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search process
There are three different scenarios in which a search may proceed from start to finish. For your convenience, we have detailed each process below. Click on the headings to read more.
1. I have the address for my child's birthmother.
The first step is to translate a letter and send it by Russian certified mail. If the birthmother signs for the letter, you will know that your address is good before sending a searcher. It is very private as only she may sign for your letter. We use our searcher's contact information, so your identity is protected.
In the letter, you can ask about your child's Russian family members and siblings in the letter. It is best to talk about your child's great life in America and wonderful opportunities. This takes the guilt off of the relinquishment.
NOTE: For those who do not wish to write a letter -
One mom did not want to write a letter. She asked that our searcher just send the cover letter with his contact information and a photo of the child. We need a photo (at least) because there are so many scams in Russia. Finally - we will send you a photo of the letter being mailed, such as the ones you see to the left of this text.
Approximate Costs: Translation: $30 | Postage: $10 | Photos: $1/each
A return envelope may also be included, at your request, though this is optional.
2. I do not have the address for my child's birthmother.
We will do research with genealogists and other professionals to find the address of your child's birthmother. We will need her name, date of birth, and copies of the official adoption paperwork in Russian. The approximate cost is $60, with a refundable $35 deposit due to initiate a search. If successful, a search normally costs around $300. If we do not find her, there is no charge.
3. I would like to find my child's siblings.
In order to locate your child's siblings, the process is a bit different. We will need your child's Russian name and date of birth at minimum. It is extremely helpful to include any known information on the siblings, such as: their name(s) and/or date(s) of birth; and the orphanage from which you adopted. The approximate cost is $50-100, depending on the number of three-way calls needed to locate your siblings.
4. I would like to have a three-way call with my child's birthparents/siblings.
Prior to making the call, we will need the following information: the number to which we will be calling, and if not in possession of said number, we will be happy to search for the number for $15. Also - to expedite the process, it is preferred that clients provide a short list of questions, so that our translators are prepared for the call.
Most calls are made after 9:30 PM Pacific Standard Time (8:30 AM Moscow Time) during the week (day/business hours in Russia), and 1-2 PM Saturday/Sunday (if to a residence), due to the time difference. If you are calling an orphanage, your call must be made Sunday-Thursday, as orphanage directors leave for the weekend.
Costs:
There are no international phone charges. Our translators will conference you into a call. The cost of an average call is $30. Your translator will indicate to you when the time limit is near and ask if you wish to proceed after 30 minutes.