Employment Termination Lawyers for Ontario Employers

Terminating an Employee in Ontario?

Reliable Employment Law Advice for Employers Managing Dismissals

Managing employee terminations, dismissals, and layoffs is a sensitive and often legally complex task. At Achkar Law, our employment termination lawyers provide clear, tailored legal advice to help Ontario employers handle workplace separations lawfully and effectively.

Whether you’re preparing a termination letter, reviewing severance packages, or responding to complaints, our legal team helps you reduce risk and avoid costly mistakes.

Talk to a Termination Lawyer for Employers Today

Understanding Employee Terminations and Layoffs

Termination of Employment

An employee can be terminated for many reasons—restructuring, performance concerns, or misconduct. But even when justified, termination of employment must follow Ontario’s employment laws. Failure to comply can lead to claims for wrongful dismissal, increased severance, or reputational harm.

Layoffs

Layoffs may be temporary or permanent and often occur due to budget cuts, restructuring, or declining demand. Even temporary layoffs have legal requirements under the Employment Standards Act (ESA). Without proper wording in the employment agreement, a layoff could be seen as constructive dismissal.

Mass Layoffs

If you are reducing your workforce significantly, mass termination rules may apply, including longer notice periods, specific timelines, and required government notices. A layoff lawyer for employers can help you manage these obligations carefully.

Our Legal Services for Ontario Employers

Strategic Advice for Employment Terminations and Layoffs

We help employers design and implement compliant, consistent practices for:

  • Preparing and delivering termination letters

  • Drafting enforceable severance packages

  • Managing layoffs and mass terminations

  • Avoiding constructive dismissal claims

  • Providing notice or pay in lieu of notice

Need Advice on Drafting Severance Packages? Contact Us

Why Choose a Termination Lawyer for Employers?

Handling employee termination without legal guidance increases the risk of:

  • Wrongful dismissal claims
  • Severance disputes
  • ESA compliance violations
  • Reputational harm

Our employment lawyers offer:

✔ Tailored legal advice based on your workplace structure
✔ Risk analysis for each dismissal scenario
✔ Representation if a dispute arises
✔ Document review for compliance and clarity

Key Considerations for Employers

Legal Compliance

Ontario’s ESA sets minimum standards for termination notice, severance, layoffs, and record-keeping. We make sure your approach meets or exceeds those obligations.

Risk Mitigation

Inconsistent or rushed termination processes often lead to complaints. We help you standardize practices to protect your business and promote a respectful workplace.

Fair Treatment and Consistency

Ensuring employees are treated fairly during terminations or layoffs promotes goodwill and protects your organization’s reputation. This includes providing clear communication, fair compensation, and adherence to legal obligations.

Why Ontario Employers Choose Achkar Law

Employer-Aligned Strategy

We work with employers on these matters, allowing us to build practical, enforceable strategies that prioritize your business goals.

Fast Turnaround and Support

Need a termination review quickly? We’re ready to help—whether it’s a single employee or a large group layoff.

Ontario-Focused Legal Advice

We focus on employment law in Ontario and stay current with case law and legislative changes.

Speak to an Employment Termination Lawyer: 1-800-771-7882

Contact Achkar Law for Employee Termination Legal Services

Whether you need help drafting a severance package, navigating mass layoffs, or responding to a complaint, Achkar Law provides the employment law advice Ontario employers rely on.

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

FAQs About Terminating Employees in Ontario

Can I lay off an employee without a written contract clause?

No. Without a layoff clause in the employment agreement, temporary layoffs may be considered constructive dismissal.

How much notice or severance do I need to give?

It depends on the employee’s contract, length of service, and common law entitlements. Our termination lawyers can review the situation.

What’s the difference between a termination and a layoff?

A termination ends the employment relationship. A layoff is usually temporary, but if it’s not handled properly, it can be treated as a termination.

Are there different rules for mass layoffs?

Yes. The ESA has special notice requirements if 50 or more employees are terminated within 4 weeks.

Can I terminate someone during probation without risk?

Not always. Even probationary employees may be entitled to ESA notice or protection under the Human Rights Code.

Contact Achkar Law Now

Contact us today to schedule a consultation with our Experienced Employment and Labour Lawyers

Contact us by phone toll-free at 1-866-471-5098 or email us at [email protected], and we will be happy to assist.