In legal texts, the wrong equivalent for a single term can change not just the meaning of a sentence but the rights and obligations of the parties. Legal translation therefore requires familiarity with the concepts of both the source and the target legal system, alongside language skills.
At BKT we work with a terminology glossary for contracts, litigation documents, court judgments and company documents, ensuring that the same concept is rendered with the same equivalent across the different documents in one file. Where needed, we review the translation together with a lawyer who provides the legal assessment.
Who is it for?
- Companies about to sign a contract with a foreign party
- Parties and lawyers in cases with a foreign element
- Those using a foreign court judgment in Türkiye
- Those having a power of attorney or a consent statement drawn up
- Those needing document translation for company formation and merger procedures
- Those submitting foreign documents in inheritance and title deed matters
Required documents
The list below is for a typical case. Additional documents may be requested depending on your nationality, the type of application and the practice of the relevant authority; the definitive list is given to you in writing at the initial consultation.
- The legal text to be translated
- Any previous translations and terminology preferences of the parties
- Details of the authority the document will be submitted to
- The official spelling of the parties' names and titles
- Supporting documents (annexes, signature circulars, powers of attorney)
The process step by step
- 1
Text analysis
The document type, the parties and the legal context are examined, and a term list is drawn up.
- 2
Translation
The translation is produced by a translator experienced in the field, adhering to the terminology glossary.
- 3
Legal check
Liability, term and dispute resolution clauses are reviewed separately.
- 4
Certification
Where required, the sworn translation stamp and notarial certification are completed.
- 5
Delivery and archiving
The document is delivered, and the terminology glossary is retained for future work.
Common mistakes
- Translating one concept with different terms in different documents in the same file
- Softening dispute resolution and jurisdiction clauses through free translation
- Writing the parties' titles differently from the trade registry spelling
- Leaving annexes and signature pages outside the scope of the translation
- Not having a sworn translation made for a document to be submitted to court
Legal basis
The provisions of Civil Procedure Code No. 6100 on foreign-language documents, and Notaries Act No. 1512
Legislation and administrative practice may change. The information on this page is for general guidance only; an assessment specific to your case requires a consultation.