Inklingo

How to Say "case file" in Spanish

English → Spanish

expediente

ehks-peh-dee-EHN-teheks.peˈðjen.te

nounB2formal
Use 'expediente' for a general collection of legal or administrative documents related to a person, case, or situation.
A thick manila folder tied securely with red string, symbolizing a legal or administrative case file, resting on a wooden surface.

Examples

El abogado revisó el expediente completo antes de la audiencia.

The lawyer reviewed the complete case file before the hearing.

Necesitamos abrir un expediente para gestionar esta queja.

We need to open a file (or start a case) to manage this complaint.

Gender Check

Remember that 'expediente' is a masculine noun, so you must use 'el' or 'un' before it, even though it ends in '-e'.

sumario

soo-mah-ryohsuˈmaɾjo

nounC1formal
Choose 'sumario' specifically when referring to the compilation of documents pertaining to a formal legal trial or judicial process.
A colorful storybook illustration of a detective's desk with a magnifying glass, a folder of papers, and a small evidence bag.

Examples

El juez está revisando el sumario del caso.

The judge is reviewing the case file.

La policía añadió nuevas pruebas al sumario.

The police added new evidence to the investigation file.

Se ha decretado el secreto de sumario.

The court investigation has been declared confidential.

The specific legal meaning

In legal contexts, 'sumario' refers specifically to the 'preparation phase' where evidence is gathered before a trial.

Confusing with a 'summary judgment'

Mistake: “Using 'sumario' to mean a quick verdict.”

Correction: In law, 'sumario' is the investigation file itself, though 'juicio sumario' refers to a quick trial.

Expediente vs. Sumario

Learners often confuse 'expediente' and 'sumario' because both relate to case documents. Remember that 'expediente' is broader, covering any administrative or legal file, while 'sumario' is specific to the official documents of a trial.

Related Translations

Learn Spanish with Inklingo

Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.