Employment Lawyer
Employment Lawyer in Toronto for Newcomers – Know Your Rights at Work in Ontario
If you were let go, pressured to sign something, or treated unfairly at work, you don’t have to face it alone or in a second language. As your legal bridge between Brazil and Canada, we explain your rights under Ontario law in clear terms – in Portuguese and English.
Is this you right now?
If any of these sound familiar, you are not alone – and there is a clear next step.
You were dismissed and told to sign a release or severance offer quickly, and you’re not sure if it’s fair or what you’re really entitled to.
You just arrived in Canada, you don’t know your rights at work, and you’re afraid that speaking up could cost you your job.
Your hours, pay, role, or location were cut or changed without your agreement, and it feels like you were pushed to quit.
You’re facing harassment, discrimination, or a toxic environment at work and don’t know if it crosses a legal line.
An employer handed you an employment contract or a termination package and you want someone to review it before you sign.
How we help you
Reviewing your termination and severance offer
Before you sign anything, we review your offer and explain the difference between the minimums under the Employment Standards Act, 2000 and your possible common-law reasonable notice, which is often significantly more. You’ll understand what you’re giving up before you agree to it.
Wrongful dismissal claims
If you were let go without proper notice or pay, we assess whether you were wrongfully dismissed and help you pursue what you may be owed, whether through negotiation with your employer or a formal claim.
Constructive dismissal
When an employer makes major changes to your pay, duties, or working conditions to push you out, that can be constructive dismissal under the law. We help you understand your position before you react or resign.
Workplace harassment and human rights
If you’re facing harassment or discrimination based on protected grounds, we explain your rights under Ontario’s human rights and workplace safety laws and the options available to you.
Reviewing employment contracts
We review employment contracts and offer letters before you sign, flagging termination clauses, non-compete language, and terms that could limit your rights down the road.
Clear, honest advice in your language
We take the time to explain your situation, your options, and the realistic outcomes in Portuguese or English, so you can make an informed decision without pressure.
Why choose Sakuraba Law
Two worlds, one team
We are your legal bridge between Brazil and Canada. Our lawyers are licensed by the Law Society of Ontario (LSO), so we understand both the law here and where you’re coming from.
In Portuguese and English
Employment law is stressful enough without a language barrier. We serve you fully in Portuguese and English, so nothing important gets lost and you actually understand your rights at work.
Technical excellence with empathy
We combine careful, accurate legal work with genuine understanding of what it’s like to start over in a new country. We explain the why behind our advice, not just the what.
The people behind your case
A Brazilian team licensed in Ontario, serving you in Portuguese and English.
Frequently asked questions
You’re generally not required to sign on the spot, and signing can waive rights you didn’t know you had. It’s wise to have your offer reviewed first so you understand the difference between the Employment Standards Act, 2000 minimums and your possible common-law entitlements. Book a consultation before you sign anything.
The Employment Standards Act, 2000 sets the legal floor for notice and severance. Common-law reasonable notice can be considerably higher and depends on factors like your age, length of service, position, and how easily you can find similar work. Many people accept only the minimum without realizing they may be owed more.
Significant changes to your pay, hours, duties, or location that you didn’t agree to can sometimes amount to constructive dismissal, which the law may treat like a termination. Every situation is different, so it’s important to get advice before you resign or accept the change.
Speaking to a lawyer is confidential, and understanding your rights doesn’t require confronting your employer. We help you weigh your options quietly and decide what makes sense for you before you take any step. You stay in control of what happens next.
Before you sign, understand your rights
Don’t sign, resign, or wait in silence before you understand your rights. Schedule your consultation and a lawyer will review your documents and explain your options, in Portuguese or English.
This content is informational and not legal advice. Every case is assessed individually.