Entering into a surrogacy contract is a huge legal and emotional step for anyone involved. Illinois has extensive and comprehensive surrogacy laws, offering strong protections for surrogates and parents. To ensure your rights are secure, you must work with experienced attorneys. Our DuPage County, IL surrogacy contract lawyers help clients navigate the legal requirements and establish parentage.
Requirements for a Surrogacy Agreement in Illinois
In Illinois, a gestational surrogacy agreement must meet specific legal criteria under the Illinois Gestational Surrogacy Act, 750 ILCS 47, to be enforceable. The act stipulates that the contract must be in writing with two competent adults as witnesses, and it has to be signed before any medical procedures begin, excluding initial screenings. All parties involved must have legal counsel. Any compensation must be handled through an independent escrow account, and the surrogate has to agree to the following: