DUI Law in Knik-Fairview, AK
What Is a DUI?
A DUI charge happens when the police arrest you for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. As reported by the DMV, the consequences of a guilty conviction can be harsh. You can owe thousands of dollars in fines and spend time in jail.
If you or a loved one from Knik-Fairview gets arrested for a DUI, legal help is a necessity. Otherwise, you may not have the leverage necessary to deal with the aftermath. Use this guide as an opportunity to protect your rights and rehabilitate as soon as possible.
Possible Consequences of Knik-Fairview, Alaska DUI Convictions
The sentencing for a DUI depends on your criminal record and the severity of your case. Accordingly, the sentencing guidelines increase when you have prior convictions.
Whether this DUI is your first or fifth, facing the charges alone can be a costly mistake. You need a Knik-Fairview attorney to defend you and your rights.
Paying Fines
Fines are a standard part of sentencing for driving under the influence in Knik-Fairview, Alaska. Under Alaska Statutes, a Knik-Fairview will have to pay according to this schedule:
- $1,500 for the first conviction
- $3,000 with one prior conviction
- $4,000 with two prior convictions
- $5,000 with three prior convictions
- $6,000 with four prior convictions
- $7,000 for more than four prior convictions
A few more factors that can increase the amount you pay in fines are:
- Court costs
- Damaging property
- Child endangerment
- Causing injuries while driving under the influence
Jail Time
Time in jail can be mandatory, even if you are a first-time DUI offender in Knik-Fairview. However, anyone with previous convictions for DUIs can receive sentences of several months to years. The circumstances that stack up time behind bars involve causing injury to others.
Probation
Even if you do not go to jail, the chances are that you will spend time on probation. The sentencing judge will decide how long this supervision lasts. They will also set the monthly fees and conditions you have to follow. Any violation of these terms can mean you spend time in prison.
The conditions of probation that a judge can order are strict and at their discretion. They can sentence a Knik-Fairview resident to comply with the following:
- Submitting to periodic polygraph sessions
- Fulfilling community service time
- Paying restitution and fines
- Giving a blood sample for the DNA database
- Meeting regularly with a probation officer
Drug and Alcohol Education Program
The law makes attending a drug and alcohol education program mandatory after a DUI in Knik-Fairview. These classes focus on the dangers of driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol. You will also have to pay the fees on top of the usual legal costs.
The judge in your case will likely order you to participate in the state Alcohol Safety Action Program. According to their website, they are a neutral connection between the health and justice departments. Their mission is to accomplish the following goals:
- Reduce recidivism
- Increase accountability
- Increase community safety
- Reduce the resources required to enforce DUIs
These education programs also involve going through a DUI evaluation. The instructor will ask about the role drugs and alcohol play in your life. They can refer you to a substance abuse treatment if they have reason to believe you have an addiction.
Suspension or Loss of License
A license suspension is a typical consequence of a DUI conviction in Alaska. A first DUI may only result in going a few months without driving privileges and attending classes.
If you have a history of DUI convictions, your can have your license suspended for much longer. A particularly heinous crime may end with losing your it permanently.
What Should You Do When Charged With a DUI in Knik-Fairview, Alaska?
If you’re facing a felony DUI charge, you must take the following steps to protect yourself:
Step 1: Contact a Knik-Fairview DUI Attorney
You need to contact a skilled Knik-Fairview DUI attorney immediately after your arrest. Your legal counsel will prepare you for the arraignment, develop a defense, and advocate for reduced sentences.
Step 2: Learn About Your Local DUI Laws
There are distinctive DUI or DWI laws in Knik-Fairview, Alaska. Your lawyer will explain them in detail since you have a right to understand the charges and potential consequences.
Step 3: Request a DMV Hearing
You or your attorney should request a hearing shortly after your arrest. Knik-Fairview, Alaska residents do not have much time to ask the DMV for one. If you do not put up a fight, then you must plan for your license to get suspended.
The Alaska DMV goes into detail about how these hearings work. First, the hearing officer will review the facts of your case. Then they will ask if you have questions and interview any witnesses that come forward. You do not have to have a Knik-Fairview DUI attorney with you. However, it is advisable since this event has similarities to being in court.
Step 4: Prepare for Court Appearance
Your attorney is responsible for preparing you for your arraignment hearing in Knik-Fairview. If you plead “not guilty,” your defense attorney will defend you in court. At this point, your fate will depend on the opinions of a jury unless you decide to go with a bench trial.
Step 5: Receive Sentencing or Exoneration
There are two possible outcomes for most people who face DUI charges. Either the court will find you not guilty, or the judge will sentence you after a guilty conviction.
Work with an Experienced Local DUI Lawyer in Knik-Fairview, Alaska
Are you ready to talk to a Knik-Fairview DUI lawyer about your charges?
You need help to reduce the consequences or clear your name. The rest of your life can depend on having competent legal representation. We can connect you with a local attorney that will organize your defense.
Send us a request today, or call (866) 345-6784 to get started. We can even help you connect with legal help across Alaska state lines.
