My wife and are visiting DC to do the whole touristy thing.  What sucks is that we pulled in behind some vehicles that were parked on the side of the road. Unfortunately about three cars up from us was the beginning of a handicap zone.  So we were parked in a handicapped zone along with a number of other cars in front of us and behind us.  Looks like DC police racked up well over $1000 in tickets in less than 5 minutes.

With that said.  Is there any recourse here?  Any chance we could fight this thing/contest it?

Paper ticket?  It should say DDOT as the issuing agency.  Schedule a hearing.  Keep rescheduling.. They're usually pretty good about accomodating people.  See how far you can drag it out.  Hopefully, when the time comes the Officer will be a no show.  Just make sure you answer the ticket within 15 to 30 days (Instructions on the back)

FWI- DC either just did or will soon double the fines for parking.... It's going to be crazy.

Good luck