Trusted by 1000+ clients
Arbitration isn’t just for unionized workplaces. In the right non-unionized dispute, it can resolve a matter faster than court and keep the outcome out of the public record — two features that work together to help control cost and exposure. We advise Calgary employers on when arbitration is the right tool, and represent them when it is.
Arbitration is best known in the unionized context, where grievances under a collective agreement generally must go to arbitration rather than court. But a properly drafted arbitration clause can bring the same process to a non-unionized employment relationship — and the two features that matter most are speed and privacy. An arbitration typically moves faster than a court action, avoiding much of the scheduling delay and procedural back-and-forth that can stretch litigation out for years.
Unlike a court judgment, an arbitration decision is not part of the public record. That privacy has a second, less obvious benefit: because the decision isn’t published, it doesn’t become a precedent other parties can rely on in future disputes. For an employer managing similar issues across a workforce, that can be a meaningful advantage — a difficult outcome in one arbitration doesn’t set the terms of the next negotiation the way a public court decision might.
People assume arbitration is only for unionized workplaces, but a well-drafted clause can bring that same speed and privacy to any employment relationship. And because the decision never becomes public, it never becomes precedent — that’s a real advantage most employers don’t think about until it matters.
our services
Managing workplace issues requires practical legal guidance. We help employers across Calgary, Alberta understand their obligations, reduce risk, and make informed business decisions.
We advise on whether an arbitration clause makes sense for your employment agreements, and draft clauses built to survive the scrutiny courts apply to any provision that limits an employee’s statutory rights.
Where arbitration is already in play — whether through a clause you’ve signed or a unionized grievance — we represent you through the process, from arbitrator selection to the hearing itself.
testimonials
Don't just take our word for it. Hear from the employees we've helped navigate wrongful dismissal, severance negotiations, and workplace disputes and the outcomes we secured for them.
Employment Law Advocates made a stressful situation so much easier to navigate. Their team was responsive, knowledgeable, and fought hard to secure the outcome I deserved.
After ten years with my employer, I was terminated without cause or proper notice. Lluc and his team explained my rights clearly and built a strong case from day one. They kept me informed at every stage and secured a settlement that recognized my years of service.
I endured months of harassment before I found the courage to seek help. The team treated my situation with real compassion and took my concerns seriously when others hadn't. They guided me through the process and helped me reach a resolution I could live with.
I'd worked as a "contractor" for years, missing out on pay and protections I was actually entitled to. The team recognized the misclassification immediately and fought to recover what I'd lost. Professional, responsive, and genuinely on my side throughout.
I was accused of misconduct and terminated for cause, and I didn't know where to turn. Employment Law Advocates challenged the allegations head-on and stood by me through a difficult process. Their experience and confidence made all the difference in the outcome.
We work with employees from all backgrounds who need trusted legal guidance during difficult workplace situations, including severance package reviews and wrongful dismissal claims.
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