Making Families

Meet kathleen adams

helping you forge your path.

Hi, I’m Kathleen Adams, your partner in navigating fertility law.

I’ve seen how hard it can be to build a family, and I’m here to help ease the stress so you can focus on the excitement of growing your family.

After earning my J.D. from the University of New Brunswick and being called to the Nova Scotia and British Columbia bars, I opened my fertility law firm in Vancouver. Some of my affiliations include serving on the Executive of the Fertility Law section of the British Columbia Branch of the Canadian Bar Association, as a Board Member of the Network for Surrogacy Birth Care (Australia), and as a member of the Canadian Fertility and Andrology Society and the American Bar Association.

I provide legal advice in British Columbia and, where permitted, other Canadian jurisdictions under the National Mobility Agreement.

If your journey involves another country, I will work with your local lawyer and rely on their advice regarding the laws of that jurisdiction. My advice is limited to the Canadian aspects of your matter.

My practice is rooted in inclusivity, safety, and respect for people of all backgrounds, with a special commitment to serving the 2SLGBTQIA+ community through my advocacy work. Please get in touch to find out how I can assist you with your unique situation.

Why choose
Kathleen Adams?

Your Family Journey Deserves Personal Care

I understand that building your family through ART is deeply personal. I protect what matters most while letting you focus on the joy of growing your family.

Legal guidance Meets Real Experience

Having worked inside a fertility clinic before practicing law, I bring unique knowledge to your case.

Inclusive Representation

You deserve representation that sees and celebrates your whole family.

FAQ’s, Your questions are answered plainly.

Don’t see your question below? Book a consultation today!

No- I’ve never seen this happen in Canada with proper legal safeguards, and BC’s laws are extra strong on this issue. However, if there is a traditional surrogacy, meaning their eggs are being used, it is extra essential to document everything before conception; otherwise, the surrogate is legally the birth mother, requiring an adoption process. Your surrogate is focused on helping your family, not keeping the baby. We’ll ensure every document protects everyone’s rights- reach out to connect.

If you have a proper legal agreement, you can avoid this. BC’s Family Law Act protects families by ensuring unidentified donors automatically lose all rights and known donors waive parental connection through signed agreements. Known donors require tailored agreements- let’s create yours before any steps are taken.

Following our 30-minute consultation, I will give you a quote depending on your unique circumstances. Things I consider are the number of individuals involved, the types of agreements needed, and overall complexity. We will give you a roadmap of other expected costs, such as reimbursement for eligible expenses for surrogates or known donors. Check out my services page for my flat rates or book with me to get a custom quote.

Yes, even with clinics, agencies, or purchases of donated gametes (eggs, sperm, embryos), you should consult a lawyer. While most anonymous donors have waived their legal rights, you still need a custom agreement between you and your partner around future use, such as in the case of a separation. Book with me to learn more.

I’m here to help!

Check out my resources answering common client questions.
Read my blog and or visit my YouTube channel here!