Because legal translation requires legal understanding, not just language skills.
A translation can be grammatically correct, fluent and professionally presented — yet still misrepresent the meaning of a legal document.
Different legal systems use different concepts, procedures and terminology. What appears to be an obvious equivalent in another language may carry a different legal meaning.
At Jurtrans, we specialise in bridging those differences.
Since 1997, we have focused on translating complex Greek–English legal and financial documentation, combining knowledge of the law with linguistic precision, professional research and careful judgement.
Jurtrans was founded by John Anthony O’Shea, LL.B., LL.M., a legally trained translator whose professional background brings together law, language and comparative legal analysis.
John has taught legal subjects, including European and Environmental Law, at Queen’s University Belfast and Keele University. He has also taught advanced legal and financial translation to practising translators.
This combination matters because legal translation involves interpreting the function of a document within its legal context, not simply finding words that look equivalent.
Our approach is informed by familiarity with Greek, Cypriot, UK and European legal systems, including the differences between civil law and common law traditions.
Experience makes a difference when precision matters.
Jurtrans has been working in specialist legal and financial translation since 1997.
Our published experience includes:
That accumulated experience helps us recognise recurring terminology challenges, understand document conventions and identify issues that may not be obvious to a generalist.
For clients, it means working with a provider familiar with the demands of complex legal documentation.
A Greek legal concept may not correspond exactly to one found in English law.
Translating it too literally can obscure its meaning. Replacing it with a familiar English legal term can sometimes be equally misleading.
Our work involves determining what a term means in its original legal context and selecting an appropriate way to convey that meaning to the intended reader.
Where necessary, this requires consulting legislation, case law, specialist dictionaries and other authoritative resources.
The objective is not merely fluent English, but a translation that faithfully represents the legal substance of the original document.
Legal language evolves. Legislation changes, legal terminology develops and new technologies introduce both opportunities and risks.
John is actively involved in legal translation scholarship and professional discussion.
His publications address legal translation quality, cross-border legal communication, terminology, professional responsibility and the effects of machine translation.
In 2026, he co-authored research examining the performance of neural machine translation and generative AI when translating Greek legal texts into English.
This continuing engagement with research informs the way we evaluate terminology, technology and translation quality.
It also reflects an important principle: specialist expertise must be maintained, questioned and developed.
Modern translation tools can improve terminology management, consistency and efficiency.
But producing fluent text is not the same as accurately conveying legal meaning.
Machine translation and generative AI can introduce subtle errors, particularly when dealing with concepts that differ between legal systems.
At Jurtrans, technology is a tool, not a substitute for professional judgement.
We place importance on critical reading, source verification, legal research and consistent terminology choices.
Every translation must be assessed in the context of the document, its intended audience and the consequences of getting something wrong.
Legal and financial documents frequently contain sensitive commercial, personal or privileged information.
We take the confidentiality of client material seriously and apply safeguards to protect documents during the translation process.
Jurtrans can enter into non-disclosure agreements where required, helping clients address confidentiality obligations when commissioning translations.
We also recognise the importance of clear communication, realistic project requirements and careful handling of specialist material.
Jurtrans was named Best Greek-English Legal Translation Specialists 2026 in the SME Legal Awards.
This recognition reflects our long-standing focus on specialist legal translation and the importance we place on quality and professional expertise.
Understand the purpose. We establish what the document is, who will use the translation and which legal systems are relevant.
Research and translate. We apply specialist terminology, contextual research and appropriate translation tools, supported by professional judgement.
Check and deliver. We pay attention to meaning, consistency, clarity and the requirements agreed for the project.
Choosing a legal translator means placing trust in someone’s ability to understand and communicate complex legal information.
At Jurtrans, we take that responsibility seriously.
Our focus is on producing accurate, carefully researched Greek–English translations that help clients understand documents, manage cross-border communication and avoid unnecessary misunderstandings.
Explore who we help or compare translation approaches.
Contact info@jurtrans.com to discuss your document.

If you would like further information about the specialised services we provide, or need a quote for a translation please feel free to contact us.