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Toxic Work Environment

A toxic work environment is created where there is discriminatory treatment in the workplace leading to intolerable working conditions. 

For example, this may occur due to racism, ageism, harassment, and/or sexism in the workplace. Many times, the offending conduct, such as yelling or name-calling, must be persistent and repeated. 

However, in some cases, where the conduct is so egregious, it may be sufficient to show that the workplace has been poisoned and the isolated included has tainted the entire workplace.

Toxic work environment

Every employee has the right to report a hostile work environment to his or her employer without any punishment. Where the employee has experienced punishment as a result of reporting a hostile work environment, they may file a complaint to the Ministry of Labour under Ontario’s Occupational Health and Safety Act.

Toxic Work Environment & Constructive Dismissal

When an employee is claiming that the toxic work environment at their workplace constitutes constructive dismissal the employee will be required to show that there is objective evidence to support this conclusion.

Evidence will need to show that the employer’s persistent conduct – in most cases – has resulted in the continued employment being intolerable. However, it is important to speak to an employment lawyer before taking any action when dealing with a constructive dismissal, as that type of claim can be hard to prove.

How can Zeilikman Law help?

Each individual’s situation will be unique, and all circumstances in the situation will need to be properly assessed. 

To determine the next steps to take in a situation where there is a toxic work environment, and possible constructive dismissal, contact one of our experienced lawyers today to set up a consultation 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 or call us at 905-417-2227 to get started.

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.