What’s the difference between Legal and Sworn Translation?

When you need a translation for legal documents, you have two options to choose from: sworn translation, and legal translation. Both of these services are essential for accurately conveying the meaning of your documents from one language to another, but it’s important to understand the nuances between them. Sworn translation is typically used for official documents that need to be verified and authenticated, such as birth certificates and marriage certificates. Legal translation, on the other hand, is used for documents related to legal matters, such as contracts and court documents. This article will provide an overview of the differences between sworn and legal translation services, so you can make an informed decision when choosing the right service for your needs.

What is Sworn Translation?

A sworn translation is a translation that has been verified and authenticated by a translator who has sworn to its accuracy, usually in a notary public office. Most countries require that legal documents, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, and diplomas, be translated by a sworn translator. Additionally, these documents need to be notarized, or authenticated, in order for them to be legally binding in that country. The translation process for sworn translations is much more rigorous and strict than for legal translations. A sworn translator needs to be extremely knowledgeable about both languages, and adhere as closely as possible to the literal meaning of the source language. They also need to have excellent technical skills and be able to understand linguistic nuances that may otherwise go unnoticed. A sworn translator’s credentials are verified by the governmental authority that licenses translators. While a sworn translation is more expensive than a legal translation, it’s worth it if you need your documents to be legally binding in another country.

What is Legal Translation?

Legal translation is the process of translating documents related to legal matters, such as contracts, court documents, and corporate policies. Legal documents are often used for internal business purposes or for filing lawsuits in court, so accuracy is important. Legal translation does not require the translator to swear an oath, or notarize the translation, so you likely won’t have to pay as much for this type of translation service. Legal translation services are often cheaper than sworn translation services because they don’t require the same rigorous assessment process. A good legal translation service should be able to provide you with a translation that accurately reflects the meaning of your document while using appropriate legal terminology.

The Difference Between Sworn and Legal Translation

The major difference between sworn and legal translation is that a sworn translator has to swear an oath to the accuracy of the translation, while a legal translator does not. A sworn translator must also have been certified by the government to authenticate documents. A legal translator does not have to be certified, which significantly reduces the cost of the translation. Another major difference between sworn and legal translation is that sworn translation services are often used for documents that need to be legally binding in another country, such as birth certificates and marriage certificates. Legal translation, on the other hand, is used for documents relevant to internal business use, or for legal proceedings within the country. Legal documents often need to be notarized, but are not required to be legally binding in other countries.

Benefits of Using a Sworn Translator

If your documents need to be legally binding in another country, using a sworn translator is the best way to ensure your documents are properly authenticated. A sworn translator is required to take an oath to the accuracy of their translation. Since your documents are required to be legally binding, you’ll likely need to pay a higher price for the sworn translation service. If your documents aren’t required to be certified, it’s best to use a legal translator. Legal translation services are less expensive, and the translation should accurately reflect the meaning of your document. Legal translation services are also recommended for internal business use.

Benefits of Using a Legal Translator

A legal translator should be able to provide you with an accurate translation that reflects the original meaning of your document. Legal translation services are most commonly used for internal business documents, such as contracts and corporate policies. Legal translation services are often cheaper than sworn translation services, which makes them a great option if your documents don’t need to be legally binding in another country. 

Examples of Documents Requiring Sworn Translation

Different types of documents could require a sworn translation: company statutes, wills, notary contracts, civil certificates, technical, legal or administrative documents, scholar certifications, diplomas, among others. These documents are required to be legally binding in other countries, so you must use a translator who is qualified to sworn their translation. If you’re not sure which documents need to be legally binding, you can contact the governmental authority in the country where you’re living or planning to travel. Once you’ve determined that your documents need to be legally binding, you can search for a sworn translator using a translation service like the one offered by Berba. We only use sworn translators certified by oficial entities.

Examples of Documents Requiring Legal Translation

If your documents aren’t required to be legally binding in another country, you can use a legal translator. Legal translation services are often used for internal business documents, such as contracts and corporate policies. You’ll know that your documents don’t need to be legally binding because your translator won’t swear an oath the translation. 

Conclusion

While sworn and legal translation services have many differences, both are essential for accurately conveying the meaning of documents from one language to another. A sworn translator has to swear an oath to the accuracy of the translation, while a legal translator does not have to do this. A legal translator is often used for documents such as contracts and corporate policies, while a sworn translator is often used for documents that need to be legally binding in another country.