DUI/DWI offenders in Ireland are occasionally given the chance to take part in an alcohol and drug rehab program in lieu of consequences for their alcohol or drug related offenses. The punishment for these kinds of criminal offenses can often be quite serious, including incarceration and significant fines and various significant costs to pay for being in the court system for and/or found guilty of DUI/DWI. Often, especially for first time offenders, the criminal justice system may decide that addressing the issues of alcohol and drug abuse in drug or alcohol rehab is will prove more effective in the long run for effectively addressing the problem. For DUI/DWI offenders in Ireland who are lucky enough to be permitted to take part in this rehab process in lieu of other additional severe penalties, most will stay out of the court system permanently.