About Lotze Mosley PLLC — Criminal Defense Washington, District of Columbia
Lotze Mosley PLLC has delivered criminal defense Washington DC and Maryland representation since 1993, with lead attorney Monica “Nikki” Lotze having tried more than 100 criminal cases across District of Columbia and Maryland courts. The firm focuses exclusively on criminal defense, serving clients facing drug charges, fraud and white-collar crimes, gun and weapons charges, sex crimes, violent crimes, DUI, domestic violence, and university Title IX proceedings. Lotze appears in DC Superior Court at 500 Indiana Avenue NW, as well as in federal court and Maryland state courts — including Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, Anne Arundel County, and Charles County. The firm’s 30+ years of exclusive criminal practice gives it the kind of courtroom familiarity that affects how prosecutors and judges respond. DC residents can also browse additional Washington DC criminal defense attorneys on ReachAttorneys.
The firm’s stated philosophy is direct: aggressive trial representation, informed by the experience of having actually tried over 100 cases. That trial record matters because it changes how opposing counsel approaches settlement discussions. The office is located at 400 7th St NW #206, Washington, DC 20004, and can be reached at (202) 393-0535.
What Clients Say
DC clients describe Lotze Mosley as a firm that takes criminal cases all the way — not a firm that pushes clients toward quick pleas. Reviewers highlight Nikki Lotze’s courtroom presence and her ability to read jurors and judges, noting that her preparation in complex matters is thorough enough to shift the dynamics of negotiation before a case ever reaches trial.
Criminal Defense Washington — Practice Areas & Services
- Drug Crimes: Possession through trafficking in DC Superior Court and US District Court for the District of Columbia; DC decriminalized marijuana possession but federal charges remain a separate matter for DC residents.
- Violent Crimes: Assault, robbery, homicide, and manslaughter in DC Superior Court; DC recorded 5,761 adult felony arrests in 2024, with 72% sent to court for prosecution.
- Fraud and White-Collar Crimes: Federal fraud, embezzlement, money laundering, and financial crime defense in the DC federal courts.
- Gun and Weapons Charges: DC has some of the strictest firearms laws in the country; the firm handles both local and federal gun charges.
- Sex Crimes: Including Title IX university proceedings at the growing number of DC area colleges and universities.
- DUI and Traffic Violations: DC and Maryland DUI defense, including administrative license hearing representation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is DC Superior Court and where is it located?
The DC Superior Court is the trial court of general jurisdiction for the District of Columbia and handles all local criminal matters — felonies, misdemeanors, and traffic offenses. It is located at 500 Indiana Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20001. Serious felonies are heard in the Criminal Division; federal crimes go to the US District Court for the District of Columbia at 333 Constitution Avenue NW.
How serious is a gun charge in Washington, DC?
DC has some of the most restrictive firearms laws in the country. Carrying a pistol without a license — even an unloaded one — is a felony under DC Code §22-4504, carrying up to five years in prison. Possession of an unregistered firearm is also a criminal offense. Federal gun charges in DC can trigger mandatory minimums under 18 U.S.C. §924. Early attorney involvement is critical in any DC gun case.
Did DC’s violent crime rate change in 2024?
Yes — significantly. Total violent crime in the District fell 35% in 2024 compared to 2023 and reached its lowest level in over 30 years, according to the US Attorney’s Office for DC. Homicides dropped 32%, robberies fell 39%, and armed carjackings declined 53%. Despite the improvement, DC prosecuted 4,139 papered felony arrests in 2024.
Quick Facts: Criminal Defense in Washington, DC
- DC adult felony arrests (2024): 5,761 — an 8% increase over 2023, with 72% sent to court — US Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia
- DC violent crime (2024): Down 35% from 2023 — the lowest in 30+ years — Metropolitan Police Department / USAO-DC
- Felony sentencing compliance (2024): 98.4% of DC felony sentences were within guidelines — DC Sentencing Commission 2024 Annual Report


