Private Adoption and Donor Conception. Nothing spreads love like starting a family this Valentine's Day!

Whilst Valentine’s Day is more commonly thought about in the context of romantic love, other types of love can be celebrated on this day. Why not celebrate familial love this Valentine’s Day by considering the ways your family can grow?

Private Adoption

Private adoption is where a child is adopted by their relatives, or where the child has lived with the proposed applicants for a period of time. The Adoption and Children Act 2002 gives the example of grandparents, siblings, step-parents and aunts and uncles as potential relatives who may privately adopt a child, though this is by no means an exhaustive list.

If you are looking to adopt, it is important you seek legal advice as you will need a court order to become a child’s legal parent. Adoptions can sometimes be a lengthy, and complicated process, but not always. Instructing a solicitor to assist you with this is important as they will be able to identify any possible complications that may arise in your application to become your child’s legal parent as well as guiding you through the Court process that follows.

Donor Conception

Donor conception is the process of having a child using donated sperm, eggs, or embryos. Many parents choose this pathway as they are unable, due to a range of circumstances, to have children on their own. However, there are important legal considerations  which should be taken into account prior to signing any form of donor agreement.

It is especially important to seek legal advice if you are using someone whom you personally know as your donor. When using a known donor, it is crucial for all parties involved to be clear about their role, and what to expect from the arrangement. Legal advice before donor conception can minimise legal disputes arising from the conception.

However, whether you are considering a known or an unknown donor, or if you are considering adoption, the family Solicitors at Johnson Astills are here to provide you with the legal advice and information required to help you make an informed decision.

Please get in touch with Johnson Astills today and we would be more than happy to discuss your requirements further. Please call us at our office in Leicester on 0116 255 4855 or our office in Loughborough on 01509 610 312 and ask to speak to a member of the Family Team. Alternatively, you may prefer to email us at legal@johnsonastills.com or fill in our enquiry form.