Assisted Reproduction And The Law

Starting or growing your family through assisted reproductive technology (ART) is a deeply personal decision—and often an emotional one. Whether you’re pursuing IVF, artificial insemination, or considering a surrogate, it’s natural to focus on the medical steps. But there’s one step that’s just as critical: legal support.

At New Beginnings Family Law, we help families understand not just the science behind ART—but the legal realities, too. Here’s why that matters more than you might think what our assisted reproductive technology law lawyer wants you to know.

Alabama Law Hasn’t Caught Up

Medical technology has come a long way. But Alabama’s laws around ART? Not so much. There are limited statutes and no clear appellate court guidance on many of the most sensitive issues—like who is legally recognized as a parent when a surrogate or donor is involved.

It’s Not Just About Biology

If you’re using donated sperm or eggs, or working with a surrogate, the law may not automatically reflect your intentions or your role as a parent. And in Alabama, existing laws only protect some scenarios:

• Married women using donated sperm with their husband’s consent
• Married couples using donor embryos with help from a licensed physician

Unfortunately, these protections don’t extend to:

• Surrogacy arrangements
• Unmarried couples
• Same-sex couples

That means many families could face legal uncertainty—unless the right steps are taken ahead of time.

Protecting Parental Rights Is Essential

You’ve put your heart (and finances) into building your family. The last thing you want is confusion about who has parental rights after the child is born. Without a proper legal agreement, even well-intentioned arrangements can lead to heartbreak or legal disputes.

We help you:

• Draft clear, enforceable agreements
• Protect your parental rights from day one
• Manage the court system if a dispute arises

Privacy Matters, But Legal Clarity Matters More

We understand that infertility and family-building are deeply personal journeys. It’s tempting to keep everything behind closed doors—just between you and your doctor. But ART doesn’t just involve medicine. It involves long-term, life-changing legal implications. The right attorney is your advocate, not an intruder.

Plan Ahead, Grow Confidently

ART offers beautiful opportunities for hopeful parents—but it also introduces legal challenges. Don’t let unclear laws put your future at risk. With the right guidance, you can grow your family with peace of mind, knowing every legal detail is handled.

At New Beginnings Family Law, we’re here to help protect your future, your rights, and your growing family.