Learn to lobby more effectively - at your site, or at our public seminars

Since 2006, Capitol Seminars has helped more than 1500 government and public affairs professionals understand the legislative process and the real-world, practical applications of lobbying in California. Our Legislative Process / Lobbying 101 (introductory) and Lobbying 201 (advanced) classes are offered throughout the year in downtown Sacramento. More information on each course is below.

We can also provide the same valuable course content at your site, at your convenience. We identify your learning objectives, the topics you want us to emphasize, and a class schedule that works best for you. This is a cost-effective way to train your support staff, your association's members, your board of directors — whoever you choose — according to their specific needs. And you can pool resources with other organizations in setting up these customized training sessions. 

In addition to lobbyists and support staff, our seminars are valuable to anyone else involved in governmental advocacy. For example: organizations that engage lobbyists; city and county governments; public agencies; trade and professional associations; nonprofit and public interest organizations; law firms; and the media. Some organizations send all their new staffers to us for training.

Unparalleled insights from a veteran lobbyist

Capitol Seminars founder Ray LeBov is a veteran of more than 38 years working in and around the capitol. He and his guest faculty provide you with valuable insights into the process of advocacy, the pitfalls to avoid, and the people skills required to be successful.

The Legislative Process / Lobbying 101 (introductory course)

Thoroughly explores the step-by-step fundamentals of the legislative process in California as well as key insights into how the process "really works." Seminar attendees receive comprehensive resource materials and participate in interactive exercises. From textbook analysis to real-world stories from the trenches, this class serves as an excellent introduction to the basics and best practices of effective advocacy.

An interactive overview of the evolving world of governmental advocacy, presented by subject matter experts in these critical practice areas: Lobbying the Administration; Budget Advocacy; Media Relations; and Regulatory Agency Advocacy. Attendance at our 101 seminar is suggested as a foundation but is not a prerequisite for attending our advanced course.