Q&A: Laying out progressive discipline in the employment contract
Does progressive discipline need to be expressly written into the employment contract? If yes, do all steps need to be laid out in writing? Or is it on a case-by-case basis?
progressive discipline
The need for clear warning before dismissal
I have often discussed the need for warnings in the context of summary dismissal. While some situations will justify dismissal based upon a single incident, in many cases our courts and arbitrators will require progressive discipline. Whatever the steps may be, it is critical that the messaging to the subject employee be clear: the conduct or behavior is unacceptable, and further instances will lead to discipline, which can include termination for cause.
This employer’s case had 99 problems – Proving cause was one
A recent case out of Calgary, Karmel v. Calgary Jewish Academy, presents some valuable lessons for Alberta employers. This case involves a wrongful dismissal lawsuit by a terminated School Principal, Mr. Karmel, who was alleged to have been disobedient.
