Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Utah

Rent Obligation of a Tenant Who does not sign a Lease

Without seeing the letter that was signed, it is difficult to give a clear opinion. However, assuming that the letter clearly sets forth a responsibilty to pay the roomate can be forced to honor that promise. In other words in my opinion if you sue you can force the ex roomate to pay.

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Fax it to me or e-mail me the contents of that letter.

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Getting that letter signed was a very smart thing for you to do and rather unusual. My offhand opinion at this point is that your "letter" is enforceable as is. But let me see it, first! Contracts are one thing that don't really require lawyers to do well or do right. However, there could well be counter-claims or offsets of some sort. Why did this person move out, anyway?

Suit on a Letter of Contract.

If your letter meets the minimum requirements for a written contract in UT. Offer, Acceptance and Consideration, you should be able to sue and recover. However, for legal advice specific to your fact pattern, you need to speak with a UT attorney.

Make her pay her share

Yes, the letter is enforcable against her but you are still liable to the landloard and not her. in other words, the landloard can collect the rent from you and you will have to go after the roommate yourself.