Can I Get Fired for Making a Complaint Against My Employer?

Raising concerns about unfair or unlawful practices at work can be intimidating, especially if you’re unsure about the consequences. Many employees in Ontario worry about being fired for making a complaint against their employer. Fortunately, Ontario’s employment laws provide strong protections to ensure employees are not wrongfully dismissed for standing up for their rights.

Your Legal Protections: What Ontario Law Says About Retaliation

Ontario’s Employment Standards Act, 2000, and the Ontario Human Rights Code offer significant protections to employees who file complaints. Employers are prohibited from taking adverse actions, such as firing, demotion, or reducing hours, against workers who exercise their legal rights. Understanding these protections can help you feel more confident in raising your concerns.

What to Do If You Experience Retaliation at Work

If you face retaliation after filing a complaint, you need to take immediate action to protect yourself:

Document Retaliation: Keep thorough records of any adverse actions your employer takes.
Report the Retaliation: File a follow-up complaint with the same organization where you originally lodged your issue, such as the Ministry of Labour or the Ontario Human Rights Commission.
Seek Legal Assistance: Consulting with an employment lawyer can help you explore options, such as filing a wrongful dismissal claim.

How to File a Complaint Against Your Employer Safely

Filing a complaint may seem overwhelming, but taking the right steps can protect your rights:

Choose the Right Legal Body: Depending on the type of complaint (labour violation, discrimination, etc.), file with the appropriate entity, such as the Ministry of Labour or Ontario Human Rights Tribunal.
Keep Detailed Records: Document incidents, including dates, people involved, and any related communications.
Get Legal Support: Consider contacting an employment lawyer or union representative to help guide you through the process.

Can I Sue My Employer for Retaliation or Wrongful Dismissal?

You may have a case for wrongful dismissal or retaliation if you’ve been fired after filing a complaint. Ontario laws prohibit employers from retaliating against employees for asserting their rights, and legal action can help you seek compensation or even reinstatement. A lawyer can assess the strength of your case and advise you on how to proceed.

Why Consult an Employment Lawyer? How Achkar Law Can Help

Workplace disputes can be complicated, especially when you fear retaliation or dismissal. Achkar Law’s employment lawyers provide clear guidance and strong representation to ensure your rights are upheld.

Our services include:

Legal Consultations: Get advice on your unique situation.
Representation in Complaints: From filing your complaint to court representation, Achkar Law will stand by your side.
Protection Against Retaliation: We will help you safeguard your rights and take action if you face unfair treatment.

Toll-free: 1 (800) 771-7882 | Email: [email protected]

Ready to File a Complaint Against Your Employer?

If you’re considering filing a complaint about your employer and need legal guidance, we’re here to help. Contact us to explore your options and get the support you need.

Chris Lorentz

The team at Achkar Law made me feel so comfortable and answered all my questions.

Christopher Achkar was very knowledgeable and again put my mind at ease and made me feel very comfortable.

Caleb Patrick

Every step of this process has been super easy for such a high stress situation. All of the staff I've interacted with have been compassionate and easy to talk to, on top of that I give them many kudos for the prompt responses since my matter is time sensitive. Chris Achkar is friendly and reassured me throughout the strategy meeting to ensure that I felt positively about the direction we needed to go. All of my legal matter inquiries were met with professionalism and left me feeling empowered about where my situation stands. Highly recommend. Thank you!

Debbie Marshall

Achkar Law responded to my initial enquiry within hours. I spoke with a number of people who were knowledgeable and compassionate. I highly recommend their services.

ryan24XD

Everyone here are easy to talk to and full of knowledge. I spoke to Babak for my consultation and he was full of info, great to talk to and made me feel like he was for sure in my corner. If every that works there are like this, definitely recommend using this firm for any problem you have.

April Smith

Answered all my questions, acknowledge my complaint and all concerns, best part was, the lawyer I spoke to, was in utterly complete shocked with in information and laughed and said what the heck, I reply and said Yes I know right, I said the same thing lol. It was a very stressless call and agreed 100%. Thanks for the meeting sorry about the stories, I could of told you more about my Human Rights Violations and others. Looking forward to reaching out again. Thanks for the wonderful words of encouragement, advice, and acknowledging I was right.

Alan Courtney

Great initial consultation, explained everything in basic terms and gave great advice

Sherrie Wynne

So I have just started with them and man I am glad I did.
I am usually a floor matt but after my work actually made me sick I had to resign and things got so tough I thought I would never make it but now I see hope.
Charles Millar and his team have been so nice and empathetic. I will come back and let you know how much he rocks after this goes well as I know he will get this!
Edit- 2 weeks in. Not regretting it!

Ted Malone

Excellent knowledge very helpful looking forward to working with them .

JV SL

Chris was very accessible and responsive, provided quick turnaround to review and outline best options to help handle my employment matter. I've previously used Achkar Law, and really appreciate consistency in their quality of service.

Supriya

Yasmin Said

Very easy to shedule an appointment with them, kristen helped me by phone.
The laywer Charles was very wasy to talk with, explain our concerns.
Definitely we recommend them for all your needs with law.

Ajay K

Did a consultation with Clifford Singh for an employment issue. Clifford was very professional, honest and informative when providing a solution to my problem. His extensive knowledge in employment matters thoroughly answered all my questions and he also very pleasantly helped me plan my next steps! Abby was also very supportive in helping me connect with a professional during the long weekend. 10/10 service!

Ericson Tapang

My aunt was wrongfully dismissed from her job of 17 years without any valid reason. We struggled to find legal help—many lawyers didn’t return our calls or were too busy to take on the case. That’s when we found Achkar Law. From the very beginning, Chris (the founder) and Madison (a partner) were incredibly helpful and attentive to my aunt’s needs. They were ready to assist us as soon as we walked in.

During our consultation, they clearly explained everything related to labor laws, human rights, and employment matters. Thanks to their expertise and guidance, my aunt is now on the path to getting her life back on track. I highly recommend Achkar Law to anyone in need of employment legal assistance—you won’t be disappointed!

George Adaimi

We recently had a consultation with Chris from ACHKAR LAW regarding an urgent employment issue for a family member, and we had to act quickly. Chris’s professionalism, clear direction, and the way he handled the situation truly stood out. He provided us with valuable legal advice that made a significant difference. I highly recommend ACHKAR LAW to anyone in need of employment or corporate legal services.

andre delabastide

I recently left my employer after bieng harassed, descriminated, humiliated, just to name a few. Chris and his team, responded rapidly to my crisis, asking for details and facts about employer and people involved etc... He suggested a strategy session before going any further to inform me of my legal rights and options of recourse. I gladly paid the very reasonable fee for the session. Right away after 5 minutes of talking with Chris, I felt relieved and knew he was looking out for the best realistic outcome, rather than making false promises and giving me false hopes and taking a large retainer fee, (as I have paid with lawyers in the past.) I followed his advice, and I am now keeping him on speed dial for all of my legal needs. Chris and the Achkar team will help you get the best outcome and be there for you when you need them the most. Honesty and service like this is rare these days.

Andre Dlb..

Alison O'Donnell

I had excellent advise during my first interaction with ACHKAR LAW. Quick to respond and accommodating to my schedule with time-sensitive request. I will be using this firm if further needs arise!