(1) Nothing in this chapter shall preclude either party from representation by private counsel or from appearing on his or her own behalf.

     (2) The court may require the respondent to pay the filing fee and court costs, including service fees, and to reimburse the petitioner for costs incurred in bringing the action, including a reasonable attorney's fee. If the petitioner has been granted leave to proceed in forma pauperis, the court may require the respondent to pay the filing fee and costs, including services fees, to the county or municipality incurring the expense.

[1992 c 143 § 14; 1987 c 280 § 9.]