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Article published In: Digital Translation
Vol. 13:1 (2026) ► pp.8–28

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The use of MT and AI for translation by legal professionals in Canada

A survey-based study

ORCiD logo with link | McGill University
ORCiD logo with link | McGill University
ORCiD logo with link | McGill University
Published online: 26 January 2026
DOI logo with link
https://doi.org/10.1075/dt.25022.gir
Abstract
This paper draws on data from a survey to examine how legal professionals in Canada use machine translation (MT) and artificial intelligence (AI) for translation purposes. Specifically, it investigates how they engage with such technologies to translate legal texts and considers the broader challenges arising from their use. The paper begins by clarifying key terms and reviewing the state of the art in two intersecting areas: the place of translation within the context of legal AI, and MT and AI for legal translation. It then outlines Canada’s unique linguistic and legal context, followed by a presentation of the survey methodology. The results are subsequently presented and discussed, followed by a few final reflections. Ultimately, the Canadian case highlights the need to place human expertise, linguistic equity, and context-sensitive policies at the heart of any responsible use of MT and AI for legal translation — especially when these technologies are employed by non-translators.
Article outline
  • 1.Introduction
  • 2.Clarification of key terms and concepts of the study
  • 3.Literature review on translation in the context of legal AI, and MT and AI for legal translation
    • 3.1Translation in the context of legal AI
    • 3.2MT and AI for legal translation
  • 4.Overview of Canada’s linguistic and legal landscape
  • 5.Presentation of the survey
  • 6.Results of the survey
    • 6.1Respondents’ profile
    • 6.2Usage of MT
    • 6.3General stance toward AI
  • 7.Discussion of the results
  • 8.Conclusion
  • References
References (67)
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