Many men and women who become convicted of DUI or DWI in Atascadero, California find themselves at a crucial decision making point, and can either be dealt severe penalties as a result of their alcohol and drug related offenses or agree to go to proven and effective drug and alcohol rehab facilities. First time DUI/DWI offenders are prime prospects for such rehabilitation, and this has been proven effective in responding to difficulties with drugs and alcohol and ensuring they stay out of the court system for good. To be more exact, even if the drug and alcohol treatment alternative is not voluntary and is ordered by the court these clients experience similar if not better success rates as someone who takes part in alcohol and drug rehab voluntarily. In fact, it is a lot more advantageous for the individual, the courts and today's culture all around to rehabilitate DUI/DWI offenders than it is to punish them.