Translating your articles of association is more than just a formality. This fundamental document sets out your company's legal structure, defines how it will operate and commits you to liability. When a foreign authority, a court or a business partner asks for a translated version, every word counts. The slightest error can have far-reaching legal consequences.
Translating bylaws: a high-risk document
Bylaws contain complex concepts: legal form, powers of directors, capital distribution, operating rules... Any misinterpretation can lead to rejection of your application, administrative delays or, worse, litigation.
Let's take a case in point: a law firm was asked to provide translated articles of association for a client as part of a contractual dispute. A mistranslation of the clause relating to the manager's powers paved the way for a challenge in court. The case, which could have been settled quickly, was prolonged by several months.
Sworn translations: a frequent requirement
In many situations - setting up a company abroad, legal proceedings, invitations to tender, filing applications - a sworn translation of the articles of association is required. This means that the document must be translated by an accredited professional, recognized by a competent authority. His or her signature and stamp attest to the legal value of the document.
Without a sworn translation, your document may be rejected, blocking your application and damaging your credibility.
The need for rigorous terminology
Articles of association use a precise legal vocabulary, which varies from one legal system to another. A limited liability company(SARL), a simplified joint stock company (SAS) or a public limited company (SA) cannot be translated literally. You need to explain how they work, while respecting the legal balance of the source text.
What's more, some jurisdictions require that the layout of the translation be identical to that of the original. This technical constraint calls for dual skills: legal and linguistic.
Why use specialized translators?
Successful legal translation rests on three pillars:
- Mastering corporate law
- Knowledge of legal equivalents between countries
- Authorization to produce sworn translations
At Legal 230, our network of translators is made up exclusively of legal professionals. They work on sensitive assignments, often to tight deadlines, while guaranteeing full compliance with current standards.
Translate your articles of association in complete safety
Do you need to provide a sworn translation of your articles of association to an authority, notary or court? Are you preparing a business start-up file or a legal dispute?
Entrust this task to legal experts. Contact Legal 230 for a fast, reliable and tailor-made service.