(a) An individual claiming benefits may not be charged a fee of any kind in a proceeding under this chapter by the department or its representatives, or by a court or an officer of a court. An individual claiming benefits in a proceeding before the department or its representatives or a court may be represented by counsel or other authorized agent; but the counsel or agent may not charge or receive for services more than an amount approved by the department or the court.
(b) A person who violates a provision of this section upon conviction is punishable, for each offense, by a fine of not more than $500, or by imprisonment for not more than six months, or by both.