>I don't consult any more, but it would have been nice to have a database to reference when being approached by
>new clients or head hunters. One that would allow both sides to state their case and let others make the decision
>to take on the job from that client or accept the positon offered by that headhunter.
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You have that info. Run a credit check on them. Talk to the Better Business Bureau. Also, structure the payment section of the contract in such a way that if they don't pay, you aren't out much. In my case, I bill every two weeks, due on receipt. They then have 10 days to pay. If I don't get payment, I stop work.