W. Eric Pedersen - Employment + Human Rights Law

04/09/2020

Thank you People's Law School - BC for publishing this outstanding and up to date guide to common COVID-19 related legal problems.

Guidance for British Columbians during the pandemic.

04/08/2020

I am offering free 30 minute phone or video consultations to employees anywhere in BC this Friday. If you've lost your job, have a question, or something isn't sitting right with you, book through my website and select "Good Friday" http://ow.ly/sCtq50z99sy

I represent employees and employers on matters relating to wrongful dismissal and severance, and claims purusant to the Human Rights Code. I provide practical and cost-effective advice to employers and employees.

04/08/2020

The authority to close businesses in British Columbia during the pandemic comes from the Public Health Act, which empowers the public health officer to make orders when a public health emergency has been declared. Although BC has issued a list of "essential businesses", only some businesses have been ordered closed. Employers and employees need to stay up to date on the orders and guidelines issued by the provincial health officer, linked below.

Find COVID-19 related orders, notices, guidance, health resources and letters from the PHO

04/07/2020

Trudeau's remarks this morning indicate that help might be on the way for those left out of the benefit. The situation changes daily.

On March 25, 2020, the federal government announced the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (“CERB” ) which provides support of $2,000 per month for Canadians who are out of work as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Because of the nature of how artists earn their living, many are left out of the ...

04/06/2020

Reports from applicants for the are that the online application process is simple - five minutes or less, but some applying by phone have received busy signals. For the self employed, receivables from old work don't count as income earned for the 14 day waiting period.

04/06/2020

I work remotely, and offer online booking and consultations by phone or video call. I can provide advice and representation to you no matter where you are in British Columbia. Booking details on my website: employmentlawyerbc.ca

I represent employees and employers on matters relating to wrongful dismissal and severance, and claims purusant to the Human Rights Code. I provide practical and cost-effective advice to employers and employees.

04/05/2020

COVID-19 FAQ for Employees

Frequently asked questions for employees in BC during the COVID-19 pandemic, including temporary lay-offs, constructive dismissal, severance pay, family care obligations, and job protections for employees.

04/04/2020

In most workplaces an employer has no legal right to temporarily lay an employee off or to reduce their salary. The only exception to this would be if you have a written employment agreement that states that the employer may reduce your hours, reduce your pay, or lay you off. Most contracts have no

04/04/2020

On March 23, 2020, the BC Legislature passed an amendment to the Employment Standards Act codifying protections for workers who are absent from their workplace as a result of COVID-19.