Document translation for court in Poland: complete guide
Taking part in a court case in Poland — as plaintiff, defendant or third party? Any document in a foreign language that you submit to the court must be translated by a Polish sworn translator (tłumacz przysięgły). Courts in Poland do not accept an ordinary translation or one made abroad: only a translation with the seal and signature of a translator entered in the Ministry of Justice register.
In this article we cover: which documents are most often required to be translated for court, how to arrange sworn translation, when to submit and what mistakes to avoid. The information will be useful for those conducting civil, family or commercial cases in Polish courts.
What we'll tell you in this article
Why the court needs sworn translation
The court must understand the content of every document in the case. If a document is in a language the court does not use as working language (e.g. Russian, Ukrainian, English in an ordinary Polish court), the court requires a translation into Polish. This translation must be made by a sworn translator — the law thus guarantees accuracy and completeness of the translation.
Sworn translation has legal force: the translator is responsible for the translation matching the original. Each page is stamped and signed. Without such a translation the court may not accept the document as evidence or may adjourn the hearing. For translation of contracts, court decisions, witness statements and other documents for court you can contact a translation bureau with sworn translators.
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Which documents are most often translated for court
In court cases the most often translated are: contracts and agreements; court judgments and orders (issued abroad); birth, marriage, divorce certificates; certificates and extracts (medical, bank, registry); powers of attorney; witness statements and explanations; expert opinions; correspondence and documents attached to the claim or defence. The exact set depends on the type of case and court requirements.
Civil and family cases
In divorce, maintenance, property division or inheritance cases the court often requests documents from abroad: marriage and birth certificates, foreign court decisions, purchase agreements. All of this is translated by a sworn translator. For translation of birth, marriage and divorce certificates we offer a certificate translation service.
Commercial and employment disputes
In disputes between companies or employee and employer the court may require translation of contracts, statutes, orders, pay slips. Documents in a foreign language are attached to the claim or defence already in translated form. For translation of contracts and legal documents you can contact a translation bureau.
How to submit translation to the court
The translation is made from the original document or a certified copy. Each page of the translation is numbered and bears the sworn translator's stamp and signature. Usually you submit a copy of the translation together with a copy of the original. Keep the original translation — the court may ask to see it.
Submission deadlines are set by the court. Do not delay ordering the translation: if the document must be submitted by a certain date, order the translation in advance. The case may be adjourned for failure to submit the translation.
Common mistakes and useful tips
Mistake 1: Submitting an ordinary translation without the sworn translator's seal to the court. The court will not accept such a document as evidence. Always order sworn translation for court cases.
Mistake 2: Translating only part of the document. The court may require a full translation. Check with your lawyer or the court registry.
Mistake 3: Errors in names, dates, amounts. In court documents this can affect the outcome. After receiving the translation verify key data against the original.
Tip: Keep copies of all translations. They may be needed by the other party, the court or for appeal. For translation of documents for court and other procedures contact a translation bureau with sworn translators.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is sworn translation mandatory for court in Poland?
Yes. Documents in a foreign language submitted to a Polish court must be translated by a sworn translator with seal and signature. An ordinary translation is not accepted.
Which documents are most often translated for court?
Usually translated are contracts, court decisions, birth and marriage certificates, certificates, powers of attorney, witness statements. The list depends on the type of case.
Can a translation made in another country be submitted to the court?
Polish courts accept translations by Polish sworn translators. A translation made abroad without the seal of a Polish sworn translator will generally not be accepted.
How long does document translation for court take?
Turnaround depends on volume. A few pages — from a few working days, larger cases — up to a week or more. Order the translation with enough time before the hearing date.
Must the entire document be translated or is a part enough?
It depends on court requirements and the nature of the document. Sometimes the court accepts translation of excerpts, sometimes it requires a full translation. Check with the court or your lawyer.