Turning down work

You can turn down work for any lawful reason. You must turn it down if you're not competent, have a conflict of interest, or can't meet the deadline to a professional standard.

How to say no

Reply promptly, thank the client and, where you can, suggest a colleague or the Find a translator directory. You don't have to give a reason.

Work you've already accepted

If you discover a problem after accepting, tell the client straight away. Withdrawing late can breach your agreement, so check your terms.

Good to know

• Panels of the Professional Conduct Committee always include at least one lay member.
• Breaking the law in your professional work is also a breach of the code.
• The Professional Practice helpline can talk through a tricky situation before it becomes a problem.

Downloads

• Model terms of business (Word, 37 KB)
• Complaints procedure (PDF, 220 KB)

Page last reviewed 28 November 2025