Alaska Court Records
- Search By:
- Name
- Case Number
AlaskaCourtRecords.us is not a consumer reporting agency as defined by the FCRA and does not provide consumer reports. All searches conducted on AlaskaCourtRecords.us are subject to the Terms of Service and Privacy Notice.
Understanding Class A Misdemeanors in Alaska
In Alaska, Class A misdemeanors represent the most serious category of non-felony offenses. Given the seriousness of these violations, the state has established a maximum statutory penalty that includes both fines and potential imprisonment. This sentencing method emphasizes that Class A misdemeanors involve actions that pose a significant threat to public safety, particularly in cases of repeated offenses. Certain Class A misdemeanors can be elevated to felony status based on the defendant's previous convictions for the same or similar crimes. For instance, a third misdemeanor assault within 10 years is categorized as a Class C felony. This upgrade also applies to repeated drug-related offenses or cases of criminal negligence.
Examples of Class A Misdemeanors in Alaska
Class A misdemeanors include various violent acts, certain public order violations, and severe property crimes. This classification serves two key functions: it tackles offenses associated with direct harm and serves as a mechanism for penalizing repeated behaviors. The different categories include:
Fourth-Degree Assault (AS 11.41.230): This offense type is classified as a breach of public order and a crime related to domestic violence (DV). An individual may be charged with a Class A misdemeanor if found guilty of:
- Carelessly causing physical injury to another person
- Recklessly stimulating fear or immediate physical harm in someone through action or words
- Inflicting injury with a weapon through reckless behavior
Theft (AS 11.46.140): In Alaska, theft is classified based on the value of the stolen items: property worth $250 but less than $750 is classified as a third-degree Class A misdemeanor offense. A Class A misdemeanor applies when convicted of theft for the third time within five years, regardless of whether the stolen item's value is under $250.
Driving Under the Influence (DUI) (AS 28.35.030): Operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs, inhalants, or alcohol is categorized as a Class A misdemeanor in Alaska. If someone is charged with DUI for the first or second time, it falls under the designation of Class A misdemeanor; however, a third DUI within a decade is escalated to a Class C felony.
| Offense Type | Description | Potential Punishment |
|---|---|---|
| Fourth-Degree Assault | Reckless conduct, inflicting harm/injuries on others, resisting arrest, and violation of protective orders. | Jail sentence up to 1 year, fines, or probation based on the gravity of the offense. |
| DUI offense | First and second-time DUI |
|
| Third-Degree Theft | Value-based: Stolen items worth between $250–$750, and a third-time theft of any item of lesser value than $250 | Fines or jail time. |
Interested individuals can view Alaska Criminal Court Records for detailed information on misdemeanor cases filed in Alaska.
Penalties for a Class A Misdemeanor in Alaska
Under AS 12.55.135, an individual convicted of a Class A misdemeanor is generally sentenced to:
- A jail term of up to 1 year (AS § 12.55.135(a)), and
- Up to $25,000 in fines (§ 12.55.035(5).
Probation and Alternative Sentencing Options in Alaska
In Alaska, alternative sentencing options are imposed by the state to reduce costs and the impact of the statutory incarceration period. These punishments typically vary by county and are imposed on the offender at the court's discretion, depending on the nature of the offense and the offender's criminal history. The Alaska Statutes outline the following alternative punishments:
- Probation
- Community service
- Deferred prosecution, which depends on the successful completion of specific conditions
- License suspension (for DUI cases)
- Electronic monitoring
- Suspended Imposition of Sentence (SIS)
- Specialized treatment programs
- Restitution (AS 12.55.045)
Can a Class A Misdemeanor Be Expunged or Sealed in Alaska?
Criminal records in Alaska cannot be expunged, as the state's law does not recognize the term. However, individuals can "seal" their criminal records. Sealing a Class A misdemeanor conviction record is subject to statutory requirements under AS 12.62.180, which does not apply to post-conviction cases.
Where a case is acquitted or dismissed after successful completion of a deferred prosecution program, the court automatically removes the record from public access after 60 days. Otherwise, to qualify to seal a Class A misdemeanor record, the petitioner must prove that the conviction resulted from "false accusation" or "mistaken identity". The case may also be considered for sealing if the petitioner presents proof that a Governor's Pardon was granted or the conviction was overturned by the court.
Due to these strict requirements, actual convictions or cases with guilty pleas are likely not eligible for sealing, regardless of the amount of time passed or the offender's future actions. Furthermore, the law upholds public transparency of criminal convictions, which makes such cases permanent on an individual's record.
Long-Term Consequences of a Class A Misdemeanor Conviction
A Class A misdemeanor conviction carries significant long-term repercussions for the offender. Beyond immediate penalties, these consequences can include:
- Denial of Professional Licenses: Alaska statutes provide grounds that disqualify a license applicant with a misdemeanor conviction.
- Firearm Rights Restriction: Under Alaska law, individuals are not eligible to obtain a handgun permit if they have been convicted of two or more Class A misdemeanors in any state within the last six years (both at the state/federal levels).
- Diminished employment or housing prospects
In practice, the impact of a Class A misdemeanor depends on its severity. For instance, a first-time Class A misdemeanor conviction is less threatening to gun ownership than a fourth-degree assault conviction labeled as domestic violence (DV).
What to Do if You're Charged with a Class A Misdemeanor in Alaska?
The first critical step to take when charged with a Class A misdemeanor is to seek legal counsel. The alleged offender should consult with an attorney who has relevant knowledge and can evaluate the specific case, clarifying the legal procedures and potential penalties. The attorney can assist the defendant in crafting a tailored defense strategy and provide guidance on collecting key evidence (witness statements, police reports, and correspondence with law enforcement agencies) to strengthen the case. The attorney also ensures that all documents are accurate and submitted punctually.
Notably, engaging in voluntary community service or rehabilitation programs, even if not mandated by the court, demonstrates a commitment to improvement and can positively influence the court's perception. Additionally, participating in character-building activities can further strengthen one's defense.
Statute of Limitations for Class A Misdemeanors in Alaska
The statute of limitations (SOL) refers to the timeframe within which a prosecutor can file charges against an alleged offender. In Alaska, most offenses (except serious crimes like sexual abuse of a minor, murder, and sexual assault) must be prosecuted within a set period, after which legal action can not be initiated in court.
According to AS 12.10.010 (b)(2), the general SOL for all misdemeanors, without exception, is five years from the date the crime was committed. This legal clock can be "tolled" or paused, however, under specific circumstances, such as if the suspect goes into hiding or leaves the state. The SOL suspension only resumes when the suspect returns to the state. For the statute of limitations to remain in effect without interruption, the suspect must stay within the state and remain accessible for investigation.