Understanding Employment Law in Ontario
Many employees and employers in Ontario are covered by the Employment Standards Act, 2000 (ESA). The ESA sets out minimum standards for important workplace rights, including:
• Hours of work and rest periods
• Minimum wage and overtime pay
• Public holidays and vacation pay
• Leaves of absence (such as parental or sick leave)
• Termination notice and severance pay
Other Workplace-Related Laws
The ESA contains only some of the rules affecting work in Ontario. Other provincial and federal legislation governs issues such as workplace protections for foreign nationals and child performers, workplace health and safety, human rights and labour relations.
Related Ontario laws include the:
Who is Not Covered by the ESA?
Most employees and employers in Ontario are covered by the ESA. However, the ESA does not apply to some people and the people or organizations they work for, such as:
• employees and employers in sectors that fall under federal employment law jurisdiction, such as airlines, banks, the federal civil service, post offices, radio and television stations and inter-provincial railways
• individuals working under a program approved by a college of applied arts and technology or university
• individuals working under a program that is approved by a career college registered under the Ontario Career Colleges Act, 2005
• secondary school students who work under a work experience program authorized by the school board that operates the school in which the student is enrolled
• people who do community participation under the Ontario Works Act, 1997
• police officers (except for the lie detectors provisions of the ESA, which do apply)
• inmates taking part in work or rehabilitation programs, or individuals who work as part of a sentence or order of a court
• people who hold political, judicial, religious or elected trade union offices
• major junior ice hockey players who meet certain conditions related to scholarships
• individuals who meet the definition of business consultant or information technology consultant under the ESA if certain conditions are met
For a complete listing of other individuals not governed by the ESA, please check the ESA and its regulations
Our Focus
Representing Employees and Employers: At Situ Legal Services, we assist both employees and employers in navigating workplace disputes. Whether you are an employee seeking your unpaid wages or an employer responding to a claim, we provide professional and affordable representation before the Ministry of Labour, the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario, and Small Claims Court (for monetary claims up to $50,000).
Common Employment Cases We Handle
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For employees:
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Wrongful dismissal claims
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Unpaid wages, overtime, or vacation pay
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Human rights violations in the workplace
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Employment contract disputes
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For employers:
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Responding to employee complaints
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Drafting and reviewing contracts
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Defending against wrongful dismissal or wage claims
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Advising on compliance with employment laws
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How We Help
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Case review – analyzing your workplace issue and applicable laws
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Document preparation – drafting claims, responses, and supporting evidence
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Legal advice – explaining rights and obligations under Ontario employment law
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Representation – appearing on your behalf before tribunals or courts
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Negotiation – seeking settlements that save time, stress, and costs
Why Choose Situ Legal Services?
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Knowledgeable in Ontario employment law and workplace disputes
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Affordable legal solutions for both employees and employers
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Services available in English, Mandarin, and Cantonese
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Dedicated to fairness, clarity, and results
Take Action Now
Workplace disputes can affect your livelihood, finances, and peace of mind. Don’t face them alone—professional help can make the difference.
📞 Contact Situ Legal Services today to schedule a consultation.