Student Aid Grant Pay Back

[asark]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? CA

I went to graduate school at UCLA about 10 years ago. I was offered a need-based UCLA grant. I accepted. After I graduated, UCLA contacted me and said that they had over paid and they needed their grant money back. Apparently, I qualified for the grant when I was a non-resident and was given the 1st of 3 installments of money, the first semester of the year. Then the next semester I was considered a California resident and they still gave me the remainder of the grant over two more semesters. There is a finite amount of financial aid allowed per student per year per need. My status changed mid year. UCLA has put a lien on state money I receive. They have never charged me penalties or late fees. The total is about $2400. Do I really need to pay this? Seems like it's their mistake entirely. It's also not on my credit report. What is this? Can I get out of it with the right lawyer?
thank you, Amy

p.s. They did this to most students I was in school with at the time. They were all a bit wealthier than I was at the time and just repaid it.What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)?