Following a 2012 appeals verdict in favor of a client represented by Peter Lauzon, the answer may be no, a sperm donor who does not claim parentage does not need to pay.
The question of donating sperm and child support obligations was raised in court, especially related to when the mother and father knew each other and when both had signed the birth certificate.
Many times sperm donors don’t know the mother, and typically the process is a paid transaction for a donation to a sperm bank.
In this unique instance, the donor agreed to donate for a friend.
The friend eventually gave birth to triplets, and later sued for child support. The donor was ordered to do so until Peter Lauzon won in appeals, relieving the donor of the obligation to pay support.
What Are the Legal Implications of Becoming a Sperm Donor?
If you are considering becoming a donor, consult with an attorney who specializes in these matters. In the state of California, sperm donors may or may not have parental rights and obligations depending on a number of different factors that need to be evaluated by an attorney.
Some of these factors include:
- Marriage or attempt to marry
- Treating the child as your own Hosting the child in your home
- Signing birth certificates or paternity declarations
Many state laws say that if the donation is done through artificial insemination, there is an automatic presumption that the donor gives up his parental rights.
Be sure to know all the legal rights and obligations and consult with an attorney to help clarify the law with you.
