July 2025

Protections Against Workplace Harassment and Discrimination in British Columbia

Employees in British Columbia are comprehensively protected from workplace harassment and discrimination through a robust framework of human rights legislation, occupational health and safety laws, and, in certain instances, common law. Employers bear a significant legal obligation to actively maintain a work environment that is safe, respectful, and entirely free from discrimination and harassment. Foremost […]

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Employee Hours and Reduction – Is It Okay?

Employment / Melissa Briones

Can an Employer Reduce an Employee’s Wages or Hours Without Agreement in British Columbia? A frequent question in employment law, particularly in British Columbia, is whether an employer possesses the unilateral right to reduce an employee’s pay or hours. The general rule is clear: an employer cannot make significant, fundamental changes to essential terms of

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Minimum Notice or Severance Requirements in British Columbia

Employment / Melissa Briones

In British Columbia, when an employer terminates an employee’s employment without cause, they are legally obligated under the Employment Standards Act (ESA) to provide either written notice of termination or pay in lieu of notice. These statutory minimums are mandatory and apply regardless of the terms stipulated in any employment contract, unless the contract offers

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Legal Termination Without Cause

Employment / Melissa Briones

When Can an Employer Legally Terminate an Employee Without Cause in British Columbia? In British Columbia, employers generally retain the right to terminate an employee “without cause,” meaning they are not required to provide a specific reason directly related to serious employee misconduct for ending the employment relationship. This right, however, is balanced by crucial

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Employee Rights During Probationary Period

Employment / Melissa Briones

What rights does an employee have during a probationary period? Many employment contracts in British Columbia include a probationary period, typically ranging from three to six months, designed to allow both the employer and the employee to assess the suitability of the employment relationship. However, it’s a common misconception that employees have no rights during

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Employee VS Independent Contractor – What is the Difference?

Employment / Melissa Briones

What is the difference between an employee and an independent contractor? Understanding the fundamental distinction between an employee and an independent contractor is paramount for both businesses and workers operating in British Columbia. These classifications carry vastly different rights, obligations, and legal protections, and a misclassification can lead to significant legal and financial repercussions, including

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Protections Against Workplace Harassment and Discrimination in British Columbia

Employee Hours and Reduction – Is It Okay?

Minimum Notice or Severance Requirements in British Columbia

Legal Termination Without Cause

Employee Rights During Probationary Period

Employee VS Independent Contractor – What is the Difference?

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