Which statement about translation of consumer installment contracts into Spanish is correct?

• A. Only if the contract is negotiated entirely in Spanish with the purchaser providing an interpreter
• B. Only if the contract is negotiated primarily in Spanish and the purchaser does not provide his or her interpreter
• C. Only if the contract is negotiated primarily in Spanish and the purchaser provides his or her interpreter
• D. Only if the goods are advertised in Spanish

Answer: (B)

Understanding how translation requirements kick in helps you see why this statement fits best. In California, the obligation to translate a consumer installment contract into Spanish applies when the negotiation of the contract is conducted primarily in Spanish and the purchaser does not provide his or her own interpreter. The idea is to ensure the buyer fully understands the terms, including price, financing charges, payment schedule, and any penalties, without relying on a potentially imperfect translation from memory or secondhand explanations. If the purchaser brings their own interpreter, the seller isn’t required to provide a translating copy. If the contract isn’t negotiated primarily in Spanish, the translation rule doesn’t apply. Advertising the goods in Spanish does not determine whether the contract must be translated.