If you’ve been fired and something doesn’t feel right, trust that instinct.
Many employees in Ontario are told their termination is “normal” or “legal.”
It often isn’t.
You may be entitled to:
- significantly more severance
- compensation for bad faith or unfair treatment
- damages if your rights were violated
The problem?
Most employees accept far less than they’re owed without realizing it.
Just Terminated?
Don’t Accept the First Offer You’re Given
Severance offers are often lower than what you’re legally entitled to.
Call 1-800-771-7882 before signing anything.
What is unjust dismissal?
Unjust dismissal isn’t just a legal term; it’s what happens when a termination is:
- unfair
- unsupported
- misleading
- or handled improperly
This can include situations where:
- you were fired without proper notice or compensation
- the reasons don’t make sense or keep changing
- you were targeted after raising concerns
- your employer acted in bad faith
The key question is simple: Were you treated fairly and legally?
As Christopher Achkar, employment lawyer and founder of Achkar Law, explains:
“Being fired unfairly can have serious financial and personal consequences, and many employees don’t realize the rights they may have under Ontario law. Before accepting the situation or signing anything, it’s important to speak with an experienced employment lawyer to understand your options and protect what you may be entitled to.”
Unjust vs. Unlawful vs. Wrongful dismissal
Employees hear different terms, but they often point to the same issue:
- Wrongful dismissal → you didn’t receive proper notice or pay
- Unlawful dismissal → your rights were violated (e.g. discrimination, retaliation)
- Unjust dismissal → the termination wasn’t fair or justified
No matter the label, what matters is what you’re owed.
What you may be entitled to
If your dismissal was unfair, you may be entitled to:
- Termination pay (ESA minimums)
- Common law severance (often much higher)
- Severance pay (if applicable)
- Human rights damages (if discrimination is involved)
- Bad faith damages (if your employer acted unfairly)
In many cases, the difference between the offer and reality is significant.
Warning: most offers are low
Employers often:
- present a quick offer
- apply pressure to sign
- suggest it’s “standard.”
It rarely reflects your full legal entitlement.
Once you sign a release:
You usually cannot go back for more
What to do if you were fired
1. Don’t sign anything immediately
You may have time, even if it feels urgent.
2. Gather your documents
- employment contract
- termination letter
- bonus or compensation details
3. Pay attention to what was said
Inconsistencies or vague explanations can matter.
4. Get legal advice
This is where most employees either protect or lose their rights.
Signs your termination may be unfair
- You were let go suddenly without warning
- Your performance reviews were positive
- The reason for termination is unclear
- You were dismissed after raising concerns
- You were on leave (medical, parental, etc.)
- You were pressured to accept a quick offer
These are red flags, not just bad luck.
Why this matters
Your termination isn’t just about losing a job.
It impacts:
- your financial stability
- your ability to find new work
- your legal rights going forward
Getting it wrong now can cost you later.
Final takeaway
If you’ve been fired in Ontario:
- Don’t assume your employer got it right
- Don’t assume the offer is fair
- Don’t assume you have no options
Most employees only realize too late that they were entitled to more.
Fired Without Warning or Explanation?
Find Out If You’re Owed More
Our employment lawyers help employees understand their rights and pursue full compensation after termination.
Call 1-800-771-7882
FAQ
Any termination that is unfair, lacks proper notice, or violates employment or human rights laws.
Not exactly, but both often result in the employee being owed compensation.
Yes, depending on your situation, you may have a wrongful dismissal or human rights claim.
You may still be entitled to significant compensation beyond minimum standards.
Deadlines vary, but it’s best to act quickly before signing anything or missing legal timelines.
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Just Terminated?
Don’t Accept the First Offer You’re Given
Severance offers are often lower than what you’re legally entitled to.
Call 1-800-771-7882 before signing anything.
The article in this client update provides general information and should not be relied on as legal advice or opinion. This publication is copyrighted by Achkar Law Professional Corporation and may not be photocopied or reproduced in any form, in whole or in part, without the express permission of Achkar Law Professional Corporation. ©
The post Was Your Termination Actually Legal? Employees Have More Rights Than They Think. appeared first on Achkar Law.