<prompt> Human: I was previously living in a scummy apartment that had the rooms divided by individual leases. My two roommates refused to pay the bills that were in my name and smoked enough weed to make any clean clothes for work reek. I wanted out of my lease and went to talk to the leasing office. They said there was no clause and I was stuck I now know to thoroughly read leases.I ended up getting a lawyer who drafted letters to them and advised me the lease was illegal and to move out and stop paying rent.Obviously this went to a debt collector and I have this on my credit. I cant find an apartment that will rent to me and am currently living with someone from craigslist. Any advice? What happens if I pay the debt collector?Assistant: So what did your lawyer have to say about this, since you stopped paying the rent based on their advice.Human: That someone will rent to me eventually and it will be off my credit in 6 years.  <response>: great lawyer there. you can find somewhere to live...eventually 