Professionalism isn’t always intuitive. Understanding the boundaries and your legal options can make your career path easier.
Jessyca Greenwood & Monica Wu
At Greenwood Law, we guide young professionals through difficult situations, helping them respond effectively and protect the future and reputation they’ve worked hard to build.
Here are 5 important things for young professionals in Ontario:
1. Familiarize yourself with what counts as misconduct:
Workplace misconduct is not only about stealing from the company or harassing a coworker, but also covers more everyday behaviours, like:
- Not following your superior’s instructions
- Regularly being late or skipping work without a valid reason
- Drinking too much or acting unprofessionally at work-related events
In regulated industries like banking, law, healthcare, or accounting, the expectations are even more strict with regulatory and employer oversight (for good reason). Something as simple as venting about work or sharing negative comments online can get you in trouble with your professional body, not just your boss.
Most workplaces have their own Code of Conduct. What’s acceptable in one company might be a problem in another. Always take time to read and understand your employer’s policies so you know what is expected, on and off the clock.
2. Understand how your employer can respond
Sometimes, one slip-up may not seem like a big deal, but your employer might refuse to give you a chance to fix things. In Canada, employers must respond proportionally to misconduct. They must consider the seriousness of the issue, your work history, and the broader context.
Case example: How we can help
We’ve seen careers take a turn because of one bad decision at the holiday party: too many drinks, an unintentional but offensive joke, or crossing a line with a colleague and forgetting that it is still a work event. What felt like a minor mistake turned into a serious career risk. Then there is managing the workplace complaint and other consequences.
It’s important to act early and wisely when facing an investigation, discipline or termination. We’ll help you understand your options and advise you on how to meaningfully accept responsibility if appropriate, or defend your actions and de-escalate the situation where possible.
3. Know the potential consequences of misconduct
Employers have several disciplinary options, including:
- Issuing verbal or written warnings
- Implementing performance improvement plans (PIPs)
- Mandatory training
- Suspending with or without pay
In serious cases, an employer may allege just cause to terminate employment without providing any severance.
An employment lawyer can help you understand your rights, push back if something feels unfair, and protect your reputation, especially if you work in a regulated field where your license or future job prospects could be affected.
4. Know when to consult an employment lawyer:
It’s okay to make mistakes — we are humans. What matters is how you handle them. Understanding your rights early can be the key to protecting your future and preserving your interests.
Here’s when you should definitely get help:
- As soon as you become aware you are under investigation
- If you are facing discipline or warnings related to misconduct
- If your employer is proposing termination
- If you are asked to attend disciplinary meetings or sign documents
5. How Greenwood Law can help when things go wrong
If you’re facing discipline, termination, or a workplace investigation, a lawyer can help you respond strategically, protect your rights, and avoid missteps that could cost you. We also help our clients to negotiate severance, guide them through investigations, and ensure they don’t jeopardize future opportunities.
At Greenwood Law, we support young professionals through discipline, termination, and investigations so you don’t face difficult situations alone. Contact Greenwood Law today for expert advice.
