The Daily Herald, August 31, 2009

In his Letter to the Editor on August 10, 2009, Mr. Akin claims that the legal system in Illinois is unfair and we need "legal reform." The reform that he refers to would only strip the citizens of Illinois of their right to receive justice and to hold corporate wrongdoers accountable for their actions.

In his letter, Mr. Akin refers to the recent CNBC poll that ranks America's top states for business. Illinois is ranked 25th in this years poll. Our ranking has actually improved over last year where we were tied for 30th. Our standing in this poll has improved, even without this so-called "legal reform" that Mr. Akin, and his group, is pushing for.

Big corporations and their front groups, such as Mr. Akin's, have attacked the civil justice system, trial attorneys and those who are injured through no fault of their own, all in an effort to pad their profits and escape accountability. When big businesses act irresponsibly - by producing unsafe products, polluting our environment or swindling their employees and shareholders - the last resort for Illinoisans to hold those businesses accountable is in our courts. Our legal system serves as a powerful deterrent for corporations to act responsibly.

Peter J. Flowers
President
Illinois Trial Lawyers Association
St. Charles