Certified Legal Translation of Official Documents
Certified Translation: What It Is, When You Need It and Why It's Crucial to Choose Professionals
Legal translation is essential when official documents need to be presented in a language other than the original, especially before governmental, academic or judicial entities. Unlike a simple translation, a legal (certified) translation is done by a professional who guarantees its accuracy and legal validity. In this context, L&P Translations stands out as a reliable company that offers internationally accepted certified translations. Having professional translations avoids rejections, errors and delays in critical procedures such as immigration, contracts or university admissions.
Content
- What is a certified translation?
- Differences between plain translation and legal translation
- Cases in which a legal translation is required
- Who can perform a legal translation?
- Requirements for a certified translation
- Consequences of using non-certified translations
- Why choose L&P Translations?
- Conclusion: the importance of a professional legal translation
- Contact and quotations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Glossary
With accurate and legally valid translations
The need for accurate and legally valid translations has increased exponentially. An ordinary translation is not always enough. In many contexts, especially when official entities are involved, a certified translation is required.
This type of translation is essential to ensure that the content of a document remains faithful to its original version, both in terms of meaning and legal value. In this blog we will discuss what a certified translation is, how it differs from a simple translation, when it is required and why it is essential to have professionals to perform it.
What is a certified translation?
A certified translation is one that has been done by a professional translator who issues a written statement that the translation is accurate, complete and faithful to the original document. This statement normally includes:
- The name and signature of the translator or the company that performed the translation
- The date on which it was made
- A certification of accuracy
- Contact information of the person responsible for the translation
In some countries, the translator is also required to be officially authorized or registered as a sworn translator. This gives the translation legal validity before entities such as embassies, courts, universities, immigration agencies or notaries.
How does it differ from a simple translation?
A simple translation, also known as a non-certified translation, may be useful for understanding the content of a text or for informal purposes. However, it has no legal value and cannot be presented to official entities. For example, if you translate your birth certificate with an automatic tool or with the help of a bilingual friend, that translation will not be accepted by an institution such as USCIS or a foreign university.
A certified translation, on the other hand, is a formal document that attests to the accuracy of the translation and can be used legally in official proceedings. The difference lies not only in the accuracy, but also in the professional and legal support it offers.
When is a certified translation needed?
Certified translations are mandatory in a variety of formal and legal contexts. Some of the most common cases are:
Migratory processes:
Immigration authorities, such as USCIS in the United States, require certified translations of documents such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, criminal records, diplomas and more.
Legal proceedings:
Legal documents such as judgments, lawsuits, wills, powers of attorney or contracts filed in court proceedings must be officially translated.
Academic applications:
Universities and international educational institutions often require certified translations of diplomas, grades, certificates and letters of recommendation.
International business and trade:
Companies operating abroad need to translate contracts, bylaws, financial reports or import/export documents.
Job applications abroad:
In order to apply for international jobs, it is often necessary to present certificates, diplomas or work experience documents duly translated and certified.
In all of these scenarios, submitting an uncertified translation can result in rejection of the document, lost opportunities or delays in the process.
Who can perform a certified translation?
It is not enough to speak two languages to offer a certified translation. This type of work must be done by professional translators, preferably with experience in the specific area of the document (legal, medical, academic, technical, etc.) and with knowledge of the formal language expected in each type of text.
In some countries, the translator is required to be officially accredited as a sworn or authorized translator. In others, a professional translation company with a proven track record, such as L&P Translations, can issue valid certifications that meet the standards required by local and international institutions.
What should a certified translation include?
A professional certified translation must meet the following requirements:
- Accurate and complete translation of the original document, without omissions or interpretations.
- Formatting that respects the original document structure
- Certification statement with signature of translator or authorized representative
- Date and contact information
- In some cases, an official stamp or letterhead of the company supporting the translation
In addition, if the translation will be used abroad, an additional apostille or legalization may also be required to ensure its validity in another country.
Consequences of submitting an uncertified translation
Using a non-certified translation in a context where this type of document is required can lead to multiple problems, among them:
- Rejection of visa applications, scholarships or legal proceedings
- Loss of time and money due to having to redo the translation
- Delays in immigration, judicial or educational proceedings
- Legal problems due to errors in the interpretation of the content
- Lack of credibility or distrust of the receiving institution
Therefore, it is essential to ensure that the work is carried out by specialized professionals.
Why trust L&P Translations?
At L&P Translations we understand the importance of a certified translation. We have a team of professional translators with extensive experience in diverse areas such as law, immigration, business, medicine, education and more.
We offer:
- Certified translations valid for USCIS, courts, universities, embassies and more
- Deliveries in tight deadlines according to your urgency
- Personalized treatment and advice throughout the process
- Professional support and commitment to the confidentiality of your information
Every document we translate is treated with the highest level of detail, professionalism and commitment.
Conclusion
Certified translation is not just a formality. It is a guarantee that your documents will be accepted by the institutions that require them. In contexts where the stakes are high - such as a visa application, a commercial contract or a legal process - there is no room for error.
Investing in a quality certified translation is a strategic and responsible decision. At L&P Translations we are ready to help you take that step with confidence and professionalism.
Request your personalized quote today and ensure the validity of your documents anywhere in the world.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What documents require legal translation?
Birth certificates, judgments, contracts, diplomas, certificates of birth, and other official documents.
2. Is the legal translation valid in all countries?
It depends on the receiving country. Some translations also require an apostille or additional legalization.
3. Can I do my own legal translation if I know the language?
No. It must be performed by a certified professional to be legally valid.
4. What happens if I submit a non-certified translation?
It may be rejected by the authorities, causing delays and loss of time or money.
5. How do I request a legal translation with L&P Translations?
Through the website https://lptranslate.comwhere you can request a personalized quote.
Glossary
Legal translation:
Translation with official and legal validity, performed by certified professionals.
Certified translation:
Translation accompanied by a written statement of accuracy, signed by the translator.
Simple translation:
Translation without legal validity, useful for personal or informal use.
Sworn translator:
Officially accredited professional to perform legal translations.
Apostille:
International legalization that validates a document for use in another country.
