Warshaw Burstein’s Fertility Law Group Celebrates a “Fertility State of Mind”
02/08/2024Event and Fundraiser Celebrates Third Anniversary of the Child-Parent Security Act in New York
NEW YORK – February 8, 2024 — Warshaw Burstein LLP, together with Alexis L. Cirel and the Fertility Law Group, proudly hosted FERTILITY STATE OF MIND—an evening event and fundraiser at Valbella at The Park in midtown Manhattan. This special occasion celebrated three years of legalized surrogacy in New York.Before the enactment of the Child-Parent Security Act (CPSA), New York was one of the few states where compensated gestational surrogacy remained illegal. This forced many intended parents to seek surrogacy arrangements in other states or even abroad, resulting in complex legal challenges and uncertainty. The legalization of surrogacy in New York has not only brought immense relief to these individuals and families, but also reaffirmed the state's dedication to reproductive rights and the formation of families.
The event served as a platform to celebrate the accomplishments made possible by the CPSA. Moreover, it provided an opportunity for attendees to forge connections and relationships, showcasing the power of community and collaboration in advancing the cause of reproductive rights. The festive atmosphere was enhanced with entertainment from DJ Hesta Prynn, delectable hors d'oeuvres, and signature cocktails such as the "Surrogacy Spritz" and "Fertilitini."
Over one hundred esteemed industry professionals gathered in small groups at an elaborate "selfie booth" featuring a captivating lighted skyline of New York. They bid on silent auction items, including coveted tickets to the Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, and were treated to a captivating live performance of "New York State of Mind" by Broadway's own Steven Thomas.
Assembly Member Amy Paulin and Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal, co-sponsors of the Child-Parent Security Act, sent heartfelt video messages that were played for the attendees. The event also aimed to support various non-profit organizations, including The Chick Mission, Stardust Foundation, Baby Quest Foundation, and A Damn Good Life. These remarkable organizations work tirelessly to offset the significant costs of fertility treatments, making the path to family building more accessible for individuals and couples.
Alongside Alexis L. Cirel and Warshaw Burstein LLP, we would like to express our gratitude to our sponsors: Stephanie Levich of Family Match Consulting, Andrea Bryman of Thallo Health, and Lauren Berson of Conceive. Their contributions and support are deeply appreciated.
Ms. Cirel, alongside her partner, Eric I. Wrubel, is the founder of Warshaw Burstein's Fertility Law Group. This pioneering group in New York offers comprehensive legal counsel for individuals and families pursuing assisted reproduction, providing a unique "one-stop-shopping" experience. For legal professionals, celebration goes beyond acknowledging legislative milestones; it is an opportunity to reflect on the impact of dedicated advocacy in the lives of clients. The event shone a spotlight on the tireless efforts made by attorneys and their teams to ensure that clients have access to the necessary legal resources and support throughout their journey to parenthood.
Thanks to the Child-Parent Security Act, compensated gestational surrogacy is now legal in New York, ensuring protections for all New York families formed through assisted reproduction. The CPSA also sets the gold standard nationwide for surrogate protection, mandating the inclusion of a comprehensive and protective "Surrogate's Bill of Rights" in all surrogacy contracts. Ms. Cirel's appointment by New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo to his Campaign Leadership Committee to pass the CPSA demonstrates her unwavering commitment to advancing the rights and well-being of families pursuing assisted reproduction.
