When Do You Need a Fertility Lawyer?
You may need a fertility lawyer in the following situations:
- Assisted Reproductive Technology: When you’re dealing with assisted reproductive technology (ART), including in vitro fertilization (IVF), surrogacy, and egg/sperm donation. These processes involve complex legal issues and contracts.
- Surrogacy: If you’re considering becoming a surrogate or using a surrogate, a lawyer can help ensure all legal aspects are handled correctly.
- Donating Eggs/Sperm: If you’re donating or receiving eggs, sperm, or embryos. Legal agreements should be in place to establish rights and responsibilities.
- Custody Disputes: If you’re dealing with disputes related to ART, such as custody disputes over embryos.
- Parentage Issues: If you have to establish or contest legal parentage due to the use of ART, you might need legal assistance.
- International Surrogacy or Donation: If you’re engaging in surrogacy, egg donation, or sperm donation across international borders, a fertility lawyer can help you navigate the complex international laws and agreements.
- Insurance Claims: If you’re having difficulty with insurance claims related to fertility treatments, a lawyer can help negotiate or dispute claims.
- Discrimination Cases: If you believe you’ve been denied fertility treatments or services due to discrimination, a fertility lawyer could assist in building a case.
- Estate Planning: If you have stored embryos, sperm, or eggs, a fertility lawyer can help include these in your estate planning.
- Privacy Issues: If you’re concerned about the privacy of your medical or personal information in the course of fertility treatments, a lawyer can guide you on your rights and any possible legal actions.
- Clinic or Practitioner Misconduct: If you believe a clinic or medical professional has behaved unethically or negligently in your fertility treatment, a fertility lawyer can advise on potential legal recourse.
In all these scenarios, a fertility attorney can help protect your rights and interests.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Fertility Lawyer in the U.S.?
The cost could range anywhere from $200 to $500 per hour for consultation, while flat fees for specific services (like drafting a surrogacy agreement) could range from $1,500 to $5,000.
Get an estimate from any potential lawyer during your initial consultation. You can also request that the lawyer places this information in writing to avoid any disputes later on.
What to Look For in a Fertility Lawyer?
Here are some factors to consider when looking for a fertility lawyer:
- Expertise and Experience: The lawyer should have specific expertise in fertility law and experience dealing with similar cases.
- Reputation: Look for reviews or testimonials from previous clients.
- Communication: The lawyer should be responsive and clear in their communication.
- Understanding: As this is a sensitive area, the lawyer should be empathetic and understanding.
- Affiliation: Check if the lawyer is a member of recognized professional organizations like the American Academy of Assisted Reproductive Technology Attorneys (AAARTA).
How to Prepare for Your Consultation With a Fertility Lawyer?
To prepare for your consultation:
- Document your case: Write down all the details of your situation.
- List your questions: Make a list of any questions or concerns you have.
- Gather related documents: Collect any relevant documents, like medical records or previous legal agreements.
- Research: Understand some basics about fertility law so you can better understand your lawyer’s advice.
Where to Find the Best Fertility Lawyers in the U.S.?
LegalMatch is an online service that can help you find a lawyer based on your specific needs. Just input your case details, and LegalMatch will connect you with qualified fertility lawyers in your area. Remember to conduct thorough research and interview potential lawyers to ensure they are a good fit for your needs.
