Consider finding a signed first edition copy of a well-known book at a garage sale. Although you want to purchase the book as a gift for your best friend, you are unsure of the authenticity of the signature. How can you tell if the book is a collectible or if it has no value because there is no evidence that the signature is genuine?
This signed book’s predicament is one that many translations encounter, particularly in legal settings. It is sometimes necessary for translations to be “certified,” similar to how a signed copy of a book or other item should have a “certificate of authenticity” to confirm its legitimacy.
Here is a quick overview to help you determine whether your language services project needs a certified translation in Birmingham.
A certified translation: what is it?
A certified translation is one that is accompanied by a signed statement attesting that it is accurate and comprehensive to the best of the translator’s knowledge and ability. This is created by the translator or language solutions partner who translated the document and is also known as a “Certificate of Accuracy”. The work is of the highest calibre, which is further ensured by this certification.
Due to the added time and cost of quality control, independent translators frequently cannot offer certified translations. Because of their extensive quality assurance procedures and internal subject matter experts and linguists, language solutions partners are better suited to handle certified translations.
What distinguishes a certified translator from a certified translation?
Despite having similar names, a certified translation and certified translation are not the same thing. An individual who has successfully passed a certification exam to attest to his or her professional translation skills in a particular language is known as a certified translator. Not all countries or projects require certified translators, and not all languages have a certification exam.
Comparatively, a “certified translation” is the signed document attesting to the accuracy of the translation and can be created by either certified or non-certified translators, as well as language solutions partners.
When is the need for a certified translation present?
Given their highly technical content and the severe repercussions that could result from a mistranslation, the majority of legal documents will need to be certified translated. Affidavits, court records, contracts, and other documents that must go through a legal or governmental body are some examples. A certified translation would also be necessary for official government documents like birth certificates. All foreign documents, for instance, would require to be certified translations into English when dealing with immigration cases.
When does a certified translation need not be used?
Personal writing, promotional materials, and web content are examples of unofficial documents that do not need certification. However, these should still be translated by a reputable company that can modify content for the new audience in the most accurate and culturally sensitive manner. This ensures that the services of certified translation Birmingham offers to its businesses and residents are top notch.