COVID 19 NOTICE - We are compliant with all Covid restrictions and sensitive to various clients’ inability to meet in person at this time. We will accommodate this to the best of our ability, whether through phone, online meetings, or outdoor visits.

We have moved.
But not too far.

As of May 25,2019 our new address is:

802 13th Avenue SW
Calgary, AB T2R 0L2
Nothing else has changed.

Intelligent, Practical Solutions

For over 100 years, Ridout Barron has been dedicated to solving our clients' problems creatively and efficiently.

Practice

Subscribe

Employer ordered to pay damages to employee after his termination

Employers in Alberta may feel they have to walk on eggs when it comes to disciplining employees. Sometimes the courts choose the side of employees, causing the impression that employees can get away with egregious behaviour. One case like this involved the termination of an employee who apparently had a problem with alcohol.

Reportedly, after years of working for a company, the employee began staying away from work. He suffered depression, was divorcing his wife and ultimately admitted to having a drinking problem. His employers continued paying his salary through two stints of alcohol rehabilitation periods, but he apparently kept drinking alcohol. The employer says the man reported for duty on only 21 days over a four-month period.

Employers in Alberta must give employees clear warnings and allow them opportunities to improve their behaviour. In this case, the employer advised the employee in writing that the company is prepared to work with him to establish a plan to return to work, failing which he would be terminated. However, the absenteeism continued, and the employer dismissed him.

The employee filed a claim of wrongful dismissal, and the judge agreed, ordering the employer to pay court costs and damages for wrongful termination. According to court documents, the judge found that the employer could not prove that the employee’s alcoholism affected his ability to work. Employers in Alberta can prevent such circumstances by retaining the services of an experienced employment law lawyer. Legal counsel can provide advice throughout any dispute and ensure the required disciplinary steps and warnings are issued before dismissing employees.

Practice

Contact

Office

Ridout Barron
802 13th Ave SW
Calgary, AB T2R 0L2
Phone: 403-278-3730
Fax: 403-271-8016
Calgary Law Office Map

office-image

There is free 2 hour street parking at our new location.

We Use Video

We can use video conferencing tools like Zoom, Webex or Facetime in order to meet your needs through online virtual meetings

Social Media

Follow us on Facebook
Follow Us On LinkedIn