Potential Penalties for Driving Under The Influence (DUI) In Alaska

According to the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), the average possible fine of a first-time DUI conviction in Alaska is $25,200. The punishment of losing your right to drive for at least 90 days or having a DUI conviction go on your permanent record is not included, as stated by the DMV. If you have a DUI on your permanent record, it can be challenging to get a job, and you might lose the one you already have. Also, a DUI may severely restrict your ability to pursue higher education if you’re presently in school or considering going to college.

The Penalties For DUI In Alaska

Section 28.35.030 of the Alaska Statutes provides the penalty for driving while under the influence of an alcoholic beverage, inhalant, or controlled substance. The punishments that could be imposed on you if you have been charged with DUI depend on many variables, including:

• Your blood alcohol level (BAC) at the time of your arrest.
• Whether or not you have a history of DUI offenses.
• If you have any prior convictions, they must have happened within the last ten years.

1. Alaska’s First-Time DUI Penalties

A first-time DUI will often be categorized as a Class A misdemeanor. Class A misdemeanor offenses in Alaska are punishable by up to a year in jail and a $25,000 fine. But Section 28.35.030 also details minimum punishments for DUI offenders. The potential sentencing for a first-time DUI in Alaska includes:

• A minimum of 72 hours and a maximum of one year in prison.
• A minimum of $1,500 and a maximum of $25,000 in fines.
• Suspension of your driver’s license for at least 90 days.

If your BAC were 0.16 or above, in addition to paying fines, going to jail, and losing your driving privileges, you’d also need to install an ignition interlock device (IID) on your car for at least six months or one year if your BAC was above 0.23 percent. Regardless of your BAC, you will also be required to pay court fees, pay to have your car released from impound, and purchase SR22 auto insurance for five years at $2,000 per year. You will also be required to participate in Alaska’s alcohol safety action program or undergo rehabilitation treatment. You will also cater to any emergency services costs that responded to the accident if you caused it.

• Sentencing  for Repeat DUI Offenders in Alaska (Non-Felony)

If you already have a DUI conviction on your permanent record, the consequences of a further DUI accusation are more severe. The potential punishments for repeat DUI offenders in Alaska include the following, supposing that you are not being charged with a Class C felony:

• Second DUI
  • Serving 20 days to one year in county jail.
  • Paying $5,000 to $25,000 in fines.
  • Have your driver’s license suspended for a minimum of one year.

• Third DUI
  • Serving 60 days to one year in prison.
  • Paying $6,000 to $25,000 in fines.
  • Have your driver’s license suspended for a minimum of three years.

• Fourth DUI
  • Serving 120 days to one year in prison.
  • Paying $7,000 to $25,000 in fines.
  • Have your driver’s license suspended for a minimum of five years.

• Fifth DUI
• Serving 240 days to one year in prison.
• Paying $8,000 to $25,000 in fines.
• Have your driver’s license suspended for at least five years.

• Sixth or Subsequent DUI
  • Serving 360 days to one year in prison.
  • Paying $9,000 to $25,000 in fines.
  • Have your driver’s license suspended for at least five years.

These penalties are added to the other sanctions for first-time DUI offenders described above. Also, note that these represent expected DUI consequences. You might be subject to further charges and punishments if you caused a serious accident, had a minor in your car, or if many other conditions apply to your case. Working with a reputable law firm in Alaska, USA, could help lower your charges or sentences.

Alaska’s Class C Felony

If you are convicted of DUI twice or more within ten years, you are charged with a Class C felony instead of a Class A misdemeanor. There are a few different situations in which felonies can also be charged.

Class C offenses in Alaska could result in a five-year jail sentence and a $50,000 fine. Minimum punishments under the DUI legislation include:

• Serving 120 days in prison and paying a $10,000 fine for two prior convictions.
• Paying $10,000 in fines and serving 240 days in jail for three prior convictions.
• Serving 360 days in prison and paying a $10,000 fine for four or more prior convictions.

If you face arrest or charges for a DUI offense in Alaska, you must speak with an attorney immediately. Discuss your case with the lawyer and build strong defenses to fight your charges.