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.