Am I the only one who got burned by a client's 'handshake deal' in Phoenix?

I was finishing a website project for a local bakery, and the owner said we didn't need a contract because we 'trusted each other'. He ghosted me after delivery and I'm out $2,500. What's the best way to chase down payment without a signed agreement?

3 comments

3 Comments

grant_torres2mo ago

Honestly, why bother with a contract if you both trust each other?

wrenh792mo ago

Lesson learned, always get it in writing.

the_aaron4d ago

Got burned SO bad on a handshake deal with a buddy from school. He swore up and down we were on the same page, then ghosted when I needed the money. Now I write EVERYTHING down, even stupid small stuff.