; and (B) a civil penalty of not more than $500 for a first offense and not more than $1,500 for a second or subsequent offense. (3) Jurisdiction An action under this subsection may be brought in any United States district court, or in any other court of competent jurisdiction. (4) Intervention of Attorney General Upon timely application, a court may, in its discretion, permit the Attorney General to intervene in a civil action brought under this subsection, if the Attorney General certifies that the action is of general public importance. (5) Authority to appoint court-paid attorney Upon application by an individual and in such circumstances as the court may determine just, the court may appoint an attorney for such individual and may authorize the commencement of a civil action under this subsection without the payment of fees, costs, or security. (6) Attorney’s fees In any action commenced pursuant to this subsection, the court, in its discretion, may allow the prevailing party, other than the United States, a reasonable attorney’s fee, not to exceed $3,000 in amount, as part of the costs, and the United States shall be liable for costs the same as a private person. (7) Requirements in certain States and local areas In the case of an alleged act or practice prohibited by this section which occurs in a State, or political subdivision of a State, which has a State or local law prohibiting such act or practice and establishing or authorizing a State or local authority to grant or seek relief from such act or practice or to institute criminal proceedings with respect thereto upon receiving notice thereof, no civil action may be brought hereunder before the expiration of 30 days after written notice of such alleged act or practice has been given to the appropriate State or local authority by registered mail or in person, provided that the court may stay proceedings in such civil action pending the termination of State or local enforcement proceedings. (f) Greater protection under State law This section shall not