Lie is a strong word with negative connotations also known as ‘white lie’ or ‘stretching the truth’. People lie all the time often to avoid hurting someone’s feelings. Honesty is definitely the best policy. You always know the details of the story as they are true. If a situation with a client has come to an end and payment is not forthcoming, it may be acceptable to threaten legal action even if you have no intention to follow through. Remember if you tell a lie no matter how small, there may be consequences.