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kwb5897 · Aug 22, 2007, 04:45 PM

My Ex-roommate is stating that I still owe her for utility bills that were in her name. She recently moved out, and spent her last 2 months in the apartment rent-free (I covered her share). I also put out $ for all other expenses in the household - any necessities and food shopping. She is asking me to send HER a check for $700 so she can pay the utility bills. If she decides to take this matter to court - how strong is her case?

rockinmommy · Aug 22, 2007, 08:09 PM

What agreements did the two of you have in writing and what verbal agreements did the two of you have?

I'm guessing the payment of utilities was a verbal agreement. If she takes you to court and can show that you had been paying a share and then stopped and/or if you admit that you had a verbal agreement to split them she can probably get a judgement against you. That being said, you would have the same scenario in place allowing you to counter-sue her for the rent and other expenses. I'm guessing that amounts to more money? So she'd basically wind up owing you?

If you're satisfied with her not paying what she owes you send her a letter stating that you'll be happy to pay her for your portion of the utilities just as soon as you receive her payment for everything she owes you, and include a detailed accounting of it all. I would think that would shut her up in a hurry. Otherwise just wait her out and let her sue. She'll be sorry that she drug YOU into court when you file your counter suit.

Karla in TX

cpalmist · Aug 22, 2007, 08:26 PM

Originally Posted by kwb5897

My Ex-roommate is stating that I still owe her for utility bills that were in her name. She recently moved out, and spent her last 2 months in the apartment rent-free (I covered her share). I also put out $ for all other expenses in the household - any necessities and food shopping. She is asking me to send HER a check for $700 so she can pay the utility bills. If she decides to take this matter to court - how strong is her case?

Unless she goes to small claims, lawyers fees are around 150/hr and up and usually require a retainer. If she is trying to hum money from you, I doubt she can pony up for a lawyer.
Do your best Adult: we had a business arrangement, which you did not honor. I doubt the legal system would be sympathetic for any of your claims. However, if you think you can afford to go to trial, have your lawyer contact me.

And sever any and all contact with her as she has proven that she really isn't your friend.