Violations of marital and family therapists law, penalty — attorney general, duties — injunctions — venue

1. Violation of any provision of sections 337.700 to 337.739 is a class B misdemeanor. 2. All fees or other compensation received for services which are rendered in violation of sections 337.700 to 337.739 shall be refunded. 3. The department on behalf of the division may sue in its own name in any court in this state. The department shall inquire as to any violations of sections 337.700 to 337.739, may institute actions for penalties prescribed, and shall enforce generally the provisions of sections 337.700 to 337.739. 4. Upon application by the committee, the attorney general may on behalf of the division request that a court of competent jurisdiction grant an injunction, restraining order or other order as may be appropriate to enjoin a person from: (1) Offering to engage or engaging in the performance of any acts or practices for which a certificate of registration or authority, permit or license is required upon a showing that such acts or practices were performed or offered to be performed without a certificate of registration or authority, permit or license; (2) Engaging in any practice of business authorized by a certificate of registration or authority, permit or license issued pursuant to sections 337.700 to 337.739, upon a showing that the holder presents a substantial probability of serious harm to the health, safety or welfare of any resident of this state or client or patient of the licensee. 5. Any action brought pursuant to the provisions of this section shall be commenced either in the county in which such conduct occurred or in the county in which the defendant resides. 6. Any action brought under this section may be in addition to or in lieu of any penalty provided by sections 337.700 to 337.739 and may be brought concurrently with other actions to enforce the provisions of sections 337.700 to 337.739.