Building a family can be more complex than anticipated, and while adoption, surrogacy, and assisted reproduction offer exciting possibilities, the legal processes involved can often be daunting and emotional. As family law continues to evolve in these areas, expert guidance is essential to navigating the complexities.

We offer compassionate support every step of the way, whether you’re adopting a child in New Zealand, internationally, or through surrogacy. Our team simplifies the journey, guiding you through the various steps and ensuring that you fully understand what to expect.

Surrogacy Legal Advice

Whether you're considering surrogacy as intended parents or as a surrogate, obtaining legal advice is crucial. In New Zealand, surrogacy is governed by the Human Assisted Reproductive Technology Act 2004, and any arrangement must be approved by the Ethical Committee on Assisted Reproductive Technology (ECART). Our team assists with the ECART approval process, helping you understand the criteria and ensuring all documentation is in order.

After the birth of a child via surrogacy, the intending parents must legally adopt the child through the Family Court to establish their legal parentage. The adoption process involves a 10-day stand-down period, though with social worker consent, the child can be placed with the intended parents from birth. We guide you through every step, from securing the surrogate’s consent to the final adoption order and ensure the birth certificate reflects the intending parents as the legal parents.

Adoption Process and Guidance for Blended Families

We support a range of adoption scenarios, including those involving step-parents, caregivers, and international adoptions. Our team also helps blended families formalise their relationships through adoption and offers alternative solutions such as guardianship.

At every step, we break the process down into manageable stages and keep you informed. Our team ensures your adoption or surrogacy arrangement adheres to legal requirements and provides peace of mind.