Workplace injuries may complicate employment decisions. Hicks Morley’s Mariana Kamenetsky and Ruvanya Kasturiarachchi will explore the intersection of WSIB claims management and workplace management at the Schedule 2 Employers’ Group 2026 Annual Conference.
Practice Area: Employment Law
Ontario Court of Appeal Distinguishes Between Temporary Lay-off Clauses and Termination Clauses
Taylor v. Salytics Inc., a recent decision of the Ontario Court of Appeal, provides welcome appellate confirmation that where an employment agreement expressly permits a temporary lay-off and the lay-off is implemented within the Employment Standards Act, 2000 framework, the lay-off will not trigger a constructive dismissal, and therefore a termination of employment.
Safety Incidents Alone Don’t Justify Drug and Alcohol Testing
SaskEnergy Incorporated v. Unifor, a recent decision of the Saskatchewan Court of Appeal, confirms that the seriousness of a safety incident and an employee’s failure to follow safety protocols are not, by themselves, sufficient to make drug and alcohol testing a reasonable line of inquiry.
Court Clarifies Frustration and Benefit Claims in Employment Damages
The Ontario Court of Appeal has clarified two issues affecting termination liability: (1) when an employee’s illness or disability frustrates the employment contract, and (2) when an employer-provided resource is a compensable employment benefit rather than a work tool supplied to do the job.
Chambers Canada 2027 Guide Recognizes Hicks Morley as Top Firm for Employment & Labour
Hicks Morley has once again been ranked as a top law firm in the Chambers Canada 2027 Guide for Employment & Labour.
Reminder to Employers: Ontario to Increase Minimum Wage Effective October 1, 2026
A reminder to employers that the Ontario government will be increasing the general minimum wage to $17.95 per hour (previously $17.60 per hour) effective October 1, 2026.
Bill C-39: Ottawa Moves to Reshape Federal Collective Bargaining and Labour Dispute Resolution
What could Bill C-39 mean for federally regulated employers? Simon Mortimer and Andrew Movrin outline the proposed changes to federal labour laws and highlight key considerations.
Ontario Catholic School Business Officials Association (OCSBOA): Annual Conference 2026
As part of OCSBOA’s 72nd Annual General Meeting and Conference, Nadine Zacks will present “Violence in the Classroom,” offering practical considerations for school boards and business officials as they navigate workplace and community expectations in a changing education environment.
Hicks Morley Welcomes Eight New Associates to the Firm
Hicks Morley is pleased to announce that eight new associates have joined the firm in our Toronto office. Their diverse experiences and dedication will further strengthen our ability to deliver exceptional service and advice to our clients.
Jamie Scoler
Jamie Scoler, an employment lawyer practising out of Hicks Morley’s Toronto office, advises employers on a variety of matters related to litigation, employment law and human rights.