Services
I am committed to helping individuals and families navigate the legal aspects of surrogacy and third-party reproduction, guided by the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to build their family, regardless of who they are or the path they take to get there.
Surrogacy Agreements
A surrogacy agreement is a legal contract that sets out the rights, responsibilities, and expectations of the intended parent(s) and the surrogate before a pregnancy begins.
In BC, it is critical that the Surrogacy Agreement is entered into prior to conception and that it addresses key issues such as consent to assisted reproduction, decision-making during pregnancy, financial responsibilities, and the parties’ intentions regarding parentage after birth.
I will carefully draft your surrogacy agreement to ensure that you can understand it while also providing clarity and security throughout the surrogacy process. I offer both gestational and traditional Surrogacy Agreements.
Donation Agreements -
Sperm, Egg, or Embryo
Sometimes, building your family involves the help of a donor. I ensure that every donation agreement is carefully drafted to reflect the parties’ intentions and what matters most to them. Taking the time to clarify expectations before conception helps prevent disputes and misunderstandings in the future.
Independent Legal Advice
It is essential that surrogates and donors fully understand what they are signing, and that their consent is informed and meaningful—not a mere formality.
I provide independent legal advice to surrogates and donors, including a detailed review of the draft agreement. Following our review, I communicate your questions, concerns, and requested changes to the intended parents’ lawyer.
By the time the agreement is signed, you should have a clear understanding of both the applicable law and every provision of the agreement.
Surrogacy Birth Registrations with Vital Statistics
If you’ve built your family through surrogacy, there is a specific registration process in BC to have the names of the intended parent(s) listed on the birth certificate. I can navigate this process for you with ease, efficiency, and experience.
Declarations of Parentage in the BC Supreme Court
Sometimes, for unique reasons, a birth certificate listing both parents may not be sufficient to establish legal parentage in a family’s home jurisdiction. In these situations, a Declaration of Parentage from the BC Supreme Court may provide the legal recognition needed for the intended parents.
With my legal experience, I am fully comfortable navigating the court process. I understand the procedures, timelines, and expectations, and I can confidently prepare your application while keeping you informed every step of the way, including a clear outline of all fees and when they will be charged.
“Lindsay was not only efficient but kind, caring and thoughtful through our surrogacy process which at times was very stressful, emotional and exhausting. Not only did she always take the time to answer our questions thoroughly and in a timely manner, but also with understanding and care. We highly recommend having her on your team to navigate your way through the legal side of fertility.”
- J . & R.
