Oklahoma · 12 O.S. §2004.2Oklahoma lis pendens: the notice of pendency of action and the 120-day service rule

In Oklahoma, filing a petition makes an action pending so as to charge third persons with notice, and while it is pending no third person acquires an interest in the subject matter against the prevailing party's title (12 O.S. §2004.2(A)). For actions in state or federal court involving real property, that notice takes effect only once a notice of pendency of action – identifying the case and the court and giving the legal description of the land – is filed of record with the county clerk of the county where the land is (§2004.2(A)(1)). The notice has no effect unless service of process on the defendant, or service by publication, begins within 120 days after the petition is filed (§2004.2(A)(2)). Except for mechanics' and materialmen's lien claimants, an interest in the land acquired after the notice is filed – or acquired earlier but filed or perfected after it – is void against the prevailing party (§2004.2(B)). Someone who acquires an interest in violation of the section need not get notice of an execution sale or its confirmation hearing (§2004.2(C)).