Why Choose Our workplace discrimination Lawyers

We are dedicated workplace lawyers for employees and employers with significant experience in workplace discrimination.

Whether you’re an employee subjected to discriminatory treatment by your employer or colleague, or an employer looking needing advice on how to accommodate your employees, we are here to help. Book a consultation and we will review your situation to provide you with clarity on the path forward.

common workplace discrimination Questions

Find the answers you’ve been looking for.

Navigating any employment law issue can feel daunting when you’re doing it alone. We’re here to offer you the knowledge and adept guidance with Alberta’s Employment Standards Code. Find more answers in our Knowledge Centre.

The Alberta Human Rights Act protects people from discrimination by an employer. Common acts of employment-related discrimination include an employer refusing to employ someone or letting an existing employee go based on any of the following, which are called protected grounds in the legislation:

-Race
-Religious beliefs
-Gender (includes pregnancy)
-Physical and mental disability
-Age
-Marital status
-Family status
-Sexual orientation

The Human Rights Act also protects equal pay, regardless of gender identity, for those who perform the same or substantially similar work for an employer.

The clearest definition of discrimination in Canada to date comes from the Supreme Court of Canada:

Discrimination is a distinction which, whether intentional or not but based on grounds relating to personal characteristics of the individual or group, has an effect which imposes disadvantages not imposed on others or which withholds or limits access to advantages available to other members of society.

Whether an employer intended to discriminate or not doesn’t affect a finding of discrimination. It only matters if the effect of the treatment is discrimination.

If an employer is found to have discriminated, the consequences can include financial compensation and/or non-financial orders, such as:

Up to two years of wage replacement

-Reinstatement of employment
-Reimbursement for financial losses
-Damages for psychological harm or loss of dignity

In some cases, a breach of human rights legislation may also constitute a constructive dismissal.

Employers also must accommodate employee needs based on the protected grounds to the point of “undue hardship”. When an employer becomes aware or should have reasonably become aware that accommodation is required, the employer is expected to make further inquiries to explore the accommodations required.

Navigating a situation of potential discrimination isn’t easy, so we work closely with our clients every step of the way to determine whether their human rights have been violated and what options they have to move forward.

Alberta’s Human Rights Act is a provincial law that protects individuals from discrimination and harassment on the basis of various personal characteristics, including race, colour, ancestry, place of origin, religious beliefs, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, and disability. The act applies to all employers, employees, and job applicants in Alberta.

An employer can only fire an employee who is on sick leave or maternity leave if they can prove that the termination occurred because the employee’s position was eliminated.

how our clients feel

We’re proud of helping our clients find their best possible outcome.

Brenda

Competent, Confident, Reasonable, Personable, Expedient, Understanding, Compassionate and a Knowledgeable Lawyer. Mike Cashion listened, empathized, advised, defended and obtained a successful result. You corrected an unfair situation. Thank you so much!

Randy

Mike did an excellent job settling my unique employment matters in a very timely and professional fashion! I highly recommend him for your legal needs! Thanks Mike!

Sheryl

[We] were so impressed with Mike’s professionalism, honesty and compassion. He was always very responsive and transparent throughout the whole process and provided solid advice. I highly recommend Mike to anyone needing advice with an employer concern and would hire him again if required! Mike is a true caring professional.

Jay

Michael Cashion was the best lawyer I could have hoped for. He always took the time I needed to understand every step of the process completely. His research was complete and thorough and he helped me to have a pleasant experience and outcome.

ACBS Accounting

He was very professional, compassionate and supportive. After hearing me out, he patiently explained the pros and cons of my case and my options to decide. His fees were reasonable and fully explained based on the legal options that I chose to pursue. My case was concluded to my satisfaction and peace of mind after two months of consultation with Mike. I highly recommend Mike and his firm. They are professional, knowledgeable and passionate about what they do.

workplace discrimination lawyers human rights, shaking hands

Frequently asked questions about workplace discrimination?

Discrimination laws are complex. By consulting with a workplace discrimination lawyer, you can gain a clear understanding of your rights as an employee and the specific protections afforded to you under relevant anti-discrimination laws. They can explain the legal standards that need to be met to prove discrimination and advise you on the best course of action.

Discrimination cases often require a thorough analysis of the facts and evidence. A lawyer experienced in employment law can review your case, assess the strength of your claims, and provide an objective evaluation of the potential outcomes. They can help you understand the legal elements you need to establish to prove discrimination and advise you on the viability of pursuing legal action.

It is important to consult with a lawyer as soon as you think you have been subject to workplace discrimination. There are strict timelines that apply when asserting your rights regarding discriminatory conduct.

Discrimination consultations reviews can generally be completed within a week. Subject to our availability.

Our standard fee for discrimination consultations is $425, plus GST, although the fee may be higher if the facts of your case are particularly complicated. This fee includes reviewing of all materials provided in advance of the consultation, reviewing relevant precedents, attending the consultation, and answering follow up questions you have after the consultation.

calgary human rights lawyers alberta meeting

We have a solution.

Our dedicated lawyers are here to provide clear, actionable solutions tailored to your specific needs. Whether you’re an employer or an employee dealing with a workplace discrimination issue, we offer insightful analysis and strategic guidance to help you understand your rights and options. With a commitment to delivering clarity and effective representation, we work tirelessly to resolve your employment law concerns efficiently and favorably. Trust us to be your knowledgeable partner in achieving the best possible outcomes and bringing peace of mind to your employment-related matters.

man consultation calgary workplace discrimination

Compassion

We care about our clients.


We know that facing any type of workplace issue is difficult, so we offer professional guidance with empathy and compassion.

Clarity

We bring clarity to the unknown.


We know that workplace issues are full of uncertainty, so we bring clarity to your situation, options, and costs whenever possible.

Advocacy

We believe in employee rights.


All individuals deserve fairness, respect, and dignity in the workplace, so we advocate for you and seek a fair outcome for your situation.

what we do

Unsure of your rights after a workplace discrimination?
Struggling with a workplace problem?

We can help.

Wrongful Dismissal

When an individual’s employment is terminated without cause and without reasonable notice.

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Constructive Dismissal

When an employer breaches an essential obligation that is imposed by the employment agreement.

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Workplace Discrimination

When an employee experiences discriminatory treatment based on factors such as race, gender, or disability.

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Severance Packages

When an employer offers payment and benefits upon termination while also requiring signature on a release.

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Workplace Harassment

Failure of an employer or a co-worker to treat an employee with civility, decency, and respect.

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Non-Compete Clauses

An employer’s attempt to protect the business and limit an employee’s ability to work with a competitor.

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Termination for Cause

When an employee is terminated without notice or pay in lieu due to an act of serious misconduct.

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Contact us

Sometimes, you just need to take the next step.

If you’ve been struggling with a workplace discrimonation issue, you’re in the right place and we’re here to help. Booking a consultation is the first step.