The Lawyo Podcast

In this episode of The Lawyo Podcast , we break down the Alberta government’s guide to employment standards—a must-know resource for employees and employers alike. We cover the key regulations governing minimum wage, maximum work hours, breaks, overtime pay, vacation entitlements, and job-protected leaves. We also explore the legalities around terminating employment, permissible and impermissible...

In this episode of The Lawyo Podcast , we break down the Alberta Ombudsman’s 2023-24 Annual Report , which sheds light on the office’s efforts to uphold administrative fairness across the province’s public sector. We explore key investigations, resolutions, and recommendations that have led to meaningful improvements for Albertans navigating government services. Beyond casework, we discuss the Omb...

In this episode of The Lawyo Podcast , we dive into the Alberta Ombudsman’s Programs Adrift report, a full investigation into the systemic failures of Alberta’s Adult and Child Health Benefit programs. This report exposes serious administrative flaws, including excessive delays in processing applications, lost documents, poor communication with applicants, and a lack of accountability between Albe...

In this episode of The Lawyo Podcast , we break down Alberta’s Economic Trends – February 2025 , a report based on Budget 2025’s Economic Outlook. We analyze the province’s economic forecast, from strong employment numbers and record oil production in 2024 to the anticipated slowdown in 2025 due to potential Canada-U.S. trade conflicts. We discuss how Alberta’s energy sector is expected to remain...

In this episode of The Lawyo Podcast , we explore The Citizen's Guide to the Alberta Legislature, 9th Edition —a comprehensive resource that unpacks how Alberta’s parliamentary system operates. We break down the historical foundations of the Legislative Assembly, the roles of elected officials, and the step-by-step process of creating laws. We also examine how public funds are managed and the sign...

In this episode of The Lawyo Podcast , we dive into a crucial resource for anyone considering buying a condo in Alberta. We break down key insights from a booklet published by the Legal Resource Centre of Alberta, which helps potential buyers assess the financial health of a condominium corporation before making a purchase. We discuss the importance of reviewing essential financial documents—reser...

In this episode, we dive into the Ontario Ombudsman’s investigation into the significant delays plaguing the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB). These delays, worsened by outdated technology and the pandemic, have caused immense hardship for both tenants and landlords across Ontario. We’ll discuss the systemic issues uncovered in the report, including inefficiencies in member appointments, applicatio...

In this episode, we discuss the Ontario Ombudsman’s April 2024 report on the tragic case of “Mia,” a 16-year-old girl who died in 2020 after receiving inadequate services from the York Region Children’s Aid Society (CAS). This investigation sheds light on systemic failures in supporting vulnerable youth, particularly those under Voluntary Youth Services Agreements (VYSAs). We’ll explore the report...

Getting a speeding ticket in Ontario can be more than just an inconvenience—it can affect your driving record, insurance rates, and even your wallet. In this episode, we break down what happens when you receive a speeding ticket, how demerit points work, and the potential financial and legal consequences. We’ll also discuss your options for fighting a ticket, paying it, or attending court. Whether...

Payday loans might seem like a quick fix for financial emergencies, but they often come with high risks and hidden costs. In this episode, we unpack what payday loans are, how they work, and why they can be a costly option for borrowing money. We’ll also explore alternatives to payday loans, such as credit unions, personal loans, and community assistance programs, to help you make better financial...

Buying a car from a private seller in Ontario can be a great way to save money, but it’s important to know the legal and practical steps involved. In this episode, we cover everything you need to think about when purchasing a car privately. From checking the vehicle’s history and ensuring it has a clean title to understanding safety certificates, emissions tests, and the paperwork required by the...

If you’re struggling with debt, you may have come across terms like Licensed Insolvency Trustees, credit counsellors, and debt settlement businesses—but what’s the difference between them, and who can actually help? In this episode, we break down these three key players in the debt resolution process, explaining what each one does, their qualifications, and how they can (or cannot) assist you. We’...

Have you faced discrimination or had your rights violated in Ontario? The Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario (HRTO) provides a way to seek justice, but navigating the process can feel overwhelming. In this episode, we break down the steps to make a claim to the HRTO, from filing an application to presenting your case. We’ll explain what types of claims are eligible, how to gather evidence, and what...

A Power of Attorney for Property can provide peace of mind, but do you really need one? In this episode, we explain what a Power of Attorney for Property is and why it’s a valuable tool for managing your finances if you become unable to do so yourself. We’ll cover what this document allows, who you should appoint as your attorney, and the difference between a Power of Attorney for Property and a P...

A Power of Attorney for Personal Care is a crucial legal document, but many people aren’t sure if they need one or how it works. In this episode, we break down what a Power of Attorney for Personal Care is, why it’s important, and how it ensures your health and personal decisions are handled if you become unable to make them yourself. We’ll discuss who you can appoint, what responsibilities they’l...

A will is one of the most important legal documents you can create, but many Canadians don’t fully understand its purpose—or the consequences of not having one. In this episode, we explain what a will is, why it’s essential, and what happens to your assets and loved ones if you pass away without one. We’ll cover key concepts like naming beneficiaries, appointing executors, and the legal process of...

Vacation time and vacation pay are important rights for employees, but the rules can sometimes be confusing. In this episode, we explain how vacation entitlements work under Ontario’s Employment Standards Act (ESA), including how much time employees are entitled to, how vacation pay is calculated, and when it must be paid. We’ll also discuss common questions, like what happens if you don’t take yo...

Severance pay can be a critical safety net for employees who lose their jobs, but how does it actually work in Ontario? In this episode, we break down the rules around severance pay under the Employment Standards Act (ESA), including who qualifies, how it’s calculated, and the difference between severance pay and termination pay. We’ll also cover common misconceptions and what to do if you think y...

Expecting a child or welcoming a new addition to the family? In this episode, we dive into pregnancy and parental leave laws in Ontario, covering the rights and protections provided under the Employment Standards Act (ESA). We’ll discuss eligibility for leave, the difference between pregnancy leave and parental leave, how to apply, and what happens to your job while you’re away. Whether you’re an...

Public holidays are a time to relax and recharge, but what are your rights when it comes to pay and time off in Ontario? In this episode, we break down the rules surrounding public holiday laws under the Employment Standards Act (ESA). Learn which days are considered public holidays, who qualifies for holiday pay, and how the rules apply if you’re scheduled to work on a holiday. We’ll also discuss...

Termination of employment can be a complex and emotional process, but understanding the laws can make it clearer for both employees and employers. In this episode, we unpack the key rules around termination under Ontario's Employment Standards Act (ESA), including notice periods, severance pay, and just cause dismissals. We’ll also cover common misconceptions, employee entitlements, and employer o...

Ontario’s laws surrounding hours of work can be confusing for both employees and employers. In this episode, we break down the Employment Standards Act (ESA) rules governing work hours, including maximum daily and weekly limits, rest periods, and meal breaks. We’ll also dive into topics like overtime pay, averaging agreements, and exemptions to the standard rules. Whether you’re an employee trying...

Minimum wage laws affect millions of workers and employers across Ontario, but how well do you really understand them? In this episode, we take a deep dive into Ontario’s minimum wage regulations, including current rates, who they apply to, and exceptions to the rules. We’ll also discuss how these laws impact part-time workers, students, and employees in specific industries, as well as what to do...

Workplace safety is a fundamental right, and Ontario's Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) sets the standards to ensure that. In this episode, we break down the key provisions of the OHSA, highlighting the rights and responsibilities of employers, employees, and supervisors when it comes to creating a safe work environment. We’ll cover topics like hazard prevention, reporting unsafe conditio...

You’ve won your case—now what? In the final part of our Small Claims Court series, we tackle what happens after you’ve received a judgment in your favor. This episode explores the steps to enforce a judgment and collect what you’re owed, including garnishing wages, seizing assets, and filing a writ of seizure and sale. We’ll also discuss timelines, costs, and what to do if the losing party doesn’t...