Lady broke contract, not paying me back

[ljensen84]

California, but lady lives in ny.
I have a written contract with a lady who was going to sublet me her apartment for 2 months. I sent her a check for 2000.00, which she cashed. Now she cancelled the agreement, as she can't leave her apartment anymore. She has been stringing me along about paying me back for a week now. She finally gave a check for half of the money to my friend in NY, but told me not to cash it until friday. She refused to sign an agreement to put a deadline on the rest of the money, as she "isn't sure" when she will have the money.
What can I do?? What legal rights do I have? There was nothing in the original contract about a set date to return money if the contract is broken... but isn't there some kind of law about repaying owed money? Is there a way to take action without taking her to small claims court?
Thanks!

 

[JUSTICE4none1]

ever give any thought to simply flying out and pushing her down a flight of stairs? just curious

 

[mapache1]

Accountant

If you do end up at small claims court you may be entitled to more than just your 2,000. You should claim all additional expenses incurred in (1) finding an alternative apartment and (2) moneys associated with collecting your down payment. Any questions, e-mail me at [email protected]