Sieglein v. Schmidt

The primary issue we address in the present case is whether the use of the term “artificial insemination” in Section 1-206(b) of the Estates & Trusts Article of the Maryland Code1 encompasses only a specific procreation technique of artificial insemination or whether the term more broadly encompasses any methodology wherein human reproduction is achieved by artificial means. The issue is queued up in this case, because Laura Schmidt, Respondent, wife of Stephen Sieglein, Petitioner, delivered a child through in vitro fertilization (IVF)2 using donated sperm.

Mr. Sieglein, who the Circuit Court…