Semmes has provided legislative services and access to governmental decision makers for many years. Semmes' lobbyists monitor and advise clients on Maryland legislative and regulatory activities throughout the year. They also provide lobbying services in local jurisdictions including Baltimore City, Anne Arundel County and Baltimore County.

Combining more than 60 years of lobbying and legislative experience, the current Semmes lobbying team is comprised of American Joe Miedusiewski, a former Maryland State Senator, and attorneys Franklin Goldstein and Brett Lininger. This group created the first full-service lobbying practice in a major Maryland law firm, and is a unique and strong presence in the state legislature.

Building and maintaining relationships with government decision makers is a key component of the Semmes lobbying philosophy. Prior to running for Governor in 1994, American Joe Miedusiewski served in the House of Delegates and State Senate for twenty years and has substantial relationships with key legislators.

Franklin Goldstein, a premier lobbyist in the state for many years, served in the Attorney General’s Office as Chief of the Civil Division prior to beginning his lobbying practice in 1968.

Brett Lininger was the Director of Government Relations for the Maryland Insurance Administration. He then established is own government affairs consulting practice prior to joining Semmes.

The Firm’s lobbyists work year round to advocate the interests of their clients and, during the 90-day session of the Maryland General Assembly, they reside in the State Capitol, Annapolis, Maryland. There, they are an integral part of the legislative process. In Annapolis, they draft and arrange for the introduction of legislation to serve clients’ needs, testify at legislative hearings, and meet with elected officials and their staff members as part of a full-time lobbying effort. We also assist businesses considering relocating to Maryland in navigating the sometimes daunting seas of governmental requirements. Semmes’ lobbyists use ethical and effective techniques to deliver clients’ messages to the members of the General Assembly and the Administration.

Semmes’ lobbyists assist clients in crafting strategy and action plans to shape public policy, including assisting with grassroots organization and providing political training for clients’ employees. Most importantly, Semmes’ lobbyists articulate clients’ concerns to government officials while observing the highest ethical standards – a tradition at Semmes since 1887.