While a choice of language clause can help clarify which of the versions of the contract is the real one, it is important to have the translation as accurate as possible for a variety of reasons. When drafting a contract, each word carries special meaning and, if a sloppy translation is provided to one party, they may not have an accurate understanding of what the contract really says.
Furthermore, as legal terminology can be difficult for people not trained in the law, translations done by non-attorneys can result specific legal terms being translated with their general usage meaning, rather than the correct legal definition.
If you have any questions about contracting in Japan, please contact our office to set up a legal consultation.