''I am sure you will appreciate that when clients voluntarily write a letter at the time of services lauding the company that should certainly mean more . . , if you are being fair, than statements made later without support,'' IPA wrote.

Kaufman and Muñiz said that the recommendation letters were written by IPA consultants and that they signed them before it was clear what had been accomplished.

''It's like when you pick up your car at the mechanic's and you think you are happy with the service,'' Muñiz said. ``But then three blocks down the road, the tires fall off.''

HAPPY CUSTOMERS
MIAMI FIRM'S OWNER PLEASED WITH RESULTS

Not everyone interviewed complained about IPA.

After repeated requests to talk with clients in the tri-county area who might vouch for its work, IPA passed along three names. Two of the former clients had glowing reports; partners at the third were at sharp odds over the benefits of the service.

Brian McMurray is one of the happy customers. He said he turned to IPA earlier this year when sales started to slide at Magic Hour Lighting & Grip, the Miami company he purchased a year ago. His IPA consultant had entertainment-industry experience and put together a 12-month plan that McMurray said he is confident will help turn his business around.

IPA ''worked within our budget'' of $16,000 and drafted a plan that ''was very detail-oriented and tailored for what we do,'' he said.

At Amazing Butterflies, Muñiz said his sales have slid 60 percent since last year, in large part, he believes, because he has had to cut back on advertising to pay IPA-related bills.

Now, he is focused on staying afloat long enough to see the case reach trial. But first, the judge has to rule on IPA's motion to dismiss the case.

''They say small businesses are the backbone of America, but this company is stripping them raw,'' Muñiz said. ``I'm just hoping the justice system stands up for the rights of its citizens.''

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