Drastic - 5:11 am on May 10, 2001 (gmt 0)

You can find bad apples in the merchant networks (CJ, BF, LS), as well as independent sites that have their own program. From no support, to no conversions, to not paying (CJ excluded from non-paying, for the most part.)

The best thing to do, IMO, is find programs that fit your site theme, and email a few webmasters already promoting them, asking of their experience. (find them using your favorite SE) Webmasters are usually more than happy to oblige, and you can't get more concrete info.

Between using third party or independent programs, it really just depends on what is available (for your topic), and if you can earn enough to meet min. payouts.