that requires verification from a notary public. You will need to submit both your translation as well as an authenticated copy from your translator. This type of translation has nothing to do with its content. Rather, it focuses on verifying your credentials as a translator.
Certified Translation
Any Legal Translation delivered by a certified translator will be entirely accurate and also read exactly as it would in its original language. It’s best to hire a certified translator if you have complex or important documents. Most UAE states require attorneys to translate everything on their websites into both Arabic and English.
For example, which may be too much work for an interpreter or unqualified translator to complete properly. A specialist in Legal Translation can quickly get your message across while ensuring that all local regulations are met. For those reasons, it is often worth paying extra for Legal Translations from a certified translator.
Final Words…
I hope now you understand the term Legal Translation. Its types and its uses and I recommend you if you want to become a translator don’t use shortcuts. You pass the exams and registered yourself under the Association or Embassy of the country as a certified translator.
And if you are looking for a Legal Translation then you must have to be clear about why you need a legal translation. Maybe just a simple translation can work for you instead of a legal one. The purpose is very important.
your purpose should be clear because different types of translations have a different purposes. For Example, if you need machine Translation then it is cheap as compared to consecutive or simultaneous Interpretation.
If you need translation for court proceedings, business matters, or any other legal issues then you should go for Legal Translation. Sometimes you need an Apostille stamp or certified translation of documents. But again, all this depends on your situation.
Best of luck…😊
