Professional translation agreements should address accuracy, the treatment of errors, confidentiality (translators often handle sensitive documents), and IP ownership of the translation itself. The translator owns copyright in their translation unless it is assigned.

• Copyright: translator holds copyright in translation — must be assigned in writing
• Accuracy: important to define what standard is required (publication-ready? internal use?)
• Legal and medical translation: errors can have serious consequences — liability must be addressed
• Confidentiality: essential — translators often handle privileged, medical, or commercially sensitive documents
• ISO 17100: international standard for translation services — mention if required

Legal reference: Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988; Supply of Goods and Services Act 1982