An attempt to contract for an illegal purpose—to commit a murder or other crime or to facilitate an illegal objective (a promissory note for the purchase of illegal drugs)—is unenforceable and does not create a contract. A purported contract that is found to be for an illegal purpose is void and treated as if it never existed.
In Oklahoma, as in all states, a contract that is created for an illegal purpose is considered void and unenforceable. This means that if a contract's objective is to commit a crime, such as murder, or to facilitate an illegal activity, such as the purchase of illegal drugs, the law treats the contract as if it never existed. Oklahoma law, consistent with general contract principles, does not recognize any agreement that requires one or both parties to engage in illegal actions. Such contracts violate public policy and, therefore, the courts will not enforce them. If a contract is found to be illegal, any actions taken under the pretense of the contract would also be considered illegal, and the parties may face criminal charges for their involvement in the criminal activities outlined in the contract.