(a) The commissioner may bring an action in the name of the people of this state in the superior court to enjoin any violation of, to enforce compliance with, or to collect any penalty or other liability imposed under this division or any regulation or order issued under this chapter. Upon a proper showing, a permanent or preliminary injunction, restraining order, or writ of mandate shall be granted, and a monitor, receiver, conservator, or other designated fiduciary or officer of the court may be granted as appropriate.

(b) A receiver, monitor, conservator, or other designated fiduciary officer of the court appointed by the court pursuant to this section may, with the approval of the court, exercise all of the powers of the defendant’s officers, directors, partners, trustees, or persons who exercise similar powers and perform similar duties, including the filing of a petition for bankruptcy. No action at law or in equity may be maintained by any party against the commissioner, or a receiver, monitor, conservator, or other designated fiduciary or officer of the court by reason of their exercising these powers or performing these duties pursuant to the order of, or with the approval of, the court.

(c) If the commissioner finds that it is in the public interest, the commissioner may include in a claim for restitution, disgorgement, or damages on behalf of the person injured by the act or practice constituting the subject matter of the action, and the court shall have jurisdiction to award ancillary relief.

(d) The provisions of this section that authorize the commissioner to bring actions and seek relief are not intended to, and do not, affect any right that any other person may have to bring the same or similar actions or to seek the same or similar relief.

(Added by Stats. 2000, Ch. 612, Sec. 4. Effective January 1, 2001.)