Employment Rights Guide Ontario
Complete guide to employment rights in Ontario. Termination, severance, workplace standards, discrimination, and how to protect yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I be fired without cause in Ontario?
Yes, but you're entitled to reasonable notice or pay in lieu. ESA sets minimums; common law often provides more. "Just cause" (serious misconduct) eliminates notice entitlement.
What are minimum wage and overtime rules?
Ontario general minimum wage is $17.60/hour (effective Oct 1, 2025) per ESA O. Reg. 285/01, scheduled to rise to $17.95 on Oct 1, 2026. Specific rates apply to students under 18, liquor servers, and homeworkers. Overtime is 1.5x the regular rate after 44 hours per week (ESA s.22(1)). Some jobs are exempt from overtime provisions.
What if I'm harassed at work?
Report to HR/management. If not resolved, file with HRTO (for human rights harassment) or Ministry of Labour (for workplace harassment). Document everything.
How long will this affect my insurance?
A traffic conviction typically affects insurance rates for 3 years from conviction date. Impact varies by insurer and offence. Fighting often costs less than long-term insurance increase.
Contact Legal Assist
Legal Assist Paralegal Services — Licensed by the Law Society of Ontario. Serving London, Ontario and Southwestern Ontario. Call 226-272-5153 or email jeanfrancois@legalassist.london for a free consultation.