Providers in Surrogacy is a blog series compiled by Heartland Surrogacy. In this series we will bring you the professional and personal perspectives on surrogacy from a variety of professionals who we have been lucky enough to work with. This week, we meet an Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) attorney, Shayla McCormally, to gain insight on what it’s like to be an attorney in this field.
One wonderful aspect of surrogacy journeys is how many providers come together to help make it a reality. At Heartland Surrogacy, we highly value our network connections and appreciate the hard work they put into our shared goal. Shayla McCormally of McCormally & Cosgrove is an Iowa attorney with whom we’ve shared many clients.
Please tell us about your law firm and what it’s been like starting a firm of your own.
We have been in business for over 3 years, and it has been amazing…we have grown by leaps and bounds. Our office is made up of seven women, and we coordinate to help cover all the work. In terms of the firm’s services, we have some overlap between the attorneys, but each have our own specialties.
How long have you been working in assisted reproductive law?
I started my law career in Iowa in 2010. I worked mainly on adoption cases then started doing surrogacy work a couple of years later.
I think surrogacy is a natural extension of adoption: it is another way to build a family. There is some overlap in the legal process, so I had an easy start to it.
I don’t work only on ART, although I’d like to, because at this time there aren’t enough cases in Iowa to focus only in that area. My main interest in ART is surrogacy, and I have seen an increase [in cases] over time. I think the 2018 ruling has helped make some agencies more comfortable working in [Iowa], which has led to more business, but we are also enjoying an increase in referrals.
Tell us about becoming a Fellow of the Academy of Adoption and Assisted Reproduction Attorneys (AAAA).
Yes, it’s unified now as one organization, with the two parts: adoption and ART. The annual conference is a great networking event, and I get to learn from others working in the field. I like staying on top of important industry standards and best practices.
What is it like to work with different surrogacy agencies?
Each agency is different and has its strengths and weakness. We really enjoy working with you! Your agency’s paperwork is really helpful. It makes my job easier and makes it easier for the IPs and the surrogate. In working with agencies, it’s the communication and organization that makes it go smoothly. The ability to work together. We all have the same goal. It can be anxiety-provoking when no one knows what’s going on. Clients want stability, not surprises.
If there was one piece of advice you could share with anyone considering a surrogacy journey, what would it be?
Honesty is the biggest thing. If something is important to you [in your journey], share that right away; sharing it further down the road will be harder. Also, entrusting someone to build your family or grow your family is not to be taken lightly. It takes a lot of trust. This is another reason why it’s especially helpful to have a third party helping along the way.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
It’s fun because we’re building families. It’s great to hear when a baby is born. It would be wonderful to continue to be a part of this.
What are your interests outside of work?
Honestly, vegging out with my family on movie nights. We get to take a break and be together. We make pizza and often include items from our garden. I also love doing projects and game nights as a family, since our kids are old enough to do more of those activities. I am very involved in politics, and it’s actually how I met my husband. I love the political stuff we do.
Can you share some things you love about where you live?
I LOVE festivals! And I’m not from Iowa, but since moving here I have never missed an Iowa State Fair. I also love the farmer’s market.
If you’re interested in learning more about how we can connect you with our network of providers and help you on your surrogacy journey, contact us today!
