Wrongful dismissal lawyer
in Ontario
Terminated without proper notice? Wrongful dismissal and termination reviews for employees in Ontario, online by video or phone.
Initial consultation free for employment and human rights matters.
In Ontario, if your employer ends your employment without just cause and fails to give proper notice or pay in lieu of notice, it may be a wrongful dismissal. Most employers can end employment without giving a reason, but they generally must give proper notice or pay instead, and the reason can never be discriminatory or a reprisal.
What we can do for you
Termination review
We read the contract and the termination letter, and explain which kind of notice applies.
Notice and severance
We check what was offered against the Employment Standards Act, your contract and common-law notice.
Negotiation
We negotiate with your employer and, where needed, take the matter further.
How a consultation works
You book
Choose a time online, or email us. You don't need any documents yet, and nothing you send at this stage is a commitment.
We run a conflict check
A lawyer can't act for both sides of the same dispute. So before we hear the details, we confirm we haven't acted for the other party, such as your employer or the school. It's a short check, and we email you as soon as it's done.
Your consultation
By video or phone. You tell us what happened. We listen, then explain your options in plain language. Ask anything.
You decide
If you'd like more help, we explain the cost before any work starts, in writing. If not, there's no obligation and no charge.
Signs you may have a claim
- You were let go without cause and given no notice or too little severance.
- You were let go shortly after raising concerns about workplace rights, such as health and safety, harassment or human rights.
- Your employer did not follow your employment contract.
- You were pressured to resign.
What the law sets
The Employment Standards Act, 2000 sets minimum notice and, for some employees, severance pay. After three months of employment, an employee whose job ends without cause is entitled to written notice, or pay instead of notice: one week for each completed year of service, up to eight weeks. A contract cannot reduce these minimums.
Depending on your contract, you may be entitled to more under the common law, which looks at factors such as your age, length of service, role and how hard it may be to find similar work.
Time limits
For many wrongful dismissal claims in Ontario, the general limitation period is two years, but some deadlines are much shorter. The deadline on a termination letter is set by the employer.
Related: Wrongful dismissal in Ontario (guide) · Severance in Ontario: what the law requires · Severance package review
General information, not legal advice. Last reviewed: October 2026 · Lutfi Law
Common questions
Still unsure? Our assistant can answer general questions any time.
Ask the AI assistantWhat is wrongful dismissal?
In Ontario, if your employer ends your employment without just cause and without proper notice or pay in lieu of notice, it may be a wrongful dismissal.
Can I be terminated without a reason in Ontario?
Often, yes. Most employers can end employment without giving a reason, but they generally must give proper notice or pay instead, and the reason can never be discriminatory or a reprisal.
Should I sign my severance offer?
Not before you understand it. A signed release usually ends your claim. Have a lawyer review the offer first.
How long do I have to act?
For many wrongful dismissal claims in Ontario, the general limitation period is two years, but some deadlines are much shorter.
What is constructive dismissal?
If your employer makes a major change to your job without your agreement, such as your pay, hours or role, it may be treated as a dismissal.
Is the first consultation free?
Yes. The initial consultation is free for employment matters.
Terminated in Ontario? 5 things to do before you sign.
A one-page checklist to keep nearby before you make any decisions. Free to download, no email needed.
General information, not legal advice.
