Go to small claim courts if you fell you have been duped. You dont need a lawyer. Also they might also just cancel the charges and might give you the deposit back for the hassle of going to the court.  Did you guys damage the carpet badly or was resonably dirty? Resonable damages are a part of a lease. Three years is a long time and they cant be expecting the carpet to be in like new condition after all these years.If the place was dirty they will need to prove the resons and the charges associated. Check the internet if other people have written something online about the apartment. You cannot be charged for them. Also you are supposed to get interest on your deposit accumulating to one year. Your state might be different. Also read your lease and see if you are binded in any way.