Sometimes, a client does not display signs of being a difficult client early in the relationship but becomes difficult as the relationship progresses. For example, you might represent a client on a number of contested applications, and perhaps you are successful until you do not receive an award for costs. Suddenly your client becomes displeased with the quality of your services and closely scrutinizes your bill. It is important to keep open communication channels with the client as the file progresses, so he or she knows the value you are bringing. Frequent billing can also defuse some of the problems in this type of situation. If the client has been "happily" paying bills for work that is perceived to be of value, when he or she does become difficult, a smaller bill will make the situation less volatile. It also diminishes any argument the client might make that he or she has never been pleased with the quality of any of your work.