Family Law
In today’s world protection for individuals and families are not guaranteed. Assisted reproductive services are under threat and discussing options in family planning often needs legal input in addition to medical advice. Attorney Hume has helped many couples achieve their goal of expanding their families. Attorney Hume feels this work is both important and rewarding.
With over thirty years of success, we have represented numerous individuals and families navigating the journey of building families through IVF services. We have proudly assisted prospective mothers and fathers in creating both traditional and nontraditional families.
As the legal landscape continues to evolve, we collaborate with local and national advocacy agencies to stay informed of potential challenges. Our commitment is to support our clients throughout the process, providing the necessary documentation and court representation to safeguard their rights and interests.
Estate Planning for Clients Utilizing Reproductive Technology
At Hume Law Offices, we understand that reproductive technology, such as surrogacy, egg and sperm donation, and in vitro fertilization (IVF), has transformed the way many individuals and families are building their futures. As these technologies create new possibilities, they also introduce unique legal considerations. Whether you're planning to expand your family through reproductive technology or have already begun the process, ensuring that your estate plan reflects your evolving family structure and specific needs is critical.
Our experienced team of estate planning attorneys specializes in addressing the legal complexities that arise for clients using reproductive technology. We provide comprehensive estate planning services designed to protect your interests, your children, and your family’s future. Here's how we can help:
Estate Planning for Clients Utilizing Reproductive Technology
At Hume Law Offices, we understand that reproductive technology, such as surrogacy, egg and sperm donation, and in vitro fertilization (IVF), has transformed the way many individuals and families are building their futures. As these technologies create new possibilities, they also introduce unique legal considerations. Whether you're planning to expand your family through reproductive technology or have already begun the process, ensuring that your estate plan reflects your evolving family structure and specific needs is critical.
Our experienced team of estate planning attorneys specializes in addressing the legal complexities that arise for clients using reproductive technology. We provide comprehensive estate planning services designed to protect your interests, your children, and your family’s future. Here's how we can help:
Why Estate Planning is Crucial for Clients Using Reproductive Technology
Clarifying Parental Rights: Legal parentage can be a complicated issue when reproductive technology is involved, particularly with surrogacy and gamete donation. In some cases, the individuals who intend to be parents may not automatically be recognized as the legal parents of the child. Our attorneys work with you to ensure that all necessary legal steps are taken—whether it’s establishing parental rights through a pre-birth order or assisting with the adoption process following a surrogate birth.
Guardianship Designations: If you have children born via surrogacy or assisted reproduction, you may want to specify who will care for them in the event of your incapacity or death. A comprehensive estate plan allows you to designate guardians who are aligned with your wishes and family values, ensuring that your children are cared for by the individuals you trust most.
Trusts and Inheritance Planning: It's essential to establish clear plans regarding inheritance for children born through reproductive technology. A properly drafted will or trust ensures that your children—whether biologically or through adoption—are treated equally and that their interests are protected in the event of your passing. This includes appointing a trustee to manage assets on behalf of minor children until they are old enough to inherit directly.
Health Care Directives and Financial Powers of Attorney: If you are going through a surrogacy or IVF process, you should have clear health care directives and powers of attorney in place to ensure that the right individuals can make medical and financial decisions on your behalf, particularly if you are unable to do so. This is especially important in the context of any medical risks related to assisted reproduction, where your family’s needs may require fast, decisive action.
Protecting Donor Rights and Agreements: In situations where egg, sperm, or embryo donation is part of your family-building process, it’s important to clarify donor agreements and rights in your estate plan. Clear documentation regarding donor anonymity, rights to inheritance, and other agreements ensures that you are legally protected and can provide clarity to your children in the future
Get Started Today
Planning ahead is one of the most responsible steps you can take as you build your family with reproductive technology. Let us provide you with the tools and guidance necessary to navigate the legal aspects of this important life decision. Reach out to Hume Law Offices to schedule your personalized consultation.