Overview
Believe You Have Experienced Workplace Discrimination?
In Ontario, most workplaces are governed by the Ontario Human Rights Code (OHRC). Federally regulated workplaces are governed by the Canadian Human Rights Act (CHRA). Both prohibit employers from discriminating against employees on the basis of protected grounds, including race, ethnic origin, colour, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, family status, and disability.
Employers also have a legal duty to accommodate employees with disabilities, up to the point of undue hardship. If you believe your rights have been violated, getting legal advice early can help you understand what remedies may be available and what deadlines apply.
Common Challenges In Human Rights And Discrimination Claims
Recognizing whether the treatment you experienced qualifies as discrimination under the OHRC or CHRA
Documenting incidents and establishing a pattern of discriminatory conduct
Understanding the duty to accommodate and whether your employer has met that obligation
Determining whether to file with the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario, the Canadian Human Rights Commission, or both
Navigating tribunal processes, timelines, and required documentation
Acting within the applicable one-year limitation period before your right to file expires
The Aaron Waxman Difference
How Can Aaron Waxman and Associates, P.C. Help?
If you have experienced human rights violations or discrimination in the workplace, Aaron Waxman and Associates, P.C. can help you understand your options and take practical steps forward. This can include reviewing the circumstances of your situation, advising on what legal protections apply, and representing you before the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario. The firm has represented clients who have experienced human rights violations and discrimination in the workplace and can offer a free initial consultation to discuss your circumstances.
Why Clients choose Us
Fighting for Your Rights with Compassion & Commitment
Real Care, Real Advocacy
We take the time to understand what you are facing, then build a plan that protects your rights and supports your next steps.
We Handle the Pressure For You
We take on insurer and employer pushback, manage deadlines, and keep your claim moving so you can focus on recovery and stability.
Talk to Aaron, Not a Substitute
Aaron Waxman isn't just the name on the door. He's the one who will be sitting down with you to discuss your situation and walk you through your options.
Recognized Among Canada's Top Firms
Aaron Waxman & Associates was named one of Canada's Top Personal Injury Boutique Law Firms for 2025 by Canadian Lawyer Magazine - recognition built on years of trusted, experienced advocacy.
Not sure if you have a case or where to start? Let's Chat. No Pressure, No Obligation
Frequently Asked Questions
Workplace discrimination occurs when an employer treats an employee unfairly based on a protected ground. Under the Ontario Human Rights Code, protected grounds include age, race, ancestry, place of origin, ethnic origin, citizenship, religion, family status, marital status, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender expression, gender identity, and disability. If you believe you are experiencing discrimination, it is important to keep a written record of what happened and when. A detailed record can help establish a pattern if the discrimination is ongoing.
Under both the OHRC and the CHRA, employers are required to accommodate employees who have a disability, up to the point of undue hardship. This may include modifications to duties, schedules, or the physical work environment. If your employer has failed to accommodate you, this may form the basis of a human rights complaint.
Yes. You can hire a lawyer to represent you before the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario. Your lawyer can help you prepare your case, ensure required documents are filed on time, and present your facts and legal arguments at the hearing. Aaron Waxman and Associates, P.C. has experience representing clients before the HRTO.
Yes. The Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario will send a copy of the application to every person named in the complaint once it has been accepted for processing. Witnesses are kept private, but the respondent will know that a complaint has been filed against them.
HRTO hearings are open to the public and decisions are available through legal reporting services. There is an exception for applicants under the age of 18, whose names are replaced with initials in public records.
You have one year from the date of the alleged discrimination to file an application with the HRTO. If the discrimination occurred more than once, the one-year period runs from the most recent incident. In some circumstances, the HRTO may accept a late application if the delay was reasonable and will not cause prejudice to the other parties.
It depends on whether your employer is provincially or federally regulated. Most private sector employers in Ontario are subject to the Ontario Human Rights Code. Federally regulated employers, such as airlines, banks, railway companies, federal government departments, and telecommunications companies, are subject to the Canadian Human Rights Act. An employment lawyer can help you determine which legislation applies to your situation.
You are not required to hire a lawyer, but human rights and discrimination claims can involve complex legal arguments, strict deadlines, and formal tribunal processes. Speaking with an employment lawyer early can help you understand your rights, build a stronger case, and ensure you do not miss important timelines.
