Legal translation is one of the most delicate fields of translation. This is largely because it involves a very sophisticated mode of language that leaves no room for error at all. As such, translating legal materials from one language into another demands an incredibly careful understanding of both the source and target languages, as well as an extensive knowledge of legal terminology and procedures. And when we talk about translating legal documents to and from the Arabic language, there are several aspects that we should be fully aware of.
In this article, we shall touch upon some of the most comment challenges and strategies for delivering a high-quality legal documents translation from Arabic into English or vice versa.
What are some of most common challenges in Arabic legal translation?
There are a number of factors that must be taken into account while translating legal papers from Arabic into another language.
Language complexity
Arabic is known for its complex grammar and extensive word selection. There are also many variations at the regional and dialectal levels, which makes translation difficult.
Cultural differences
Legal systems and concepts can vary significantly between cultures, and it is important for the translator to have a deep understanding of both the source and target cultures to accurately convey the meaning of the text.
Technical legal terms
Legal documents often include specialized terminology and notions that might be difficult to translate adequately. To accurately explain the meaning of these phrases, the translator must have a solid grasp of both the source and target legal systems.
Proper formatting
Legal documents often have very tight and specific formatting requirements, such as the placement of section headings and the use of bold or italicized text. It is important for the translator to be aware of these requirements and to ensure that the translated document maintains the same formatting as the original.
Translation accuracy
Legal translation requires a high level of accuracy, as even small, minor differences in meaning can have serious consequences. It is therefore very important for the translator to carefully review the translated document to ensure that it is accurate and faithful to the original.
Strategies for Ensuring Accuracy in English to Arabic Translation Service
There are several strategies that can be used to ensure accuracy in Arabic legal translation:
Hire a certified translator
It is important to use a translator who has a strong understanding of both the source and target legal systems and is fluent in both Arabic and the target language.
Review the translation
It is good practice to have the translation examined by another translator or a native speaker of the target language to verify that it is correct and authentic to the original.
Use translation memory software
Translation memory software stores previously translated segments of text and can help ensure consistency and accuracy in future translations. One important thing to note here is that translation memory software (such as TRADOS) is not the same as automatic translation software (such as Google Translation.
Use a style guide
A style guide provides guidelines for how to translate specific terms and phrases and can help ensure consistency in the translation.
Use proper formatting
It is important to maintain the same formatting as the original document in the translated version in order to ensure that the meaning and intent of the text are preserved.
How important is it to have an Arabic native speaker to translate Arabic legal documents?
It is typically recommended that legal papers be translated from Arabic to another language or vice versa by a native Arabic speaker. Because native speakers have a natural and intuitive knowledge of the language, they are more likely to provide accurate and idiomatic translations.
However, the translator must also have a good grasp of both the source and target legal systems, as well as proficiency in the target language. Furthermore, whether the translator is a native speaker of Arabic, the translator should be able to correctly portray the sense and purpose of the original text.
Overall, it is better to engage a trained and experienced translator who understands both Arabic and the target language, as well as the legal systems and ideas involved.
How to ensure maximum accuracy in Arabic legal translation?
Aside from the strategies above, one thing you can do is hire a professional legal translation agency to handle this delicate process for you. However, if you are considering this step, look for an agency professional team of certified experts and a powerful QA system that ensures maximum accuracy and leaves no room for errors.
