The RGPD (General Data Protection Regulation) has become, since its entry into force, an unavoidable pillar of legal compliance for any organization handling personal data. But what happens when you need to present an RGPD-related document in an international or cross-border context? Legal translation of the RGPD then becomes a highly technical exercise, not to be taken lightly.
Why accurately translating the RGPD is crucial
You may need to transmit your privacy policy to a foreign authority, produce compliant documentation in several countries, or defend your internal procedures in international litigation. In all these cases, a faithful and rigorous translation of the RGPD is essential. The slightest misinterpreted term can lead to non-compliance, or even a penalty.
A dense legal text with strict terminology requirements
The RGPD is based on precise legal concepts: controller, processor, legal basis, legitimate interest, specified purpose, etc. These terms must be translated in accordance with their legal definition, often laid down by the text itself, or by case law. However, these equivalents are not always literal from one language to another.
Take, for example, the term data controller: in French, it is often translated as responsable du traitement, but some international contexts prefer alternative formulations that align with local usage. Without mastery of the legal framework, the translation can quickly lose its meaning.
The concrete example of a cross-border dispute
Imagine a French company being investigated by a German data protection authority. It has to provide, within a tight deadline, its internal policies, processing registers and consents obtained, all translated into German. An approximate translation or one that does not comply with RGPD terminology in German law can delay the investigation of the case, weaken the company's credibility, and even lead to penalties.
In this type of context, only a legal translator specialized in data protection can guarantee a usable version of the document.
A mission for legal and translation professionals
Translating an RGPD document is not just a matter of switching from one language to another. It means ensuring the exact transposition of complex legal concepts, taking into account local legislation, professional practices and the role of the document in a given procedure.
That's why Legal 230 relies on specialized legal translators, selected on the basis of their expertise in data protection law. Our teams understand the challenges of each assignment and translate your documents with the rigor expected in this sensitive field.
Do you have an RGPD document to translate? Leave it to the experts
Whether for multi-country compliance, an international tender or a response to a foreign authority, legal translation of the RGPD requires cutting-edge expertise.
👉 Contact Legal 230 to guarantee a reliable and compliant legal translation. We deliver fast, in the language you need, and with the quality your business demands.