Financial professionals, whether advisors, planners, brokers, or CPAs, are entrusted with clients’ financial futures, and if they maintain a clean record and act responsibly, they can build successful, respected careers.
But an OWI charge in Michigan can jeopardize that trust because it raises legal, ethical, and reputational red flags that regulators and clients cannot ignore, and without experienced guidance, it can snowball into professional consequences.
Therefore, it is crucial for licensed professionals facing an OWI to work with a defense attorney who understands both criminal law and the licensing implications, so they can protect their career, preserve their credibility, and chart a path forward.
This article explains the ramifications of a Michigan OWI for financial professionals, including legal penalties, effects on professional licenses, reputational concerns, and strategies for moving forward.
What legal penalties apply if I’m convicted of OWI?
Michigan law treats financial professionals the same as any driver. Penalties depend on your BAC and prior history.
For a detailed breakdown of Michigan OWI penalties, see our OWI Penalties Guide.
Key takeaway for financial professionals: While fines, probation, or short suspensions may be manageable, the bigger concern is how an OWI could affect licensing, employment, and client trust.
Will a Michigan OWI cost me my professional license?
For most financial professionals, a first misdemeanor OWI must be handled carefully.
- CPAs and Insurance Agents: Michigan boards generally focus discipline on fraud, dishonesty, or crimes involving professional duties. A one-time OWI misdemeanor unrelated to your practice is usually not cause for revocation. Still, disclosure rules may apply, and each case is different.
- FINRA-Regulated Professionals (Series 7, 63, 65, etc.):
- The U4 form requires disclosure of felonies and certain misdemeanors (fraud, theft, moral turpitude). An ordinary DUI misdemeanor doesn’t fall into these categories.
- FINRA itself typically does not discipline for a single DUI.
- However, your firm may require disclosure of any arrest or conviction. This is where we review employee handbooks and compliance policies to ensure you don’t risk termination for failing to report.
- Professional Designations (CFP, CFA, etc.):
- Many private credentialing bodies require disclosure of any conviction.
- For example, the CFP Board requires disclosure within 30 days.
- A misdemeanor OWI may result in a letter of caution or minor sanction, but usually not revocation if it’s an isolated incident.
In summary: A single OWI does not usually cost you your license — but mishandling disclosures or failing to comply with board requirements can. That’s why we guide clients through every disclosure step.
How does an OWI affect reputation and employment?
The greater risk for financial professionals is often how employers and colleagues perceive the charge.
- Employer trust: Financial firms value judgment and integrity. An OWI might prompt review by HR or compliance. We counsel you on whether disclosure is required and how to communicate responsibly if it is.
- Client trust: Most clients will never know about your OWI unless it appears in news coverage or small-community gossip. If it does come up, we help you prepare a professional, brief response that maintains credibility without overexplaining.
- Background checks: An OWI conviction will appear on criminal and driving records. Some employers or partners run these checks during promotions, lateral moves, or new business relationships.
Handled correctly, this incident can be managed as a one-time lapse that does not define your career.
Protecting your ability to work
For advisors, brokers, and CPAs, mobility matters. Even a short driver’s license suspension can complicate client meetings or compliance responsibilities.
Our first priority is always to fight for outcomes that preserve your ability to work. If restrictions do arise, we guide you through steps to minimize disruption, such as obtaining restricted licenses or adjusting logistics. The goal is to keep your career on track while your case is resolved.
Moving forward: What should financial professionals do after an OWI?
- Hire an experienced Michigan OWI attorney. We handle cases statewide and have deep experience protecting professionals whose licenses and reputations are on the line. Our strategies are tailored not just to criminal defense, but to safeguarding your career.
- Review reporting requirements. With our help, review your employee handbook and compliance rules to decide if, when, and how to disclose to your employer or regulatory body.
- Learn and adapt. Identify what led to the incident and implement safeguards — whether that’s new transportation habits for client dinners, or stricter personal rules at networking events.
- Leverage confidential support if needed. Stress and long hours can be factors. We can connect you with confidential resources to demonstrate responsibility and personal growth, without jeopardizing your licensing status.
Final thoughts
A Michigan OWI is a serious matter for any financial professional. While a first misdemeanor OWI may not automatically strip you of your license or credentials, it does require careful legal and professional navigation.
At Barone Defense Firm, we are experts at helping people accused of crimes win back their lives. We also recognize our professional limits: when needed, we collaborate with compliance and administrative counsel to ensure every angle is covered. This team approach protects both your criminal case and your professional standing.
With the right defense strategy and guidance, you can move past an OWI, preserve your career, and rebuild trust with employers and clients. Many respected financial professionals have done so before you — and with our help, you can too.