例 2.
A: The fine for driving without a license shall be $ 10.00.
B: The fine for driving without a license is $ 10.00.
法律具有持續(xù)不斷的效力。法律是針對法律適用時所說的話,不是起草或者生效時所說的話,因此,法律應當使用一般現(xiàn)在時。通過使用現(xiàn)在時,避免了復雜的動詞形式。
例 3.
A: Any oil or gas lessee who wishes to use timber for fuel in drilling operations shall file an application with the officer who issued the lease.
B: You must file an application to use the timber for fuel on your oil or gas lease. File the application with the office where you got your lease. [表示義務]
例 4.
A: The applicant shall be notified by registered mail in all cases where the permit applied for is not granted, and shall be given 30 days within which to appeal such decision.
B: Our agency will notify you by registered mail if we reject your application. You must file an appeal of that decision within 30 days. [表示將來]
下面看看漢英翻譯的狀況:
例 5.
第八條 依法成立的合同,對當事人具有法律約束力。當事人應當按照約定履行自己的義務,不得擅自變更或者解除合同。
原譯:
Article 8 As soon as a contract is established in accordance with the law,it shall be legally binding on the parties. The parties shall perform their respective obligations in accordance with the terms of the contract. Neither party may unilaterally modify or rescind the contract.