Editing Openai/6940a7dd-57cc-800a-9d04-d5309cb12945 (section)

=== 2. Larry and Wanda (Genetic Parents) ===

Core argument:

They would argue that biology matters and genetic ties should confer parental rights.

Legal theory:

The U.S. Supreme Court has recognized that biological parental rights are fundamental and cannot be overridden without strict scrutiny (Stanley v. Illinois). Many courts have recognized that sperm/egg donors have parental rights unless there is a valid donor agreement.

Potential arguments:

• Biological parenthood is a fundamental liberty interest.

• There was no express written agreement relinquishing their parental rights.

• Consent to use sperm and egg in reproduction is not the same as consenting to be a donor without rights.

• Psychological attachment: If Larry and Wanda have bonded or want to bond, that may influence the best interest analysis.

Case law examples:

• Troxel v. Granville: Parental rights that are rooted in biology get strong constitutional protection.

• Some U.S. cases have held that sperm donors who do not meet statutory donor requirements may be parents.

Weaknesses:

• Many states treat donors as non parents if donation was consensual and intended for reproduction by others.

• Courts often subordinate genetic ties to gestational/legal parent status.