An application for a parental order is made by the intended parents within 6 months of the child’s birth. The application is served on the surrogate (and her husband) and she must return an acknowledgment of service to the court. The court will then list a Directions Appointment, at which a reporting officer will be appointed to undertake a welfare enquiry into the living arrangements for the child and the payments made to the surrogate. You will be directed to file a statement setting out your background and evidencing to the Court how you satisfy the criteria for a Parental Order, including dealing with any payments made to the surrogate.  At the final hearing, if the court is satisfied that all the conditions have been met, the court will make a Parental Order. The Parental Order removes the parental rights of the surrogate mother and you will then have full legal responsibility for your child.