Learning legal terms in a foreign language can be a daunting task, yet it is crucial for understanding the legal documents, court hearings, and news reports in that language. Chinese, being one of the most spoken languages globally, has its own set of legal terminologies that are essential for anyone dealing with legal matters in Chinese-speaking regions. Here, we explore some of the most commonly used legal terms in Chinese.
合同 (Hétong) – Contract
这份合同由两个部分组成。
This term refers to a written or spoken agreement, especially one concerning employment, sales, or tenancy, that is intended to be enforceable by law.
法律 (Fǎlǜ) – Law
他在法律领域工作。
This is a system of rules that a particular country or community recognizes as regulating the actions of its members and may enforce by the imposition of penalties.
律师 (Lǜshī) – Lawyer
如果你需要法律帮助，应该咨询一位律师。
A person who practices or studies law; an attorney or a counselor.
诉讼 (Sùsòng) – Litigation
这起诉讼案件已经持续了几个月。
The process of taking legal action; the process of suing someone or trying to achieve a result in a court of law.
证据 (Zhèngjù) – Evidence
法庭要求提供更多的证据。
The available body of facts or information indicating whether a belief or proposition is true or valid, used especially in court.
判决 (Pànjué) – Judgment
法官将在下周宣布判决。
A decision made by a court or tribunal regarding the rights and liabilities of parties in a legal action or proceeding.
原告 (Yuángào) – Plaintiff
原告声称他们遭受了重大损失。
A person who brings a case against another in a court of law.
被告 (Bèigào) – Defendant
被告否认所有指控。
An individual, company, or institution sued or accused in a court of law.
侵权 (Qīnquán) – Tort
这个案件涉及一起严重的侵权行为。
A wrongful act or an infringement of a right (other than under contract) leading to legal liability.
法庭 (Fǎtíng) – Court
所有证人必须在法庭上作证。
The place where legal cases are heard and decided; typically, it refers to the room or building where judicial proceedings occur.
刑事 (Xíngshì) – Criminal
刑事案件通常涉及更严重的罪行。
Relating to, involving, or having the nature of crime.
民事 (Mínshì) – Civil
民事诉讼通常与金钱赔偿有关。
Relating to private relations between members of a community; non-criminal law.
审判 (Shěnpàn) – Trial
审判预计将持续一周。
A formal examination of evidence in a court, typically with a judge, to decide guilt in a case of criminal or civil proceedings.
上诉 (Shàngsù) – Appeal
被告决定对判决结果提出上诉。
Apply to a higher court for a reversal of the decision of a lower court.
法院 (Fǎyuàn) – Court (as an institution)
这个案件已提交至最高法院审理。
An institution that the government sets up to settle disputes through a legal process; it is where a judge hears and decides cases.
执行 (Zhíxíng) – Enforcement
该法律规定需要严格执行。
The act of compelling observance of or compliance with a law, rule, or obligation.
条款 (Tiáokuǎn) – Clause
合同中的这一条款非常重要。
A particular provision or stipulation in a legal document.
Understanding these terms can significantly enhance your ability to engage with legal texts and professionals in a Chinese context. Whether you are a lawyer working with Chinese clients, a student studying Chinese law, or simply someone interested in legal affairs, familiarity with these terms is invaluable.
