Sperm donation is a method of assisted reproduction that allows hopeful parents to achieve pregnancy with the help of a sperm donor. Sperm donation involves collecting semen from a donor that is preserved to fertilize eggs from the intended mother or an egg donor. Once fertilized, embryos are either stored or transferred to the uterus of an intended mother (or surrogate).
Before any of this happens, it is critical for all parties involved to clarify their rights and expectations for the procedure. Sperm donation agreements are common tools to define how parentage will work and avoid complications after the child’s birth. Our sperm donation lawyer can help make sure clients in Ohio are legally protected from any potential claims or legal issues resulting from this agreement. Reach out to our reproductive law attorney today to learn more about sperm donation and what to expect.
In Ohio, sperm donation is covered by specific laws protecting the interests of all individuals involved. Whether you are a donor, intended parent, or surrogate, it is wise to understand the legal rights and protections involved in the sperm donation process.
Section 3111.95 of the Ohio Revised Code states that sperm donors are not to be treated as the natural fathers of the child once they are born. If the intended mother is married, her husband is legally considered to be the father of a child conceived with donated sperm. Ohio law requires sperm donation to be completed by a physician. Further, the donor must have gone through a physical, blood test, and provided a medical history before donation can take place.
Detailed sperm donation agreements can help all parties better understand the parentage rights they are gaining or relinquishing as part of the process. Our sperm donation attorney can advise recipients or donors in Ohio of all legal rights affected from the transfer.
Parties are not required to complete a sperm donation agreement before donation. However, Attorney Robins strongly recommends that you have a signed agreement in place to clear up any potential disputes. Most importantly, legal custody of a child could be subject to court action if parties don’t clearly define parentage rights.
When intended parents seek donated sperm from a known acquaintance, family member, or other party whom they will remain in contact with, written contracts are just as important. Future conflicts can arise when a sperm donor remains involved in the child’s life, despite the best intentions of all parties at the time of donation. A well-crafted sperm donor agreement can:
As a qualified sperm donation lawyer, Attorney Robins can draft, negotiate, and review contracts for parties in Ohio. We can also anticipate potential issues affecting a child’s birth certificate and legal custody at the time of birth. Joyous parents do not want to leave the hospital facing legal uncertainty. With the right legal help, they can ensure their parentage rights are fully protected.
Whether you are just starting the sperm donation discussions or are in the midst of the process, a knowledgeable attorney can help intended parents, donors, and surrogates protect their legal interests before donation is complete. Agreements are critical for all individuals involved. To learn more about what is possible in Ohio, contact our sperm donation lawyer to schedule your consultation.
