Couple involved in IVF error will raise baby that isn’t biologically theirs

Florida Couple Settles IVF Mix-Up Case

A couple from Florida has decided to be the “permanent” parents of their baby girl, Shea, after coming to an agreement with her biological parents. Tiffany Score and Steven Mills announced that they’ve confirmed the identities of Shea’s genetic parents and established a custody arrangement, as noted in court documents filed recently in Orange County.

The couple had sued the Orlando Fertility Center along with Dr. Milton McNicol, alleging that an incorrect embryo was implanted into Tiffany in April 2025. This revelation came as a shock after the birth of their daughter, who was identified as “non-white,” on December 11, 2025.

Subsequent DNA testing revealed that Shea had no genetic ties to Score and Mills, confirming that she was entirely South Asian. Regardless, the couple expressed their deep affection for her.

According to the latest court filings, the specifics of the custody agreement with the genetic parents have not been disclosed publicly. However, it’s noted that Score and Mills will maintain permanent custody of Shea.

Jack Scarola, the attorney for Score and Mills, emphasized their commitment to honoring the privacy of Shea’s biological parents. He mentioned that a bond of friendship and trust has begun to form between the families, and they plan to nurture it.

The couple also informed the court about their choice of a new medical center for future IVF procedures. The agreement involves testing the embryo for parentage, and they’ll determine the next steps afterward.

Score and Mills reported to the judge that they received information from the Orlando facility, indicating “lab and clinic errors,” suggesting that this could facilitate quicker progress in their case.

During a court session, Judge Margaret Shriver expressed satisfaction that the parties reached an agreement while Shea is still quite young.

Initially, Score and Mills had three embryos frozen in 2020 at the fertility clinic. After transferring the first embryo, Tiffany experienced a miscarriage. While another embryo was still at the clinic, the fate of the third remains unclear.