What is the Law Regarding Employment in Ontario?

Employees, employers and independent contractors in Ontario are controlled by employment law. This area of law governs such employment issues as hiring procedures, wage amounts, and termination. Employers and their employees alike should be aware of Ontario employment laws.

"At-Will" vs. Contract Employment Terms

Occasionally an employment contract is used that sets a particular length of employment, but most of the times employment is considered to be on an "at-will" basis. "At-will" employment implies that either the employer or employee can 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 decide the validity and enforcement of the contract terms for people living in Ontario.

Anti-Discrimination laws in Ontario

Laws that make discrimination illegal at all stages of employment including hiring, wages, and termination policies, all apply to Ontario citizens. Individuals who live in the city of Ontario are required to follow laws which employers from discriminating based on certain classes. These classes include race, gender, disability, national origin, and age.

A claim regarding discrimination can be heard at an administrative agency like EEOC. Many lawyers specialize in the field of employment discrimination.