What Are The Laws Around Certification for Translators?

What Are The Laws Around Certification for Translators?

While we can't give legal advice of any type, many people come to us asking about the laws around certification for translators. There are many legal considerations when it comes to becoming certified as a translator and here are the most prevalent to be considered from our point of view:
  • It is important that you state which certification you hold when you hold yourself out as a professional in the industry, it can help to use the symbol of the certification body or designation itself to avoid causing confusion in the industry
  • Be careful where you claim to be a certified translator. In some countries it can be illegal to call yourself a certified translator. You have to complete research on your location and where you advertise yourself to avoid being penalized by such laws. Always do your own research and seek legal counsel when you have these types of questions.
  • Always use disclaimers on your website and any translation work that could lead to legal action against you in the future. Often times translators have to work on limited information and tight deadlines and you need to makes sure clients know that you cannot be responsible for any legal interpretation of your translations if they have not provided you with right text to translate in the first place.
Seek legal counsel if you are about to take an action that could have legal consequences. The above notes should just serve as a basic high level guide to some areas which could have an impact on your career from a legal perspective.

By Adriana Tassini

Additional Related Resources:

1. Translator Certification
2. Translator FAQ
3. Online Translator Training
4. Translator Designation
5. Translation Certificate