Burn baby Burn

Well, I never wanted to have to deal with something like this but I guess it was inevitable. I never imagined that one day, I might be faced with a client that is not what they appear to be. Being someone who is very dedicated in their work and one that strives to deliver a quality product day in and day out, I never thought that a client would burn me. I want to scream from the rooftops their name and let all unsuspecting voice talents and potential business folk know of their ill practices. Is that what we as voice talent now have to do? Do we need to be paid partially or in full prior to doing any work? The only "product" we have is our sound file. Although it is tangible, it's not something that can be returned. Our time and talent is really all that we have to show for that invoice and when a conniving client wants to shirk on their end of the bargain, it hurts: financially and physically. I'm hoping that said client delivers on his word but I'm doubtful. Voice talent beware.....
Have you ever had this experience? If so, please post!