Family creation lawyer Sarah Jefford has a wide breadth of experience practicing all over Australia. She is now raising her voice against the backdrop of a continuing national review of surrogacy laws. As a former surrogate, she has an even more interesting perspective. She puts her extensive legal experience to work alongside her firsthand knowledge of the surrogacy process.
The Australian government initiated a comprehensive review of its surrogacy laws to address the complex legal and ethical issues surrounding surrogacy arrangements. This review is mainly about protecting all persons in the process. Most importantly, it seeks to safeguard all those involved, including intended parents, surrogates and the children born of these transactions. Jefford stresses that there is an urgent need for clearer regulations. These are the protections that need to be afforded to all parties, especially considering that surrogacy practices differ widely from state to state.
Jefford fights with fervor because she’s walked in the shoes of a surrogate. Her own experience has provided her a profound understanding of the emotional and legal issues surrogates frequently encounter. She’s passionate about sharing these personal stories because she knows they can help demystify surrogacy, allowing for more helpful and informed discussions about what it means. She has a unique perspective in her dual role as an experienced lawyer and former surrogate. This special skill set gives her the ability to bridge legal structures with the lived realities of surrogates.
In her practice, Jefford has witnessed numerous cases where outdated or inconsistent laws have created obstacles for intended parents and surrogates alike. She contends that a more cohesive national approach to surrogacy laws would limit confusion and improve the protections afforded to all the parties involved. She’s been a proponent of reforms to create a legally sound environment for surrogacy. Her mission is to make sure that it’s not just futuristically cool.
Further, the review points to the importance of systemic resources and supports for surrogates. Jefford emphasizes the need for mental health resources and legal guidance at all stages of the surrogacy process. She emphasizes that with proper institutional support, surrogates and intended parents can both be healthier, happier, and more fulfilled.
Jefford is a tireless advocate credited with educating and rudely awakening policymakers and stakeholders. He engages the community to help them understand just how important these reforms are. Her efforts aim to foster a more inclusive dialogue that considers the diverse perspectives of those affected by surrogacy laws.
