When you engage counsel, it may also be wise to consider the option of settlement - maybe landlord will be more keen to voluntarily pay if you are represented by counsel. As your lawyer friend may have already told you, litigation can sometimes be costly and time consuming so just keep that option in mind. Not sure how things work in NJ but I assume you still have to go to court to obtain an enforceable judgment. Good luck and I hope you get a good lawyer to help you out!