Being laid off is a harsh reality for thousands of Canadian workers every single year, and it’s not unusual for some of those now unemployed people to believe that their dismissal was wrongful.
If you’re an Albertan who has found yourself in a similar position, with your contract terminated in a way that you believe to be unlawful, you can seek help and guidance from an employment lawyer in Alberta. With their expertise in labour law, they are able to guide you through a claim of wrongful dismissal.
But let’s get down to the basics first and look at the steps you should take when you believe you’ve been wrongfully dismissed in Alberta:
Your very first steps
Once the terrible news has sunk in and you’ve carefully considered all the information at your disposal, it’s time to gather together any relevant documents, such as pay slips, contracts of employment, employer correspondence, etc. After gathering these documents, contact a local employment lawyer as soon as possible to begin building your defence with their legal expertise.
The role of an employment lawyer
More than merely your legal representative, an employment lawyer will fight in your corner and help you determine whether your dismissal was indeed wrongful according to local labour laws.
If they conclude that you have a legitimate case for wrongful dismissal, they’ll formally contact your employer in an effort to seek compensation or prepare a complaint ready for court. Note that these are not actions a layperson can or should carry out.
With their legal expertise, they can act as a mediator and help compose a compelling case for your employer and the relevant judicial authorities.
Tackling the admin
You should endeavour to keep written records of all interactions with official authorities and your former employer, and make sure that they’re all dated, as these may help make your case more robust.
Negotiations
Not all wrongful dismissal disputes go via the courts; in many instances, skilled negotiation guided by a local employment lawyer can help you arrive at a solution that’s acceptable for both parties.
Moving towards a fresh start
Although a wrongful dismissal may mark the end of a certain stage of your working life, it can also be used as a catalyst for change and for helping you pursue a role that’s perhaps even more fulfilling or challenging. It may be a time for seeking new knowledge through training, for example, or prompt a sabbatical during which you can pursue other avenues.
A wrongful dismissal in Alberta doesn’t have to spell disaster, and with expert guidance from a local employment lawyer, you may be able to seek compensation and move forward in a positive way with your life.
