DUI/DWI offenders in St. Paul are often given the chance to participate in a drug and alcohol treatment program as opposed to receiving other punishment for their alcohol or drug related offenses. The consequences for these kinds of offenses can often be quite harsh, including incarceration and serious fines and even significant costs associated with being in the court system for and/or found guilty of DUI/DWI. Often, particularly for initial offenders, the court finds that addressing the problems of alcohol and drug addiction in drug or alcohol rehab is a better decision in the long term for curbing the problem. For DUI/DWI offenders in St. Paul who are fortunate enough to be allowed to participate in such treatment in lieu of other additional severe punishment, a great number will remain out of the court system for good.