My lease had a clause that stated an automatic conversion to month-to-month at the end of the first six-month term. Another clause stated that notice to vacate must be given 30 days in advance on a form provided by management.

One month prior to the end of my six-month lease, I chose to provide my notice to vacate on a post-it note firmly attached to my rent check. On the morning of the first day of a 31-day month (lease expired at the end of that month), I dropped my check into the rent collection box.

About 1.5 months after I moved out, I got a bill for several thousand dollars. Apparently I was tagged for not providing notice and "skipping." Besides the extra month rent, an additional two months rent was charged as a lease termination fee.

Obviously, I overlooked the clause that required notice to be given on a form provided by management. And yes, my judgement in providing notice by way of a post-it note was questionable.

But did I not meet the heart of the lease requirement? I've experimented with post-its on checks and I dare anyone to plausibly argue that it could have fallen off. No way. Rather, I believe it was simply mishandled by one of the ditzy leasing associates. Further, I signed that post-it. So even if it did fall off, someone could have easily checked the lease records.

Anyone care to comment on what my chances are if I have to defend myself in front of a judge? I've offered the collections agency a few hundred dollars to settle, but they're playing hardball.

Thanks!