At Consilia Legal, our specialist surrogacy solicitors understand that growing your family through surrogacy is both exciting and emotional. We’re here to provide clear, compassionate legal advice, ensuring you’re protected and supported at every step.
What is Surrogacy?
Surrogacy is when one person carries and gives birth to a baby for another person or couple. There are two main types:
- Traditional surrogacy – the surrogate donates their egg and carries the baby, meaning they are biologically related to the child.
- Gestational surrogacy – the surrogate carries an embryo created through IVF and is not biologically related to the child.
In some cases, donor eggs or sperm may be used. This can affect your ability to apply for a parental order, which legally transfers parenthood to the intended parents.
Surrogacy Law
Under the law in England and Wales, the surrogate is the legal mother of the child at birth.
The other legal parent depends on the surrogate’s relationship status:
- If they are married or in a civil partnership, their spouse or partner is the other legal parent.
- If they are not married or in a civil partnership, the intended father or a nominated second parent (if conception took place at a licensed fertility clinic) may be recognised instead.
Because the legal process can be complex, it’s best to seek specialist advice early on to understand your rights and responsibilities.
International Surrogacy
If you’re considering surrogacy abroad, you’ll need both family law and immigration advice. England and Wales don’t automatically recognise international arrangements, so it’s important to obtain specialist advice.
Our solicitors can guide you through the process, helping you comply with all legal requirements to protect your family.
How We Can Help
Our experienced family law solicitors can:
- Explain your legal rights and options
- Support you through the parental order process
- Ensure you meet all legal formalities
- Provide ongoing guidance and emotional support
