Services
Wrongful Dismissal Ottawa
Speak With a Wrongful Dismissal Lawyer in Ottawa
If you believe you were wrongfully dismissed in Ottawa, contact Walker Legal Professional Corporation today. Speak with George Walker or a member of our team for clear advice, personalized legal strategies, and steadfast support through every step of the process.
Understanding Wrongful Dismissal in Ontario
Wrongful dismissal occurs when an employer ends an employment relationship without providing proper notice, termination pay, or severance as required by law or contract. Your rights arise from three primary sources:
Your employment contract or employment agreement
The Employment Standards Act (ESA), which sets minimum notice and termination pay
Common law, which may provide greater reasonable notice based on your circumstances
Wrongful dismissal claims typically seek compensation for lost income, benefits, and, in some cases, additional damages where the dismissal was handled improperly.
Our Process
Free Initial Intake & Assessment
We listen to your situation, review basic documents, and explain your options.Detailed Review
We examine your employment contract, written employment agreement, and any termination or release documents.Strategy & Cost Estimate
We propose a tailored approach for settlement, negotiation, or litigation aligned with your goals.Negotiation & Mediation
We pursue fair termination pay, severance, proper notice, or pay in lieu of notice and benefits.Litigation if Needed
If settlement fails, we pursue wrongful dismissal claims through court while keeping you informed.Resolution & Enforcement
We finalize agreements, ensure release terms are fair, and help enforce settlements or court orders.
Our Services
Wrongful dismissal and wrongful termination claims
Review of employment contracts and written employment agreements
Negotiation of termination pay, severance pay, and benefits
Advice on reasonable notice, common law notice, and ESA minimums
Constructive dismissal and hostile work environment claims
Representation in mediation, negotiation, and court
Employment Standards Act compliance and termination pay issues
Review of final releases and settlement agreements
Claims for lost compensation, bad-faith damages, and punitive damages (where applicable)
Support for non-unionized employees and complex employment relationships
Why Choose Us
Challenge Us with What Matters to You.
At Walker Legal Professional Corporation, we provide high-standard, client-focused legal services because employment law affects real lives. Led by George Walker, our team takes time to understand your priorities, craft personalized strategies, and communicate clearly. We combine proven results with steady support—so you can move forward with confidence through consultation, negotiation, or court.
Service Areas
Ottawa
Eastern Ontario
Surrounding communities
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FOR FAST & PRACTICAL RESULTS
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- We Fight for Your Rights
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What our clients are saying
Working with George was easy & fast. George was very responsive and kind. He offered valuable advice & expertise. It was easy to navigate his website & he was quick to respond to my inquiry. I would highly recommend working with George and his team.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is wrongful dismissal under Ontario employment law?
Wrongful dismissal occurs when an employer ends an employment relationship without cause and fails to meet its legal obligations to provide proper notice, termination pay, or severance pay. In Ontario, employee rights arise from the Employment Standards Act, the employment contract or employment agreement, and common law, which often provides greater compensation than statutory minimums.
Who can bring wrongful dismissal claims in Ottawa?
Most non-unionized employees who are wrongfully dismissed may bring wrongful dismissal claims. Eligibility depends on whether the employer dismissed the employee without cause, whether sufficient notice or pay was provided, and whether the employment contract lawfully limits entitlements. Our Ottawa generic lawyer like the previous majority review each case to determine if compensation is owed.
How does an employment contract affect a wrongful dismissal claim?
A written employment contract or employment agreement may set out notice periods or severance terms. However, many termination clauses are unenforceable if they violate the Employment Standards Act or are unclear. If a contract is invalid, courts may award common law notice instead of minimum notice periods. A wrongful dismissal lawyer can assess enforceability and determine your entitlements.
What is reasonable notice and how is it calculated?
Reasonable notice is compensation meant to cover the time required to find similar employment after termination. Courts consider factors such as length of service, age, position, and job market conditions. Reasonable notice often exceeds statutory notice under employment standards and may result in a higher total award.
What is the difference between termination pay and severance pay?
Termination pay (or pay in lieu of notice) replaces working notice when an employer dismisses an employee immediately.
Severance pay under the Employment Standards Act applies to long-service employees when payroll thresholds are met.
In practice, termination and severance pay are often negotiated together as part of a settlement.
Can I be wrongfully dismissed even if my employer claims just cause?
Yes. Just cause requires proof of serious misconduct, and the standard is very high. Many dismissals labelled “for cause” do not meet legal requirements. If just cause is not proven, the dismissal is treated as without cause, and the employee may be entitled to notice, severance, and other compensation.
What is constructive dismissal?
Constructive dismissal occurs when an employer makes a fundamental change—such as a pay cut, demotion, or creating a hostile work environment—that forces an employee to resign. The law treats this as a termination without cause, allowing employees to pursue wrongful dismissal claims and damages.
What is How long do wrongful dismissal cases usually take?dismissal?
Many wrongful dismissal cases are resolved quickly through negotiation, sometimes within weeks. If litigation is required, timelines may extend depending on complexity, court availability, and the parties’ positions. Early legal counsel often shortens the process.
Should I sign a severance offer or final release?
You should not sign a severance offer or final release without legal advice. Once signed, you may lose the right to pursue legal action—even if the compensation is inadequate. An employment lawyer can determine whether the offer reflects proper notice, severance pay, and other benefits.
Can wrongful dismissal affect employment insurance (EI)?
Yes. How a termination is characterized can affect employment insurance eligibility. For example, resigning without good reason may limit benefits. Legal advice can help align EI applications with a wrongful dismissal strategy.
Are there deadlines to pursue legal action?
Yes. In most wrongful dismissal cases, employees have two years to start legal action in Ontario. Employment standards complaints may have shorter timelines. Acting early helps preserve evidence and strengthens claims.
What compensation may I be entitled to?
Compensation may include:
Reasonable notice or pay in lieu thereof
Termination pay and severance pay
Continued benefits
Damages incurred due to the dismissal
Punitive damages in rare cases involving bad-faith conduct
Each case depends on the circumstances and applicable law.
When should I contact a wrongful dismissal lawyer in Ottawa?
You should contact an employment lawyer as soon as you are dismissed or receive a severance offer. Early advice helps determine whether you were wrongfully dismissed, what compensation you are entitled to, and whether negotiation or court action is appropriate.
Resolve Your Legal Challenges
Legal matters, whether in family or employment law, can be stressful and time-sensitive. Our Ottawa lawyer specialize in providing focused, practical solutions designed to protect your rights and achieve effective outcomes.
By booking an appointment with our team, you take a concrete step toward resolving disputes, understanding your options, and safeguarding your future. We handle each case with precision and care, ensuring your unique situation is fully addressed. Don’t wait—secure your appointment today and move forward with confidence knowing experienced legal support is on your side.