What is an Intentional Parent? Legal Insights and Implications

Definition & Meaning

An intentional parent is an individual who actively chooses to have and raise a child, often through methods such as surrogacy. This person is recognized as the legal parent of the child, irrespective of any genetic connection. The intentional parent's legal rights and responsibilities are established through a surrogacy contract with a surrogate mother, which outlines the terms of the arrangement.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A couple decides to use a surrogate to have a child. They enter into a surrogacy contract with a surrogate mother, establishing themselves as the intentional parents of the child, who will be born through this arrangement.

Example 2: A single individual chooses to become a parent through surrogacy. They sign a contract with a surrogate, thereby becoming the intentional parent of the child, even though there is no genetic link. (hypothetical example)

State-by-state differences

State Notes
California Recognizes surrogacy contracts and allows intentional parents to establish legal parentage pre-birth.
New York Surrogacy contracts are legal but must comply with specific regulations to be enforceable.
Texas Allows surrogacy agreements, but the process for establishing parentage may vary.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition
Biological Parent A person who has a genetic connection to the child.
Adoptive Parent An individual who legally adopts a child, gaining parental rights.
Surrogate Mother A woman who carries and gives birth to a child for another individual or couple.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are considering becoming an intentional parent, it is essential to understand the legal implications of surrogacy. You should:

  • Consult with a legal professional who specializes in family law and surrogacy.
  • Explore legal form templates available through US Legal Forms to draft your surrogacy contract.
  • Ensure compliance with your state's laws regarding surrogacy and parental rights.

Quick facts

Attribute Details
Typical Fees Varies widely, often ranging from $50,000 to $150,000 for surrogacy arrangements.
Jurisdiction Family law, specifically surrogacy law.
Possible Penalties Invalid contracts may lead to loss of parental rights or financial penalties.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

A surrogate mother carries and gives birth to a child for another person or couple, who are the intended parents.