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Change of Duties & Responsibilities

In Ontario, every employer has the right to make changes to an employee’s duties and responsibilities, as a result of the business needs to be properly managed and adapt to changing market conditions. 

When an employer unilaterally makes changes, they are usually expected to provide reasonable notice of the changes to the employee’s duties and responsibilities, especially when they may amount to substantial changes. Reasonable notice is assessed on the basis of various factors such as the employees rank, age, length of service with the company, etc.

However, where these changes are sizable, as to alter the original terms of the employment without the employee’s consent, it may amount to constructive dismissal if not properly implemented.

Change of Duties/Responsibilities & Constructive Dismissal

Sometimes a unilateral change in an employee’s circumstances may amount to a constructive dismissal. An employer is not able to significantly alter an employee’s duties and responsibilities so that it is no longer consistent with the terms and conditions that the employee agreed to.

Change of duties

Employers can make a reasonable reassignment of duties, as long as it is not significant enough to constitute a constructive dismissal.

Where an employee’s job description allows for flexibility with regard to duties and responsibility, it will be harder to show that the changes constituted constructive dismissal.

How can Zeilikman Law help?

If you have experienced a change in your duties/responsibilities and have questions or concerns related to that change and the possibility of constructive dismissal, contact one of our experienced lawyers today to discuss your options.

At Zeilikman Law, we approach these issues with logical and creative solutions. Our lawyers are, professional, friendly, and determined. We have the know-how to navigate through the psychology of any given dispute. Request a consultation today to learn more!

Legal Receptionist

Zeilikman Law is an employment law firm located in Vaughan, Ontario. We are looking to hire a legal receptionist to join our firm. Preference will be given to candidates who have experience working as a receptionist at another law firm.

Location: Vaughan, Ontario.

Start Date: Immediately.

Hours: Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm. Full time. In-person only. This is not a remote work position.

Wages: 35,000 to 40,000 per year.

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Manage our firm’s multi-line telephone system to receive incoming calls.  Screen incoming telephone call inquiries to determine the nature of the telephone call and provide standard information related to our legal services.  Take and deliver messages and route incoming telephone calls to the appropriate staff person.
  • Answer general inquiries coming from the firm’s social media and website email.
  • Welcome in-person visitors upon arrival.  Direct visitors to the appropriate staff person and / or office or boardroom.
  • Organize in-person visitor schedule to prevent overlap and multiple bookings.
  • Receive, sort, and distribute daily mail and deliveries.
  • Arrange for couriers.
  • Keep front reception, kitchenette area and boardroom tidy.
  • Perform various clerical duties such as filing, photocopying, and faxing on an as-needed basis.
  • Process client or other payments.
  • May be asked to run minor errands outside of office such as attending post office to arrange a courier or pick up mail.
  • May be asked to assist other law clerks or lawyers of the firm as required and as appropriate.
  • Any other basic administrative duties or tasks as deemed appropriate.

Required Skills:

  • Basic knowledge of general office procedures including filing, faxing, and printing and copying.
  • Basic word processing computer skills.
  • Proficient in receptionist and telephone practices, etiquette, and decorum.
  • Professional attitude and appearance.
  • Excellent organizational skills.
  • Positive customer service attitude is a must.
  • Must be able to maintain confidential and sensitive information.

Education and Experience:

  • Highschool diploma or equivalent.
  • 1 – 2 years’ experience in an office setting with an emphasis in accounting, reception or clerical work is required.   We would prefer experience in a law firm environment.

Applications for this position should be sent via email to jennifer@zeilikmanlaw.com. All applications should include a cover letter, resume and at least two references. Only successful candidates will be contacted.