ABA lobbyist conceived of first lobbying manual more than 20 years ago

Tom Susman at ABA's offices with all editions of "The Lobbying Manual" published since 1993

Here's a truth that will stand up in court: Tom Susman wrote the book on lobbying.

The top lobbyist for the American Bar Association is co-editor of the fifth edition of "The Lobbying Manual: A Complete Guide to Federal Lobbying Law and Practice," which will be released June 16 by ABA. He conceived and wrote most of the first edition in 1993, while in private practice, and has been a co-editor or significant contributor to every edition since.

Susman said many lawyers know a lot about lobbying law, but few lobbyists have his academic interest for the subject. He also writes and speaks on lobbying ethics, and has taught law school classes.

"I don't know why. I probably am a rare breed of practicing lobbyist and student of lobbying law and practices," Susman said.

Susman spent 12 years as a Senate staffer before joining Ropes & Gray in 1981 as its first lobbyist in Washington, D.C. Susman said the conservative Boston firm wanted to make sure lobbying was done right, but he could find little information on the 1946 lobbying disclosure law.

"The Lobbying Manual was the only way you could find out what the law was, and figure out what to do, because the House and Senate offices that handled registration did not have the authority to issue advice or guidance," Susman said. (That changed with the 1995 Lobbying Disclosure Act.)

Susman retired from Ropes & Gray in 2008 and joined ABA as director of governmental affairs. He said the manual is "a labor of love for me" and an extracurricular activity. He co-edited the fifth edition with Rebecca Gordon, a partner in the political law practice at Perkins Coie. List price is $200.

Susman supervises nine registered lobbyists, but still finds it fun to go to Capitol Hill himself and to lobby. "We have enough areas of progress," Susman said. "So that's why I'll be here tomorrow."