EMPLOYMENT RIGHTS ARE
HUMAN RIGHTS!

Human Rights Tribunal Lawyer in Vancouver

Fighting to Ensure Clients Are Treated Fairly Under the Law

In employment terms under British Columbia law, citizens have what are known as “human rights, such as the right to be free from discrimination in the workplace.

When citizens feel their human rights are violated in the workplace, they may be able to take legal action. However, it can often be challenging to prove that an individual’s rights were violated.

For this reason, Labour Rights Law focuses its legal work on employment and membership in unions and associations. We have a reputation for achieving favorable client results and would be honoured to assist you with your case.

Our law firm is passionately committed to helping the citizens of Vancouver and the surrounding areas protect their legal rights so they can feel confident in their workplaces that they will not be subject to discriminatory practice. Our staff of legal professionals works hard to ensure those who are liable are held accountable for their actions.

Contact our Vancouver law firm and ask to schedule a consultation so that we may discuss your case and determine what legal options may be available.

What Human Rights Are Protected in the Workplace in Vancouver?

Under the BC Human Rights Code, also called the Code, the government chooses which rights should be protected under the law. The five main areas of daily life protected from discrimination include employment, membership in unions and associations, housing, services, and publications.

Under each area, Vancouver and BC citizens are protected from discrimination based on personal characteristics, including race or sex.

In the context of employment, the Code provides provisions for minimum standards regarding wages and working conditions in the workplace. Additionally, the Employment Standards Act dictates more in-depth rules that protect employees in other areas, which include:

  • Working hours
  • Time off
  • Notice
  • Severance pay

If an employee feels their human rights have been violated, they may take steps to try and rectify the situation by submitting a complaint to the BC Human Rights Tribunal.

If you feel your human rights have been violated, contact Labour Rights Law of Vancouver, and ask to schedule a meeting with our experienced Human Rights Tribunal lawyer, who can review your case.

The process involved in filing a complaint with the BC Human Rights Tribunal can be long and tedious. However, our law firm can offer you solid legal advice every step of the way.

How Do I Know if My Human Rights Have Been Violated?

Suppose you believe your human rights are violated at work or through a union or association. In that case, one of the key determinants is whether a negative effect occurred due to a protected trait.

Protected traits include:

  • Age
  • Race, colour, ancestry, and place of origin.
  • Family status
  • Gender expression/gender identity
  • Marital status
  • Mental or physical disability
  • Political belief
  • Religion
  • Sexual orientation
  • Criminal conviction

However, not all adverse effects of protected traits are considered Code violations. Some common examples include a single comment, a preference, or a benefit made to contribute to the Human Rights Code.

It can be challenging to determine if you have a legitimate claim independently without the assistance of a knowledgeable lawyer. Therefore, contact Labour Rights Law so we may review your case’s facts.

What is the BC Human Rights Tribunal?

The BC Human Rights Tribunal is an independent judicial body created to make decisions regarding violations of the Human Rights Code. The Tribunal accepts, screens, mediates, and judges human rights complaints each year.

However, anyone who wishes to file a complaint should be aware the tribunal will offer parties the chance to try and resolve their legal issues through mediation. The employer or respondent will have the opportunity to respond to the complaint. The respondent has the right to ask for the complaint to be dismissed without a hearing.

However, if the two parties cannot reach a mutual resolution and the complaint is not dismissed, the case will go through necessary procedures until it reaches the hearing phase. Parties may represent themselves or have a lawyer present their case.

For more information about the BC Human Rights Tribunal and the process involved in hearing cases, contact our law firm to learn more. Our legal staff can provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision about how you can proceed with your complaint.

Why Should I Hire Your Human Rights Tribunal Lawyer to Assist Me With a Claim?

One of the best steps a complainant can take to help them be successful when filing a complaint with the tribunal is to hire an experienced lawyer. A human rights tribunal lawyer is familiar with the various procedures that must be adhered to during each phase and can provide you with sound legal advice.

For example, if your case reaches the mediation phase, you will need a lawyer who can advise you and ensure your rights are protected. If your case proceeds to the hearing phase, you will need a lawyer who can present your case clearly and concisely.

Labour Rights Law of Vancouver is a law firm dedicated to helping employees get the fair treatment and justice they deserve. Suppose it can be demonstrated that you were the victim of workplace discrimination. In that case, you may be entitled to receive lost wages and compensation for your legal expenses and injury to dignity.

If you have been the victim of workplace or union discrimination, you must hire a lawyer immediately. Individuals only have a one-year time limit from the time the incident occurred. Employment discrimination can be challenging to prove, and often, evidence can disappear, or witnesses’ memories fade.

Our law office has extensive experience handling Human Rights Tribunal cases and would be honoured to assist you. Contact our Vancouver law offices at 604-245-3169 and ask to schedule a meeting to discuss your potential legal options.