Surrogacy

What is Surrogacy?

The dictionary defines surrogate as “a person or thing acting as a substitute.” A surrogate in family-formation terminology means a woman who helps intended parents fulfill their dream of having a baby. There are 2 types of surrogates who help others build a family: A traditional surrogate and a gestational surrogate, also called a gestational carrier. A traditional surrogate is genetically related to the child: She carries an embryo that is created using her egg, and sperm from the intended father or a donor. A gestational surrogate (gestational carrier) is not related to the child: The embryo she carries is created using an egg from the intended mother or a donor, and sperm from the intended father or a donor.

How we can help in surrogacy cases:

• The laws of surrogacy vary from state to state. We carefully explain the surrogacy laws, and structure your case to comply with all applicable laws.
• There are many issues that need to be discussed and agreed on between the parties to a surrogacy case. We prepare, review and/or negotiate agreements and surrogacy contracts to make sure the parties agree on how they will work together toward a successful pregnancy.
• In most cases, legal and medical costs for the surrogate will need to be paid. We manage the payment of budgeted expenses and maintain records of all expenses paid.
• Legal procedures are needed to establish the intended parents as the baby’s legal parents with full parental rights. We make sure these procedures are properly followed and completed.

Whether you are an intended parent, a traditional surrogate, or a gestational carrier, there are important laws of surrogacy that must be followed. We can help you navigate these laws to ensure your rights are protected.