[sofla100]

How many have run into so called facilitators for Russian adoptions who just want your money in exchange for "information?" We have run into some of this - I guess the money in the adoption process is just too much for various crooks and others, some here and some in Russia. I am sure now the agency route is best, despite the high costs, and no doubt these high costs represent some graft and "payola" having to be paid to various govt and other parties. However, at least with the agencies and even if they bribe, at least you know will get some results!

How sad for the children in the orphanages - high costs, and corruption have no doubt held many back from being offered a home!

[Tracy K.]

Results are never guaranteed in international adoption. You have to research and scrutinize agencies as thoroughly as you would any facilitator/independent adoption arrangement. There are definitely elements of the "wild west" out there. Good Luck.