I'm a budding web developer, and I wondered if it was illegal to edit a website for a client to include a link that says 'encourage the owner of this site to pay their web developer' and follows up with a pre-made email encouraging the man to pay me.

Here are the conditions:

• I've completed the work for the contract.
• I've asked to be paid, and tried to set up meetings with the owner.
• I've informed the owner of the site that my work will not continue unless I am paid.
• I should have been paid nearly a month ago (12/27)

Any thoughts other than small claims? This is my first web-development job!