Surrogacy in Florida is widely recognized as one of the most favorable paths for intended parents and surrogates seeking a legally secure and supportive journey. The state’s clear legal framework, experienced reproductive attorneys, and supportive surrogacy agencies make it an ideal choice for families of all types, including married couples, single parents, and same-sex couples. To help families navigate this process, attorney Marla Neufeld, an expert in reproductive law, shares her insights from both professional and personal experience. From understanding legal protections to considering international factors, this guide provides key information to help intended parents and surrogates begin their surrogacy journey in Florida with confidence and clarity.
Why Florida is Surrogacy-Friendly
Surrogacy in Florida has become a top choice because of its clear and supportive legal framework. Couples of all types—including married, single, and same-sex couples—can pursue surrogacy with confidence. Donor eggs, sperm, and fully donated embryos are all legally permitted.
Florida law protects both intended parents and gestational carriers, ensuring clarity and security throughout the process. Marla Neufeld emphasizes consulting a qualified reproductive attorney to understand specific requirements and timelines. For example, obtaining a birth certificate in Broward County usually takes two to three weeks post-birth.
Legal Framework and Protections
A cornerstone of surrogacy in Florida is the written surrogacy agreement. This contract clearly outlines parental rights, financial responsibilities, and important medical decisions, helping prevent misunderstandings between intended parents and surrogates. While only one attorney is legally required, Marla Neufeld recommends that both parties have independent legal representation to ensure everyone’s interests are fully protected.
Florida law also emphasizes the rights of gestational carriers. Surrogates retain full autonomy over their bodies and medical choices, highlighting the importance of informed consent throughout the journey. These protections create a balanced and secure process for all involved. For more detailed legal guidance, visit Florida Statutes Chapter 742.
Considerations for International Intended Parents
Surrogacy in Florida is particularly attractive to international intended parents due to the state’s accessibility, experienced legal professionals, and accommodating laws. However, there are several important considerations to keep in mind, including:
-
Visa requirements and U.S. entry processes
-
Language barriers and communication with medical and legal teams
-
U.S. citizenship laws for newborns
Marla Neufeld advises consulting a lawyer in your home country to ensure compliance with both local regulations and U.S. law, helping to make the surrogacy journey smoother, more predictable, and legally secure for all parties involved.
Advice for Surrogates and Intended Parents
Early planning is essential for a successful surrogacy in Florida journey. Working with a qualified Florida reproductive attorney from the very beginning helps set clear expectations, navigate legal requirements, and prevent unexpected challenges. Maintaining open and honest communication among intended parents, surrogates, and agencies is equally important, as it fosters trust and collaboration throughout the process.
Marla Neufeld emphasizes that trust, transparency, and respect for everyone’s rights form the foundation of a positive surrogacy experience. By prioritizing these principles, both intended parents and surrogates can approach the journey with confidence and clarity.
Personal Insights from Attorney Marla Neufeld
Beyond her professional work, Marla has personal experience with surrogacy, having twin boys herself. This unique perspective enhances her empathy and advocacy for both intended parents and surrogates. Outside of law, Marla enjoys baking sourdough bread and playing pickleball, exemplifying a healthy balance between career and family life.
Surrogacy in Florida offers a welcoming and legally secure path for families looking to expand. With guidance from professionals like Marla Neufeld, intended parents and surrogates can embark on this life-changing journey with confidence.
To learn more, watch Florida Surrogacy (Part 1 of 3): Why Florida? Surrogacy Law Basics for IPs & GCs in our video gallery for detailed insights directly from Marla Neufeld.