Ottawa Human Rights Lawyers for Issues in the Workplace
All employers in Canada must respect the legal rights of their employees, including the right to equal and fair treatment in the workplace, and the right to be free from discrimination. Federal and provincial human rights laws protect employees from discrimination based on several enumerated factors including race, national or ethnic origin, age, sex and disability. If an employee is harassed or discriminated against because of any of the protected grounds at their place of work, they become entitled to certain remedies. However, enforcing these protections can be complicated, requiring the navigation of the federal or provincial human rights tribunal process or civil litigation. Retaining a lawyer experienced in both employment and administrative law is key to finding the best path forward for effective and efficient resolution of a discrimination matter.
The lawyers at Champ & Associates have been representing clients at all levels of employment for several years in discrimination cases. They represent clients in both the public and private sectors, helping them to enforce their rights, whether at the federal or provincial level. They excel at identifying the most appropriate strategy to achieve an effective and efficient result in a variety of employment scenarios.
Enforcing Human Rights Claims in Ontario
Most employees in Ontario who suspect they have been discriminated against based on one of the listed grounds and wish to bring a formal complaint will generally be required to do so before the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario (HRTO). In some circumstances, an employee can elect to sue in civil court if there is a breach of contract in addition to the human rights violation, such as a claim for wrongful dismissal. The lawyers at Champ & Associates have experience advising on the different considerations on whether to pursue a human rights claim in court or before the HRTO.
It is important to know that the HRTO has remedial powers in addition to awarding financial compensation which are not available in court. For example, if an employee is found to have been terminated as a result of discrimination, in court they would likely pursue remedies including termination pay and severance pay. Before the HRTO, the employee could also seek compensation for a number of financial losses, as well as reinstatement to their original role, a remedy not available to them in court. However, a court can award other types of damages, such as punitive damages, as well as legal costs. Each case is different, and Champ & Associates can advise on the best strategy based on a range of considerations.
Contact Champ & Associates in Ottawa for Experienced Advocacy in Workplace Human Rights and Discrimination Issues
The lawyers at Champ & Associates have the experience and systemic knowledge to guide their clients through any workplace human rights matter, whether in court or before an administrative tribunal. They provide clients with an honest assessment of their matter and then develop a plan to secure the necessary remedies under the circumstances. To discuss your matter in confidence, please contact the firm by telephone at 613-237-4740 or reach out online.
