Legal Translation in the Perspective of Functionalism

Abstract

This paper holds that legal translation studies should be conducted in a macro-to-micro way, that is, a top-down way which is consistent with Functionalist Translation Theory. Legal translational action and the agents within it are generally analyzed, and then translation Skopos and textual function in macro-level are combined with language disposal in micro-level. Given tremendous freedom and creativity of Functionalist Translation Theory, the translator is no longer the one who transmits between the source-text and the target text. In the process of the translational action, the translator has taken on a very active role of effective communicator whose main task is to make a successful interpersonal communication.