[LukeShu]

    > The reality of it is that businesses can't just stiff
    > you on a bill if they agreed to pay for your services

That feels like it should be true, but it's not. I'm not just speaking about software; a large portion of my family is in construction, and I'm shocked at how often client businesses think they can get away with just not paying them.

Perhaps it actually is better in the software world, where clients (hopefully) know they are going to need you in the future.

Anyway, good for you that you can find clients that know they need to pay you; but not all businesses have figured that out.

[fat0wl]

Hmm I'm sorry to hear that. :-/

But if they brought a civil suit they would win easily, no? That's what I really meant by that line. My father is a lawyer & every time I bring up something like that to him he laughs. "Of course they have to pay, it's just too much trouble sometimes. Usually just the threat of legal action is good enough."

Maybe it's not so simple but that's a shame.

[LukeShu]

Oh, yeah, they eventually get paid. It's just shocking how many people try to not pay them.

[eli]

Years ago I worked for a mom & pop computer consulting shop and I was surprised by how many small businesses just didn't pay their bills.

Anecdotally, we did a lot of work with local law firms and they were the worst. (I guess because what're you gonna do? Sue them?)