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The Ontario Superior Court of Justice released an updated Notice to Profession and Public Regarding Court Proceedings, which is in effect until February 28, 2022. The Court recommends that participants use virtual methods of meeting. In particular, Civil and Family matters will proceed virtually, with some urgent situations proceeding in a hybrid hearing. "Access to participate in a virtual hearing: Where a litigant does not have access to the necessary technology to participate in a virtual hearing, and does not have a lawyer who is able to provide supports or resources, they should reach out to their local court office immediately so that arrangements can be made to facilitate their participation in the hearing." For full details, see: https://www.ontariocourts.ca/scj/notices-and-orders-covid-19/court-proceedings-notice/

Disconnect from work: Employers with 25 or more employees are now required to have a written policy with respect to disconnecting from work. The term “disconnecting from work” is defined to mean not engaging in work-related communications, including emails, calls, video calls, sending or reviewing messages. (amendment to Employment Standards Act, 2000) An employer shall provide a copy of the written policy with respect to disconnecting from work to each of the employer’s employees within 30 days of preparing the policy. An employer shall provide a copy of the written policy with respect to disconnecting from work that applies to a new employee within 30 days of the day the employee becomes an employee of the employer. Non-Compete: Prohibits employers from entering into employment contracts or other agreements with an employee that are, or that include, a non-compete agreement. “non-compete agreement” means an agreement, between an employer and an employee that prohibits the employee from engaging in any business, work, occupation, profession, project or other activity that is in competition with the employer’s business after the employment relationship between the employee and the employer ends. Passed into legislation: Bill 27 was read in Fall 2021. On December 2, 2021, it received Royal Assent. https://www.ola.org/en/legislative-business/bills/parliament-42/session-2/bill-27#BK4 This is not legal advice and some exceptions may apply. For further information on these matters, and specific advice on your situation, please contact our lawyers.