What the legal framework looks like
Because Maryland does not have a comprehensive statute specifically governing gestational-surrogacy agreements, parties should not assume that contract formalities or parentage procedures used in another state apply automatically in Maryland.
Parentage procedure
The availability, timing and form of any parentage order should be confirmed with Maryland reproductive counsel for the specific case. A gestational agreement does not by itself guarantee a particular court order or birth-record result.
Agreement and compensation
The agreement should address compensation and expenses, insurance, medical autonomy, legal costs, termination provisions and dispute procedures. Current Maryland law and local procedure should be reviewed before relying on any particular provision.
What this means for a surrogate
Before signing an agreement or beginning treatment, use independent Maryland counsel to confirm the governing law, jurisdiction, parentage strategy and contract terms for the proposed match.