If close relatives are traveling with you, they may apply for the so-called "Family Member Visa", which is issued on the basis of your Visa Invitation together with your visa.
The "Family Member Visa" is issued to immediate relatives when the "head of household" is traveling to Russia for extended periods on a Business or Work related Visa.
The same as for the visa of the "head of household".
Depends on the Consulate. Normally the time needed for issuing a visa to a family member is equal to the time needed for issuing a visa to the "head of household." The Consular fee is lower.
If you are experiencing difficulties with obtaining a Family Member Visa, then you may want to apply for another type of visa.