Solo fathers

Donor conception as a solo father

Increasing numbers of single men are considering becoming fathers in a number of different ways:

• As a co-parent
• As a known donor
• Through surrogacy

Co-parenting

If you plan to become a solo father through a co-parenting arrangement, this raises complex legal issues about your legal status, the legal status of your co-parent(s), the extent of your parental autonomy and what will happen in law in the event of a subsequent dispute between you.  You will need to take great care over the legal issues and you should ensure that you put in place a carefully crafted co-parenting agreement.

Please click here for more information.

Known donation

If you intend to become a known donor, it is very important to clarify your legal status at the outset so that you can understand and agree your legal status and role in the child’s life with the birth mother (and her partner if she has one).  You should establish whether or not you will be legally and financially responsible for the child and the extent of your future involvement in the child’s life.  It is also important that you put in place a known donor agreement to protect your legal position and minimise the potential for dispute as far as possible.

Please click here for more information.

Surrogacy

If you are considering becoming a solo father through surrogacy, this raises complex legal issues.  As a single man, you will not be eligible for a parental order (the legal solution for surrogacy in the UK) and this raises significant legal and practical problems and it is critical that you obtain expert legal advice about your situation.

Please click here for more information.

Do I need a specialist Will?

Any parent or prospective parent should execute a Will. Your Will should include a provision appointing legal guardians for your child in the event of your death.  Your Will should also appoint trustees to manage your estate for your child’s benefit until they reach adulthood.

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How we can help

Please contact us if you would like help and guidance :

- with how the law applies to you (eg as a co-parent, known donor or through surrogacy)

- how to protect your parental status and parental autonomy

- preparing a co-parenting agreement

- preparing a known donor agreement

- how to confer legal status for your child upon a new partner

- advising you and legal representation in court if a dispute arises over arrangements for your child

- preparing a specialist Will as a prospective or actual parent

If you would like to discuss your situation in more detail or you would like more information please contact us by email fertilityandparenting@porterdodson.co.uk or by telephone +44 (0)207 222 1244.