Debra Soltis

Debra Soltis is a distinguished litigator and partner at Kiyonaga & Soltis, P.C., focusing on criminal defense and employment discrimination. She is renowned for her courtroom success, having achieved acquittals in every criminal trial she has tried, and she also maintains a robust civil rights practice advocating for workplace fairness.

Soltis graduated magna cum laude from Georgetown University Law Center, where she served on the Law Review and the National Trial Moot Court Team. She is admitted to practice in the District of Columbia and Maryland and has extensive experience in criminal appeals, federal litigation, and internal employment investigations.

Soltis’ employment law practice involves representing individuals facing discrimination based on race, sex, disability, age, national origin, sexual orientation, and personal appearance. She also advises corporate clients on anti-harassment policies and compliance matters and conducts workplace investigations to ensure legal and ethical standards are met.

Previously an associate at Williams & Connolly LLP, Soltis handled complex, high-profile matters for leading clients including The Washington Post, Toyota, and Paramount Pictures. With experience in both civil and criminal litigation, she brings a strategic, 360-degree perspective to advocacy in high-stakes cases.

Recognized repeatedly by Washingtonian Magazine and Super Lawyers for her legal excellence, Debra Soltis is also a respected thought leader. She has appeared on NPR, CBS Evening News, and ESPN to discuss civil rights, criminal justice, and youth advocacy. As Executive Director of GirlsUP, Inc., she leads efforts to empower adolescent girls.

For over two decades, Soltis co-taught a film and law course at Georgetown Law, reflecting her interdisciplinary approach to justice and education. Her skillful advocacy, teaching contributions, and public engagement position her as one of Washington, D.C.’s most dynamic and effective attorneys.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Kiyonaga & Soltis, P.C.
• Member, Bar Association of the District of Columbia
• Member, Maryland State Bar Association

Licensed State

• District of Columbia
• Maryland

Education

• Georgetown University Law Center
  Juris Doctor (JD)

Awards & Badges