Quite a few people who are found guilty of DUI or DWI in Columbus, Texas discover that they are at a crucial decision making point, and can find themselves dealing with serious penalties as a result of their drug and alcohol related offenses or agree to go to proven and effective drug and alcohol rehabilitation programs. First time DUI/DWI offenders are prime candidates for such rehab, and this has been proven effective in addressing difficulties with drugs and alcohol and making sure they stay out of the court system for good. In truth, even if the drug rehabilitation alternative is involuntary and court ordered these offenders experience the same success rates as those who take part in drug and alcohol rehabilitation voluntarily. In essence, it is significantly more beneficial for the offender, the court system and society at large to rehab DUI/DWI offenders than it is to penalize them.