"With the ever evolving medical technology available for couples and individuals to begin their families, many are unsure of where and how to begin," states Surrogacy Lawyer Theresa Erickson.  FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
San Diego, CA Oct 13, 2009 – With the ever evolving medical technology available for couples and individuals to begin their families, many are unsure of where and how to begin. The following is an abbreviated step-by-step guide which can provide you with the information necessary to start the process. Speak with a reproductive law attorney to determine the following:
The surrogacy law attorney will determine the surrogacy law that applies to your situation, as well as the appropriate egg donation laws, if needed. More importantly the surrogacy lawyer must consider the laws of both the state where the Intended Parents and Surrogate reside. Currently, several states find surrogacy arrangements to be either unlawful or will find the agreements unenforceable
Next, you will need to determine if you want to find your egg donor and/or surrogate independently or with the help of an agency. Currently, there are a number of surrogacy and egg donation programs that offer specialized services to couples/individuals considering assisted reproduction. Since there is little regulation in this field, it is very important for you to ascertain the type of services that these agencies will provide you for your money.
For example, does the agency require their fees to be paid upfront before you have selected a surrogate or donor? What type of screening and protocol does the agency use in the selection or surrogates and donors? If the surrogate or donor does not pass medical or psychological screening, will they provide you with an additional surrogate or donor for no additional cost? These are just a few of the questions that you must begin to ask if you choose to use an agency.
If you choose to go independent, will you be able to manage the relationship with your surrogate or donor? Will you be able to resolve any conflicts along the way yourself without the help of a neutral third party?
Furthermore, be certain that you are aware of the costs associated with the program you have selected. There may be costs for additional cycles, lost wages, travel, child care, and unforeseen medical complications or consequences that may not be spelled out in detail.
Most importantly, consult with an attorney that specializes in this specific area of the law to determine the risks and ramifications of executing an agreement with a doctor, agency, and/or clinic. Also, make certain your doctor explains the medical procedures and risks involved with your particular treatment to both you and your surrogate/egg donor.
You must also confirm that proper insurance coverage is in place for any catastrophic illness and/or medical consequences of the infertility procedures. Determine whether your policy, and/or that of the surrogate or donor, will cover any or all medications and infertility treatments. Many insurance companies are now denying medical maternity expenses to women serving as surrogates. Other insurance companies reserve the right to seek reimbursement from the Intended Parents for any maternity benefits paid on the surrogate's behalf. Ensure that you have the insurance reviewed by a professional and physically see the evidence of coverage and exclusions.
This guide is not meant to be a substitute for legal advice by one of our attorneys. This is for information purposes only; each case must be assessed individually on a case-by-case basis in order to determine the proper steps you will need to follow.
For more information on Surrogacy Lawyer Theresa M. Erickson please contact us at 858-748-4133 or for upcoming seminar attendance information, visit http://www.EricksonLaw.net
About Surrogacy Lawyer Theresa M. Erickson
Erickson Law http://www.EricksonLaw.net was founded by Theresa M. Erickson, Esq. in 1999 and has been integral in all aspects of the fertility community and in helping build families through surrogacy, egg donation, embryo donation and sperm donation for couples and individuals across the United States and the World. Egg Donation Lawyer Erickson also is the CEO and Founder of Conceptual Options, LLC http://www.Surrogacy-EggDonation.com “All families are traditional; some just take alternative paths by using surrogacy, egg donation, embryo donation and sperm donation to become a family.”
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