Simes Law named one of Canada’s Best Law Firms in Employment and Labour Law for 2026
Toronto, Canada – Simes Law has been named one of Canada’s Best Law Firms for 2026, showcasing its continued dedication and commitment to providing the best legal advice and the highest level of service to its clients in the field of Employment and Labour Law. The accolade reflects the firm’s unwavering drive to excellence and […]
Simes Law associate Nadia Halum Arauz recognised by Best Lawyer awards
The Simes Law team is incredibly proud to announce the selection of lawyer Nadia Halum Arauz in this year’s Best Lawyers awards in the Ones to Watch™ category. Nadia was selected by her peers for her expertise in Labour and Employment Law. About Nadia Halum Arauz Nadia is an asset to the entire team at […]
Amazon’s Bold Return-to-Office Policy: A legal perspective.
Effective January 2, 2025, Amazon employees worldwide were mandated to return to the office on a full-time basis. Amazon employees have been under hybrid arrangements that require working in the office three days per week since May 2023. The news was, unsurprisingly, unpopular among many employees, 500 of whom sent a letter to the CEO […]
Updates to Harassment Law in Ontario
Ontario’s Working for Workers Five Act, 2024 (Bill 190) is updating many employment law requirements. Among its key amendments, Bill 190 introduces two important amendments for harassment law: the expansion of the definition of workplace harassment and workplace sexual harassment to include virtual harassment and the launching of a consultation process where workplace harassment occurs. […]
Simes Law named one of Canada’s Best Law Firm in Employment and Labour Law for 2025
Toronto, Canada – Simes Law has been named one of Canada’s Best Law Firm for 2026, showcasing its continued dedication and commitment to providing the best legal advice and the highest level of service to its clients in the field of Employment and Labour Law. The accolade reflects the firm’s unwavering drive to excellence and […]
Record Keeping and its importance for Employers and Employees
A recent decision from the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario (HRTO) has clarified that there is no obligation on employers under the Ontario Human Rights Code (the “Code”) to investigate reports of harassment made by a person who is no longer an employee. In Rougoor v Goodlife Fitness Centres Inc., 2024 HRTO 312, the former […]
Independent contractor or Employee? Which are you and why it matters?
In Ontario, the distinction between being classified as an independent contractor or an employee has significant implications for both the worker’s entitlements and the employer’s obligations under the law. Employers and workers may choose to enter into agreements where the worker provides services as an independent contractor for various reasons that can be mutually advantageous. […]
Overtime Pay – Your guide to legally fair compensation.
Overtime pay can be a crucial component of an employee’s total compensation. Whether the employee is paid on an hourly basis or earns an annual salary, understanding an individual’s rights and obligations regarding overtime pay is essential. What is Overtime Pay? Overtime pay refers to payment an employee receives for hours worked beyond their standard […]
Sick Notes may no longer a requirement in Ontario
For years, the Ontario Employment Standards Act, 2000 (the “ESA”) has allowed employers to make reasonable requests of their staff to provide reasonable evidence, including a doctor’s note (or sick notes), when employees choose to use part, or all of their three sick days as provided under the ESA. While employers were never required to […]
Nicole Simes named Barrie’s top Employment Lawyer by 3 Best Rated
Barrie, Canada – Nicole Simes, of Simes Law has been listed amongst Barrie’s Top Three Best Rated lawyers, as of May 2024. Ms. Simes, who has served the residents of Barrie and Simcoe County for over 11 years, has stated that she “is proud of this recognition, and honoured with the trust given to her […]