Court Bundle Translation

Cases involving foreign language evidence are reliant on the accuracy of translations produced and require a very meticulous approach to deliver such critical information into the requested target language.

In California, Judge H. Tierman dismissed homicide charges against Cathy Mendoza. He noticed the testimony of Spanish-speaking witnesses had serious mistranslations. He said, “Justice can’t be done if the jury does not have the proper information in front of them.” Courts rely on interpreters to translate the testimony, but there are many obstacles. They have to translate accurately and quickly, but sometimes errors creep in.

Prestige Network work with many solicitors and legal counsels, translating confidential information into a multiple languages. Our translators are subject matter experts and are familiar with the terminology that arise. We also ensure that where possible the original formats and layouts are retained.

The following workflow outlines our approach to this type of request:

• Receipt of files and confirmation that all files are present and legible
• Analysis files using industry standard software
• Review and inclusion of any audio content for transcription
• Provision of quotation and terms for client approval
• Documents assigned electronically to our Project Management team and one or more translators
• Statement of Truth provided with final files on delivery
• Translations delivered to client
• Transcriptions returned
• Interpreters booked to support colleagues and clients in court
• Originals returned to client or destroyed

Document formats

Many of our translation projects are for documents prepared electronically, often in PDF or Microsoft Word format. At times we receive documents in hard copy format and are required to scan large quantities in order to assess the work and provide a quotation for translation or e-discovery.  

We will work with you to ensure your translations are carried out professionally and delivered to you in the layout and format that works best for you and your colleagues.

Potential outcomes from poor translation of source documents can be:

• Inaccurate evidence
• Wrongful convictions
• Jeopardising reputations, finance – even lives

Translation services and the law are very different disciplines, but the word of the law is the word of the law; whether it’s in a court bundle, a contract or a witness statement, it must be accurate in your chosen language. Our expert translators ensure that legal terms are correct for you.

Cutting corners when it comes to having your legal documents translated can be costly and result in devastating consequences.

Be sure to use a professional translation agency with a solid track record for all of your legal translations. Call me now for more information on our service and our work with the Legal Community.

Jackie Benn

I lead our legal interpreting and translation team. A countrywide network of experienced interpreters and translators, all being legal specialists with extensive experience. My responsibility extends to managing our in-house secure transcription team, and a team of skilled project managers.

I create solutions that meet your legal translation and interpreting needs.