Legal Translation Before a Jordanian Notary Public: Why Accuracy Protects Rights

The development

On 27 August 2026, the Ministry of Justice announced a memorandum of understanding with Al-Balqa Applied University to conduct assessment examinations for translators appearing before a notary public. The announcement highlights how a translated word may affect a power of attorney, acknowledgment, contract, or foreign document.

Translation is not decorative

In legal documents, a small difference between authority and authorization, or right and obligation, may alter legal power and financial consequences. Arabic and English versions should carry the same legal meaning and context, rather than serve as merely formal copies.

Checklist before notarisation

• Identify the original language, receiving authority, and intended purpose.
• Match names, company data, document numbers, and dates exactly.
• Review governing terms: authority, duration, governing law, jurisdiction, and acknowledgments.
• Do not sign a version you do not understand; obtain an independent explanation of material terms.
• Keep the original, translation, certifications, and annexes together.

Lawyer's role

A lawyer does not replace a qualified translator, but reviews the legal effect before the document becomes enforceable evidence. For cross-border powers of attorney and contracts, both versions should be reviewed for consistency with notarial and foreign-authority requirements.

Keywords: legal translation Jordan, Jordan notary public translator, foreign document notarisation Jordan, certified translation Jordan, الترجمة القانونية الأردن.

Source: Jordanian Ministry of Justice, 27 August 2026. General educational information only.