12/22/2025
We are sharing the recent statement from the Academy of Adoption and Assisted Reproduction Attorneys (AAAA), a nationally respected authority on ethical and legally sound assisted reproduction.
While AAAA is not involved in the matter, their guidance underscores why transparency, independent escrow management, proper documentation, and strong legal oversight are essential in surrogacy.
We fully support these standards and believe they exist to protect intended parents, gestational carriers, and the integrity of our community.
— Heart of Surrogacy
STATEMENT FROM THE ACADEMY OF ADOPTION AND ASSISTED REPRODUCTION ATTORNEYS (AAAA)
For Immediate Release
The Academy of Adoption and Assisted Reproduction Attorneys (AAAA) is deeply concerned about the sudden closure of a matching program with no funds remaining in their in-house escrow account that held multiple clients’ funds. AAAA is not involved in the matter and is learning new information daily. We recognize that situations involving financial irregularities and potential loss of significant funds can cause disruption and devastation for the affected parties, the professionals who support them, and the community at large.
Events such as this underscore the vital importance of strong legal frameworks, independent oversight, and proper documentation.
Guidance for Affected Individuals
While AAAA cannot provide legal advice or comment on the specifics of an ongoing situation about which it has incomplete information, individuals who have been harmed or who have concerns about their funds and their arrangement with the matching program and/or their gestational carrier should immediately consider the following steps to protect themselves:
Document Everything
Preserve all communications, contracts, emails, payment records, wire confirmations, account statements, and any other related materials. Do not delete anything, and download all materials.
Report Concerns to Federal and State Authorities
Depending on the nature of the issue, individuals may wish to file reports with the following agencies:
• Federal Trade Commission: https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/ (877) 382-4357
• FBI Tip Line: https://tips.fbi.gov/
• Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (HIGH PRIORITY): https://www.consumerfinance.gov/complaint/
• State Attorney General’s Office.
Notify Your Bank
Contact the bank or financial institution used to transmit any funds. Many institutions have procedures for fraud reporting, account holds, or retrieval efforts.
Consult With Legal Counsel
Individuals may wish to consult with an attorney licensed in the relevant jurisdiction. A number of AAAA fellows are willing and qualified to provide assistance to those affected.
AAAA’s Commitment
AAAA continues to monitor the situation as credible information emerges and will share information as appropriate.
Our mission remains centered on advancing ethical, transparent, and legally responsible practices in assisted reproductive technology. All ART professionals have an obligation to our community and clients to follow all relevant ethics guidelines, maintain robust financial controls, utilize independent escrow management, and adhere to the highest ethical standards.