Sperm donors can apply for contact

Sperm donors have been given the legal right to apply for regular contact with their biological children following a landmark High Court ruling.

The judgement means that men who donate their sperm to help a couple conceive could win the right to play a part in the child’s life. The court ruled that a sperm donor does not need to have a sexual relationship with a mother in order to influence the child’s upbringing.

This could affect thousands of couples and could have far-reaching consequences on people considering using a sperm donor to conceive, experts warned. They said couples should consider a legal agreement – similar to a prenuptial agreement or co-parenting deal – to deal with the “scary prospect” of a donor seeking contact with his biological child.

Under the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 2008, same-sex couples are the legal parents of children conceived through donated sperm, eggs or embryos. Until now donors who have no other legal or domestic relationship with their biological children have been refused contact, but the judgement opens the door for them to apply for contact orders.

Our Family and Matrimonial team helps families across West London and Bucks. For advice, contact a member of the team, call us on 01494 790058 or email familylaw@ibblaw.co.uk.