[mariebd]

Has anyone out there adopted a child from Russia without going through an adoption agency? How hard and expensive was it?

Thanks.

[dlhall]

We used an agency. From everything I've read, although it's possible to adopt without an agency, I do not recommend it. Just recently I've read articles about Russian politicians getting upset about adoption. From my understanding it's the independent adoptions that are causing a lot of problems because of illegal activities from some of the adoption facilitators. My understanding is that Russia is really trying to crack down on these type of independent adoptions, so I would proceed very very carefully.

Liz

[mgibson]

I would reconsider this as well. We had so much work to do WITH an agency. I cant imagine finding a driver/translator/doctor etc. over there on our own. Maybe in some other European countries where English use is more common, but boy I just think it would be really dificult there. Even with a Russian facilitator I think it could be really frustrating.

Just my opinion.

Melissa

[waitingonVandS]

I am doing an Indy adoption. I am working with facilitators in Russia and for the first trip, they provided me with a driver and then they met me in my region. I have been happy thus far. We'll see how the second trip goes.

[mariebd]

Sorry, I'm new to this. What is an Indy adoption? Does that mean an independent adoption? Were you able to get hooked up with a child? I would like to hear more details about your experience if possible. We are considering this option. Both my husband and I have travelled all over the world, including to Moscow. We don't speak Russian, but we do have some contacts there through our work.

Thanks for any info you can give.

Marie

[SingleMama2B]

Hi mariebd,

I agree, I would be very careful if you decide to go the independent way. Everything that I read and been told, is the politicians (State DUMA) is planning on cracking down or changing things with independent adoptions. I personally choose the agency way, so that ALL the i's where dotted, and t's crossed. I truly think it may be safer for you on both sides of the ocean. This whole process is such a roller coaster ride, I don't know if I could handle it without the Agency people here in the states and there too! Really do your research, and make sure that YOU are comfortable with your choice... No one wants to see you go thru more then you need to!

[Bcelli]

We have considered it because the facilitator for both our adoptions is now a true friend and I trust him with my life - and have. I would not, however, attempt it without having a contact I could trust. Things are so up in the air right now that you could begin an independent adoption and have it all fall apart in the middle of the process with no recourse. At least through an agency, you have some recourse. Even with our close relationship with our friend, I still need business assurances. It's a lot of money.

[rhouse77]

Lots of folks adopt without an agency. Here is the best source of info
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Ind_Russian_Adopt/