First, develop your "spidey sense" for detecting bad clients, and don't take those gigs. That's the most important thing to learn, as it will drastically cut your loss rate.
Second, check the statutory limit for small claims in your jurisdiction. If the amount in question is under the limit, file in small claims. It's easy; and generally, lawyers aren't allowed. If the defendant is outside the jurisdiction of your local small claims court, you may have to file by certified mail. You'll get a judgment against them, but collecting will be more difficult.
Finally, as others mentioned, get half up front. Those people who are inclined to rip you off will hem and haw and give you all kinds of excuses about why they can't or won't pay half in advance. When you hear that, walk away.
Second, check the statutory limit for small claims in your jurisdiction. If the amount in question is under the limit, file in small claims. It's easy; and generally, lawyers aren't allowed. If the defendant is outside the jurisdiction of your local small claims court, you may have to file by certified mail. You'll get a judgment against them, but collecting will be more difficult.
Finally, as others mentioned, get half up front. Those people who are inclined to rip you off will hem and haw and give you all kinds of excuses about why they can't or won't pay half in advance. When you hear that, walk away.