Maternity Leave Laws in Ottawa: What You Need to Know
If you’re planning to take maternity or parental leave—or have recently returned—your employer must respect your rights under both Ontario law and the Canada Labour Code (if federally regulated). Yet, many workers in Ottawa face unlawful treatment tied to their pregnancy or leave.
At Ottawa Employment Lawyers, we support employees who face discrimination, demotion, or dismissal connected to maternity leave. Whether you work in the public service, tech, education, or retail, you are entitled to job security and fair treatment.
Who Is Entitled to Maternity and Parental Leave?
In Ontario, eligible employees who have worked at least 13 weeks before their expected due date are entitled to:
- 17 weeks of unpaid pregnancy leave
- 61–63 weeks of unpaid parental leave (depending on use of pregnancy leave)
- Continuation of workplace benefits during leave
- Job protection during the full leave period
Federally regulated employees (e.g., in banking or government roles) may also be eligible under the Canada Labour Code, with similar protections.
Common Employer Violations in Ottawa
Our firm regularly sees maternity leave-related issues such as:
- Firing employees just before or after leave
- Reassigning returning parents to lower-paying or less desirable roles
- Denying reasonable accommodation for pregnancy-related conditions
- Retaliation for taking extended leave
- Cutting off benefits during time away
These are not just unfair—they may be legally actionable under the Human Rights Code or employment law.
Returning to Work: Your Rights and Your Job
When you come back from maternity or parental leave, you are entitled to return to your job or a comparable position with equal compensation and duties.
Your employer must also:
- Reintegrate you without penalty
- Include you in ongoing training and promotions
- Resume your benefit coverage without interruption
If your role is suddenly “eliminated” or given to someone else, that could amount to constructive or wrongful dismissal.
How Ottawa Employment Lawyers Can Help
We will:
- Evaluate your employment terms and any policy violations
- Gather evidence of discrimination or retaliation
- File a Human Rights complaint or ESA claim
- Negotiate for lost wages, damages, or reinstatement
- Represent you at the Human Rights Tribunal or in court
Standing Up for Ottawa Parents in the Workplace
Ottawa’s employment landscape includes a significant number of federal, provincial, and healthcare workers—all of whom deserve stability and fairness when balancing work and family.
If you feel mistreated before, during, or after maternity leave, reach out to Ottawa Employment Lawyers for a free consultation. We’ll help restore your confidence and protect your career.
