What are my rights if I'm trying to get my name removed off a lease?
Answer based on California law, but not a legal opinion. You are probably in for some trouble. In our leases, all tenants assumed joint and several liability for the rent, which meant that we could sue any or all of them for back rent, regardless of whether they ever lived there or not. This means that you should choose your roommate carefully. Your options are limited. The only thing I can think of is to just refuse to pay. This will result in either the other tenant stepping up and paying, or else the landlord kicking them out. The latter situation might put an eviction on your record, as well as a money judgment, which will remain until the entire amount is paid. But at least it puts an end to this nightmare, and you might be able to sue the other tenant for their share. Good luck.