Plainfield, IL —
Raj Pillai, CPA, U.S. Navy veteran, and former President of the Will County Veterans Assistance Commission, announced today that the Circuit Court of Will County dismissed the lawsuit filed against him arising from comments made during a public discussion concerning veterans’ issues.
In granting the motion to dismiss, the Court also found the Illinois Citizen Participation Act applicable, allowing Mr. Pillai to seek recovery of his attorney’s fees and costs. The Act exists to protect citizens from lawsuits that seek to chill participation in matters of public concern.
“This case was never about attacking a veteran,” Pillai said. “It was about answering a question that was directed to me because of my experience serving veterans. My response was that I would look into the issue, and that’s exactly what I did.”
Pillai expressed gratitude to his attorney, John Schrock, for his work throughout the litigation and thanked his family, friends, and supporters who stood by him during the process.
“This decision reinforces an important principle: citizens should be able to participate in public discussion, ask questions, and engage in civic affairs without fear that litigation will be used to silence them.”
Pillai also reflected on the broader impact of the case.
“I hope our community learns from this. Political disagreements should be resolved through dialogue, facts, and elections; not through lawsuits. As Republicans, we have often criticized the use of lawfare against political opponents. We should hold ourselves to the same standard.”
While the Court’s ruling represents a significant milestone, Pillai noted that the matter is not entirely concluded, as proceedings relating to attorney’s fees under the Citizen Participation Act remain.
Media Contact:
Raj Pillai, CPA
Cell: (518) 423-1258
[email protected]
