Tribal governments exist across Alaska. Most have governing councils, some have executive agencies, and some have tribal courts, although tribal governments do not always have three separate branches of government. Many villages in rural Alaska have tribal courts or tribal councils that can resolve disputes for the residents of the village. Some of these organizations hear cases about public drunkenness, disorderly conduct, and minor juvenile offenses. The tribal court or council often imposes fines, community work service, alcohol treatment, or other conditions.
Community residents staff the courts, and all parties participate voluntarily.
Tribal courts and councils work with village public safety officers, village police, state troopers, and the state's justice system agencies. This guide does not cover cases heard in tribal courts because they have different procedures. The judicial branch of Alaska's government is the Alaska Court System. The state court system has four levels of courts. Unlike most states, Alaska has no county or municipal courts.