My question involves landlord-tenant law in the State of: California
Background:
Myself (R) and two others (S & T) signed a 9-month lease with an option for a month-to-month basis after the 9-month period. Each of us (R, S, & T) signed the lease. I planned to move out after the 9-month period ended. S& E wanted to stay so they found another person (V) to take my place. We had each put down a $1500 deposit upon move-in.
I know there was a renegotiation with the monthly rent. I do not know if another lease agreement was signed.
I know that the landlord has not received a deposit from V and I know that V gave S & T a check for first month's rent and a deposit.
Issue/Question #1:
The landlord forwarded me a text he had sent to S & T. It said: "You need to send 'R' her deposit back, for that 9 month period there are $300 in fines and $195 in repairs, 2 noise violations, 1 parking, split the fines however the three of you agree, just let me know the split."
He then sent to just me: "I have not received an additional deposit from the person that replaced you so they need to send the check."
Who am I supposed to get my deposit money from? The landlord is making it sound like S & T are supposed to give me a deposit but it is my understanding that HE is required to give me my deposit back (minus the fines) within 20 days of lease end.
Issue/Question #2:
Move out date was July 31. I technically "moved out" on June 26. I only slept there 1 night (July 25th roughly) and only went over there within that June 26-July 31 period to move stuff out. That ONE night I was there I did one load of laundry, cooked some food, and watched some TV (used water, cable and gas).
The gas is already paid off. Although I had originally felt that I shouldn't have to pay for utilities I barely used, I still paid the electricity and a significant amount to the cable company. S & T are now trying to squeeze more money out of me for the water bill and the cable bill. ($25.11 for water, and $22.79 for cable). Our monthly cable bill was over $160. The one night of cable I used should not cost me $22.79. Neither of these bills are in my name.
Am I liable to pay those amounts if I did not use those utilities? It is my understanding that utility companies recognize those who used the utilities responsible for payment.

