Alaska’s DWI laws are much the same as in other parts of the country. If you are found with a blood alcohol content of .08%, you are arrested for DWI and then have to face the legal consequences. If the officer that pulls you over feels that you are incapacitated in any way, they are also allowed to book you under DWI laws, even if you are not found to have the BAC of .08%. This can be done through field sobriety testing and through observing how you are driving.
First Offense
If it is your first offense of DWI in Alaska, a 90 day license suspension begins immediately upon your arrest. A conviction means that the installation of an ignition interlock device will have to be done at your cost to keep you from driving. You will face drug or alcohol abuse assessment as well to determine if you need rehab. In Alaska, any conviction for DWI stays on your record for life. As far as jail time, you are facing 72 hours in jail. Fines of up to $1500 can be levied, as well as the additional costs for court fees, representation, ignition interlock device, and alcohol counseling if needed, as well as your own representation costs.
Second Offense
Your second lifetime DUI/DWI offense means that you will lose your license for 1 year from your arrest and if you were driving without your license, your revocation will be added to the first offense, making your time period even longer. An ignition interlock device will be installed for 12 months at a cost to you or your car may be forfeited to the state if you are found to be a danger to the public or if it is found that you are in danger of DWI again. The minimum sentence is no less than 20 days and a fine of $3000 can be levied as well. In addition to your fine, you will be responsible for any court costs and fees associated with your DWI, as well as the cost for incarceration, which can mean an additional $1500 to your costs.
Third Offense
A third conviction means that you have a class “C” felony on your record and can lose your license for 3 years or for the rest of your life if you have had a conviction within the last ten years. A minimum 60 day incarceration is to be expected or this can be 120 days if you have another DWI conviction within the last 10 years. In addition, you can expect a hefty bill from the state. Your fine will be anywhere from $4000 to $10000 depending upon prior convictions, as well as other costs that you are responsible for, including lawyer costs, court fees, incarceration costs, etc.
Fourth Offense
A fourth DWI conviction means that you will automatically lose your license for 5 years or permanently lose it if you have had a conviction in the last ten years. It is a class “C” felony, which gives you a minimum 90 day jail sentence, up to 120 days if you have had a conviction in the last ten years. A fine of $5000 to $10000 will be levied against you as well.
Fifth Offense
Your fifth DWI conviction will revoke your license for at least 5 years or, if your last conviction was within the last ten years, you will lose your license permanently. This felony conviction will mean prison for at least 240 days, and can be up to 360 days if you have been convicted in the last ten years. A fine will also be levied of $6000 to $100000 depending upon your circumstances.