EGG DONOR CONTRACT
This ova donation agreement (hereinafter referred to as “Agreement”) is made and entered into by and between JESSICA ABREU, (here in after referred to as “Donor”), and TRAVON GRAVES and JERMAINE WILSON (hereinafter Intended Father(s)/Recipient(s)/Parent(s)) (Donor and Intended Fathers are hereinafter collectively referred to as the “Parties.”)
This Agreement is made with the understanding of the following facts:
- RECITALS AND WARRANTIES
- 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.
- 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.
- Donor is a woman, who is twenty-one (21) years old or over, 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.
- Intended Parents, both twenty-one (21) years old or over, are desirous of entering into this Agreement. Intended Parents, based on their information and belief, represent that they cannot conceive a child without the assistance of medical technology. 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.
- The Parties understand that the Intended Parents need 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- The Parties understand the parentage and/or parental rights and obligations regarding children born pursuant to this type of agreement remains unsettled in 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 Parents to be the legal parents of any Child(ren) born pursuant to this Agreement, and that Intended parents shall be treated in all respects as the natural and legal parents 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).
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:
- PSYCHOLOGICAL AND PHYSICAL EVALUATIONS
- 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.
- 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.
- The Parties agree to submit for screening for sexually transmitted diseases (including HIV) in order to protect the health of the 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. If Donor wishes to commence sexual relations with a 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 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.
- 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.
- 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, and any relevant data. 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.
- DONOR’S CONDUCT
- 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 cycle-related medication, other than birth control pills, for the next cycle through completion of the Retrieval Procedure for that cycle.
- 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.
- Donor agrees to abstain from sexual intercourse no less than two (2) weeks before the onset of medication through completion of Donor’s first menstrual cycle immediately after the Retrieval Procedure. If any cycle is canceled, Donor and Donor’s Partner, if any, 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, 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.
- PROCEDURE
- 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.
- 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 any date 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.
- 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.
- All Parties agree to sign reasonable consent forms provided by IVF physicians.
- MATERNITY AND PATERNITY
- Donor and Intended Parents agree that Intended Parents shall enter Intended Parents’ names as the Fathers 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.
- Donor agrees that it is in the best interests of the Child(ren) that she does 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).
- 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. 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.
- 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.
- TERMINATION OF CUSTODY AND PARENTAL RIGHTS (IF ANY)
- 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 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.
- 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.
- 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). 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.
- 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.
- Donor agrees that the conduct contemplated under this Agreement is identical and/or the same as that involved in the donation of sperm, 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. Donor shall have NO parental rights toward any Child(ren) conceived and/or born pursuant to this Agreement and Intended Parents shall be treated in law as the legal and natural parents of any Child(ren) conceived as a result of this Agreement.
- DEATH OF INTENDED PARENTS
- If any of the Intended Parents 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 remaining Intended Parent in accordance with this Agreement.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- CONSIDERATION
- 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.
- In consideration therefore, Intended Parents agree to pay for and/or to Donor and/or to indemnify her with a total of $4000 for all of the following items:
- Initial medical testing by IVF Physician to determine Donor’s suitability as an ova donor;
- The Retrieval Procedure including, but not limited to, the costs of Physician, the medical facility, anesthesiologist and medication associated therewith;
- Donor’s attorney’s fees for independent legal advice regarding the meaning and consequence of this Agreement;
- 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 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. This also includes 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.
- 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.
- Purchase of a temporary policy to cover any complications directly attributable to the Retrieval Procedure if Donor becomes uninsured through actions beyond her control, 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 two (2) months from the date of the Retrieval Procedure.
- All medical expenses directly related to the Retrieval Procedure for 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- ASSUMPTION OF RISKS
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- HOLD HARMLESS
- 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.
- 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.
- HEALTH INSURANCE
- 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.
- 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:
[ENTER ADDRESS FOR INTENDED PARENTS]
- 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).
- NO WARRANTIES
- The Parties expressly understand and agree that neither the Parties, 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.
- BREACH
- 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.
- If a Party believes that another has breached the terms of this Agreement, they shall notify the other Party in writing, 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.
- 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 any agreed compensation amount, 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- A breach by either Intended Parent shall be considered a breach by both of them.
- CONFIDENTIALITY/PRIVACY RIGHTS
- 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 shall be deemed legally binding signatures.
- 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.
- 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.
- FUTURE CONTACT
- The Parties agree that there will be no future contact beyond the term of this Agreement with the exceptions listed in Section 16.
- CHANGES IN CIRCUMSTANCES/NOTICE
- During the term of this Agreement, the Parties agree to immediately inform each other in writing, 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.
- 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 the Parties or their 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, should any medical condition or disease arise that might be of concern to the Child(ren)’s health.
- 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, 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.
- TERM
- The term of this Agreement shall begin with the execution date and end with the completion of the Retrieval Procedure or two (2) 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.
- TERMINATION OF AGREEMENT/CANCELLATION OF CYCLE
- 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 seven (7) days written notice to the other Party. 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- GOOD FAITH PERFORMANCE
- 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.
- DISPUTE RESOLUTION
- All disputes or differences between the Parties arising under or which are related to this Agreement upon which an amicable understanding cannot be reached shall be settled by arbitration., and judgment upon the award entered by the arbitrators may be entered in any Court having jurisdiction thereof.
- The arbitration shall be done by a single neutral arbitrator. The single neutral arbitrator shall be selected by a process mutually agreed by the Parties.
- The arbitrator shall promptly enter an award which shall do justice between the Parties and the award shall be supported by a written opinion.
- The decision of the arbitrator may be confirmed and shall not be appealable for any reason.
- GOVERNING LAW
- 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 Indiana. Any dispute resolution or litigation arising from this Agreement shall be brought in the state of Indiana, 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.
- INDEPENDENT LEGAL COUNSEL
- 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.
- Attorney representation of clients is deemed completed at the time all Parties sign this Agreement.
- TAX IMPLICATIONS
- 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.
- GENERAL PROVISIONS
- 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.
- Amendment. This Agreement shall only be amended by a written agreement signed by the Party(ies) to be bound.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Time is of the Essence. Time is of the essence of this Agreement.
- 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.
- HIGH RISK ACTIVITIES AND SEXUAL RELATIONS
- 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.
- 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.
- INTEGRATION AND UNDERSTANDING
- 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.
- This Agreement applies to, inures to the benefit of, and binds all Parties hereto, including their heirs, administrators, executors and successors.
- 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.
- This Agreement has been drafted and shall be deemed executed in Indiana, 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 Indiana, United States of America.
- All Parties declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the state of Indiana, 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
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