(a) Except in connection with a criminal proceeding brought under this part, a person may not charge or receive a fee from an applicant, recipient, or any other person:
(1) with respect to an application under this part; or
(2) to represent an applicant or recipient in any proceeding under this part.
(b) A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $500.