It is a position that puts the freelancer at a real disadvantage from the start. The client wants the files, the rights, and full control of everything, but has not yet transferred any money. Ownership transfer is something that should happen after payment is complete, not before, because handing over work before being paid leaves you with very little protection if the relationship falls apart. Have you ever had a client push for ownership upfront and how did you handle that conversation without losing the job?