Adoption & Surrogacy

Adoption & Surrogacy Legal Guidance

Practical and compassionate support for individuals and couples navigating the legal steps of adoption or surrogacy within the UK.

At The McKenzie Friend, we understand that building or expanding your family through adoption or surrogacy can be both exciting and emotionally challenging. Our role is to guide you through each stage of the process with clarity, care, and professionalism — ensuring all applications and supporting documents meet court standards and reflect your genuine intentions to provide a stable, loving home.

Understanding Adoption

Adoption is a lifelong legal process that permanently transfers parental responsibility to adoptive parents. Whether you are applying as a single adopter, couple, or step-parent, we help you prepare clear documentation, understand your rights, and liaise effectively with local authorities and the family court system.

• Guidance on the legal steps to adoption and local authority procedures.
• Support completing and presenting your Adoption Order application.
• Help with post-adoption arrangements or challenges, including contact disputes or court directions.
• Assistance with court preparation, statement writing, and understanding reports from social services or CAFCASS.

Understanding Surrogacy

Surrogacy arrangements can be legally complex, particularly around parental responsibility and Parental Orders. We guide intended parents and surrogates alike through the process with sensitivity and professionalism, helping ensure all applications are properly filed and all parties are fully informed.

• Advice on Parental Orders following surrogacy arrangements in the UK or abroad.
• Assistance with drafting written statements for the court and preparing the required documentation.
• Guidance on working with local authorities and ensuring the child’s best interests are clearly demonstrated.
• Support understanding the legal rights of both the surrogate and the intended parents.

Our Approach

We believe every family journey is unique. Our McKenzie Friends offer tailored support that prioritises your goals while keeping communication clear and stress to a minimum. From helping you prepare applications to ensuring your documents meet court requirements, we’re here to simplify the process and offer reassurance at every step.

Why Choose The McKenzie Friend

• Extensive experience in family law and court preparation.
• Affordable fixed fees — transparent and easy to budget for.
• Empathetic guidance from professionals who understand the emotional aspects of family formation.
• Nationwide support, available both in person and online.

Start Your Journey With Confidence

If you’re preparing for adoption or surrogacy proceedings, or need help understanding the process, our team is ready to help. Book your free consultation today and take your next step with clarity and confidence.