New Delhi, Oct. 23 -- Companies are increasingly dialing up lawyers for advice on board composition, independent director appointments and disagreements as corporate governance gains prominence and resignations from listed-company boards hit a five-year high.

The advisory work extends beyond statutory compliance as companies strive to balance independent oversight with commercial decision-making. Law firms are also fielding queries on related-party transactions, audit observations, reporting obligations and director compensation, especially when directors question management proposals or raise concerns over board processes.

"Yes, there has been a measured increase over the past year. Most of it is not about reducing independent director...