I always use a separate paragraph for tables, anchored frames, and text insets. (I call it anchor.)
I use it because: 1. The company I worked for before that I stole template ideas from always used it. 2. I use WebWorks, and if I don't anchor the table to a separate paragraph, the conversion process doesn't work. (I don't know if that's a WebWorks 7/2003 limitation or just a gremlin that follows me around.) The only time I have issues is when the table starts at the top of a page. Doesn't line up evenly because of the Anchor paragraph, but I can live with it...unless other people have other suggestions. HTH, Zoe