Alaska § 11.81.620 - Effect of ignorance or mistake upon liability.
Full text of Alaska Alaska Statutes § 11.81.620 — Effect of ignorance or mistake upon liability., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 11.81.620. Effect of ignorance or mistake upon liability.
(a) Knowledge, recklessness, or criminal negligence as to whether conduct constitutes an offense, or knowledge, recklessness, or criminal negligence as to the existence, meaning, or application of the provision of law defining an offense, is not an element of an offense unless the provision of law clearly so provides. Use of the phrase “intent to commit a crime”, “intent to promote or facilitate the commission of a crime”, or like terminology in a provision of law does not require that the defendant act with a culpable mental state as to the criminality of the conduct that is the object of the defendant's intent.
(b) A person is not relieved of criminal liability for conduct because the person engages in the conduct under a mistaken belief of fact, unless (1) the factual mistake is a reasonable one that negates the culpable mental state required for the commission of the offense;
(2) the provision of law defining the offense or a related provision of law expressly provides that the factual mistake constitutes a defense or exemption; or
(3) the factual mistake is a reasonable one that supports a defense of justification as provided in AS 11.81.320 — 11.81.430.
Source: official Alaska text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Alaska § 11.81.620
What does Alaska Statutes § 11.81.620 cover?
Section 11.81.620 ("Effect of ignorance or mistake upon liability.") is part of the Alaska Statutes, the codified statutory law of Alaska. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Alaska § 11.81.620?
A common citation format is "Alaska Statutes § 11.81.620" (Alaska). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Alaska law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Alaska official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Alaska attorney.
How does Alaska § 11.81.620 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Alaska can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Alaska.