The board is authorized to employ counsel to advise and represent it and drainage districts in any matter in which they are interested. Attorney fees and expenses shall be paid out of the drainage fund of the district for which the services are rendered, or may be apportioned equitably among two or more districts. Such attorneys shall be allowed reasonable compensation for their services, also necessary traveling expenses while engaged in such business. Attorneys rendering such services shall file with the auditor an itemized, verified account of all claims therefor, and statement of expenses, and the same shall be audited and allowed by the board in the amount found to be due.