exactly what i was thinking Uma, how the judge could find you guilty of something that is not in your domain as a renter, like the general upkeep of major appliances, unless GROSS NEGLEGANCE is PROVEN. Just because the fridge went out (as example) 2 weeks after you moved in, doesn't mean you are responsible for paying for it.
I'd be getting with that attorney friend of yours, and looking up your states renter's rights.
*I am not a lawyer, do not take anything i say to be fact, blah blah blah