New York Consolidated Laws, Workers' Compensation Law - WKC § 225. Fees for representing employees

Claims of attorneys and counsellors-at-law for services in connection with any contested claim arising under this article shall not be enforceable unless approved by the board.  If so approved, such fee or fees shall become a lien upon the benefits ordered, but shall be paid therefrom only in the manner fixed by the board or the alternative dispute resolution association.  Any other person, firm, corporation, organization, or other association who shall exact or receive any fee or gratuity for any services rendered on behalf of an employee except in an amount so determined shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.  Any person, firm, corporation, organization, or association who shall solicit the business of an employee claiming benefits under this article, or who shall make it a business to solicit employment for a lawyer in connection with any claim for disability or family leave benefits under this article, or who shall exact or receive any fee or gratuity or other charge with respect to the collection of any uncontested claim for disability or family leave benefits, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.