How to become a legal translator?

In the realm of language and law, the role of a legal translator holds significant importance. Legal translators serve as bridges between different legal systems and languages, ensuring that legal documents and information maintain their integrity and accuracy during translation.

If you're interested in the world of law, have a passion for languages, and possess keen attention to detail, a career as a legal translator might be the right path for you and you should consider a programme such as a Degree in Translation and Intercultural Communication. In this blog post, we'll explore the definition of a legal translator, their role and typical tasks, where they work, and what you should study to embark on this unique and rewarding career journey.

Legal translator definition

A legal translator is a language professional with expertise in translating legal documents and texts from one language to another. 

This role requires a deep understanding of both the source and target languages, as well as a comprehensive grasp of legal terminology and concepts. Legal translators play a vital role in ensuring that legal information is accurately conveyed to individuals who may not be fluent in the original language of the legal document.

The role of a legal translator

Legal translators perform a range of crucial tasks to facilitate communication in the legal field. Here are some of the typical responsibilities they undertake:

• Document translation: The primary duty of a legal translator is to translate legal documents accurately. These documents can include contracts, court transcripts, patents, legislation, and more. The translations must maintain the legal nuances, terminology, and structure of the original document.
• Terminology mastery: Legal translators must have an in-depth knowledge of legal terminology in both the source and target languages. This ensures that no essential details are lost in translation, preventing misunderstandings or legal consequences.
• Cultural awareness: Understanding the legal systems, practices, and cultural nuances of the source and target languages is vital. Legal translators must navigate these differences to ensure the translated document is culturally appropriate and legally sound.
• Proofreading and editing: Proofreading and editing are essential to catch any errors or inconsistencies in the translated documents. Legal translators must meticulously review their work to maintain the highest level of accuracy and quality.
• Confidentiality: Maintaining confidentiality is critical in the legal field. Legal translators often work with sensitive information, and they must uphold strict ethical standards to protect their clients' interests.

Where do legal translators work?

Legal translators have a variety of career options, each offering unique challenges and opportunities:

• Freelance: Many legal translators work as freelancers, offering their services to law firms, corporations, government agencies, and individuals on a project basis. Freelancing provides flexibility and allows for a diverse range of clients and projects.
• In-House: Some legal translators are employed full-time or part-time by law firms, government agencies, or multinational corporations. In-house positions often come with a stable income and the chance to work closely with legal professionals.
• Translation Agencies: Translation agencies often hire legal translators to handle legal translation projects for their clients. Working with an agency can provide a steady stream of work and the opportunity to collaborate with other language professionals.

What should you study to become a legal translator?

There are different ways into having a career as a legal translator, one of which is by studying the degree mentioned earlier on in this post. Something that may employers look for today is having experience as well as knowledge or theoretical training. And at Universidad Europea, we ensure our students are equipped with the skills to succeed from day one after they graduate. 

Or practical approach to education means that throughout this degree in Translation and Intercultural Communication, you will have many opportunities to carry out work placements and internships at organisations in the sector, seeing different options to be a translator or honing your skills to become a legal translator.