Common English Mistakes in Court Documents by Mandarin Chinese Speakers

This page focuses on errors typically made by native Mandarin Chinese speakers from Taiwan when writing a Court Document in English.

Mistake Example #1

Omitting the subject in sentences ('Is important to learn English' instead of 'It is important to learn English')

In the matter of the case,it is necessary to present evidence by thenext hearing. CThe court requires all documents to be submitted in advance. It is crucial to adhere to deadlines to avoid any complications.

Text corrected by:
Miss E., Cyprus, Europe

"This is well-written. However, remember to use subjects in your sentences. For example, "is necessary" should be "it is necessary" and "is crucial" should be "It is crucial"."

In the matter of the case, it is necessary to present evidence by the next hearing. The court requires all documents to be submitted in advance. It is crucial to adhere to deadlines to avoid any complications.

In the matter of the case, is necessary to present evidence by next hearing. Court requires all documents to be submitted in advance. Is crucial to adhere to deadlines to avoid any complications.

Mistake Example #2

Using overly formal or direct language

To Whom It May Concern, I hereby submit this document to inform the honorable court that the defendant has violated the contract terms in a mwannery that is unacceptable and must berectquifireds immediately. It is imperative that the courrection. takes swifPrompt action is necessaryto protensure jusctice is served without delay, as the plaintiff's rights, which have been severeiously affecompromisted. The evidence supporeting thisentedclaim is irrefutable and demands the court'simmediate attention to uphold the integrity of the legal system.

Text corrected by:
Gregg, Los Angeles, CA

"This needed some tweaking to sound more native and natural."

To Whom It May Concern, I hereby submit this document to inform the court that the defendant has violated the contract terms in a way that requires immediate correction. Prompt action is necessary to protect the plaintiff's rights, which have been seriously affected. The evidence supporting this claim is irrefutable and demands the court's attention to uphold the integrity of the legal system.

To Whom It May Concern, I hereby submit this document to inform the honorable court that the defendant has violated the contract terms in a manner that is unacceptable and must be rectified immediately. It is imperative that the court takes swift action to ensure justice is served without delay, as the plaintiff's rights have been severely compromised. The evidence presented is irrefutable and demands the court's immediate attention to uphold the integrity of the legal system.

Mistake Example #3

Misuse of singular/plural nouns ('There are much people here' instead of 'There are many people here')

To the Honorable Judge, iIn the case of Lee versus Chen, there is manyuch evidence presented that supports the claim of the plaintiff. The witness testimonies provide muchany details about the events on the night in question. It is crucial that the court consider theise information carefully to ensure a fair judgment.

Text corrected by:
Gregg, Los Angeles, CA

"This needed some tweaking for proper usage of singular vs. plural nouns, among other fixes."

To the Honorable Judge, In the case of Lee versus Chen, there is much evidence presented that supports the claim of the plaintiff. The witness testimonies provide many details about the events on the night in question. It is crucial that the court consider this information carefully to ensure a fair judgment.

To the Honorable Judge, in the case of Lee versus Chen, there is many evidence presented that support the claim of the plaintiff. The witness testimonies provide much detail about the events on the night in question. It is crucial that the court consider these information carefully to ensure a fair judgment.