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What should be included in an Illinois sperm or egg donor contract?

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The most important elements in egg donation and sperm donation contracts are clearly identifying the parties involved. It should be explicitly stated that the donor is only a donor and is not responsible for child support, child care costs, or any other financial obligations related to the child. The donor’s role should be limited to providing eggs or sperm, with no rights to parenting time, child support, or decision-making. This clarification is crucial, as failure to specify these terms could lead to the donor being held financially liable if the other biological parent relinquishes their rights.

Another important aspect of the contract is outlining the specifics of the donation process. This includes determining how many times the donation will occur, when and where it will happen, and who will be responsible for the associated fees. The contract should also address the handling of embryos, including how long they will be stored, who will cover the storage costs, and the procedures for their eventual disposal. Additionally, it’s essential to clarify what will happen if either party wishes to dispose of the eggs, sperm, or embryos, and the process for destruction should also be detailed.

Naperville, IL family law attorney Jessica Defino discusses what should be included in an Illinois sperm or egg donor contract to protect the rights and responsibilities of all parties involved. She explains that in both egg donation contracts and sperm donation contracts, it is crucial to outline the involved parties clearly. It is essential to specify that the donor is solely a donor and bears no responsibility for child support, child care costs, or any obligations related to the child. This clarification is vital because, without it, the donor might face potential financial obligations if the other biological parent relinquishes their rights or has their rights terminated. Therefore, explicitly stating that the donor has no rights to the child, including parenting time, child support, or decision-making authority, is critical.

Another significant aspect to address is the frequency, timing, and location of the donations. Additionally, it is essential to determine who will be responsible for the associated fees. If embryos are created, the contract should discuss the storage duration, storage arrangements, and the party responsible for the associated costs, as this process can be expensive.

Including provisions regarding the disposal of eggs, sperm, or embryos is also advisable. The contract should outline the specific procedures and protocols for the destruction of these materials if any party wishes to do so.

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