What it's really like to be a freelancer

No one wants to get screwed over, but for many freelance professionals that's just part of the job if a client dislikes the work and refuses to pay. To illustrate this problem and the need for a clear written agreement ahead of time, the legal-document website Docracy devised a social experiment to put everyday people in the shoes of freelancers. In a park they set up a booth where a woman offers to pay $5 to each random passerby who agrees to draw something for her on the spot. Spoiler alert: She doesn’t pay up. The reactions are right-on; there’s even a crazy cat lady. All this is featured on the Docracy-run site Don’t Get Screwed Over, which offers resources and tips. Our favorite tip: "Someone you know steals all your underwear. Don't get screwed over: Don't hang out with weirdos."

Check out the msnNOW.com homepage to read more trending stories.