Fees Limitation; Legal Representation; Criminal Offense; Penalty

Sec. 207.007. FEES LIMITATION; LEGAL REPRESENTATION; CRIMINAL OFFENSE; PENALTY. (a) An individual claiming benefits under this subtitle may not be charged a fee in a proceeding under this subtitle by: (1) the commission or a representative of the commission; or (2) a court or an officer of a court. (b) An individual claiming benefits in a proceeding before the commission or a court may be represented by counsel or another authorized agent. Counsel or an agent representing an individual under this subtitle may charge and collect a fee for the counsel's or agent's services. (c) A person who violates this section commits an offense. An offense under this section is punishable by: (1) a fine of not less than $50 and not more than $500; (2) imprisonment for not more than six months; or (3) both a fine and imprisonment. Acts 1993, 73rd Leg., ch. 269, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1993. Amended by: Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 1104 (H.B. 2273), Sec. 2, eff. September 1, 2005.