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Sample Egg Donation Contract
Neither the owner nor the volunteers of
Surrogate Mothers claim to be an attorney, lawyer, or have
any experience in the field of law.
This is a sample agreement for an egg donation
arrangement. Because each egg donation arrangement is
unique, we do not recommend using this sample agreement as
your actual egg donation contract, but, rather as a
template or draft for discussion among the parties
involved in the arrangement and their legal counsel.
This sample agreement should not under any circumstance be
used as substitute for legal representation for any party
involved.
Reproduction or copying of this contract
on any other website, or for commercial/professional
use without direct permission of Surrogate Mother's
Online is strictly prohibited.
Important, please read: This is intended as a guide as
to what to expect when going through the legal aspects
of egg donation. This is
not intended to be a legal document. It was written
under California law, and you should always seek the
advice of a legal professional that has knowledge of
your individual situation. This contract
is property of Family First Fertility© and any reference
or use of it is at the user's discretion.
OVA DONATION AGREEMENT
This ova donation agreement (hereinafter referred to as
"Agreement") is made and entered into by and between
____________ , (here in after referred to as "Donor"),
and, ________(hereinafter Intended Recipient/Parent)
(hereinafter referred to as "Intended Mother"), and
___________(hereinafter Intended Recipient/Parent)
(hereinafter referred to as "Intended Father"). (Donor,
Intended Mother, and Intended Father are hereinafter
collectively referred to as the "Parties.”)
This Agreement is made with the understanding of the
following facts:
1. RECITALS AND WARRANTIES
A. The sole purpose of this Agreement is to enable
Intended Parents to have a Child(ren) by means of in
vitro fertilization using ova donated by Donor and
Intended Father's sperm. As used in this Agreement,
"ovum", "ova", or "donated ova", shall include all human
ova retrieved from Donor simultaneously pursuant to a
medical ova retrieval procedure (hereinafter referred to
as "Retrieval Procedure"). As used in this Agreement,
"child", "Child", or "Children" shall include any and
all Child(ren) born from the donated ova retrieved
pursuant to this Agreement.
B. All of the Parties warrant that all representations,
either oral or written, made to any professional, entity
or Party are true, correct, and complete. Additionally,
the Parties desire to maintain confidentiality between
themselves, one to another, and between themselves and
the public.
C. Donor is a single woman, the age of twenty-one (21)
years or over, who is desirous of entering into this
Agreement. The Donor, based on her information and
belief, represents that she is capable of producing
healthy, normal ova. Donor wishes to donate her
unfertilized ova to the Intended Parents for their use
in the conception and parenting of a child. Donor
neither desires nor intends to have a parental
relationship with any Child(ren) born of the donated ova
and agrees not to attempt to form a parent-child
relationship with any Child(ren) that may be born
pursuant to this Agreement now or in the future.
Moreover, Donor relinquishes and disavows any and all
rights, interest, responsibilities and claims, if any,
with respect to the donated ova and/or any and all
Child(ren) born of the donated ova. Further, Donor
believes and intends that any and all Child(ren) born of
the donated ova are morally and legally that of the
Intended Parents as if the Child(ren) was genetically of
both Intended Parents.
D. Intended Parents are a married couple, the age of
twenty-one (21) years or over, who are desirous of
entering into this Agreement. Intended Parents, based on
their information and belief, represent that they have
experienced difficulty conceiving a child without the
assistance of medical technology. Intended Parents
desire and intend to have the donated ova fertilized
with Intended Father's sperm and the embryos transferred
to Intended Mother's uterus. Intended Parents propose
and desire to gestate the resulting embryo(s) to term
and accept all parental rights and responsibilities for
the Child(ren) thus conceived and born. It is absolutely
the Intended Parents' decision whether to gestate the
embryo(s) to term. Further, Intended Parents warrant
that they have discussed the implications of parenting a
child conceived via ova donation and that they are
comfortable and knowledgeable regarding the situation.
E. The Parties understand that the Intended Parents have
suffered much pain and agony to bring a Child(ren) into
their family and are now relying on Donor's assistance
to help produce a Child(ren). It is also understood by
the Parties that grave, severe and intense emotional
stress, humiliation, and mental anguish may occur to
either Party as a result of a material breach by the
other Party, and that the breaching Party may be liable
for intentional infliction of emotional distress.
F. It is understood by all Parties that ova donation and
"in vitro" and/or "in utero" fertilization are
procedures within a new, unsettled, and unchartered area
of the law, and no warranties have been or can be made
as to the ultimate result, cost, liability, or
obligation of the Parties, as a result of the conduct
contemplated by this Agreement and/or that may ensue
from any judicial, legislative, or administrative
process as a result of the conduct contemplated herein
or with respect to any arbitration/litigation necessary
to establish any right of any of the Parties per this
Agreement, including parental rights and/or financial
obligations regarding any donated ova, embryo, or
Child(ren) born as a result of this Agreement.
G. WHILE THE PARTIES ARE ENTERING INTO THIS AGREEMENT
WITH THE INTENTION OF BEING FULLY BOUND BY ITS TERMS,
THEY HAVE BEEN INFORMED THAT THIS AGREEMENT IN WHOLE OR
IN PART MAY BE DECLARED VOID AS AGAINST PUBLIC POLICY BY
THE LEGISLATURE OR COURTS IN WHICH ANY PARTY RESIDES, OR
HELD UNENFORCEABLE IN WHOLE OR IN PART BY SUCH COURTS.
FURTHER, THE PARTIES HAVE BEEN INFORMED THAT THIS
AGREEMENT MAY NOT BE ENFORCED IF SUCH ENFORCEMENT
VIOLATES ANY NON-WAIVABLE CIVIL OR CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHT
OF ANY PARTY TO THIS AGREEMENT.
The Parties intend each part of this Agreement to be
legally enforceable and dispositive of the intent of the
Parties with respect to any Child(ren) conceived and
born pursuant to this Agreement.
H. The Parties have been informed and advised of the
California Supreme Court decision in Johnson v. Calvert
and agree the decision applies to and governs the
conduct contemplated herein to the extent the decision
was based upon the intent of the Parties as to
parentage. The Parties have been informed and advised of
the California Fourth Appellate District Court's
decision in IRMO Buzzanca, and agree the decision
applies to and governs the conduct contemplated herein
to the extent the decision was based upon determination
of parentage.
I. IT IS EXPRESSLY UNDERSTOOD BY THE PARTIES THAT THIS
AGREEMENT IN NO WAY CONSTITUTES PAYMENT FOR OR PURCHASE
OF GENETIC MATERIAL OR A CHILD, OR RELINQUISHMENT OF A
CHILD.
J. The Parties understand the parentage and/or parental
rights and obligations regarding children born pursuant
to this type of agreement remains unsettled in
California law at this time. Notwithstanding passage of
any legislation which may apply to the conduct of the
Parties under this Agreement, each Party hereby agrees
their intent, as set forth in this Agreement, shall
govern any dispute, should such occur. The Parties
expressly agree herein their intent is for Intended
Mother to be the legal mother/parent of any Child(ren)
born pursuant to this Agreement, and that Intended
Mother shall be treated in all respects as the natural
and legal mother/parent of any Child(ren) conceived
and/or born. The Parties expressly agree herein their
intent is for Intended Father to be the legal
father/parent of any Child(ren) born pursuant to this
Agreement, and that Intended Father shall be treated in
all respects as the natural and legal father/parent of
any Child(ren) conceived and/or born. The Parties
further expressly intend the Donor is NOT the natural or
legal mother/parent of the Child(ren) conceived and/or
born pursuant to the terms of this Agreement. The Donor
does NOT and shall NOT have ANY legal rights and/or
obligations to the Child(ren).
K. The Parties expressly understand and acknowledge
that notwithstanding California Penal Code Sections 181
(prohibiting involuntary servitude) and 182 (prohibiting
conspiracy to commit a crime), said California Penal
Code sections have never been applied to Ova Donation.
NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises,
terms, conditions and covenants set forth above and
hereinafter, and with the intention of being legally
bound thereby, the Parties agree as follows:
2. PSYCHOLOGICAL AND PHYSICAL EVALUATIONS
A. Donor agrees to, or has already undergone, a
psychological and physical evaluation prior to the
Retrieval Procedure. Donor agrees to undergo and/or has
already undergone a comprehensive physical examination.
Donor also agrees to provide Intended Parents with
non-identifying comprehensive medical and psychological
information about herself and any and all biological
children. In addition, Donor shall execute any
authorization necessary for the release of
non-identifying medical and psychological information,
thereby allowing any health care professional designated
by Intended Parents to obtain and review her
non-identifying medical and psychological records.
B. Donor hereby warrants that any and all
representations made in her application to be an ova
donor are true, correct, and complete. Further, Donor
warrants that she has made all relevant disclosures
regarding medical and family history in her application.
C. The Parties agree to submit for screening for
sexually transmitted diseases (including HIV) in order
to protect the health of the Intended Mother and
Child(ren). In addition, Donor and Intended Parents
agree to undergo any medical testing that IVF physician,
designated by Intended Parents, (hereinafter "IVF
physician", "physician", or "physicians") or a health
care provider designated by Intended Parents, deems
necessary, while this Agreement is in effect, at the
expense of Intended Parents. The Parties agree that all
medical procedures and the Retrieval Procedure shall be
conducted in accordance with standards and requirements
of IVF Physician or a health care provider as designated
by Intended Parents. Donor does not currently have a
sexual partner. However, if Donor wishes to commence
sexual relations with a new partner (hereinafter
referred to as "Donor's Partner"), Donor agrees that
Donor's Partner will agree to submit for screening for
sexually transmitted diseases (including HIV) and to
undergo any medical testing that IVF physician,
designated by Intended Parent, or a health care provider
designated by Intended Parent, deems necessary, while
this Agreement is in effect, at the expense of Donor in
order to protect the health of the Intended Mother and
Child(ren). Donor further understands that she may not
commence sexual relations with Donor's Partner until
physician provides a medical clearance for Donor's
Partner. Any relations prior to medical clearance by
physician will be deemed a material breach of this
Agreement.
D. Donor acknowledges that she has the right, at
Intended Parents' cost, to request a psychological
evaluation of Intended Parents by a mental health care
professional licensed to practice in the state and/or
country of their residence, and by her signature on this
Agreement hereby waives this right.
E. The Parties understand that by executing this
Agreement, they are agreeing to waive their
doctor-patient privilege, permitting review of medical
information, and allowing written and verbal
communication between the evaluating health care
provider and any Party to this Agreement, as well as the
Parties' attorneys, and, with respect to Donor's medical
information, ______________________________. The Parties
agree to execute a separate authorization for release of
such information, if so requested. With respect to
Intended Parents, this paragraph shall be limited solely
to medical information directly related to the Retrieval
Procedure contemplated by this Agreement.
3. DONOR'S CONDUCT
A. Donor agrees not to ingest alcoholic beverages, use
tobacco or nicotine products, or use any illegal drugs
from the date of execution of this Agreement through
completion of the Retrieval Procedure. In addition,
Donor agrees not to use any prescription or
non-prescription medication without the express written
consent of the IVF physician, from the date of execution
of this Agreement (or sooner if advised by IVF
physician), through completion of the Retrieval
Procedure. If any cycle is canceled, Donor may resume
use of prescription or non-prescription medication as
advised by physician, until two (2) weeks before the
onset of medication, Lupron or similar cycle-related
medication, other than birth control pills, for the next
cycle through completion of the Retrieval Procedure for
that cycle.
B. Donor agrees to adhere to all reasonable medical
instructions given to her by any physician performing
services related to the Retrieval Procedure. Donor also
agrees to be available for any and all routines and
procedures required by any physician performing services
related to the Retrieval Procedure prior to the
Retrieval Procedure. Further, Donor understands that it
is absolutely necessary that she follows the IVF
physician's schedule for taking medication exactly and
not deviate from it unless instructed to do so by the
IVF physician.
C. Donor agrees to abstain from sexual intercourse no
less than two (2) weeks before the onset of medication
(Lupron) through completion of Donor’s first menstrual
cycle immediately after the Retrieval Procedure. Donor
does not currently have a sexual partner. If any cycle
is canceled, Donor and Donor's Partner, upon medical
clearance from physician pursuant to Section 2(C), may
have monogamous, protected sexual relations with each
other, using condoms, as advised by physician, until a
minimum of two (2) weeks before the onset of medication
Lupron, or similar medication, for the next cycle
through completion of Donor’s first menstrual cycle
immediately after the Retrieval Procedure for that
cycle. Donor will be in breach of this Agreement if she
becomes pregnant (resulting from consensual sexual
activities) during the term of this Agreement.
4. PROCEDURE
A. Donor is obligated to undergo one (1) completed
Retrieval Procedure which shall occur one (1) time
within four (4) months of the signing of this Agreement
by all Parties.
B. Donor understands that any original date given to her
regarding the Retrieval Procedure is only a guideline
provided to the Parties as a courtesy to allow for
personal scheduling, in order to minimize the
inconvenience of the Parties. Donor agrees to be
available for monitoring and to undergo the Retrieval
Procedure on the date on which it actually falls,
regardless of whether it is different from the tentative
date(s) originally quoted to her except for the
following dates: _______________, in which Intended
Parents understand that Donor shall not be available for
the Retrieval Procedure and will not be in breach of the
Agreement by her unavailability on the specified dates.
Donor shall be available all other dates for, including,
but not limited to, any and all routine procedures,
monitoring, and the Retrieval Procedure. However, if the
first cycle is canceled, due to no fault of the Donor,
the Parties agree to work together in good faith in
rescheduling another cycle.
C. Intended Parents agree that the possibility
exists that sufficient ova may not be retrieved or
fertilized, and that no viable embryos may result from
the Retrieval Procedure.
D. All Parties agree to sign reasonable consent forms
provided by IVF physicians.
5. MATERNITY AND PATERNITY
A. Donor and Intended Parents agree that Intended
Mother shall enter Intended Mother's name as the
Mother on the birth certificate of any Child(ren) born
from the donated ova. Donor and Intended Parents agree
that Intended Father shall enter Intended Father's
name as the Father on the birth certificate of any
Child(ren) born from the donated ova. The Intended
Parents intend to use Intended Father's sperm to
fertilize the donated ova.
B. Donor agrees that it is in the best interests of
the Child(ren) that she not attempt to assert any
maternity to the Child(ren) by any means, including a
maternity action or otherwise, or attempt to form a
parent-child relationship with the Child(ren).
C. Donor and Intended Parents understand that Intended
Parents shall be conclusively presumed to be the legal
parents of any Child(ren) conceived pursuant to this
Agreement. Donor shall not have any parental rights
whatsoever. (See Johnson v. Calvert, ftn.10). (See
also IRMO Buzzanca). Intended Parents shall take
parental responsibility and custody of any Child(ren)
conceived pursuant to this Agreement, immediately
after birth, regardless of whether the Child(ren)
suffer from any physical or mental disease or defect.
D. All ova, and subsequent embryos produced by the
Donor pursuant to this Agreement shall be deemed the
property of the Intended Parents and as such, the
Intended Parents' shall have the sole right to
determine the disposition of said ova, genetic
material, and embryos. However, Intended Parents agree
that in no event will the Intended Parents allow any
other party the use of said ova, genetic material,
and/or resulting embryos, except for a surrogate
pregnancy for the Intended Parents, without the
express written permission of the Donor.
6. TERMINATION OF CUSTODY AND PARENTAL RIGHTS (IF ANY)
A. Donor agrees that it is in the best interest of the
Child(ren) that Intended Parents are the Child(ren)'s
parents. Therefore, Donor agrees that custody and
control of any and all retrieved ova/ovum shall
immediately vest with Intended Parents at the time the
Retrieval Procedure is performed, and as each ova is
retrieved from Donor's body and placed in containers
provided by the physician. Such custody and control
entitles Intended Parents to make all decisions
regarding disposition of embryos created from donated
ova, including but not limited to disposition,
cryopreservation, transfer to Intended Mother's womb
or Surrogate's womb, termination of ova, genetic
material, and/or embryos, or abortion of fetus(es).
However, Intended Parents shall not donate ova,
genetic material and/or embryos to another person or
entity without the written consent of the Donor.
B. Donor has not and shall not execute any conflicting
documents pertaining to this Retrieval Procedure only,
including, but not limited to, physician, fertility
center, or hospital consent forms, wherein custody of
ova are given to physician, donor program, fertility
center, or hospital, or another party other than
Intended Parents.
C. The Parties further understand and agree that
Intended Parents shall be conclusively presumed to be
the legal parents of any Child(ren) conceived pursuant
to this Agreement, and Donor surrenders any and all
rights, if any, to any Child(ren) born from donated
ova, including but not limited to parental rights,
custodial rights, and the right to name the
Child(ren). (See Johnson v. Calvert, n10). (See also
IRMO Buzzanca). Intended Parents shall take parental
responsibility and custody of any Child(ren) conceived
pursuant to this Agreement immediately, and Intended
Parents' names will be placed on the birth certificate
of any Child(ren) born from the donated ova.
D. Donor agrees that she will not attempt to assert
her maternity to the Child(ren) by any means,
including a maternity action or otherwise, or attempt
to form a parent-child relationship with the
Child(ren). In addition, Donor will not seek to view
or meet with the Intended Parents, the Child(ren), or
their family, unless this provision is waived in
writing by Intended Parents.
E. Donor agrees that the conduct contemplated under
this Agreement is identical and/or the same as that
involved in the donation of sperm, as specified under
California Family Code Section 7613, notwithstanding
the fact that the medical procedure necessary to
obtain an ovum, surgical removal of an ovum from
Donor, differs from that for obtaining sperm.
Accordingly, Donor agrees that her rights,
responsibilities, and obligations shall be the same as
a sperm donor's as defined under California Family
Code Sections 7613(a) and (b). Donor shall have NO
parental rights toward any Child(ren) conceived and/or
born pursuant to this Agreement and Intended Mother
shall be treated in law as the legal and natural
mother/parent of any Child(ren) conceived as a result
of this Agreement, and Intended Father shall be
treated in law as the legal and natural father/parent
of any Child(ren) conceived as a result of this
Agreement.
7. DEATH OF INTENDED PARENTS
A. If Intended Father should die after execution of
this Agreement and prior to relinquishment of custody
of the ova to Intended Parents, Donor agrees that
relinquishment of custody shall be made to the
Intended Mother in accordance with this Agreement. If
Intended Mother should die after execution of this
Agreement and prior to relinquishment of custody of
the ova to Intended Parents, Donor agrees that
relinquishment of custody shall be made to the
Intended Father in accordance with this Agreement.
B. If both Intended Parents should die after execution
of this Agreement and prior to relinquishment of
custody of the ova to them, then this Agreement shall
terminate and custody shall revert back to Donor.
Donor will receive only the consideration already
received pursuant to this Agreement.
C. If both Intended Parents should die after execution
of this Agreement and relinquishment of custody of the
ova to Intended Parents but prior to fertilization of
ova, then this Agreement shall terminate and custody
shall revert back to Donor.
D. If both Intended Parents should die after execution
of this Agreement, relinquishment of custody of the
ova to Intended Parents, and fertilization of ova, any
remaining cryopreserved embryos shall be destroyed.
8. CONSIDERATION
A. The Parties agree that the consideration paid
pursuant to Paragraph 8B of this Agreement constitutes
reasonable monetary compensation for all foreseen and
unforeseen losses, costs, and expenses incurred, as
well as inconveniences, discomforts, and time rendered
by Donor in carrying out her obligations as set forth
in this Agreement. Such consideration includes, but is
not limited to lost wages, childcare, mileage,
parking, inconvenience, pain and suffering, and for
Donor's assumption of all medical and psychological
risks related to this Agreement. Donor is not selling
her genetic material, nor is she being paid to
relinquish her parental rights to any Child(ren) born
from her genetic material.
B. In consideration therefore, Intended Parents agree
to pay for and/or to Donor and/or to indemnify her for
all of the following items, which shall be held by a
third party who is mutually agreeable to Intended
Parents and Donor prior to Retrieval Procedure:
i. Initial medical testing by IVF Physician to
determine Donor's suitability as an ova donor;
ii. The Retrieval Procedure including, but not limited
to, the costs of Physician, the medical facility,
anesthesiologist and medication associated therewith;
iii. Donor will receive a total of $__________for the
Retrieval Procedure payable as follows:
a. Donor shall receive 25% upon the commencement of
medication, Lupron or similar cycle-related
medication, other than birth control pills, for the
first cycle, as prescribed by Physician in preparation
of the Retrieval Procedure only. If the first cycle is
canceled due to no fault of the Donor and Donor
commences medication, Lupron or similar cycle-related
medication, other than birth control pills, for
another cycle, Donor shall receive $250.00.
b. Contingent upon Donor providing her attorney with
her original signatures to this Agreement, Donor shall
receive the remaining 75% upon completion of the
Retrieval Procedure, regardless of the number of ova
retrieved and/or are fertilized, and regardless of the
outcome of the attempted pregnancy.
c. If the Physician cancels the Retrieval Procedure,
due to no fault of Donor, after Donor's commencement
of medication, Lupron or similar cycle-related
medication, other than birth control pills, and before
hCG is administered, Donor shall receive a
cancellation fee of $500.00.
d. If the Physician cancels the Retrieval Procedure
after hCG is administered but before the Retrieval
Procedure, due to no fault of the Donor, Donor shall
receive 50% of the remaining balance of her fee.
iv. Donor's attorney's fees for independent legal
advice regarding the meaning and consequence of this
Agreement, not to exceed $195.00 in the aggregate,
unless rush fees are necessitated per __________ contract with Intended
Parents;
v. Intended Parents shall not pay for Donor's legal
advice regarding breach or enforcement of this
Agreement.
vi. Donor shall receive reimbursement for Donor and a
travel companion, travel companion for Retrieval
Procedure only, for actual reasonable transportation
costs, including lodging, airfare, rental car, bridge
and road tolls, cab and bus fare, as applicable, and a
food allowance of $25.00 per diem for any travel day
or full day for any out-of-county appointments with
Physician, taking blood tests, screening, and/or
undergoing the Retrieval Procedure. Donor shall
receive reimbursement for mileage should Donor drive
to appointments and be required to travel over thirty
(30) miles one-way for appointments with her
monitoring and/or retrieval physician. Mileage shall
not be included for air travel and/or rental cars.
Reasonable shall be defined as most economical
transportation and lodging that is appropriate for
Donor and companion.
vii. Donor's medical insurance deductible and
co-payments generated as a direct result of the
Retrieval Procedure for a period no longer than two
(2) months from the date of the Retrieval Procedure.
viii. If Donor becomes uninsured through actions
beyond her control, Intended Parents agree to purchase
a temporary policy to cover any complications directly
attributable to the Retrieval Procedure, effective
upon the commencement date of medication, for which
any claim or expense is submitted to the insurance
company pursuant to the insurance company's
requirements but no later than two (2) months from the
date of the Retrieval Procedure.
ix. All medical expenses directly related to the
Retrieval Procedure for the two (2) months immediately
following the Retrieval Procedure, not covered by
Donor's health insurance, so long as the claim or
expense is submitted to the insurance company pursuant
to the insurance company's requirements but no later
than two (2) months from the date of Retrieval
Procedure.
INTENDED PARENTS' FINANCIAL OBLIGATIONS FOR THE DONOR
ARE LIMITED TO THE ABOVE REIMBURSEMENT ONLY.
C. Donor agrees to reimburse Intended Parents for all
payments made directly to her by insurance companies,
if any, for medical expenses paid by Intended Parents
under the terms of this Agreement.
D. The consideration is not conditioned upon the
number or condition of ova retrieved or successful
fertilization of ova. Intended Parents assume the risk
of receiving unsatisfactory ova.
IT IS EXPRESSLY UNDERSTOOD THAT THIS AGREEMENT IN
GENERAL, AND THE CONSIDERATION SECTION IN PARTICULAR,
IN NO WAY CONSTITUTES PAYMENT FOR GENETIC MATERIAL OR
A CHILD, OR RELINQUISHMENT OF A CHILD.
9. ASSUMPTION OF RISKS
A. Donor warrants that she has had the medical and
psychological risks explained to her by a medical and
psychological professional, respectively. This
includes, but is not limited to, the process of
enhancement of ovulation, the actual Retrieval
Procedure, and possible complications, including, but
not limited to decreased fertility and/or death. Donor
understands and agrees to assume all of these risks
relating to Donor.
B. Intended Parents warrant that they have had the
medical and psychological risks explained to them by a
medical and psychological professional, respectively.
This includes, but is not limited to, the process of
enhancement of ovulation and the actual Retrieval
Procedure. Intended Parents understand and agree to
assume all of these risks relating to Intended
Parents.
INFORMED CONSENT, ADVICE, OR INFORMATION FOR ALL
MEDICAL PROCEDURES IS THE INDIVIDUAL RESPONSIBILITY OF
THE PARTY UNDERGOING SUCH PROCEDURE.
C. Intended Parents understand and are aware of the
risk that pregnancy may result in genetic or
congenital abnormalities including birth defects or
mental retardation. Intended Parents are also aware of
and understand that gender selection is not 100%
effective. Nevertheless, Intended Parents agree to
accept full legal and parental responsibility for any
Child(ren) born from donated ova who possesses any
such abnormalities and/or is not the gender of choice.
D. The Parties understand that informed consent,
advice or information for all medical procedures is
the individual responsibility of each Party. In
addition, the Parties understand that the attorneys,
psychotherapists, ___________, or any agent or
employee of said entities are not responsible for any
medical advice and/or information which may, should,
or has been given to the Parties.
It is the responsibility of the Parties to this
Agreement to consult with a geneticist as to the risk
of any such abnormalities and/or defects.
10. HOLD HARMLESS
A. Donor warrants that she has consulted with a
medical professional who has explained the medical
risks to her and is aware of all risks, including
possible decreased fertility and/or death, which may
result from the acts contemplated by this Agreement
including, but not limited to, risks involved in
medical examinations, Retrieval Procedure, and
complications.
Donor hereby assumes all of the above stated risks,
releases and holds Intended Parents' harmless from any
legal liability arising from these risks.
B. Donor warrants that she has consulted with a
psychologist who has explained the psychological risks
to her and is aware of all risks associated with ova
donation and the Retrieval Procedure.
Donor hereby assumes all of the above stated risks,
releases and holds Intended Parents' harmless from any
legal liability arising from these risks.
11. HEALTH INSURANCE
A. Donor warrants that she has existing medical
insurance which covers complications of a Retrieval
Procedure and is obligated to maintain her current
medical insurance plan and amounts of coverage as her
primary insurance, or any plan that the Intended
Parents purchase, during the entire term of this
Agreement.
B. Donor shall use her best efforts to maintain the
current medical insurance plan and coverage amounts
during the entire term of this Agreement. If Donor
becomes uninsured, she shall immediately provide
written notice to the Intended Parents, in care of
_______________.
C. Donor shall immediately advise Intended Parents of
any and all notices from the insurance company,
including but not limited to cancellation, past due
payments, change in coverage (amendments). Such notice
may be made in care of ______________.
12. NO WARRANTIES
A. The Parties expressly understand and agree that
neither ____________, the health care providers whose
services are contemplated under this Agreement, the
attorneys, and/or the agents or employees of such
entities guarantee or warrant that (1) Donor will
produce healthy, viable ovum, and (2) the Child(ren),
if conceived, will be physically and mentally healthy
and free of birth or congenital defects.
13. BREACH
A. In the event of a material breach of the provisions
of this Agreement without legal excuse, in addition to
all legal and equitable remedies available to the
non-breaching Party, the non-breaching Party may
cancel this Agreement without further liability.
B. If a Party believes that another has breached the
terms of this Agreement, they shall notify the other
Party in writing, care of ___________________, and the
breaching Party shall be given an opportunity to cure
within two (2) days of the notice. If a material
breach is subject to cure and the breach is cured
within two (2) days of the notice, the continued
performance by the aggrieved Party shall constitute a
waiver. If the breach is not cured, the continued
performance of the aggrieved Party shall not
constitute a waiver.
C. Donor shall be deemed to have breached this
Agreement if, among other things, Donor chooses to
voluntarily withdraw from this program without a
medical reason, fails to follow Physician orders,
fails to comply with the terms of this Agreement,
becomes pregnant through consensual intercourse during
the stimulation phase, or fails to be available for
treatments or procedures as scheduled, including but
not limited to the Retrieval Procedure. In the event
that Donor breaches this Agreement, in addition to all
other remedies and damages, she shall reimburse any
and all expenses incurred by the Intended Parents,
which include, but may not be limited to, the payment
of $_______________, medical costs, the cost of the
medication, as well as legal fees, and any other
expenses necessitated by Donor's initial agreement to
this Agreement, plus interest at the legal rate from
the date the monies were placed in trust until they
are repaid.
D. In no event shall any Party be deemed to have
materially breached this Agreement where the inability
to perform timely is due to a cause which is beyond
the control of the Party (e.g. hyperstimulation,
under-stimulation, a prohibitive medical problem of
Intended Mother or Donor, a serious injury to any
Party, a natural disaster or any other act of God).
Failure to be available for the Retrieval Procedure as
a result of Donor's work or school schedule or another
reason or circumstance that could have been prevented
by better scheduling shall not be considered "beyond
the control" of Donor.
E. The non-performing Party(s) agree to perform as
soon as is possible given the specific circumstances.
However, should the Intended Parents determine that
the delay has irreparably jeopardized the purpose of
this Agreement, the Intended Parents shall notify the
Donor of this determination, as well as the
cancellation of this Agreement. Termination of this
Agreement pursuant to this Paragraph shall supersede
the requirements pertaining to "cure", as set forth in
Paragraph 13B.
F. If the Intended Parents terminate this Agreement,
due to a material breach by Donor, all funds remaining
in excess of those sums necessary for payment of
expenses already incurred shall be returned to the
Intended Parents forthwith upon their demand.
G. The Parties agree that certain terms of this
Agreement, including but not limited to the terms
relating to custody and parental rights, and the
rights of the privacy of the Parties, will survive any
termination of this Agreement by breach or otherwise.
In addition, those terms relating to Intended Parents'
parental rights and their right to sole and exclusive
custody of any Child(ren) born as a result of the
procedures contemplated by this Agreement may not be
diminished, disturbed, or otherwise affected by any
actual or alleged breach.
H. A breach by either Intended Parent shall be
considered a breach by both of them.
14. CONFIDENTIALITY/PRIVACY RIGHTS
A. Confidentiality of the Parties' identity is highly
valued in this situation, and the Parties acknowledge
and agree that it is in the best interest of the
Child(ren) that the identity of the Parties shall be
held in the utmost confidence and will remain private.
Further, the Parties agree that use of first names
and/or aliases and registrant numbers assigned to the
Parties by _____________ shall be deemed legally
binding signatures.
B. The Parties shall maintain the confidentiality of
each Party's identity among themselves. The Parties
understand that the confidentiality provided for
herein in these paragraphs does not contemplate
speaking with friends and relatives, the Parties'
respective attorneys, physicians or other
professionals, the surrogacy coordinator,
_____________, and/or any other persons associated
with any aspect of this Agreement about their own
involvement in the gestational arrangement. Such
conversations are permitted and do not constitute a
breach of the confidentiality, provided that the
identity of the other Party(s) is not disclosed.
C. In the event any claim or litigation arises out of
the performance of this Agreement, the Parties agree
that they and their heirs, assigns and
representatives, including their legal counsel, will
take all reasonable steps to maintain such
confidentiality and the rights of privacy of the
Parties, including but not limited to: (a) requesting
court records be sealed; (b) requesting the court
impose gag orders; and (c) requesting the court take
all necessary steps to protect the Parties' identities
from disclosure to the public and/or news media.
15. FUTURE CONTACT
A. The Parties agree that there will be no future
contact beyond the term of this Agreement with the
exceptions listed in Section 16.
16. CHANGES IN CIRCUMSTANCES/NOTICE
A. During the term of this Agreement, the Parties
agree to immediately inform each other in writing,
care of ___________, of any material change in their
circumstances which may reasonably affect this
Agreement or the health and well-being of any
Child(ren) born as a result of this Agreement. These
changes include, but are not limited to, change of
address, illness or death of a Party or Party's
family member, loss of employment, change in
insurance coverage, pregnancy, inheritable illness,
and/or exposure to communicable illness.
B. Due to the genetic connection of the Child(ren)
to the Parties, it may in the future become
necessary to obtain medical information from a Party
to this Agreement. Therefore, Donor agrees to inform
______________ or its designated agents or employees
of any change of address in perpetuity. If medical
information must be obtained from Donor in the
future or at anytime, Donor agrees to furnish such
information, and to sign a non-identifying Release
of Medical Records, if required. Further, Donor
agrees to contact Intended Parents, through
______________, should any medical condition or
disease arise that might be of concern to the
Child(ren)’s health.
C. The Parties acknowledge that the sharing of
genetic material when combined with anonymity
creates the potential that children who are
genetically related may meet in the future and
inadvertently develop a relationship. Therefore, in
order to avoid future inadvertent and inappropriate
relationships between genetically-related
individuals, the Parties agree to inform and/or
release to the other Party (care of _____________),
the gender and birth date of any and all Child(ren)
born of the donated ova, as well as any children
born to the Donor.
17. TERM
A. The term of this Agreement shall begin with the
execution date and end with the completion of the
Retrieval Procedure or _______ months from the
execution date on this Agreement, whichever first
occurs. However, the term set forth herein is not
intended to abridge the Parties' rights and/or
obligations hereunder which may extend beyond this
period, including but not limited to, parental
rights and responsibilities, confidentiality,
financial responsibilities, and future contact.
18. TERMINATION OF AGREEMENT/CANCELLATION OF CYCLE
A. At any time prior to the active preparation of
Retrieval Procedure (e.g. the beginning of Donor's
ingestion of medication for said Retrieval
Procedure) either Party may terminate this Agreement
by two (2) days written notice to the other Party
care of ______________. If Intended Parents
terminate this Agreement pursuant to this provision,
Intended Parents shall have no further obligation or
liability. If Donor terminates this Agreement
pursuant to this provision, Donor shall be liable to
Intended Parents for reimbursement pursuant to
Section 13.
B. The Parties agree that certain terms, including
but not limited to, custody, parental rights, and
the right to confidentiality and privacy shall
survive any termination of this Agreement, whether
by breach or other circumstance. Further, any terms
relating to the Intended Parents' parental rights
and right to sole and exclusive custody of any
Child(ren) born of the Retrieval Procedure
contemplated in this Agreement, shall not be
diminished, disturbed or otherwise affected by any
actual or alleged breach.
C. The Parties agree and understand that Donor is
available for one cycle attempt only for the
Retrieval Procedure. If a cycle/Retrieval Procedure
is canceled, Donor is not available for another
cycle/Retrieval Procedure.
19. GOOD FAITH PERFORMANCE
A. The Parties shall execute all such further and
additional documents as shall be reasonably, (i)
convenient, (ii) necessary, or (iii) appropriate to
carry out the provisions of this Agreement in good
faith.
20. DISPUTE RESOLUTION
A. MEDIATION: The Parties agree to mediate any
dispute or claim arising between them from this
Agreement or any resulting transaction PRIOR to
bringing any court action. Mediation is a process by
which parties attempt to resolve a dispute or claim
by submitting it to an impartial neutral mediator,
who is trained and authorized to facilitate the
resolution of the dispute, but who is not empowered
to impose a settlement on the Parties. Mediation
fees, if any, shall be divided equally among the
Parties.
B. IF ANY PARTY COMMENCES AN ARBITRATION OR COURT
ACTION BASED ON A DISPUTE OR CLAIM TO WHICH THIS
PARAGRAPH APPLIES WITHOUT FIRST ATTEMPTING TO
RESOLVE THE MATTER THROUGH MEDIATION, THEN IN
ADDITION TO ANY OTHER REMEDIES AVAILABLE AT LAW OR
AT EQUITY, IN THE DISCRETION OF THE ARBITRATOR(S) OR
JUDGE, THAT PARTY SHALL NOT BE ENTITLED TO RECOVER
ATTORNEY'S FEES, EVEN IF THEY WOULD OTHERWISE BE
AVAILABLE TO THAT PARTY IN ANY SUCH ARBITRATION OR
COURT ACTION.
C. EXCLUSIONS FROM MEDIATION: Any matter which is
within the jurisdiction of a probate or small claims
court, is excluded from the above mediation
paragraphs. The filing of a court action to enable
an injunction, or other provisional remedy, shall
not constitute a violation of this section.
D. In the event litigation is required to interpret
or enforce the terms of this Agreement in a court of
competent jurisdiction, the prevailing Party shall
be entitled to reasonable attorney's fees, court
costs, and to any other relief to which the court
determines the said Party is entitled; provided that
the prevailing Party attempted to comply with the
Mediation requirements of this Section before
commencing litigation.
21. GOVERNING LAW
A. The validity of this Agreement and any of its
terms or provisions, as well as the rights and
duties of the Parties under this Agreement shall be
construed pursuant to, and in accordance with, the
laws of the state of California. Any dispute
resolution or litigation arising from this Agreement
shall be brought in the state of Missouri in the
county in which the Intended Parents reside, unless
the Intended Parents choose otherwise. If Intended
Parents move to a jurisdiction outside the
continental United States, any dispute resolution or
litigation arising from this Agreement shall be
brought in the state in which Donor resides, unless
the Parties agree otherwise.
22. INDEPENDENT LEGAL COUNSEL
A. The Parties acknowledge that they have had the
opportunity to consult with and/or have been
represented by separate legal counsel in the
negotiations of this Agreement, and that their
counsel was of their own choosing. The Parties
further acknowledge that they have read this
Agreement, that they have been advised and that they
understand its meaning, as well as its legal and
other consequences. The Parties are signing this
Agreement freely and voluntarily. In addition, the
Parties acknowledge that they have participated or
had an opportunity to participate in the drafting of
this Agreement. As such, in the event of an
ambiguity, it shall not be construed against any
Party.
B. Attorney representation of clients is deemed
completed at the time all Parties sign this
Agreement.
23. TAX IMPLICATIONS
A. This Agreement does not instruct the Parties, nor
have the attorneys advised the Parties, on the issue
of taxation of any payment made pursuant to this
Agreement, and this Agreement is not dependent on
any particular tax characterization of any payment
made hereunder. All Parties understand that any and
all tax liability incurred as a result of this
Agreement is their own responsibility and duty and
have been advised to consult with a tax specialist.
In addition, it is hereby understood that Donor is
not considered to be an employee of any of the
Parties.
24. GENERAL PROVISIONS
A. Entire Agreement This written Agreement is the
entire agreement among the Parties. No other
promises, representations, inducements,
understandings, contracts, agreements, or
commitments, written or oral, exist among the
Parties. In addition, the Parties declare that the
terms of this Agreement are contractual and not mere
recitals. This Agreement applies to, inures to the
benefit of, and binds all Parties hereto, their
heirs, legatees, devisees, administrators,
executors, successors and assigns.
B. Amendment This Agreement shall only be amended by
a written agreement signed by the Party(ies) to be
bound.
C. Severability If any part of this Agreement is
found by a court of competent jurisdiction to be
void or unenforceable, the remaining sections of
this Agreement shall remain in full force and
effect.
D. Counterparts It is understood and agreed that
this Agreement may be signed in several
counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an
original, although each may be differently
formatted, with different pagination, due to email
or facsimile formatting, but all of which taken
together shall constitute one and the same document.
E. Original and Copies Upon execution of this
Agreement, the original counterparts for all Parties
shall be maintained by the Intended Parents, with
copies given to Donor.
F. Time is of the Essence Time is of the essence of
this Agreement.
G. Effect of Captions The captions are for the
convenience of the Parties only and are not meant to
limit the context or content of the paragraphs.
25. HIGH RISK ACTIVITIES AND SEXUAL RELATIONS
A. The Parties assert that they have not engaged in
high risk sexual intercourse or other high risk
activities, including intravenous drug use,
promiscuous homosexual activity, or prostitution
since they have been tested for sexually transmitted
diseases, including HIV.
B. The Parties agree to remain monogamous with the
spouse/partner named herein from the date of testing
through completion of the Retrieval Procedure or
termination of this Agreement, whichever first
occurs. Donor agrees to refrain from any conduct
where the transmittal of a sexually transmitted
disease could occur except for activity pursuant to
Sections 2C and 3C.
26. INTEGRATION AND UNDERSTANDING
A. The Parties declare, warrant, and represent this
Agreement is the entire Agreement and understanding
between the Parties; that no inducements, promises,
understandings, or agreements not contained in this
agreement have been made to them; and that all the
terms and conditions contained herein are
contractual. Prior warranties, representations,
agreements, understandings, contracts, and other
commitments, whether written or oral, are either
waived by the Parties herein or are merged into this
Agreement.
B. This Agreement applies to, inures to the benefit
of, and binds all Parties hereto, including their
heirs, administrators, executors and successors.
C. The Parties declare, warrant, and represent that
they have carefully read, reviewed, and understand
all terms and conditions of this Agreement and that
they agree to be bound by all the terms and
conditions herein, as evidenced by their signature
hereto, and have executed this Agreement freely and
without undue influence or duress.
D. This Agreement has been
drafted and shall be deemed executed in Tustin,
California, United States of America, and it is the
express intent of the Parties and a material term of
this Agreement that this Agreement shall be governed by,
construed, and enforced in accordance with the laws of
the state of California, United States of America.
E. All Parties declare under penalty of perjury under
the laws of the state of California, United States of
America and the state and/or country of each Party's
residence that the foregoing, and any other information
personally known to the Parties, and provided to each
other is true, correct, and complete.
____________________ Donor
____________________ Donor's Spouse, if applicable
____________________ Intended Mother
____________________ Intended Father
____________________ Date
©2001 Family First Fertility
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