Employers have a legal obligation to provide a workplace that is free of discrimination and harassment. In Ontario, this obligation is contained within the Human Rights Code, which protects against 15 different grounds of discrimination: race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, creed (religion), sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status (including same sex partners), family status, receipt of public assistance (in accommodation only), and record of offences (in employment only).

Applications alleging discrimination are filed directly with the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario (the “Tribunal”). The Tribunal deals with all claims of discrimination filed under the Ontario Human Rights Code. Applications are resolved through mediation or adjudication. Carters is able to assist both employers and employees with cases that are before the Tribunal.

For employees, the lawyer will work with the client to build the best case possible.

For employers, the lawyer will assist in determining what the best course of action is in the particular circumstances. The lawyer will also endeavour to explain risk management to the employer in the hope that if the employer takes certain steps, the risk of future human rights complaints by employees will be significantly reduced.