The state legislature makes laws which define crimes and set sentences in Alaska. The legislature also decides how much money to spend each year for justice, reflecting state priorities for punishment, enforcement, prevention, and treatment. The state enforces laws against murder, sex offenses, assault and domestic violence, robbery, burglary, theft, driving while intoxicated, drug and liquor smuggling, and fish and game offenses. The state also handles most juvenile offenses. This guide covers cases under state and local laws.
Local governments exist many places in Alaska.
Most towns and boroughs have mayors, assembly or council members, and police. Some cities and boroughs have their own laws or ordinances that cover misdemeanors committed within city or borough limits. Some of these ordinances overlap with state law, and some cover issues of local concern like domestic violence, prostitution, traffic, sale of alcohol, and gambling. Although local police and prosecutors enforce these ordinances, the cases are heard in state courts. Convicted offenders may serve time in either state or local jails.