Employment Law

Wrongful dismissal is when an employer ends your job without the notice, or pay instead of notice, that you are owed under your contract or the common law (rules from past court decisions). Alberta's Employment Standards Code sets the minimum, but common law notice is often much higher. It depends on factors such as your age, length of service, and position. Learn more about our employment law services.

The Employment Standards Code does not require separate severance pay, but it does require notice of termination or pay instead of notice. You may also be owed reasonable notice under the common law, which can mean weeks or months of pay. The amount depends on your age, length of service, position, and how easy it is to find similar work.

Yes, in most cases, if your employer gives you proper notice or pay instead of notice. An employer cannot fire you for a discriminatory reason, to punish you for using a legal right, or in bad faith. A lawyer can check whether you received what you are owed.

No. Have a lawyer review it first. Once you sign a release (a document saying you will not sue), you usually give up the right to ask for more. Many first offers are lower than what the law requires, and a lawyer can help you negotiate.