Nothing brings more life to a family than a child. In the past, many people were unable to experience the joy of having a child of their own. Fortunately, through the development of Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART), that number is shrinking.
ART refers to a number of different methods used to help infertile couples, same-sex couples, and individuals reach their dream of having a child. One of those methods is through the use of a Gestational Carrier, also known as a Gestational Surrogate.
WHAT IS GESTATIONAL SURROGACY?
Gestational surrogacy is an option where embryos created by In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) are placed into the uterus of a Gestational Carrier. The embryos are created from the genetic material of the Intended Parents, or, in some cases from donated eggs or sperm. The resulting child has no biological relationship to the Surrogate.
WHAT IS INVOLVED IN THE PROCESS?
Many Gestational Carriers and Intended Parents from around the globe find each other through agencies specializing in surrogacy. Medical and Psychological evaluations are performed to ensure that Gestational Surrogacy is the right choice for everyone involved. The Gestational Surrogate (and her husband if she is married) and the Intended Parent(s) then enter into a contract detailing all of the rights and responsibilities of each of the involved parties. At that point, the parties are ready to proceed with the embryo transfer procedure.
If the embryo transfer is successful and the Gestational Surrogate becomes pregnant, the parties begin the legal process of ensuring that the Intended Parent(s) has all parental rights and responsibilities for the baby or babies upon birth.
WHY DO I NEED A LAWYER?
The anticipation of the birth of a child can be overwhelming at times. Unfortunately, the legal process can be a major source of added stress and anxiety for both Intended Parents and Gestational Surrogates. To make matters worse, surrogacy laws vary from state to state. It is important to know how the laws in your state affect your decision to use or become a Gestational Carrier.
Whether you are a Gestational Carrier or an Intended Parent, Attorney Beverly Cox can guide you through the complex legal process. From the negotiation and drafting of the Gestational Surrogacy Agreement to the issuance of the Birth Order to assisting with Birth Certificates and Passports, Bev works closely with attorneys, health care providers and agencies to take care of the necessary paperwork, leaving you to focus on having a healthy, happy baby.