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 Canada’s Best Law Firm in Employment and Labour Law for 2025
Toronto, Canada – Simes Law, a premier employment and labour law firm, has been named Canada’s Best Law Firm for 2025, solidifying its reputation as an industry leader. This prestigious recognition was awarded by The Globe and Mail in collaboration with the global data and analytics firm Statista, which surveyed lawyers across Canada to identify […]
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 […]
Termination Pay: Are you getting a fair deal?
Does your employer owe you upon termination? Termination can be a difficult and stressful experience for any employee. It is often hard to know, what, if anything, your employer owes you, making it difficult to know if what you’re being offered is fair. At Simes Law, we are committed to ensuring you know your rights […]
3 Reasons To Ask An Employment Lawyer To Review Your Contract.
Getting a new job can be thrilling. Especially after a lengthy job hunt or interview process and in the rush of excitement – it is normal for employees to want to “seal the deal” and sign their new employment contract right away. However, employment contracts contain legal language and clauses that are complex and hard […]
Openings: Employment and Human Rights Lawyer
About Us Simes Law is an up-and-coming boutique employment and human rights law firm. Our lawyers possess strength and passion for their work. We are dedicated to translating complex employment laws into clear and understandable concepts so that employers and employees know their rights, obligations, and options. Why Simes Law? About the role: About the […]