Biological Parents Drop Custody Fight for Florida IVF Mix-Up Baby, Plan Suit Against Clinic
Updated
Updated · NBC News · Jun 18
Biological Parents Drop Custody Fight for Florida IVF Mix-Up Baby, Plan Suit Against Clinic
3 articles · Updated · NBC News · Jun 18
Summary
Patient 004, the biological parents of baby Shea, agreed not to contest custody, leaving Tiffany Score and Steven Mills with the infant born after an embryo mix-up.
Several months of talks ended with the biological parents deciding a custody battle would be an uphill legal fight and not in Shea’s best interest, their lawyer said.
The agreement still lets the biological parents remain in Shea’s life after meetings with the birth parents that involved “a lot of tears and hugs.”
December-born Shea was later found through genetic testing to be 100% South Asian and unrelated to Score or Mills, prompting their lawsuit against the Fertility Center of Orlando and Dr. Milton McNichol.
The closed Florida clinic now faces another expected lawsuit from Shea’s biological parents in a case that has renewed scrutiny of limited U.S. IVF oversight.
In an unregulated industry, how can IVF parents ensure their child is genetically theirs?
A negligent IVF clinic closes. Can its owners evade responsibility by reopening under a new name?
An embryo swap unites two families. How will their unique 'friendship' shape the child's identity?
IVF Mix-Up at Fertility Center of Orlando: The Shea Custody Case, Legal Fallout, and Urgent Calls for Industry Reform
Overview
In June 2026, a confidential custody agreement was reached, officially confirming Tiffany Score and Steven Mills as Shea’s permanent custodial parents. This agreement provides stability and clarity for Shea’s upbringing by establishing a clear legal framework for her care and future. It also maintains the confidentiality of Shea’s genetic parents and includes provisions to help foster a relationship between the families. For Tiffany and Steven, this resolution solidifies their parental role and allows them to move forward without legal uncertainty, ensuring Shea’s well-being remains the top priority.