Class Action Lawsuit

When employment law claims affect a large group of employees
Learn about class action lawsuits and mass terminations.
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What is a class action lawsuit?

A class action lawsuit in employment law occurs when a group of employees suffer a common employment grievance because of their employer’s conduct. In these cases, affected employees join together as the representative plaintiff, represented by a class action lawsuit lawyer, to address their shared grievances in a way that amplifies their voice and strengthens their position.

For a class action to proceed, there must be an identifiable class of employees who have been impacted by the employer’s actions in a similar way. Once this identifiable group has been established, a proposed class action can move forward, subject to court approval. This process allows employees to address the misconduct they’ve experienced collectively.

A class action provides access to justice by allowing employees to pool their resources and pursue claims that may be difficult or impossible to take on individually. This approach is especially effective when employers engage in practices that harm large numbers of employees, as it streamlines the legal process and makes it easier for workers to pursue fair compensation and accountability. By working with an experienced class action lawyer, employees gain a powerful tool to seek justice, promote accountability, and ultimately level the playing field.

Class Action
class action

Why do class action lawsuits occur?

There are times, such as times of financial difficulties, when employers may use certain tactics to reduce their workforce, such as:

  • large-scale restructuring
  • mass layoffs
  • group terminations
  • “voluntary” pay-cuts

Throughout these types of workforce reductions, or through other miscalculations, evidence may surface that the employer has breached one or more workplace laws. Such violations could fall under the Employment Standards Act, 2000, the Canada Labour Code or the human rights and workplace discrimination laws.

Violations include some of the following:

  • mass wrongful terminations without proper severance or notice
  • group ageism or other forms of group-based discrimination
  • misclassification of employees as independent contractors instead of regular employees
  • incorrect calculations for vacation pay, public holiday pay, or overtime compensation

In many cases, these changes or inaccuracies create repercussions that affect numerous employees in the same manner, giving rise to a potential class action lawsuit or group employment law claim. 

A class action lawyer with extensive experience in employment law can represent class members, advocate for their rights, and help navigate complex legal proceedings.

How does a class action compare to pursuing justice alone?

Class actions are a powerful alternative to individual claims when a group of employees are facing common issues due to employer misconduct. By coming together as an individual plaintiff in a class proceeding, you can have a stronger position in a situation where holding employers accountable might be challenging. 

This collective approach not only broadens the scope of what can be addressed but also provides critical access to justice, leveling the playing field for employees up against powerful employers. At Whitten & Lublin, our dedicated class action lawsuits lawyer serving Toronto and the GTA can provide you with clear guidance on whether starting or  joining a class action is the best way to achieve a fair outcome.

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How can a Whitten & Lublin class action lawsuits lawyer help you?

Whitten & Lublin Employment & Labour Lawyers have proven experience in complex class actions and group employment law claims. We provide representation in group employment law claims and mass wrongful dismissal actions, including overtime claims, group discrimination claims, group ageism claims and group termination claims. Our firm represented one of the largest group wrongful dismissal cases in Canadian history – and won.

A class action lawsuits lawyer serving Toronto and the GTA can help you level the playing field. Our class action lawyers understand the high-stakes nature of class actions. By advocating for the rights of multiple plaintiffs, we aim to level the playing field for employees and hold employers accountable.

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In need of legal advice? We are committed to treating your case with the care, dedication, and compassion that you deserve. Contact us to learn how we can help you understand and resolve your workplace legal matter.

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