A translator work is to translate written text. And in Thailand it is easier to find a professional who can translate into Thai other English. You will require a translator to translate important documents like prenuptial agreements, birth certificates, and divorce papers, and others. If you look around you will find different levels of translators, depending on their training and skills.
Well, a good translator is expected to have the ability to understand the source language and have access to resources to use the first-rate library of dictionaries. During court proceedings or in some institutions, foreign documents may be permitted, but they must be original or certified correct copies. Few documents, on the other hand, have to be notarized by Thai embassy.
In Thailand, you will find innumerable translation agencies, particularly in Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Hiring an agency is always better as then they work with different translators who are experience in different languages. However, the quality of translation varies from agency to agency. When it comes to translating birth certificates it has a standard form, so you need not worry much about the quality. But yes if you have some important documents to be translated then you must research well to pick one.
Now coming to an interpreter’s job, the person mainly works with spoken words. They relay a foreign language into Thai or vice versa. Interpreters are often hired for meetings. An interpreter should be able enough to translate verbally on spot.
So to sum up a translator may not be a substitute for an interpreter in Thailand. However, if they have a good hold on the language they may become one. Or if you have a Thai friend then nothing like it, but then to translate a document you must get it done from a certified agency.
