Legal Question in Real Estate Law in California

Re: Roomie signed doc stating will refund rent, now won't pay

Given the amount involved, if informal efforts to get your money fail, small claims court is the way to go. The possibility of a lawsuit and judgment, and its effect upon your former roommate�s credit report, may be enough to get you paid. The court in your county (where the apt. is located) likely has a self-help website that can walk you through small claims process.

As for �late charges,� unless your agreement otherwise provides, the only extras that you can recover are the �costs� (e.g. filing fee) in bringing the case.

Best of luck.

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