N.Y. Real Property Law § 234-a: Unauthorized legal fees

§ 234-a. Unauthorized legal fees. (a) An owner, lessor or agent

thereof shall be prohibited from assessing a lessee any fee, surcharge

or other charges for legal services in connection with the operation or

rental of a residential unit unless the owner, lessor or agent has the

legal authority to do so pursuant to a court order. The provisions of

this subdivision shall not apply to a shareholder of a cooperative

housing corporation, provided, however, that the provisions of this

subdivision shall apply with respect to any tenant or subtenant of such

a shareholder.

(b) Legal services include, but are not limited to, court fees, legal

representation, attorney fees, notary public charges, and administrative

fees incurred by the owner, lessor or agent in connection with

management of the building, including actions and proceedings in a court

of law.

(c) Any agreement or assessment contrary to this section shall be void

as contrary to public policy.