DUI/DWI offenders in Utica are often given the opportunity to take part in a drug and alcohol rehab program instead of consequences for their alcohol or drug related crimes. The punishment for these types of crimes can often be rather severe, including being locked up in jail and serious fines and other significant costs to pay for being in the court system for and/or found guilty of DUI/DWI. Often, specifically for first time offenders, the criminal justice system will decide that addressing the problems of drug or alcohol addiction in treatment is going to be more effective in the long run for effectively addressing the issue. For DUI/DWI offenders in Utica that are fortunate enough to be able to participate in such treatment in lieu of other far more extreme punishment, most will remain away from the court system permanently.