How to Translate a Last Will & Testament
A Last Will and Testament is an important official document, and therefore must be translated by a qualified translator. Translating a Last Will and Testament is an easy procedure, which requires a minimum amount of effort. Focus on finding the right translator for the job and negotiating the price and deadline for the translation project.
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Instructions
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How To Translate a Last Will and Testament
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Language. You must specify the source and target language of the Last Will and Testament for the following step. So if, for example, the original document is in English and must be translated into Spanish, the source language is English and the target language is Spanish.
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Finding a translator. You may find freelance translators or translation agencies to perform the translation by researching online or through a phone directory. Make sure to check that the translator or translation agency works with the language pair you need, meaning that they work from the source language to the target language you require. In addition, you might also find qualified translators by contacting translation organizations directly and obtaining a listing of translators in the language pair you require.
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Verify qualifications. To ensure you receive a high-quality translation, verify that the translator works by translating into their native language, or that the translation agency you want to work with employs such a translator. This means that if you want to translate a Last Will and Testament from English (source language) to Spanish (target language), the translator you work with should be a native Spanish speaker with a solid command of the English language, too. In addition, you may inquire as to the translator's credentials, which should include university studies in translation and ample experience in the translation of official documents such as Last Wills and Testaments. Don't hesitate to request samples of their previous work or certifications granted by reputable translation organizations such as the American Translators Association (ATA).
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Negotiate price, payment terms and deadline. Obtain a quote for the translation of the Last Will and Testament, which should include price and the due date of the completed project. You should expect to be charged for translation services by a per word or per page price. Establish the price and payment terms before the translation is under way and ensure that the translator or translation agency respects the deadline established.
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Tips & Warnings
Don't be afraid to shop around for a good translator or translation agency that fits your budget and adheres to your deadline.
Oftentimes official documents such as Last Wills and Testaments will require certified/notarized translations to validate the translation if you intent to present it abroad. Make sure to find out beforehand whether the document will be used abroad and the requirements for its legal validity in the country or countries in question.
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