Five Common Questions About Surrogacy in Illinois

 Posted on May 23, 2022 in Family Law

Many would-be parents face a difficult uphill struggle when trying to create the family of their dreams. Thanks to modern technology, many options are available to help those who cannot conceive on their own, and the method you choose will depend on your preferences, your budget, your health, and many other factors. 

One method that proves effective for many people is using a surrogate mother who carries a baby on their behalf. There is more than one type of surrogacy and many different agencies are available to help. However, the process can be legally complex and it is important to make sure you have an experienced Illinois attorney who can help you create an airtight surrogacy agreement. For answers to common questions about surrogacy in Illinois, read on - then contact one of the skilled family law attorneys with A. Traub & Associates. 

What Are the Different Types of Surrogacy? 

There are two types of surrogacy: Traditional surrogacy and gestational surrogacy. Traditional surrogacy, which is the less common method, is when the mother who carries the child is also the biological mother of the child. Gestational surrogacy is preferred by most Illinois parents because the surrogate carries a child that is a transferred embryo from the egg and sperm of the intended parents or their donors. Gestational surrogacy is less legally and emotionally risky because the surrogate has no biological relationship with the child. 

Do We Need to Take a Test to Prove We Are Ready? 

While there is no need to do a background check as if you were adopting, surrogacy does require a letter of necessity from an Illinois doctor stating that the intended parents have a medical need for gestational surrogacy. There is also a medical and mental health evaluation, and all parties must retain attorneys who ensure everyone is fully informed and understands the legal implications of the surrogacy process. 

Does The Surrogate Maintain Any Rights Over the Child? 

With gestational surrogacy, the surrogate has no legal rights to the child and the intended parents have their names listed on the birth certificate right away. Traditional surrogacy, however, can be more complex because it is not tightly regulated and the surrogate mother has a biological relationship with the child. 

How Much Does Hiring a Surrogate Cost? 

The process of surrogacy can be very expensive. While every situation differs somewhat, the average cost ranges from $100,000 to $150,000. That includes the expenses of IVF, the surrogate’s fees, the legal fees, and any agency fees. 

How Do We Contact an Arlington Heights Surrogacy Attorney?

Start your surrogacy journey by finding a great Illinois surrogacy attorney. At A. Traub & Associates, we know how hard parents seeking help from a surrogate have often already worked to start a family and we are committed to doing whatever we can to further the process and help make that dream come true. When it comes to your future children, work with the best. Work with an experienced Cook County surrogacy attorney by calling A. Traub & Associates at 847-749-4182 today. 

Sources: 

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ActID=2613&ChapterID=59 

https://money.usnews.com/money/personal-finance/family-finance/articles/how-much-surrogacy-costs-and-how-to-pay-for-it