A friend of mine received a returned check from one of her customers back in Dec. 2005 and has tried to collect the money back from them. It has been over a year and she still hasn't gotten any money from them. The amount was like $85, I think. Can she still try to get the money or is it too late? If is isn't too late, what is the next step she needs to take?

It is not too late at all.

Your friend needs to file a claim in small claims court against the customer. She should bring all paperwork showing her collection attempts. She really shouldn't have a problem getting a judgement in her favor. When she files the claim, tell her to make sure she includes all of her costs in trying to recover the money (bounced check fee, court filing fee,. ) Heck, she could even ask the judge to consider giving her lost interest. Don't know if she will get it, but it doesn't hurt to ask.