DUI/DWI offenders in Watauga, Tennessee are sometimes given the option to take part in a drug and alcohol rehab program in lieu of punishment for their alcohol or drug related criminal offenses. The punishment for these kinds of criminal offenses can occasionally be rather severe, which can include jail time and substantial fines and even significant costs associated with being in the court system for and/or found guilty of DUI/DWI. More often than not, especially for initial offenders, the court finds that treating the issues of drug or alcohol abuse in drug rehab is a better decision in the long run for full handling the issue. For DUI/DWI offenders in Watauga, Tennessee that are lucky enough to be permitted to take part in such treatment instead of other additional serious punishment, most will stay away from the criminal justice system permanently.