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What’s the Difference between Employment and Labour Law?

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In Toronto, where business thrives and industries flourish, the legal landscape governing the relationship between employers and employees comprises a complex web of laws. Successfully navigating the landscape of employment and labour laws is crucial for many professionals, from human resources experts to legal practitioners. These laws ensure that workplaces uphold legal standards, making it essential for employers and employees to understand their rights and obligations. 

While the terms may sound interchangeable, In Canada, they encompass distinct aspects of the legal framework that governs professional life in Canada. Below, we shed light on the key differences between these legal domains.

Labour Law: The Union Connection

Labour law deals with the dynamics between employees (members of a labour union) and their employers. It deals with issues that concern a collective group of workers or labour unions. 

In Toronto, if you are part of a union, employment lawyers may be unable to represent you in certain matters directly. Canadian labour laws govern the rights and responsibilities of trade unions and their members. These laws address labour strikes, union organization disputes and union negotiations with employers. Issues within the union’s purview often require communication through your union representative. However, there are instances where a union member can collaborate with an employment lawyer to file a human rights complaint or a disability claim if they believe their actions have been unjust or the union is failing to adequately represent you.

Employment Law: Employee-Employer Relationships

In contrast, employment law primarily governs the legal relationship between individual employees and their employers within non-unionized workplaces. It encompasses an array of issues, including employment contracts, wages, workplace safety, wrongful dismissal and discrimination, vacation entitlements, harassment and human rights. 

If your rights have been infringed in the workplace, seek assistance from an employment lawyer. They can provide guidance and representation to enforce your rights

The legal landscape of Canada’s employment laws spans federal and provincial jurisdictions. The Canada Labour Code serves as the national framework for regulating individual employment in the federal sector. Individual provinces maintain specific employment regimes, which are incorporated into the broader court employment laws and rulings.

In Toronto and throughout Ontario, employment laws are predominantly mandated at the provincial level and buttressed by a series of judicial decisions interpreting statutes. These laws remain somewhat consistent from province to province, but vary in their application based on your specific circumstances. Consulting with an employment lawyer can give you a firm grasp of Ontario’s employment laws.

The Power of Individuality

While unions offer collective bargaining power, there are benefits to not being part of one. Individual employees have the advantage of directly negotiating terms and conditions of employment. This flexibility allows for personalized arrangements that align with personal career aspirations, lifestyle preferences and financial goals. 

Unions often engage in political activities and endorse specific causes or candidates. People with philosophical or political differences from a union’s stance may opt out to avoid contributing to activities they don’t support.

Union memberships also typically require membership fees. Some may opt out to save on these fees, especially if they believe the benefits they receive from the union do not outweigh the costs.

Note that laws and regulations regarding union membership, dues and opting out vary by jurisdiction. In some places, opting out is straightforward; in others, there can be legal complexities or limitations on when and how you can do so. An employment lawyer can advocate for your interests during contract negotiations and protect your rights.

Employment Lawyer in Ontario

Employment law and labour law often intersect in complicated ways. Even if you are not part of a union, understanding how these laws interact is essential. When challenges arise, whether regarding wrongful dismissal, discrimination or wage disputes, an experienced employment lawyer can help you navigate the legal complexities. 

At Lecker & Associates, our employment lawyers have over 35 years of experience representing employees. We specialize in severance negotiations, disability claims and more. 

Call us at 416.223.5391 or complete our contact form to book a consultation.

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