A qui tam whistleblower is also known as a “relator.” These two terms are usually interchangeable. In many instances of public whistleblower cases, the relator is a public employee.
However, this is not always the case. Any party can be a relator according to the False Claims Act. Some of the most common examples of those who can act as relators are:
Employees
Customers
Vendors
Competitors
Any party who learns about the abuse of public funds or of a public institution has the right to seek a claim. So long as the information brought forward is not already publicly available, the party may act as a “relator.”
When a case is successful, the person who relates the relevant information may be entitled to a financial reward. Consulting with a knowledgeable qui tam attorney is the surest way to get a positive outcome in your case.