Adoption and Surrogacy

Adoption and Surrogacy Lawyers in Edmonton, Alberta

Starting or expanding a family through adoption or surrogacy is a profound journey that requires navigating complex legal processes. At Cambria LLP, we provide compassionate and knowledgeable support for families in Edmonton and across Alberta, helping guide you through the legal aspects of adoption and surrogacy. Whether pursuing domestic or international adoption or considering surrogacy, our team ensures that each step complies with Alberta’s legal requirements, supporting you in creating a secure, loving family environment.

Domestic Adoption

Domestic adoption allows individuals or couples to adopt a child within Canada. Alberta has specific regulations that vary depending on the type of domestic adoption, such as public adoption through Alberta’s child welfare system, private adoption, or family adoption. Cambria LLP assists with all aspects of domestic adoption, providing legal guidance to ensure a smooth, efficient process.

Types of Domestic Adoption

Public Adoption. Adoption of children in foster care or under Alberta’s child welfare system. This process is managed by Alberta Child and Family Services and typically involves children who are in government care.
Private Adoption. Adoption of a child through a private agency or directly from birth parents, facilitated by an adoption agency or lawyer. This process may be faster than public adoption but involves additional legal requirements.
Family or Kinship Adoption. Adoption within the family, such as when a grandparent, aunt, uncle, or step-parent wishes to adopt a child. This type of adoption often requires unique considerations, especially in cases where birth parents remain involved.

Our Domestic Adoption Services Include

Guidance on Adoption Options and Requirements. We help you understand the different types of domestic adoption and determine which route best aligns with your family’s goals.
Legal Representation in Adoption Hearings. We provide representation throughout the adoption process, including hearings, to ensure all legal requirements are met.
Preparation of Legal Documents and Agreements. Our team assists with preparing and filing necessary legal documents, ensuring compliance with Alberta’s adoption laws.

Considering domestic adoption? Contact Cambria LLP at 780-540-8100 to learn more about how we can help you navigate the process and welcome a new member into your family.

International Adoption

International adoption allows Alberta residents to adopt a child from another country. The process involves compliance with Canadian federal law, Alberta’s adoption regulations, and the laws of the child’s country of origin. International adoption can be complex, often requiring additional legal steps such as immigration applications and cultural assessments. Cambria LLP provides experienced support for families pursuing international adoption, ensuring every step of the process meets legal standards and moves forward as smoothly as possible.

Key Steps in International Adoption

Home Study and Cultural Assessments. Prospective parents must complete a home study and may require cultural education or training as part of the adoption process.
Compliance with Foreign and Canadian Laws. International adoptions must meet the legal requirements of the child’s home country, as well as Canadian and Alberta laws.
Immigration and Citizenship Applications. Once the adoption is finalized, adoptive parents must apply for the child’s immigration to Canada and secure Canadian citizenship or permanent resident status for them.

Our International Adoption Services Include

Guidance on International Adoption Laws. We help you understand the legal requirements of the child’s country of origin and Canadian regulations, minimizing obstacles and delays.
Coordination with Foreign Authorities and Agencies. Our team works closely with adoption agencies and foreign authorities to ensure that all documentation and legal steps are accurately completed.
Assistance with Immigration and Citizenship Applications. We guide you through the immigration and citizenship process, ensuring your adopted child has a secure and legal entry into Canada.

Pursuing international adoption? Call us at 780-540-8100 to discuss the international adoption process with our experienced family law team.

Surrogacy

Surrogacy offers a path to parenthood for individuals and couples who cannot carry a child on their own. Alberta’s surrogacy laws allow intended parents to enter into agreements with a surrogate mother, although strict legal guidelines must be followed. Cambria LLP provides trusted support for intended parents and surrogates alike, ensuring that all parties understand their rights, responsibilities, and obligations within Alberta’s legal framework.

Key Elements of a Surrogacy Agreement

Roles and Responsibilities of the Parties. Outline each party’s rights and responsibilities, including medical decisions, pregnancy-related costs, and birth arrangements.
Compensation and Reimbursement of Expenses. Under Canadian law, surrogates cannot be paid but may be reimbursed for reasonable expenses. We ensure these reimbursements comply with the Assisted Human Reproduction Act.
Parental Rights and Legal Parentage. Our team helps intended parents secure legal parentage of the child after birth, ensuring a smooth transition of custody.

Our Surrogacy Services Include

Drafting and Reviewing Surrogacy Agreements. We create comprehensive agreements that protect both the intended parents and the surrogate, ensuring that all terms are clear and enforceable.
Parental Rights and Birth Registration. After the child’s birth, we assist with the legal process of transferring parental rights to the intended parents.
Legal Support for Surrogates and Intended Parents. We provide guidance on the surrogacy process, helping both parties understand their rights and responsibilities under Alberta law.

Considering surrogacy? Contact Cambria LLP at 780-540-8100 to discuss surrogacy options and learn how we can help with legal agreements and parentage rights.

Build Your Family with Confidence and Support from Cambria LLP

Navigating adoption and surrogacy requires careful planning and experienced legal guidance. At Cambria LLP, we’re here to support you through every step of the process, providing knowledgeable, compassionate assistance to help you grow your family. Contact us at 780-540-8100 to discuss your adoption or surrogacy needs with our Edmonton-based family law team and take the following steps toward welcoming a new family member.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between public and private adoption in Alberta?

Public adoption involves adopting a child through Alberta’s child welfare system, typically children who are in foster care. Private adoption is arranged through an adoption agency or directly with the birth parents, usually involving infants or very young children. Public adoption may take longer due to background checks, while private adoption can be faster but involves more legal steps and costs.

What rights do birth parents have in a private adoption?

In a private adoption, birth parents have the right to make decisions about the adoption until they legally relinquish their parental rights. Alberta’s adoption laws ensure that birth parents are fully informed and give consent freely. Our team provides guidance on ensuring the legal requirements for consent are met.

Are there specific requirements for international adoption in Canada?

Yes, international adoption requires compliance with Canadian and Alberta adoption laws and the laws of the child’s country of origin. This typically includes a home study, cultural assessments, and immigration applications. Our team helps guide you through each step to ensure all requirements are met.

Is surrogacy legal in Alberta?

Yes, surrogacy is legal in Alberta, but the law prohibits surrogates from being paid for their services. Surrogates may, however, be reimbursed for reasonable expenses. Cambria LLP helps intended parents and surrogates draft agreements that comply with Alberta and Canadian law, ensuring clear and enforceable terms.

Why Choose Cambria LLP for Family Law Services?

At Cambria LLP, we recognize that family law matters—whether they involve child custody, spousal support, property division, or adoption—can be deeply personal and emotionally challenging. Our experienced team combines a compassionate, client-centered approach with in-depth knowledge of Alberta’s family laws to provide clear guidance, practical solutions, and steadfast support. We prioritize your needs and work diligently to achieve fair outcomes that promote stability and positive family dynamics.

Protect Your Family’s Future Today

At Cambria LLP, we understand that family law matters require thoughtful guidance and a personal touch. Whether you're navigating a divorce, child custody arrangements, or high-net-worth property division, our experienced team is here to provide clear, compassionate support every step of the way. Let us help you find practical solutions that safeguard your rights and promote stability for you and your loved ones.

Adoption and Surrogacy