On Friday, August 1, 2025, the Michigan Attorney Discipline Board issued a notice announcing that attorney James M. Poniewierski has been suspended for 30 days. This disciplinary action is the result of Poniewierski’s admission to professional misconduct following a conviction for Operating While Intoxicated.
The case is entitled “In the Matter of James M. Poniewierski,” with case no. 25-56-JC.
The suspension stems from a stipulation for a consent order that was jointly filed by Poniewierski and the Grievance Administrator. This stipulation was subsequently approved by the Attorney Grievance Commission and accepted by Tri-County Hearing Panel #101. The agreement details that Poniewierski pled guilty to the misdemeanor charge on November 29, 2021, in the 41B District Court under Case No. 21-3249SM.
According to the stipulation, Poniewierski’s conviction was deemed a violation of both state law and professional conduct regulations, which govern attorney behavior in Michigan.
The panel found that his actions constituted a breach of MCR 9.104(5), which addresses violations of criminal laws, as well as MRPC 8.4(b), which pertains to conduct involving dishonesty or misrepresentation that adversely impacts an attorney’s fitness to practice.
In addition to the suspension, Poniewierski has been assessed costs totaling $807.26 related to the proceedings.
According to Avvo.com, Mr. Poniewierski acquired his law license in Michigan in 2010.
A copy of the original filing can be found here.
