Real Estate Translation in Illinois Recording Foreign Documents & Certified Translations In Illinois, specifically in diverse counties like Cook, DuPage, and Lake, real estate transactions often involve documents originating from outside the United States. Whether you are using a Power of Attorney (POA) executed in China, or reviewing a purchase contract as a non-English speaker, strict legal standards apply. Illinois County Recorders generally reject any document that is not in English unless it is attached to a formal Certificate of Translation. Illinois Translation Requirements1. County Recording Rules The Recorder of Deeds (e.g., Cook County) requires all recorded documents (Deeds, Mortgages, POAs) to be in English. The Solution: If the original is in a foreign language (e.g., Chinese), it must be recorded alongside a certified English translation. The translator must sign an affidavit attesting to their competency and the accuracy of the translation.2. Notary vs. Translator Under the Illinois Notary Public Act, a Notary generally should not notarize a document they do not understand. Conflict of Interest: Ideally, the person translating the document should not be the same person notarizing the signature. We recommend using a third-party certified translator to avoid challenges to the document’s validity.3. Closing Table Protocol Title companies often require a “meeting of the minds.” If a buyer/seller does not speak English, the Title Officer may require a translator to be present. Wang Law Advantage: As a bilingual law firm, we can bridge this gap, ensuring the client understands the Note and Mortgage provisions before signing. Common Scenario: Foreign Power of Attorney Many of our clients are overseas (e.g., in China) and cannot attend the closing in Illinois. They often execute a Power of Attorney (POA) at a U.S. Consulate or a local notary abroad. Critical Step: Apostille or Consularization A document notarized by a foreign local notary is usually not valid in Illinois unless it has an Apostille (for Hague Convention countries) or has been legalized by the U.S. Consulate.Certificate of TranslationREQUIRED FOR RECORDING We draft the required affidavit that must be attached to your foreign document. It states:That the translator is fluent in both languages.That the attached English text is a true and accurate translation of the original.Signed before an Illinois Notary. Get a Translation Quote Secure Your Cross-Border Transaction Don’t let a language barrier or a rejected document delay your closing. Wang Law PLLC ensures your foreign documents meet Illinois recording standards. Email Us Book Appointment