I'll add to this pertaining to graphic design
1. Never pay ahead.....give a retainer (usually 1/2) and once the job is done to your satisfaction, THEN pay the rest.
2. If they say they are going on a holiday to Hawaii half way through the job, you are being ripped.
3. If you see them on icq but they never answer you about the job, you are being ripped
4. if they suddenly disappear from the adult boards in conjunction with #3 above, you know you are being ripped.
