
Understanding Surrogacy Legal Support in Washington
Surrogacy is a method where a woman carries and gives birth to a child for another individual or couple. Washington stands out as one of the few states with comprehensive surrogacy laws formally enacted by statute RCW 26.26A. Washington allows compensated gestational surrogacy. Intended parents and surrogates must have independent legal counsel, and the agreement must be signed before the start of any medical procedures. A surrogate located in Washington must not have given birth to more than two children through surrogacy agreements. The law also permits parentage orders to be granted pre-birth, ensuring legal security for intended parents from the beginning ensuring robust legal protection for intended parents, surrogates, and donors. This legal statute ensures Intended Parents’ rights are established from the start.
It is vital to draft clear surrogacy agreements that outline the responsibilities, rights, and obligations of all parties involved, including the surrogate. Surrogacy agreements address key issues such as parental rights, medical decisions, and financial compensation.