
New Chicago Law Requires Translated Contracts for Domestic Workers
Recently, a new law in the city of Chicago went into effect, requiring formal contracts for all domestic workers in the worker’s preferred language. It’s considered a historic step forward for domestic workers in the city, providing them with protection that they didn’t automatically receive.
While the law is straightforward, it does present a challenge for anyone that employs or contracts with a domestic worker. Since contracts are legal documents, ensuring their accuracy is essential. That can be difficult for employers who aren’t fluent in the domestic worker’s preferred language, as well as those who aren’t comfortable drafting formal contracts.
Fortunately, by understanding what the law entails and your translation options, you can easily meet the new requirements. Here’s an overview of the new Chicago law that mandates translated contracts for domestic workers, as well as a look at how you can get your contracts translated into the proper language.
What the Domestic Worker Contract Law in Chicago Requires
On January 1, 2022, a new law went into effect in Chicago. Anyone who employs domestic workers – such as housekeepers, nannies, or care workers – has to provide the worker with a written contract in whatever language they prefer. Along with discussing wages, the translated domestic work contract has to outline work schedules.
The goal of the contract law is to improve transparency and predictability, ensuring domestic workers know what’s expected of them and what they’ll receive in exchange for their efforts. It also boosts accountability, ensuring all involved parties are operating from an agreed-upon arrangement.
Largely, the goal of the law is to provide a degree of protection to domestic workers in Chicago. It applies broadly, regardless of whether a domestic worker is an employee or independent contractor and without regard to their immigration status. As a result, it ensures the formality of arrangements and that critical information is understood by everyone involved.
After creating the contract, it’ll need to be read and signed by all parties and a witness. Once the contract is in place, updating it whenever there is an alteration in duties, expectations, or pay rates is essential. Additionally, checking the contract annually is recommended, even if the arrangement hasn’t fundamentally changed.
Getting Your Contracts Translated for Your Domestic Workers in Chicago
While it may seem like putting your contract through a machine translations service like Google Translate is all you’d need to do, that isn’t the case. While automated solutions will churn out text fast and can support a wide range of languages – over 100 in the case of Google Translate – accuracy can be an issue. Since contracts are legal documents, having anything mistranslated on them can be a significant issue.
Instead of relying on machine translation, turning to a reputable language services provider is a better bet. By working with Acutrans, you’ll be able to connect with translation experts that specialize in the language you need. That way, you can ensure that the core message of the contract remains intact and that it meets the new legal requirements.
Plus, many professional translation services operate incredibly quickly. At Acutrans, we can provide certified translations in 24 hours, allowing you to meet the domestic worker contract requirement in Chicago much faster than you may find with other language services companies.
Should Those Outside of Chicago Get Domestic Worker Contracts Translated?
While translated contracts aren’t universally required, some cities make them mandatory aside from Chicago. If local regulations mandate translated contracts, then following the law is essential. Otherwise, you may face steep penalties.
However, even if translated contracts aren’t required, providing one is an intelligent move. It ensures that all parties fully understand what’s expected. Along with outlining compensation and work schedules, it creates an opportunity to formally list job duties, clarifying the nature of a domestic worker’s role.
Since transparency and accountability benefit all parties, it’s worthwhile to translate any domestic worker contracts. Plus, the process is simple if you use a reliable, professional language services provider.
Are You Looking for Professional Language Services to Get Your Domestic Worker Contacts Translated?
If you have domestic workers employed in your household in Chicago, getting your contracts professionally translated as quickly as possible is essential. Otherwise, you may be subjected to a steep fine of up to $500, as well as face other ramifications.
If you need a reliable translator that can handle your domestic worker contracts quickly, Acutrans is here. At Acutrans, our team provides top-quality certified document translations efficiently, including legal documents like formal work contracts. Additionally, Acutrans offers post-editing machine translation services, ensuring you get the accurate results you need.
Additionally, if you need a skilled interpreter to assist with contract discussions or negotiations, Acutrans has you covered. Acutrans offers interpretation services – including on-site, video remote, and over the phone – in 200 languages.
If you’re searching for a professional language services provider, the Acutrans team can provide a quick and dependable solution. Contact us for a free quote today.