Employment Lawyers in Chilliwack
Trusted legal support for wrongful dismissal, severance, and workplace disputes.
Serving employees and employers across Chilliwack.
Protecting Your Workplace Rights
At Glendinning Smith LLP, we proudly serve our Chilliwack community with a focused legal practice dedicated exclusively to employment and workplace law. By concentrating solely on this area, we offer clients in Chilliwack and the Fraser Valley strategic, experienced legal support. Whether you’re an employee navigating a workplace issue or an employer managing legal risk, our team provides clear, strategic guidance tailored to your needs.
Explore Our Chilliwack Employment Law Services
Employment Law for Employees in Chilliwack
Know your rights. Protect your future.
If you work in Chilliwack and are dealing with wrongful termination, workplace harassment, or an unfair severance offer, we’re here to help. We assist local employees in asserting their rights and securing fair outcomes, whether through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
Employment Law for Employers in Chilliwack
Practical, preventative legal support.
Chilliwack employers face increasingly complex legal obligations. From drafting contracts to resolving disputes, we help local business owners, HR professionals, and management teams build strong, compliant workplaces. Our legal advice is practical, efficient, and designed to prevent problems before they arise.
Chilliwack Human Rights Law
Workplaces should be inclusive, respectful, and fair.
We assist both employees and employers in Chilliwack with human rights matters involving discrimination, duty to accommodate, and harassment. These sensitive cases demand careful legal handling, and we bring experience, discretion, and compassion to every file.
Labour Law in Chilliwack
Experienced guidance for unionized workplaces.
Unionized environments in Chilliwack and the Fraser Valley require experienced legal counsel. We represent unions, employers, and employees in matters involving collective bargaining, grievances, and arbitration. Whether you’re enforcing a collective agreement or navigating a labour dispute, we provide trusted support every step of the way.
Workplace Investigations in Chilliwack
Independent, discreet, and legally sound.
When serious workplace allegations arise, Chilliwack employers trust us to conduct thorough, fair, and independent third-party investigations. From harassment complaints to code of conduct violations, we deliver impartial findings that stand up to scrutiny and protect your organization.
Wrongful Dismissals in Chilliwack
Don't settle for an unjust leave of your job.
Navigating wrongful dismissals in Chilliwack and the Fraser Valley requires experienced legal counsel. We represent employees in matters involving unfair termination, contract breaches, and disputes with employers. Whether negotiating a settlement or pursuing legal action, we provide trusted guidance and support every step of the way.
Why Glendinning Smith?
Chilliwack-Based Focus
Our team is deeply familiar with the local legal landscape and workplace culture.
Exclusive Practice Area
We work only in employment and workplace law, nothing else.
Balanced Perspective
We advise both employees and employers, giving us insight from both sides.
Local Reputation
Trusted by individuals, businesses, and HR professionals across Chilliwack.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much severance am I entitled to in BC?
Severance in British Columbia depends on several factors, including your age, position, length of service, and the availability of similar employment. While minimum entitlements under employment standards legislation are often limited, many employees are entitled to significantly more under common law. Before accepting a severance package, it is important to have it reviewed by an employment lawyer.
What is wrongful dismissal?
Wrongful dismissal occurs when an employer terminates an employee without providing proper notice or adequate severance pay, and without just cause. In many cases, employees are entitled to compensation beyond what is initially offered. A legal review can help determine whether your termination was handled properly.
Do I need a lawyer before signing a severance package?
Yes. Once you sign a severance agreement, you typically give up your right to pursue further compensation. Employers often provide deadlines that create pressure to sign quickly, but you are usually entitled to take time to seek legal advice. Having a lawyer review your package can ensure you are receiving what you are owed.
How long do I have to make a claim for wrongful dismissal in BC?
In most cases, you have up to two years from the date of termination to start a wrongful dismissal claim in British Columbia. However, it is always best to act sooner, as delays can impact your case and your ability to recover compensation.
Can my employer fire me without cause?
Yes, employers in BC can terminate employees without cause, but they must provide reasonable notice or severance pay. If they fail to do so, the termination may be considered wrongful dismissal.
What should I do if I was just terminated?
If you have been terminated, avoid signing any documents right away. Gather any employment contracts, termination letters, and severance offers, and seek legal advice as soon as possible. Acting early can help protect your rights and improve your outcome.
Do you represent both employees and employers?
Yes. We provide employment law services to both employees and employers in Chilliwack and the surrounding Fraser Valley. This allows us to offer practical, well-rounded advice based on experience from both sides of workplace disputes.
How much does it cost to speak with an employment lawyer?
Costs can vary depending on the nature of your matter. In many cases, we offer an initial consultation to review your situation and outline your options. Contact us to discuss your specific circumstances.
Do I have to go to court for an employment dispute?
Not always. Many employment matters are resolved through negotiation or settlement without going to court. However, if a fair resolution cannot be reached, pursuing legal action may be necessary.
What types of employment law cases do you handle?
We assist with wrongful dismissal, severance negotiations, constructive dismissal, workplace harassment, human rights issues, employment contracts, and workplace investigations.
Start with a Conversation
If you’re facing a workplace issue, speak with a Chilliwack employment lawyer who understands your situation and is here to help