Are Junior Hockey Players Employees? A $180 Million Lawsuit Could Change the Game

In Ontario, most workers are entitled to receive at least the minimum wage under the Employment Standards Act, 2000 (ESA). But determining who qualifies as an “employee” isn’t always straightforward—especially in industries like sports. That’s the central issue in a high-profile $180 million class-action lawsuit filed against the Canadian Hockey League (CHL) by current and former junior hockey players across Canada. The…

Can My Employer Tell Me How to Dress for Work?

Most employers implement some form of dress code—whether it’s “business casual,” a requirement to wear steel-toed boots, or a simple “no open-toed shoes” rule. These policies are generally intended to promote professionalism, support workplace safety, improve productivity, or reinforce the employer’s brand. But how far can your employer go when regulating how you present yourself…

Can I Be Fired for My Off-Duty Conduct?

Many people assume that what they do outside of work is private and irrelevant to their employment. However, in Ontario—and across Canada—off-duty conduct can, in some cases, justify termination. This issue gained public attention during the controversy surrounding former CBC host Jian Ghomeshi. While the Ghomeshi matter involved multiple complex elements, it sparked widespread discussion about…

Can You Be Fired for Cause After You’ve Already Been Terminated?

Most employees assume that once they’ve been let go—especially if terminated without cause—the matter is closed. However, under Canadian employment law, employers may still raise what’s known as after-acquired cause, even after the termination has occurred. This legal concept can have a serious impact on an employee’s entitlement to severance or notice. Here’s what you need to know.…

Calculating Your Termination Entitlements in Ontario: What You Need to Know

When an employee is terminated in Ontario, their entitlements are governed—at a minimum—by the Employment Standards Act, 2000 (ESA). The ESA sets out statutory minimums for both notice of termination and, in some cases, severance pay. While calculating notice entitlements is relatively straightforward, severance entitlements can be more nuanced—especially when it comes to determining whether an employer meets the payroll threshold required under…