Yes, surrogacy is legal in Missouri, but the state lacks a comprehensive legal framework specifically governing surrogacy. The legality of surrogacy agreements and the process for establishing intended parents’ legal rights may be established through a parentage order that may be filed prior to delivery and will become effective soon after the child is born, but this largely depends on judicial interpretation and the specifics of each case. Intended parents of all backgrounds, including singles, unmarried couples, and LGBTQ+ individuals, may pursue surrogacy with the guidance of experienced legal counsel to navigate the state’s legal landscape.
