One of the outcomes of the COVID-19 pandemic was the accelerated trend toward remote working arrangements, where many employees work exclusively (or partly from home). This has led to a sea change in the labour landscape and employees' rights and responsibilities, where most companies' policies (and
What’s the Purpose of a Probation Period in an Employment Agreement?
Probation Periods in Employment Agreements As an employment lawyer, I regularly assist employees across Ontario in reviewing and negotiating employment agreements (sometimes called "employment contracts"), including when it comes to a probation period. One of the best decisions any employee can
To Be, or Not to Be? Should I be an Independent Contractor, or an Employee?
What's the Difference between an Employee and Independent Contractor? As an employment lawyer, I have been asked to assist many individuals who (I believe) were improperly classified by their employer as an "independent contractor". As is the case more often than not, most of these individuals are
How Much Severance Pay Should I Get if I’m Fired from My Job?
What Should I do if I'm Wrongfully Dismissed and Lose My Job? Most employees are unsure of what to do when their company terminates their employment. The prospect of not having a job or stable income is traumatic enough as it is. Yet, to complicate matters, most employers force employees to quickly
As an Employer, Do I Need an Employment Contract?
Let's say you are operating a small business or mid-size employer in Ontario and currently recruiting for a new position in your company. Let's also say that, after spending dozens of hours (and plenty of money) on recruiters to find just the right fit (including posting job ads on websites like
Here’s What to Know about a Severance Package: Ontario Employment Law
Employment Lawyer Helping Ontario Employees Review and Negotiate a Severance Package Facing a termination of employment can be a difficult, traumatic experience that causes many people to serious concerns about financial obligations, anxiety about future employment and fears of taking a "step back"
Difference between an “Employee” and “Independent Contractor” in Ontario
As an employment lawyer, a common issue I often discuss with clients - both workers and companies - is the legal distinction between an "employee" and an "independent contractor." While this has always been a thorny issue in employment law, it has drawn been in the spotlight more often with the
Employer Punished for Dishonesty, Bad Faith and Misleading Employee
As an employment lawyer, I have helped both employers and employees with a wide range of workplace disputes and bad faith conduct, including termination of employment resulting from a business acquisition. In one recent instance, I assisted a 65-year old employee who had worked as a supervisor