I think that sounds pretty reasonable.  It is very troubling when someone gets upset when they are told that you can't complete any work for them because they have a delinquent balance.  It cracks me up when they threaten to take their work elsewhere - "go ahead, I'd rather you NOT pay someone else."

We don't need clients like that anyway.  I have worked with clients who hit a "rough patch" and needed a little help.  If they are a long-time client, and are polite and honest about their situation, I try to give them the benefit of the doubt.  But when they have the nerve to get angry with me because they can't pay their bills, well... it's time for them to find a new abstractor anyway.

Best,
Robert A. Franco
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