For many families in Michigan, surrogacy is a life-changing opportunity to welcome a child into the world. The decision to pursue surrogacy often comes after years of hope, planning, and sometimes disappointment with other family-building methods. While the emotional rewards are immeasurable, the legal side of surrogacy is highly regulated. Michigan law requires both intended parents and surrogates to have independent legal representation and a formal contract in place before the process can even begin.
Because these steps are mandatory, addressing them at the very start is essential to ensure compliance with the law and to protect everyone’s rights, especially those of the child.
Why Michigan Law Requires Contracts and Attorneys
Surrogacy involves sensitive medical, financial, and parental rights issues. In Michigan, these matters cannot be left to informal understandings or verbal agreements.
State law requires:
- A written surrogacy contract that outlines the rights and responsibilities of each party.
- Independent legal representation for both the intended parents and the surrogate.
- Court procedures to establish legal parentage once the child is born.
These safeguards are in place to protect all parties, reduce the risk of conflict, and ensure that the child’s best interests remain at the center of the arrangement.
How Michigan Surrogacy Contracts Protect Both Sides
The surrogacy contract is not a formality.
It provides detailed protections for intended parents and surrogates alike, covering:
- Medical decision-making and the surrogate’s right to appropriate care.
- Clear recognition of intended parents’ legal rights.
- Financial terms, including compensation and reimbursement for medical expenses.
- Procedures for handling unexpected circumstances, such as medical complications.
- Agreements about contact or communication after the child’s birth.
By putting these terms in writing before the process begins, everyone involved can move forward with clarity and confidence.
Reducing Stress and Building Trust
Surrogacy is already an emotional journey for both intended parents and surrogates. The legal requirements ensure that rights and responsibilities are clear from day one, which helps avoid last-minute disputes or uncertainty. With a legally sound contract in place, the parties can focus on building trust and preparing for the joy of welcoming a child into the world.
How Our Firm Supports Michigan Families
At Steslicki & Ghannam, PLC, we understand that every surrogacy journey is unique.
Our Plymouth family law attorneys:
- Draft and review surrogacy contracts that meet all Michigan legal requirements.
- Provide representation to ensure your rights are protected at every stage.
- Guide families through parentage proceedings in court.
- Anticipate challenges and create agreements that account for both the expected and the unexpected.
Start Your Surrogacy Journey with Legal Confidence
If you are considering surrogacy in Michigan, it is crucial to understand that legal representation and formal contracts are not optional—they are required by law. At Steslicki & Ghannam, PLC, we assist families in navigating every step of the legal process while protecting their interests. Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation and begin your surrogacy journey with the peace of mind that comes from knowing you are on solid legal ground.
