Employment

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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Minimum Notice or Severance Requirements in British Columbia

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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Employee Rights During Probationary Period

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?

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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Retaining Employees After A Business Acquisition

When a business is purchased, the future of its employees often becomes a critical concern for both the new owners and the workforce. The transition period after a business acquisition can bring uncertainty, and employees may wonder whether their positions are secure, especially if there’s a change in company culture or management structure. For the

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performance assessments in British Columbia Canada

Strategic Solutions: Tailor-Fitting Performance Assessments for BC Companies

Are you seeking performance assessment solutions that go beyond the ordinary? Look no further. Our team, led by Melissa Briones, a seasoned professional who holds a Certified Professional in Human Resources (CPHR) designation, is committed to delivering customized performance assessment strategies that align seamlessly with the unique needs of businesses in British Columbia. Understanding the

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UBC Kababayan Career Panel with Melissa Briones Northam Law

Distinguished Founder and Lawyer, Melissa, Shares Career Insights at UBC Kababayan’s Career Panel

Vancouver, BC – [February 8] Melissa Briones, the esteemed founder and lawyer of Northam Law Corporation, took the stage as a distinguished panelist at the recent UBC Kababayan Career Panel and Networking. The event, organized by UBC Kababayan, provided students with a unique opportunity to gain valuable insights into Melissa’s journey and glean advice on

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Melissa has 8+ years of combined Commercial, Business and Contract Law experience as In-House Counsel in manufacturing, health, real estate development, and broadcast communication industries. She is instrumental in developing strategies to minimize legal risk and ensure regulatory compliance.

She has 6+ years of Human Resources Management experience and a Chartered Professional in Human Resources (CPHR) designation. Her practice includes Family Law, Civil Litigation, Wills & Estates and Real Estate & Conveyancing.

For fun, she visits ancient sites and ruins and belts out popular Broadway tunes.

northam law corporation

Northam Law is a boutique law firm offering advisory services in Real Estate Law and Conveyancing, Business Law, and Human Resources. Our practice areas also include Wills & Estates and Family Law. Notarization services are also available.

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