Security Deposit Question

[journeystar.livejournal.com]

This is another landlord/tennant related question:

I moved out of my old apartment in June. My roommate moved out in July. It is now August 7th and I have yet to recieve my security deposit back. I was told my old roomie left the apartment in pretty bad condition but a)I moved out a month before him (taking pictures of how I left *my* half of the apartment)b)we had separate security deposit checks.
Reading over the tenant/landlord state guidelines for Massachusetts, it says I must have my security deposit returned within 30 days, and, if not, I must receive an explanation why it was held including a bill for repairs.I have received no communication from my old landlord despite several phone calls, letters, and messages regarding this matter.
On the whole, the people in this community seem very intelligent and well-educated in these matters. How should I proceed? Has anyone been in this situation before and had to go to small claims court? Would I need some sort of legal represenation and,moreover, where could I find such representation?
Thanks in advance!


8/8 EDIT: Thank you all!! You guys rock!

Dangerous Bicycle Scenario

[xuth.livejournal.com]

I just ran into (almost literally) a very dangerous bicycle scenario in Davis Square this evening.
( Details and graphic behind this cut tag )