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Leaders in California Surrogacy and Egg Donation law

100% Dedicated to Connecting & Protecting California Families through Surrogacy

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Awards & Recognitions
  • AVVO icon
  • Super Lawyers
  • Awards
  • ABA icon
  • National Association of Criminal Defence Lawyers
  • ACBA icon
Awards & Recognitions
  • AVVO icon
  • Super Lawyers
  • American Association for Justice
  • ABA icon
  • National Association of Criminal Defence Lawyers
  • ACBA icon
As Seen on

Yuri Larson

10/10 would recommend to anyone and everyone that is in need of amazing representation during this process.

- Yuri Larson,
Laguna Beach

Shayna Vodicka

This firm is top notch, always patient, responsive and willing to help anyway they can. I have also appreciated the understanding they have had with my financial situation and gave me payment plans so thankful for that!!

- Shayna Vodicka,
Rancho Santa Fe

The Koenicke Family

They got all the contracts in order and did a perfect job, thank you!

- The Koenicke Family,
San Juan Capistrano

Kelly & Ryan

Super reasonable and fair and was always there to answer our questions.

- Kelly & Ryan,
Oceanside

Jennifer Price

Amy Lass was wonderful - ethical, honest, and straightforward. She was easy to work with, forthcoming about the process, set realistic expectations, and charged me a fair fee.

- Jennifer Price,
La Jolla

Christian Zanej

If I could give more stars to Amy Lass I would.

- Christian Zanej,
Los Angeles

Tim Foley

Best attorney ever, THANK YOU.

- Tim Foley,
Corona, CA

Christina McCausland

After calling Amy Lass for help, she quickly went to work and made this complicated process simple and as painless as possible. Love her!!

- Christina McCausland,
Irvine, CA

Angela Sasse

I have so much respect for Mrs. Lass and she could not have been more supportive.

- Angela Sasse,
Santa Monica

Alex Cohen

You will not find a better law firm.

- Alex Cohen,
Anaheim, CA

Kelsey Halpern

Always prompt at returning calls & emails and made this a seamless process. We’re so excited!!

- Kelsey Halpern,
El Segundo, CA

Christian Z.

If I could give more stars to Amy Lass I would. I would 1000% recommend!

- Christian Z.,
Poway CA

Kayla Kavanaugh

They helped take some stress off me during a very difficult and complex time of my life!

- Kayla Kavanaugh,
Hollywood, CA

David Rocci

I offered to pay after the free consultation and she refused to accept my money! The professional and succinct assistance was a much needed breath of fresh air.

- David Rocci,
San Diego, CA

Emily Bonnett

Amy, John Catie and the staff are AMAZING! Worth every penny!

- Emily Bonnett,
Coronado, CA

Scott Pelletier

Life is hard enough as it is; make it a little easier and less complicated by having Amy Lass and on your side.

- Scott Pelletier,
Beverly Hills, CA

Jamie Raimo

Catie was extremely helpful, responsive and reasonable and got the job done. Would definitely recommend her expertise and the firm’s services.

- Jamie Raimo,
Santa Barbara, CA

Surrogacy Laws in California: Protecting the Rights and Interests of Intended Parents and Surrogates

Surrogacy is a deeply personal and legally intricate process, and understanding the surrogacy laws in California is crucial for intended parents and surrogates embarking on this journey. California has established itself as a surrogacy-friendly state, with robust legal protections and regulations in place. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the surrogacy laws specific to California, including legal requirements for intended parents and surrogates, as well as the rights and responsibilities of all parties involved. As experienced surrogacy lawyers in California, we are dedicated to helping you navigate the legal complexities and safeguard your interests.

Surrogacy Laws and Regulations in California: California boasts a comprehensive legal framework that supports and protects the rights of intended parents and surrogates throughout the surrogacy process. Key aspects of surrogacy laws and regulations in California include:

Surrogacy Legality: Surrogacy is legal in California, making it an attractive destination for intended parents seeking surrogacy arrangements. The state has a long history of favorable court decisions and legislation that uphold the rights of intended parents.

Gestational Surrogacy Statute: California has a specific statute, the Uniform Parentage Act (UPA), which governs gestational surrogacy arrangements. This statute outlines the legal requirements and procedures for establishing parentage through gestational surrogacy.

Pre-birth Orders: California allows for the issuance of pre-birth orders, which establish the intended parents as the legal parents of the child even before birth. This provides peace of mind and certainty for intended parents, ensuring a seamless transition of legal rights and responsibilities.

Independent Legal Representation: California law mandates that both intended parents and surrogates have independent legal representation. This requirement ensures that each party receives proper legal counsel and understands their rights, obligations, and the legal implications of the surrogacy agreement.

Surrogacy Agreement: Surrogacy agreements in California are legally binding contracts that outline the rights, responsibilities, and expectations of all parties involved. These agreements address important aspects such as compensation, medical procedures, decision-making authority, and the establishment of legal parentage.

Parentage Orders: Once the child is born, intended parents can obtain a parentage order from the court, solidifying their legal parental rights and responsibilities. The court issues a judgment declaring the intended parents as the legal parents of the child, allowing for the issuance of a new birth certificate.

Legal Requirements for Intended Parents and Surrogates in California: To ensure compliance with surrogacy laws in California, certain legal requirements must be met by intended parents and surrogates. Understanding these rights and responsibilities of all parties involved in a surrogacy arrangement is crucial. In California, the rights and responsibilities include:

Intended Parents in California:

-Intended parents must be at least 18 years old and mentally competent.
-If a married couple is involved, both spouses must participate in the surrogacy agreement.
-For unmarried individuals, a second-parent adoption may be required to establish legal parentage.
-The right to make decisions regarding the medical care of the unborn child and the surrogate during pregnancy.
-The responsibility to fulfill the financial obligations outlined in the surrogacy agreement, including compensating the surrogate for her services and related expenses.
-The right to establish legal parentage through a court-issued parentage order.

Surrogates in California:

-Surrogates must be at least 21 years old and have previously given birth to a child.
-They should undergo medical and psychological evaluations to ensure their physical and mental suitability for surrogacy.
-Surrogates must have independent legal representation to protect their rights and interests throughout the process.
-The right to receive appropriate medical care and support throughout the pregnancy and delivery process.
-The responsibility to adhere to the agreed-upon medical protocols and maintain open and honest communication with the intended parents.
-The right to receive compensation as outlined in the surrogacy agreement for their time, effort, and associated expenses.

Navigating the surrogacy laws in California is crucial for intended parents and surrogates to ensure a legally protected and successful surrogacy journey. As experienced surrogacy lawyers in California, we provide comprehensive legal guidance, assisting clients in understanding their rights and responsibilities and crafting solid surrogacy agreements. By adhering to the surrogacy laws and regulations specific to California, we strive to protect the interests and well-being of all parties involved, fostering a positive and rewarding surrogacy experience.

Call or email us 7 days a week for a free consultation at (866) 353-0128

Lawyer

A Certified Family Law Specialist in California, Amy is committed to providing high-quality assisted reproductive and family formation legal services to all parents, including nontraditional families. Our clients include intended parents, surrogates, egg donors, sperm donors and embryo donors. We work with clients all across California in securing their parental rights and get their babies home.

Clients love Amy’s experienced, personable, dedicated and compassionate demeanor. She will address your questions and concerns in a timely and thorough manner while managing all aspects of the surrogacy journey down to the smallest detail. She has also developed critical working relationships with judges and family court staff, doctors, agencies, and hospital staff, to ensure each client is taken care of under any and all circumstances.

Amy J. Lass, Esq.

REQUEST A FREE CONSULTATION

Frequently Asked Questions

Surrogacy is a legal arrangement in which a woman carries a pregnancy and gives birth to a child on behalf of intended parents who are unable to conceive or carry a pregnancy themselves.

There are two types of surrogacy: traditional surrogacy, where the surrogate’s own egg is used, and gestational surrogacy, where the embryo is created using the intended parents’ or donor gametes and implanted into the surrogate’s uterus.

Yes, surrogacy is legal in California. The state has well-established laws and favorable court decisions that support and protect the rights of intended parents and surrogates.

Surrogates in California can be found through surrogacy agencies, matching services, or by connecting with independent surrogates. It is essential to work with a reputable agency or have legal guidance to ensure a reliable and legally compliant match.

Intended parents must meet certain legal requirements, such as being of legal age, mentally competent, and, if applicable, married or in a legally recognized relationship. Surrogates must also meet specific criteria, including age, health, and prior successful pregnancies.

Our attorneys are ready to help you achieve your dream of building your family

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Representing Surrogates & Intended Parents Across California

The California Surrogacy Process
The California Surrogacy Process

A step-by-step guide to building families with the help of surrogacy in the state of California.

Learn More
Surrogacy Laws in California
Surrogacy Laws in California

Protecting the Rights and Interests of Intended Parents and Surrogates in California.

Learn More
Surrogacy Contracts
Surrogacy Contracts

Building a solid foundation for successful surrogacy journey. Understand the process of drafting and reviewing of the surrogacy agreement.

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Finding a Surrogate
Finding a Surrogate

Learn more about finding a surrogate and navigating the path to parenthood in California.

Learn More
Becoming an Intended Parent
Becoming an Intended Parent

Understand the process of becoming an intended parent in California, including eligibility criteria, legal responsibilities, and financial aspects to consider.

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Becoming a Surrogate in California
Becoming a Surrogate in California

Empowering women to help create families. Understand the process, including qualifications, evaluations, and compensation.

Learn More
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    Alex Cohen

    You will not find a better law firm.

    - Alex Cohen,
    Anaheim, CA

    Angela Sasse

    I have so much respect for Mrs. Lass and she could not have been more supportive.

    - Angela Sasse,
    Santa Monica

    Christian Z.

    If I could give more stars to Amy Lass I would. I would 1000% recommend!

    - Christian Z.,
    Poway CA

    Christian Zanej

    If I could give more stars to Amy Lass I would.

    - Christian Zanej,
    Los Angeles

    Christina McCausland

    After calling Amy Lass for help, she quickly went to work and made this complicated process simple and as painless as possible. Love her!!

    - Christina McCausland,
    Irvine, CA

    David Rocci

    I offered to pay after the free consultation and she refused to accept my money! The professional and succinct assistance was a much needed breath of fresh air.

    - David Rocci,
    San Diego, CA

    Emily Bonnett

    Amy, John Catie and the staff are AMAZING! Worth every penny!

    - Emily Bonnett,
    Coronado, CA

    Jamie Raimo

    Catie was extremely helpful, responsive and reasonable and got the job done. Would definitely recommend her expertise and the firm’s services.

    - Jamie Raimo,
    Santa Barbara, CA

    Jennifer Price

    Amy Lass was wonderful - ethical, honest, and straightforward. She was easy to work with, forthcoming about the process, set realistic expectations, and charged me a fair fee.

    - Jennifer Price,
    La Jolla

    Kayla Kavanaugh

    They helped take some stress off me during a very difficult and complex time of my life!

    - Kayla Kavanaugh,
    Hollywood, CA

    Kelly & Ryan

    Super reasonable and fair and was always there to answer our questions.

    - Kelly & Ryan,
    Oceanside

    Kelsey Halpern

    Always prompt at returning calls & emails and made this a seamless process. We’re so excited!!

    - Kelsey Halpern,
    El Segundo, CA

    Scott Pelletier

    Life is hard enough as it is; make it a little easier and less complicated by having Amy Lass and on your side.

    - Scott Pelletier,
    Beverly Hills, CA

    Shayna Vodicka

    This firm is top notch, always patient, responsive and willing to help anyway they can. I have also appreciated the understanding they have had with my financial situation and gave me payment plans so thankful for that!!

    - Shayna Vodicka,
    Rancho Santa Fe

    The Koenicke Family

    They got all the contracts in order and did a perfect job, thank you!

    - The Koenicke Family,
    San Juan Capistrano

    Tim Foley

    Best attorney ever, THANK YOU.

    - Tim Foley,
    Corona, CA

    Yuri Larson

    10/10 would recommend to anyone and everyone that is in need of amazing representation during this process.

    - Yuri Larson,
    Laguna Beach
    Awards & Recognitions
    • AVVO icon
    • Super Lawyers
    • American Association for Justice
    • ABA icon
    • National Association of Criminal Defence Lawyers
    • ACBA icon
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