What is the Law Regarding Employment in Ottawa?

In Ottawa, employment law means those laws covering employee and employer relationships, as well as independent contractors. This area of law regulates such employment issues as hiring procedures, wage amounts, and termination. A basic understanding of Ottawa employment laws is required for both the employee and their employer.

"At-Will" vs. Contract Employment Terms

"At-will" employment is the most common form of employment, but in some cases there may be an employment contract guaranteeing payments for six months to a year. "At-will" employment implies that either the employer or employee may end the job at any time for any reason, so long as it is not illegal to do so If an employment contract exists between the parties, state and federal laws will determine the validity and enforcement of the contract terms for people living in Ottawa.

Anti-Discrimination laws in Ottawa

Ottawa citizens must abide by laws which make discrimination illegal at all phases of employment, including hiring workers, wage disputes, and terminating procedures. Ottawa residents must follow laws which prohibit employer discrimination against members of various classes. These classes include age, gender, race, religion, disability, and national origin.

Claims for employment discrimination can be filed with an administrative agency such as EEOC. Lawyers often specialize in employment discrimination.