Upon reading this article I seem to think that in most cases it's actually the developers fault. Don't be retarded; create a contract for the work you do with your potential employer.

I've been doing freelance for quite some time; and did have two clients try to screw me over; however due to the contracts which I setup ahead of time, and having a lawyer send a simple note upon their threat of not paying, quickly remedied this non-paying issue.

1) Cover your ass 2) Setup a reasonable Payment schedule 3) Don't be stupid