Understand the key differences between certified and notarized translations and find out which one you need for official use in Massachusetts. No, they serve two distinct but complementary functions. A ‘certified translation‘ is our professional guarantee. It’s a signed statement on our letterhead where we attest that the translation is complete and accurate. The certification speaks to the quality of the work. A ‘notarization’ is an act performed by a Notary Public to verify the identity of the person who signed the certification. The notary doesn’t check the translation; they authenticate our signature. For most legal and official purposes in Massachusetts, this two-part process—certification plus notarization—is required to create an ironclad, legally valid document.