In this article the author discusses whether it is legitimate to propose the application of functionalist theories to legal translation. A positive answer to this question would provide a starting point for the construction of an all-embracing theoretical model applicable to all text-types and genres in legal translation, something all the more desirable if one considers that so far most studies have had their stating point in a specific experience in one area of this very broad field, so that the theoretical concepts proposed, however viable, have tended to be all but comprehensive in their scope of application. It has to be specified that this discussion focuses exclusively on authentic texts, leaving out metatexts, such as textbooks and specialised and non-specialised publishing, which, although dealing with juridical topics, have no legal validity.