Potential Legal Costs

LEGAL EXPENSES

You can expect the following legal expenses but, of course, it depends on your unique surrogacy situation. 

Intended Parent Legal Representation - $7,000 to $22,000+

The attorney will draft, negotiate and review the surrogacy contract for the Intended Parents.  This is necessary to ensure that the Intended Parents are named as the legal parents on the birth certificate as well as to provide an orderly administration of how money will be transmitted between the parties.

Carrier Legal Representation - $3,000 to $6,000

The attorney will review the surrogacy contract with the Carrier and negotiate changes on her behalf.  The attorney fees will be paid by the Intended Parents.

Parental Establishment & Court Proceedings - $1,500 to $5,000

The Intended Parents' attorney will draft, review, obtain signatures and file legal pleading papers with the Court.  The exact cost will be determined by the state where the baby is to be born.  Most attorneys will include these fees in their original representation bill.

Escrow - $1,500 to $4,500

An escrow account is held by the Intended Parent's attorney or a bonded third party to provide the Carrier security with the reimbursement which she expects to receive for carrying the baby to term.