Connecticut offers one of the most inclusive legal frameworks for LGBT intended parents pursuing surrogacy. Under the Connecticut Parentage Act, intended parents are recognized as their child's legal parents from the beginning, regardless of sexual orientation or marital status.
Schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward holding your baby in your arms.
This guide covers LGBT surrogacy laws in Connecticut, from pre-birth orders to birth certificates.
LGBT Surrogacy Laws in Connecticut and Establishing Parentage: Will We Get a Pre-Birth Order?
Yes. Connecticut courts issue pre-birth orders for LGBT intended parents, regardless of genetic connection to the child. This is Connecticut's strongest advantage for same-sex couples.
Under the Connecticut Parentage Act (sections 46b-450 through 46b-553), the state recognizes intended parents as legal parents from conception. For married and unmarried same-sex couples:
Pre-birth orders available using own gametes or donor materials No genetic connection required for both parents Both parents become legal parents upon birth
The process requires an in-person hearing, independent legal representation, medical confirmation of assisted reproduction, and a properly executed surrogacy agreement.
Can the Non-Genetic Parent in a Gay Couple Be Declared a Legal Parent in Connecticut?
Absolutely. Connecticut law protects non-genetic parents in same-sex relationships, making it one of the most LGBT-friendly surrogacy jurisdictions.
The Connecticut Parentage Act confirms that a person who consents to assisted reproduction with intent to be a parent is a legal parent, regardless of genetic connection. This removes barriers many gay surrogacy laws create elsewhere.
- Non-genetic parent named on pre-birth order alongside genetic parent
- No additional adoption procedures required
- Both parents appear on birth certificate
- Equal parental rights regardless of genetic contribution
Key requirements include documented consent to assisted reproduction, evidence of intent to parent, participation in the surrogacy agreement, and independent legal representation.
What If We're Not Married — Can We Both Be Legal Parents?
Yes, unmarried LGBT couples can both be recognized as legal parents in Connecticut. Marriage is not required for both partners to be named on birth certificates and pre-birth orders.
Requirements include both partners being named as intended parents in the surrogacy agreement, evidence of a committed relationship, both partners consenting to assisted reproduction, and independent legal representation.
Practically:
Both partners appear on pre-birth order Both names go directly on birth certificate No marriage requirement for equal parental rights
I'm a Single Parent — Can I Still Be Declared the Legal Parent in Connecticut?
Absolutely. Connecticut welcomes single intended parents regardless of sexual orientation, offering the same legal protections available to couples.
For single gay, lesbian, bisexual, or queer intended parents:
- Pre-birth orders readily available
- No partnership requirement
- Same timelines as couples
- Full parental rights established before birth
The legal process: enter surrogacy agreement with independent counsel, apply for pre-birth order, attend court hearing, and hospital releases baby directly to you.
How Will Our Names Appear on the Birth Certificate in Connecticut?
Connecticut offers flexible options for how LGBT parents are listed on birth certificates. Same-sex couples will be listed as "Parent and Parent."
What you won't see:
No mention of gestational surrogate No indication assisted reproduction was used No differentiation between genetic and non-genetic parents
The birth certificate with intended parents' names is the only one issued, creating a clean record of your family.
How Long Will It Take to Get the Birth Certificate?
Most Connecticut LGBT parents receive their final birth certificate within 2-4 weeks of birth. Expedited processing is available for urgent travel needs with additional fees.
What speeds up the process: having a pre-birth order properly executed, choosing an experienced hospital, and working with attorneys familiar with Connecticut Vital Records.
Do We Need a Second Parent Adoption After Surrogacy in Connecticut?
In most cases, no. Connecticut's pre-birth order system eliminates the need for second parent adoption for LGBT couples, regardless of genetic connection.
Second parent adoption might be needed if:
- The pre-birth order wasn't properly completed
- Moving to a less LGBT-friendly state
How Surrogacy Contracts Protect LGBT Parents in Connecticut
A well-drafted surrogacy contract is your first line of legal protection as LGBT intended parents.
Connecticut requires independent legal representation for all parties, particularly benefiting LGBT parents by preventing discrimination.
Clear designation of both partners as intended parents Protection against discrimination based on sexual orientation Agreement to cooperate with pre-birth order process Clear payment schedules and financial obligations
Why Work With a Surrogacy Agency If You're an LGBT Couple in Connecticut
While Connecticut's progressive laws make independent surrogacy possible, working with an experienced agency provides crucial advantages.
American Surrogacy supports all family-building journeys and offers inclusive services designed for LGBTQ+ hopeful parents, including:
- Help finding specialized attorneys
- Pre-screened LGBT-friendly surrogates
- Elimination of discriminatory situations
- Comprehensive screening
- Ongoing support
- Financial protection
Finding an LGBT-Friendly Surrogacy Attorney in Connecticut
Choosing an attorney with LGBT surrogacy law experience is crucial for protecting your parental rights in Connecticut.
Connecticut attorneys specializing in assisted reproduction law:
- Victoria Ferrara (Fairfield): Ferrara has practiced in the courts of Connecticut for the past thirty years. Her focus areas include assisted reproduction technology law and surrogacy law.
- Kocian Law Group (Hartford): Kocian Law Group specializes in representing surrogate families entering into surrogacy contracts.
How to Get Started With LGBT Surrogacy in Connecticut
Connecticut's inclusive legal framework makes it one of the best states for LGBT surrogacy, requiring proper planning and expert guidance.
Your next steps:
Choose professionals who understand LGBT family building and Connecticut's legal requirements. American Surrogacy's inclusive services are designed for LGBTQ+ hopeful parents. Connecticut's progressive laws provide robust protections specific to your situation. Connecticut's clear legal framework means fewer surprise costs than other states. Find a surrogate comfortable working with LGBT intended parents.
Schedule a consultation today to discover how Connecticut's progressive LGBT surrogacy laws can work for your family.