Need a Legal And Professional Services Contract in Oklahoma? AroundWire Can Help

In Oklahoma, contracts for Legal and Professional Services—such as those involving attorneys, consultants, or specialized advisors—are governed by state procurement statutes, notably the Oklahoma Central Purchasing Act and the Professional Services Procurement Act. Such contracts typically require service providers to hold valid state licenses or certifications relevant to their field; for example, legal services must be provided by attorneys licensed with the Oklahoma Bar Association. Contracts often include explicit scopes of work, deliverable schedules, and confidentiality clauses to comply with both state law and professional ethical standards. Insurance requirements are common, with contractors expected to maintain professional liability (errors and omissions) coverage, and, where applicable, general liability insurance. Standard payment terms are net 30 days, but may be subject to negotiation; retainage is rare except for large or complex projects. Oklahoma law generally prohibits contingent fee arrangements for legal services with state agencies. State entities must follow competitive selection processes for most professional services, though some exceptions exist for sole-source or emergency needs. Risk factors include strict compliance with state and federal regulations, potential conflicts of interest (requiring disclosure and mitigation), and data privacy obligations. Dispute resolution is often specified as venue in Oklahoma state courts, with alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods like mediation sometimes required before litigation. Contracts may also reference the Oklahoma Open Records Act for handling service-related documentation.