§ 37 — Fees and representation in proceedings under this chapter; solicitation of business of representing claimant

Section 37. No fee shall be charged in any proceeding under this chapter by the commissioner or any of his agents or representatives.In any proceeding under this chapter a party may be represented by an agent or attorney. No fees for the services rendered by such agent or attorney to an individual claiming benefits shall be allowable or payable unless the amount thereof shall have been previously approved by the commissioner, except in proceedings arising under sections forty and forty-one, when such fees shall be so approved by the board of review. Whoever exacts or receives any remuneration or gratuity for any services rendered on behalf of a benefit claimant under this chapter, except as authorized by this section, or who solicits the business of appearing on behalf of a benefit claimant or employer, or who makes it a business to solicit employment for another in connection with the making of any claim for benefits or for the purpose of opposing a claim or claims under this chapter, shall be punished by a fine of not more than one hundred dollars or by imprisonment for not more than six months, or both.