Wise Law – General FAQ
What qualifies as wrongful dismissal in Ontario?
Wrongful dismissal occurs when an employee is terminated without proper notice or pay in lieu of notice, as required by law or contract. Learn more about your rights on our Wrongful Dismissal Lawyers page.
Can I be fired without cause in Ontario?
Yes, employers can terminate without cause, but they must provide appropriate notice or compensation. Learn more about Termination Without Cause.
What is pay in lieu of notice?
Pay in lieu of notice refers to the compensation given instead of advance notice of termination. Learn more on our Pay in Lieu of Notice page.
Am I entitled to severance pay?
You may be entitled to severance pay under Ontario law if you’ve been with your employer for 5+ years and the company has a payroll of $2.5M+. Certain sectors (such as construction workers) are excluded from these entitlements. See our Severance Pay in Ontario section.
Should I have my severance package reviewed by a lawyer?
Yes. Many packages undervalue entitlements. Our Severance Package Review Lawyers can help you determine what’s fair.
What is constructive dismissal?
Constructive dismissal happens when your employer changes your job significantly without consent—like cutting pay or demoting you, or if workplace toxicity makes it untenable for you to continue in your job. Visit our Constructive Dismissal Lawyer section to learn more.
How do I report workplace harassment or discrimination?
You can bring claims arising from workplace discrimination under the Ontario Human Rights Code or in a wrongful dismissal claim. We handle cases of bullying, sexual harassment, and more. See our pages on Workplace Harassment and Workplace Discrimination.
What if my employer misclassified me as an independent contractor?
Misclassification can affect your rights to severance, overtime, and benefits. Our Compensation & Misclassification section explains your options.
Do you help with Employment Insurance (EI) appeals?
Yes, we assist with EI denials and appeals. Visit our EI Lawyer section for help.
WILLS & ESTATES FAQ
Do I need a lawyer to make a will in Ontario?
While DIY wills are legal, a lawyer ensures your will is valid, enforceable, and tailored to your family’s needs. Visit our Wills Lawyer Toronto page to learn more.
What happens if I die without a will in Ontario?
Your estate will be distributed according to Ontario’s intestacy laws, which may not reflect your wishes. See more on our Last Will page.
What is probate and when is it required?
Probate is a legal process confirming a will’s validity and giving authority to the estate trustee. Visit our Probate Services section.
Can I contest a will in Ontario?
Yes, if you believe the will is invalid or you’ve been unfairly excluded. Our Estate Litigation team can help assess your case.
Do I need Powers of Attorney for property and personal care?
Yes. These documents protect your wishes if you become incapacitated. See our Power of Attorney section.
CIVIL LITIGATION FAQ – WISE LAW TORONTO
What is civil litigation?
Civil litigation involves non-criminal legal disputes between individuals, businesses, or institutions. This includes matters such as contract breaches, negligence claims, real estate disputes, assault claims and more. At Wise Law, we have been representing clients in Ontario courts and tribunals since 1986. Learn more about our civil litigation services.
What types of civil litigation cases do you handle?
We represent clients in a broad range of disputes, including:
- Contractual breaches and enforcement
- Real estate and property litigation
- Professional and personal negligence
- Business, shareholder, and partnership disputes
- Defamation and privacy breaches
- Construction liens and contractor disputes
- Human rights and discrimination claims
- Urgent injunctions and emergency relief
Explore our full list of civil litigation services.
Can I sue a professional for negligence or misconduct?
Yes. If you’ve suffered financial or personal harm due to a professional’s actions or omissions, you may be able to file a negligence or malpractice claim. Our team can assess your legal position and help determine next steps.
Do you assist with real estate or property disputes?
Absolutely. We handle real estate litigation involving buyer/seller conflicts, mortgage enforcement, property damage, neighbour disputes, and more.
What’s the difference between a contract dispute and a breach of contract?
A contract dispute often involves disagreement over how a contract should be interpreted. A breach means one party has failed to fulfill their obligations under the agreement. Both require legal review, and we provide strategic counsel for each.
Can Wise Law represent me in urgent legal matters?
Yes. We handle emergency litigation including injunctions, court orders (such as Mareva, Norwich, and Anton Piller orders), and urgent motions. Fast legal response can be critical in protecting your rights.
Do you handle business and partnership disputes?
Yes. We frequently act in shareholder disputes, partnership dissolutions, and corporate litigation involving fiduciary breaches, fraud, or abuse of process. We also pursue debt collection and enforcement.
What courts and tribunals do you represent clients in?
Our civil litigation lawyers appear in all levels of Ontario courts, including:
- Superior Court of Justice
- Ontario Court of Appeal
- Ontario Human Rights Tribunal
- Small Claims Court
- Ontario’s administrative tribunals
We also handle appeals and alternative dispute resolution (ADR), including mediation and arbitration.
Can I appeal a court decision?
Yes, if there were legal or serious evidentiary errors in your case, you may have grounds to appeal. We offer experienced appellate advocacy for civil matters at all levels of court.
Why choose Wise Law for your civil litigation case?
Since 1986, we’ve built a strong track record of results in all forms of litigation. Our approach is strategic, responsive, and tailored to each client’s legal and personal priorities. Whether you’re initiating or defending a claim, we’ll work with you to build the most effective legal path forward.
How do I speak to a civil litigation lawyer?
We offer no-obligation telephone consultations to discuss your situation. Contact Wise Law at (416) 972-1800 to speak directly with a Toronto civil litigation lawyer.
Who is Garry J. Wise?
Garry J. Wise is the founder and senior counsel at Wise Law. With decades of experience in employment law, civil and family litigation, Garry brings strategic insight and a client-first philosophy to every case. Visit our About page to learn more about Garry and the team.
Do you offer a free consultation?
Yes, we offer a free 15-minute consultation for new clients. This gives you the opportunity to ask questions and understand your legal options. Schedule your consultation here.
How will my lawyer communicate with me?
We keep our clients informed through regular email updates, phone calls, and video meetings. We’re committed to transparency and responsiveness. Learn more about our client experience.
What should I bring to my consultation with Wise Law?
Bring any relevant documents such as your termination letter, will, employment contract, or court documents, plus photo ID. We’ll guide you on what else may be needed.
Do you work with clients outside Toronto?
Yes. While Wise Law is based in Toronto, we serve clients across Ontario and outside the Province. Some legal services may be available remotely. Contact us to discuss your location.