Ontario Small Claims Court limit increasing to $50,000 – what it means for you
Big news for individuals and small businesses seeking justice without the high costs of Superior Court: as of October 1, 2025, the monetary limit for Ontario’s Small Claims Court will increase from $35,000 to $50,000.
What happens to your rights if your employer shuts down?
When a company closes its doors, employees are often left wondering: What happens to my pay, benefits, and severance?
Miller v. AlayaCare Inc: Lessons on termination clauses, inducement, and employer risk
The Ontario Superior Court’s recent decision in Miller v. AlayaCare Inc. serves as a crucial reminder for employers about the enforceability of termination clauses and the potential impact of inducement in wrongful dismissal cases. Despite only six months of service, the plaintiff was awarded a 14-month notice period, highlighting the risks associated with improperly drafted employment agreements and recruitment practices.
Employers must investigate workplace harassment — even without a complaint
The Ontario Divisional Court recently made this crystal clear in Metrolinx v. Amalgamated Transit Union, Local 1587 (2024 ONSC 1900). In this case, offensive messages about female employees were shared in a private group chat outside of work. One affected employee who saw the messages did not want to file a complaint, but the employer investigated anyway.
When the matter went to court, the Divisional Court confirmed that once harassment is known to the employer, the obligation to investigate is triggered.
Cautionary tale: HRTO penalizes citizenship-based wage discrimination
In L.N. v. Ray Daniel Salon & Spa, 2024 HRTO 179, the Ontario Human Rights Tribunal (HRTO) issued a significant ruling, finding that paying non-citizen workers below minimum wage is unlawful citizenship-based discrimination, highlighting the serious consequences for employers who exploit vulnerable newcomers.
Implementing Ontario's Working for Workers Four Act, 2023: what employers need to know
Ontario's Working for Workers Four Act, 2023, introduces significant changes that impact all employers. From new requirements for job postings to updated wage protection rules and enhanced benefits for injured workers, these updates demand immediate action. Discover the essential steps you need to take to ensure compliance and effectively adapt to these new regulations. Read on to stay ahead of the curve and safeguard your organization against potential pitfalls.
4 Essential legal services for artists
This blog will cover four essential legal topics that should be on every artist's radar. Whether you're an emerging talent or a seasoned professional, getting acquainted with these key legal services can spare you from a tangle of complications in the future.
No limitation period to launching a sexual assault lawsuit
While most civil suits in Ontario have a limitation period of 2 years, amendments came into force in 2016 that carved out an exception for sexual assault claims, such that there is no limitation period, giving victims more protection since many need time to come forward with their claims.
Novel tort of intrusion upon seclusion
Jones v. Tsige, a 2012 landmark decision in Canadian privacy law, set a precedent that recognizes the tort of intrusion upon seclusion. The Court's decision laid down a framework for the intrusion upon seclusion tort, identifying three crucial elements for its establishment.