A lot of men and women who are found guilty of DUI or DWI in Athens, New York find themselves at a crucial decision making point, and can either be dealt severe penalties as a result of their alcohol and drug related offenses or agree to go to effective drug and alcohol treatment centers. First time DUI/DWI offenders are key candidates for such treatment, which has been very helpful in addressing problems with drug and ensuring they stay out of the court system in the future. In truth, even if the alcohol and drug rehab option is involuntary and is ordered by the judge these offenders experience the same success rates as someone who takes part in drug rehab by their own will. In fact, it is significantly more beneficial for the offender, the court system and society all around to rehabilitate DUI/DWI offenders than it is to punish them.