Common Questions We Are Asked By Surrogates
Steven H. Snyder & Associates in Maple Grove, Minnesota, is a law firm that focuses on helping families grow through assisted reproductive technology. A large portion of our practice is representing surrogates with their legal needs. We wanted to take a moment to provide surrogates with answers to the questions that we are asked most often.
Do I get to pick the parents I work with?
Yes. You will receive some information about the parents so you can decide if they are a good match for you. You will be able to talk with them on the phone, via video conferencing or in person, if you prefer. We will coordinate these steps so that you have as little or as much contact as you would prefer.
What obligations will I have throughout the surrogacy?
Your specific obligations will be spelled out in the surrogacy agreement. This agreement will cover all financial responsibilities including, but not limited to, any compensation, medical care, legal fees, lost wages and travel expenses. Additionally, the document will also address what should happen in the event that your health or the health of your child is in danger due to the pregnancy.
We help you negotiate all of these issues between you and the prospective parents before you become pregnant. We want to make sure that each party has a clear understanding of their specific requirements and responsibilities at this time.
Will I get paid for being a surrogate?
You may decide to seek compensation for being a surrogate. However, know that some parents may not be able to afford the fees that you set. They will opt to work with someone who is more affordable or is not charging a fee. If you decide to request compensation for your surrogate services, we can help you draft an agreement with the parents that states when the payments should be made.
What sort of relationship do I have with the child after it is born?
This will depend upon the agreement you make with the parents. They may wish, and you may agree, that you should have no contact with the child after it is born. They may also decide that you should be an active part of the child’s life. It is something that you will have to talk about at the time you create your agreement. You should only match with prospective parents with whom you agree on such important issues.
At a minimum, after the child is born, you are going to have to take the necessary steps to terminate your potential parental rights to the child. This often means appearing in court, which may seem concerning. You do not have to worry about that aspect of things, as our attorneys can help you understand what must be done according to the laws in your home state or country. Whether a court appearance will be required will vary from state to state.
Want To Learn More?
To find out if surrogacy is right for you, call our lawyers at 612-504-6499 or send us an email. We can explain a bit more about the process and the specific requirements that apply.
There is no charge for your initial conference. If you subsequently decide to hire us, we will discuss a reasonable fee and if that fee meets with your approval, you may hire us on those terms. The parents you are working with will normally pay this fee. If you elect not to hire us, there will be no amount due.