My question involves landlord-tenant law in the State of: Illinois

Hi all. I signed a lease agreement beginning August 01, 2010 lasting for a period of 1 year. I co-signed the agreement with another gentleman who was (and I suppose technically still is) my Roommate. He knew that my job was ending in December and I was most likely moving out. I informed him in November that I was indeed moving. I moved out December 17, 2010. A few days ago I get an email from the Roommate asking me to pay my share of the rent ($550). He asks me to send a check. That's when I tell him there's no need, as I am moving back and can give it to him in person...... After repeated phone calls he stops asking for the money. Now I wish to take my name off the lease. What is the procedure for doing so? Is there a way to amend the lease to take my name off, but keep my roommate's name on? If I need to terminate the lease, what information should I include in the document? Is it possible to terminate one lease and create another? And last but not least: do I need to have a lawyer draft this? How much will it cost?

My landlord has told me that this is a matter between myself and the Roommate (my landlord is a cool guy). I think when I convince my Roommate to sign it, the landlord will sign it as well.

Thanks in advance!

BTW Before you ask, I did try to find the Roommate a sub-letter from among my friends. I will continue trying, even though he's sort of pissed me off now. I just want to get my name off the lease.