Constructive dismissal is a legal term that means the employer imposed changes upon the working relationship that caused the employee to quit. This, in turn, is viewed the same as an unlawful dismissal and entitles the employee damages in notice pay at the very least. Look for constructive dismissal signs during your employment to file for constructive dismissal claims. The change to the employee’s job must be unilateral, meaning that the employee did not consent to the changes. In addition, the changes must also be fundamental to the employment relationship, signifying that the employer intended to end the employment relation. Courts will examine the particulars of each case to determine if the changes made amounted to constructive dismissal. Some common examples include changes in the amount of responsibility one has, having supervisory duties taken away, intentionally making the work environment intolerable (bullying, ridicule, humiliation), or a decrease in pay.
Having a significant increase of job duties without an increase in compensation may also amount to constructive dismissal, however, there are things courts look for when making this determination. Courts will look at whether the restructuring was necessary for the survival of the business, the state of the economy, and whether such changes were made in good faith and in relation to a business goal. If there is a sign that an employee agreed to the extra duties, whether implicitly or explicitly, a constructive dismissal claim will usually be unsuccessful.
When deciding to ‘quit’ and pursue a constructive dismissal claim, it is important to ask whether the changes imposed, signify the employer’s intention to end the employment relationship. Absent of a significant pay decrease, it is important to consult with an employment lawyer before deciding to leave employment. What may initially be seen as a fundamental change to an employee’s job may not always be the case. Alternatively, for exceptional circumstances, additional damages in addition to notice pay may be necessary to rectify the treatment to which an employee was subjected. Always seek the advice of an expert before deciding to claim constructive dismissal.

Don’t leave your constructive dismissal case to chance. Consult with a lawyer with expertise at Whitten & Lublin Employment & Labour Lawyers. To book a consultation please contact us online or by phone at (866) 575-3055 or (647) 696-9716 today!