DUI/DWI offenders in North Metro are sometimes given the option to take advantage of an alcohol and drug rehab program instead of penalties for their alcohol or drug related crimes. The punishment for such offenses can ordinarily be very extreme, and may include being locked up in jail and significant fines and other significant costs associated with being prosecuted and/or convicted of DUI/DWI. More often than not, particularly for first time offenders, the judge will decide that treating the issues of drug or alcohol addiction in drug rehab is will prove more effective in the long run for effectively addressing the issue. For DUI/DWI offenders in North Metro who are fortunate enough to be permitted to take part in such treatment in lieu of other far more serious penalties, most will stay out of the court system permanently.