How are parental rights established?

Legal process varies by state but typically includes pre-birth orders in surrogate-friendly states, parentage declarations filed with court, both parents can be on birth certificate, international parents may need additional documentation, second-parent adoption sometimes required. Legal counsel ensures proper establishment.

Overview

This guide answers “How are parental rights established?” for intended parents, with a focus on planning, common variables, and the questions that reduce risk and surprises.

Typical workflow (high level)

1. Clarify your plan: clinic choice, embryo plan, and timeline goals.
2. Build your team: agency coordination, legal counsel, and insurance/escrow planning.
3. Matching: preferences, introductions, and alignment on expectations.
4. Legal + medical readiness: contracts, clinic clearance, and scheduling.
5. Pregnancy + delivery: coordinated care, milestones, and parentage steps.

What can vary (and why)

• Clinic schedules and medical protocols (individualized to the situation).
• State and international legal requirements (especially for parentage workflows).
• Matching preferences and availability (fit matters).
• Insurance and financial structure (coverage details can change).
• Logistics like travel, time zones, and appointment availability.

Questions to ask (so you don’t get surprised later)

• What are the next 2–3 steps in my specific situation?
• What documents or records should I prepare before we start?
• Which decisions should I make now vs later?
• Who will be my primary point of contact during the journey?
• How will we communicate and share updates (email, calls, portal)?
• What are the typical milestones from start to finish?
• How do we establish parentage and protect everyone legally?
• What should we confirm with the fertility clinic before matching?

Next steps

• Intended parents basics
• Intended parents cost guide
• State laws & policies
• Contact our care team

Important note

This page is educational information only and is not medical, legal, or tax advice. Always confirm specifics with qualified professionals and your care team.

See the sources section below for reference links when available.