I agree with many of these points, especially about not letting accounts receivable get more than $1-2k, and about having to settle for a fraction of the outsta

I agree with many of these points, especially about not letting accounts receivable get more than $1-2k, and about having to settle for a fraction of the outstanding $10k in this case, but I do not agree about a lawyer not being willing to take this case or it not being worth it. Many lawyers will take a small claims case, and at the very least will consult with you (probably 30-60 minutes for free) about it. And while state law will vary, around here most will work for a percentage of the awarded payment. I knew someone that had a $12k invoice due, went to small claims court ($10k limit), had a lawyer write letters and represent them, and walk away with $8000+. Bear in mind it took 2 years to resolve, though.