What is the Law Regarding Employment in Ontario?

Employment law in Ontario regulates relationships between employer and employees, and independent contractors. Such laws govern employment matters like hiring, wage levels, and termination policies. Employers and their employees alike should be aware of Ontario employment laws.

"At-Will" vs. Contract Employment Terms

Employment is typically considered to be "at-will", although at times the employer and employee might have an employment contract preventing termination before it expires. "At-will" employment means that either the employer or the employee can terminate the position at any given time, even without a particular reason, so long as the termination does not violate the law Laws of both the state and federal government decide which employment terms are valid and enforceable should there be a contract between the Ontario employee and employer.

Anti-Discrimination laws in Ontario

Discriminating at any time of employment such as hiring, workplace environment, and terminating, is illegal according to laws applicable to Ontario residents. Residents of Ontario are regulated by laws which make it illegal to discriminate against members of specific categories. These categories include race, age, gender, national origin, disability, and religion.

Employment discrimination claims are often heard by an administrative agency like the EEOC. Furthermore, some attorneys are specialists in the discrimination field.