Learning a new language not only opens the doors to understanding a new culture but also allows you to explore specific fields, such as legal studies, in that language. If you’re a beginner looking to expand your Chinese vocabulary with legal terms, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s a basic guide to Chinese legal vocabulary that will set you on the path to understanding the realm of law in the Chinese language.

法律 (fǎ lǜ)
This term means “law” in a general sense. It is used to refer to the system of rules that a particular country or community recognizes as regulating the actions of its members.
我们必须遵守法律。 (Wǒmen bìxū zūnshǒu fǎlǜ.) – We must obey the laws.

合同 (hé tong)
The word for “contract” or “agreement” in Chinese. It denotes a formal and legally binding agreement between two or more parties.
我昨天签署了一份合同。 (Wǒ zuótiān qiānshǔ le yī fèn hétong.) – I signed a contract yesterday.

法院 (fǎ yuàn)
This is the word for “court” where legal cases are heard and decisions are made.
他要去法院出庭。 (Tā yào qù fǎyuàn chūtíng.) – He is going to court for a hearing.

律师 (lǜ shī)
Meaning “lawyer,” this refers to a person who practices or studies law and is qualified to give legal advice and represent clients in court.
她是一名经验丰富的律师。 (Tā shì yī míng jīngyàn fēngfù de lǜshī.) – She is an experienced lawyer.

诉讼 (sù sòng)
This term translates to “litigation” or “legal proceedings.” It involves taking legal action or bringing a lawsuit against someone.
他们正在准备诉讼。 (Tāmen zhèngzài zhǔnbèi sùsòng.) – They are preparing for litigation.

判决 (pàn jué)
A “verdict” or “judgment” in the context of a legal decision made by a judge or a court.
法官宣读了判决。 (Fǎguān xuāndú le pànjué.) – The judge read the verdict.

罚款 (fá kuǎn)
Meaning “fine” or “penalty,” this refers to a sum of money exacted as punishment for an offense or breach of contract.
他因超速驾驶而被罚款。 (Tā yīn chāosù jiàshǐ ér bèi fákuǎn.) – He was fined for speeding.

权利 (quán lì)
Translating to “right” or “privilege,” it implies a legal entitlement or the freedom to act or believe in a certain way that is recognized by the law.
每个公民都有投票的权利。 (Měi gè gōngmín dōu yǒu tóupiào de quánlì.) – Every citizen has the right to vote.

责任 (zé rèn)
This means “responsibility” or “liability” in a legal or moral context.
公司对这次事故负有责任。 (Gōngsī duì zhè cì shìgù fùyǒu zérèn.) – The company is liable for the accident.

证据 (zhèng jù)
The term for “evidence” that is used to prove or disprove something in the court of law.
他们找到了足够的证据去起诉嫌疑人。 (Tāmen zhǎodào le zúgòu de zhèngjù qù qǐsù xiányí rén.) – They found enough evidence to prosecute the suspect.

By familiarizing yourself with these terms, you’ll gain a foundational knowledge of Chinese legal vocabulary that may be useful in a variety of contexts, from the news to legal dramas. Keep practicing and expanding your vocabulary, and you’ll soon be navigating through legal documents and conversations with greater ease in Chinese. Happy learning!