The attorney-client privilege is a rule that preserves the confidentiality of communications between attorneys and clients when the purpose of the communication is the client seeking legal advice and the attorney giving legal advice. The rule provides that attorneys may not disclose such communications, and opposing parties in civil litigation, criminal litigation, or other legal proceedings may not compel the disclosure of such communications. The privilege is designed to allow clients to openly share information with their attorney so the attorney can provide the most effective adv ice and representation possible.

In Oklahoma, the attorney-client privilege is codified under Title 12 of the Oklahoma Statutes, Section 2502. This privilege ensures that communications between an attorney and their client are kept confidential when the client is seeking legal advice, and the attorney is providing it. The privilege applies to both oral and written communications and is intended to encourage full and frank discussions between the client and the attorney. It is the client's privilege to waive, and it survives even after the attorney-client relationship has ended or after the client's death. However, there are exceptions to this privilege, such as when the communication relates to future crimes or fraud or when the client puts the legal advice in issue. Attorneys in Oklahoma are also bound by the Oklahoma Rules of Professional Conduct, which impose ethical obligations to maintain client confidences.