DEAR ABBY: My wife and I are in the security business. My ex-wife is considering hiring us to provide security at her upcoming wedding because of some potential threats.
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The problem is that my ex-wife and I have had some heated differences over the last five years. While our communication has improved greatly, there are still differences regarding our child that remain unresolved. Personally, I don't like my ex very much and I have told her so, but I'm professional in my duties and on the job, and I don't intend to let our personal conflicts get in the way of her happiness.
The only other concern I have about my ex is being paid for our services, as I have been burned by her in the past. Would it be wrong to require payment and a signed contract prior to her wedding? -- FEELING INSECURE ABOUT SECURITY IN OREGON
DEAR FEELING INSECURE: Not at all. But why you would want to do business with a customer you neither like nor trust is beyond me. If there's the slightest doubt that you will be fully compensated for your services, get written proof that you were hired rather than invited as a guest -- and a hefty "security" deposit up front.