Employment Standards Act

Workplace Investigations in BC: A Plain‑Language Guide for Employers

Workplace investigations help keep employees safe and reduce legal risk when problems arise. In British Columbia, employers are expected to act quickly and fairly when concerns surface about bullying and harassment, discrimination, sexual harassment, threats, or violence. Even if a complaint is not proven, exposure often turns on whether the response was timely, reasonable, and […]

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Employment Contracts in British Columbia: Why Verbal Agreements Are Risky

Many employment relationships in British Columbia begin informally. A job offer may be made over the phone or confirmed by email, and work starts quickly—sometimes before any written agreement is signed. While that may be convenient, relying on a verbal agreement often increases risk for both employers and employees, particularly when expectations change or the

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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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employment lawyer

Termination with Cause in British Columbia: Understanding the Legal Implication

In the realm of employment, termination with cause refers to the lawful dismissal of an employee due to serious misconduct or violation of employment terms. This article aims to provide an overview of termination with cause in British Columbia, Canada, highlighting the legal implications for both employers and employees. Termination with Cause Explained: Termination with

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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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