Finding the right reproductive attorney to work with is equally as important as finding the right surrogate. While an attorney does not carry your child, they ensure that the pregnancy will go as smoothly as possible. Your reproductive attorney will look out for both you and your future child by making sure all proper provisions are in place. Although embarking on the journey of gestational surrogacy is an exciting and joyous time, it can also be extremely overwhelming financially, legally, and emotionally. Having the right reproductive attorney in your corner can make the difference between a happy surrogacy experience and one that is overly challenging.

When researching and speaking with reproductive attorneys, one of the first questions to ask is where he or she is licensed to practice. Each state has unique laws on gestational surrogacy and it is not uncommon for IPs to sometimes find themselves working with a surrogate from a different state. Because of this, it is imperative to find a reproductive attorney who is licensed in at least one, if not both of the states where the IPs and surrogate reside or the state in which any medical procedures will be performed. Hiring an attorney who is licensed in several states will give you the confidence and peace of mind that the advice you receive from your attorney is based on the knowledge of the laws in the state or states in which you are working.

It is highly advised to seek out a reproductive attorney who can help with more than just legal assistance. Surrogacy arrangements can be complicated, so look for an attorney who can also help with the following:

• Communication. It is important to feel comfortable and confident with your reproductive attorney. You will need to be able to discuss many personal issues, so look for an attorney who not only possesses the right professional experience in this field, but also someone you feel at ease with and can relate to on a personal level.
• Insurance. Insurance issues can become tricky and also vary state by state. Find a reproductive attorney who is knowledgeable about insurance matters with surrogacy and can help steer you in the right direction.
• Other financial matters. Managing finances is an important topic to discuss with your reproductive attorney. Find an attorney who will be willing to work with you to devise a plan of all financial aspects you’ll be responsible for from medical expenses, to travel expenses, and anything else you may want to cover for your surrogate.

Working closely with your agency is one of the best ways to find a reproductive attorney who is licensed in the right states and is familiar with the special circumstances of gestational surrogacy. Your agency will be familiar with a number of experienced attorneys and will be able to provide insight as well as make recommendations for which attorney may be right for you. If you are looking for additional information on beginning the surrogacy process or have specific questions regarding working with a reproductive attorney, contact the experienced professionals at Surrogate Solutions today!