from
Bouvier's Law Dictionary, Revised 6th Ed (1856)
FEES, compensation. Certain perquisites allowed by law to officers concerned
in the administration of justice, or in the performance of duties required
by law, as a recompense for their labor and trouble. Bac. Ab. h.t.; Latch,
18.
2. The term fees differs from costs in this, that the former are, as
above mentioned, a recompense to the officer for his services, and the
latter, an indemnification to the, party for money laid out and expended in
his suit. 11 S. & R. 248; 9 Wheat. 262; See 4 Binn. 267. Vide Costs; Color
of office; Exaction; Extortion.