Legal Question in Real Estate Law in California

Re: Roommate owes bills?

I have to assume that there is an oral agreement and nothing in writing between all of you. Habitual each agreed to pay one-third of the expenses. It would have been wise to have a written agreement to show that those expenses would continue until a new roommate can be obtained. If that was the intent and that was specifically agreed-upon orally, then there is a good argument that he is bound by an oral agreement. The problem is that the law requires all agreements relating to real property to be in writing. Therefore there could be a defense to this oral agreement theory. One of the reasons that he would be responsible is his name is still on police, the telephone account as well as the utility account. There is no specific law to which you can point to say this is it. But, as between key and the creditors, he is jointly and severally liable for not only his portion but all of the bill if you guys ever would cut out. Therefore, you're agreement shows why he's only responsible for his one-third. At worst, assuming it is less than $5000, go to Small Claims Court. Before that, get a new roommate immediately.