Landlord didn't return security deposit in time

[Kevin Cenna]

Hi all,

A friend of mine moved out of their apartment in the San Diego area and moved into another apartment across town.  The landlord was given plenty of prior notice (over 30 days early).  The unit was already in good condition and my friend spent a full day cleaning & then took pictures of the unit prior to move-out.  

They requested the landlord do a walk-through of the unit prior to turning over the keys and was denied.  They then started receiving notice of (IMO) unusual feedback - that the security deposit would not be refunded in full because there was dust on top of the washer - stuff that just doesn't sound legit.  Now, despite several requests to have the deposit returned, they have received neither a refund nor an itemized list of expenses.  Tomorrow will be 22 days from move-out and the landlord has become non-responsive and there is no expectation that the landlord will suddenly become responsive or return the deposit.  

Does anyone have a recommendation for A) how to handle the landlord, or B) legal representation that specializes in tenant's rights?

Thanks in advance!

Kevin