Standard Terms and Conditions

Clauses which relate only to translations are indicated by a single asterisk (*), whilst clauses relating exclusively to interpreting services are indicated by a double asterisk (**). All other clauses apply to both translating and interpreting services.

1. Present standard terms and conditions (STC) of Birgitt Bohn, fully qualified ("Diploma") interpreter and translator, hereinafter called TRADVOKAT, are applicable for the entirety of the business relationship between TRADVOKAT and its clients. By commissioning work the Client agrees to accept these STC which remain valid for the duration of the business relationship. They apply likewise to any future transactions.
   
   
2. The Client commissions TRADVOKAT with a translation, stating source and target languages, length of text (no. of characters or words) the type of text, the desired completion date and special terminology required, if any.
   
   
3. TRADVOKAT will issue a written confirmation for each commission. A commission shall not be deemed accepted until TRADVOKAT has confirmed such in writing.
   
   
4. With reference to the information supplied by the Client in the commission to translate, TRADVOKAT will agree with the Client on a delivery date for the translation and communicate this to the latter with the confirmation. Should TRADVOKAT receive the source text later than agreed or should the details regarding length of text prove to be incorrect or incomplete, TRADVOKAT will be unable to meet the originally agreed deadline. In such cases TRADVOKAT assumes no responsibility for delayed completion. The foregoing shall apply likewise to subsequent editorial alterations attributable to the Client. Subsequent editorial alterations, i.e. alterations and additions to a finished translation that are occasioned by Client's alterations to the original text, will be invoiced separately according to the hourly rates for translation services.*
   
   
5. Client shall ensure that the documents supplied by him violate no competition laws, nor contravene any rights to brand or other names. TRADVOKAT is under no obligation to make its own checks.
   
   
6. Client is responsible for any necessary permits under copyright law. Should third parties bring any claims against TRADVOKAT due to copyright infringements, the Client shall undertake to indemnify TRADVOKAT against such claimants.
   
   
7. The commissioning of an interpreter constitutes a service contract under the terms of art. 611 BGB (German Civil Code). The contract becomes valid with the acceptance of the offer or the confirmation of the commission. If the Client withdraws from the contract, he shall be obliged to compensate TRADVOKAT for loss of earnings. The amount due is:
   
   • 75% of the agreed fee if the contract is cancelled between (up to and including) the 10th and 4th day before the agreed date for interpretation.
   • 100% of the agreed fee if Client withdraws from the contract within 3 days of the agreed date for interpretation.

     The Client is not entitled to demand performance of the service at a later date set by him. TRADVOKAT may waiver the compensation for loss of earnings if the interpreter in question receives a comparable commission in lieu of the cancelled day(s).**

8. TRADVOKAT conducts no checks on the contents or legality of the written documents provided for translation or interpreting purposes nor of the oral statements. No liability can be accepted for faults in translation or interpretation regarding contents or legal matters if such result from errors in the original document or the original spoken statement.
   
   
9. TRADVOKAT undertakes to treat all data provided with the utmost confidentiality.
   
   
10. The Client is enjoined to check the texts translated by TRADVOKAT for obvious mistakes (in particular figures, dates and names) before using them for business transactions.*
    
    
11. TRADVOKAT is not liable for mistakes in translation or interpretation occasioned by incorrect information from the Client or by original documents containing errors.
    
    
12. TRADVOKAT is not liable for delays in delivery if these are due to force majeure. In this context force majeure shall include a breakdown in internal or external transport or communication networks. The agreed date for delivery shall in such cases be adjusted accordingly.*
    
    
13. TRADVOKAT is not liable for the late arrival or non-appearance of an interpreter if such is due to force majeure. In such cases TRADVOKAT will make reasonable efforts to secure the services of a replacement.
    
    
14. TRADVOKAT is not liable for the loss of documents due to fire, water or natural disaster, nor for loss due to burglary or theft.
    
    
15. TRADVOKAT is liable for errors in the translated texts only where these result from deliberate intent or gross negligence.
    
    
16. TRADVOKAT is liable for errors by interpreters only where these result from deliberate intent or gross negligence.**
    
    
17. Place of performance is the business seat of TRADVOKAT in Frankfurt/Main. The Client bears the risk of sending the translation to the place designated by him.*
    
    
18. Invoices are to be settled in the full amount without deductions within 14 days of the invoice date.
    
    
19. All issues arising within the context of present contract shall be governed by German law.
    
    
20. Place of jurisdiction for all disputes between Client and TRADVOKAT arising from this contract is Frankfurt/Main.