Hamilton Employment Termination Lawyers

Ending an employment relationship is rarely straightforward, and for the person leaving their job, it can be extremely disorienting. For the business, it can create risk.

At DWA Law, our employment termination lawyers in Hamilton support both the terminated employee and employers with clear, case-specific legal advice. These are not one-size-fits-all matters. Each case depends on the employment contract, how the termination was handled, and whether the decision meets Ontario employment standards and common law obligations.

We help employees understand their workplace rights and determine whether their severance package reflects what they’re truly entitled to under the law. We also advise companies on “with cause” terminations to avoid future legal disputes. 

Every decision is tied to real consequences, which is why we approach every file with focus and an understanding of how high the stakes can be.

Understanding Dismissal

When a job ends, it matters how and why. Dismissal can fundamentally alter your professional and personal life. It is categorized into two distinct types: ‘with cause’ and ‘without cause’. A ‘with cause’ dismissal is justified by the employee’s misconduct or neglect, and as such, there is no severance entitlement beyond the final paycheck. Conversely, a ‘without cause’ termination entitles the employee to a severance package.

Our Hamilton employment lawyers negotiate and review severance packages, taking into account all relevant factors to secure a just resolution. Before accepting or finalizing any agreement, consulting with our team can help you protect your rights and understand your full entitlements. 

Terminated employees sometimes accept the initial employer’s severance pay offer without review. If you believe you have a wrongful dismissal case, whether due to a lack of just cause, lack of reasonable notice, or because of an insufficient severance package, we can examine the offer, explain your statutory entitlements, and whether or not you may be entitled to more under common law, so that you can be fully informed.

Addressing Constructive Dismissal

Sometimes a job ends when the working conditions become impossible to accept. That could mean a dramatic pay cut, a demotion, an unreasonable increase in workload, Ontario Human Rights Code violations, or a toxic work environment. In these situations, the law may view your resignation as a dismissal, giving you the right to pursue compensation just as if you were formally let go.

Constructive dismissal claims rely on evidence, timing, and clear documentation. Our employment lawyers work closely with clients to gather proof, evaluate the changes to their role, and build a strong case that reflects the true impact on their livelihood and professional reputation.

Why Choose DWA Law for Employment Termination Issues?

Our experience covers both employer and employee representation, giving us insight into how decisions are made, and how they’re challenged. That means we see the strategy from both sides and prepare accordingly.

Many of our cases involve people who were wrongfully dismissed, offered below-standard severance, or misled about their entitlements. We’ve worked on disputes involving constructive dismissal, employment rights violations, and bad faith conduct. We’ve also assisted employers looking to terminate workers under a collective agreement or navigate complex staffing reductions. Each case is approached with focus, urgency, and a commitment to pursuing a favourable outcome, whether through negotiation or the litigation process.

We don’t push clients toward unnecessary conflict. But we do fight when it’s required. In each file, we act in your best interests and base every move on legal principle.

Passionate – Dedicated – Professional

Wide-Ranging Employment Termination Services

We handle a wide scope of employment law matters related to termination, with a focused commitment to resolving each file through preparation and principled advocacy. Our employment termination lawyers in Hamilton guide clients through matters involving:
  • Negotiating and reviewing severance packages to guarantee fair compensation and adequacy for ‘without cause’ dismissals.
  • Advising on ‘with cause’ terminations, ensuring employers have a solid legal standing and employees understand their rights.
  • Handling constructive dismissal cases, where significant changes to employment terms force an employee to resign.
  • Assisting with claims for termination damages, helping employees receive rightful compensation.
  • Providing strategic guidance on employment law compliance to prevent wrongful termination claims.
  • Representing you in court or at negotiation tables to secure favorable outcomes for our clients.

Passionate – Dedicated – Professional

Navigating Your Next Steps

If your employment has ended or is about to, timing matters. You may have only a short window to respond, challenge terms, or assert your rights. We offer a free consultation to discuss your file, review what you’ve received, and walk through your options.

Each initial consultation is confidential and direct. You’ll speak with a legal professional who understands the legal framework for terminations in Ontario. We take the time to evaluate your contract, look at what you were offered, and determine if it holds up to legal scrutiny. If the offer was too low, if you were wrongfully dismissed, or if the conditions of your job changed without cause, we’ll tell you. If you’re an employer preparing to terminate someone, we’ll help structure the process to avoid unnecessary exposure.

Contact DWA Law today to speak with a Hamilton employment lawyer. Let’s take the next step together, with the clarity and preparation your case deserves.