Human Rights Services
The Ontario Human Rights Code (“the Code”) protects individuals from discrimination and harassment in many aspects of daily life — not just employment. Human rights disputes can arise in the workplace, housing, schools, healthcare, or in accessing services, facilities, or public spaces.
At Stewart Legal, we act as your representative before the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario (HRTO) and related forums, whether you are advancing a claim or defending against one.
Where the Code Applies
Our services extend to all areas protected under the Human Rights Code, including:
- Employment – Discrimination, harassment, wrongful dismissal tied to protected grounds.
- Housing – Denial of housing, harassment by landlords or tenants, failure to accommodate.
- Services & Facilities – Issues involving schools, restaurants, retail, transportation, healthcare, social services, gyms, and more.
- Contracts – Discrimination in contractual agreements.
- Membership in Unions, Associations, or Professional Bodies – Harassment, exclusion, or unequal treatment.
Services for Individuals:
We advocate for your rights with compassion and precision. Common matters include:
- Discrimination Complaints – Based on race, gender, disability, family status, religion, age, sexual orientation, or other protected grounds.
- Harassment Claims – Addressing ongoing or severe harassment in work, housing, or services.
- Accommodation Requests – Ensuring your rights to accommodation for disability, creed, or family status are respected.
- Contracts – Discrimination in contractual agreements.
- Retaliation Protection – Fighting back against punishment for asserting your human rights.
- Bad Faith Treatment – Holding organizations accountable where treatment violates the spirit and intent of the Code.
Services for Respondents (Employers, Landlords, Service Providers)
We provide strong, strategic defence for respondents facing human rights claims, helping you navigate the process with confidence and compliance.
- Defence at the HRTO – Persuasive representation to minimize liability and reputational risk.
- Policy & Training Guidance – Proactive measures to prevent future claims.
- Accommodation Compliance – Practical strategies to balance obligations and operations.
- Contracts – Discrimination in contractual agreements.
- Risk Mitigation – Identifying and reducing exposure before disputes escalate.
Why Human Rights Matters are Complex
Human rights cases are not about minor disagreements — they often involve deeply personal issues and systemic power imbalances. The Human Rights Tribunal can order significant remedies, including:
- Financial Compensation for lost wages and injury to dignity, feelings, and self-respect.
- Orders to Stop Discriminatory Practices.
- Policy Changes and mandatory training.
- Systemic Remedies designed to prevent future discrimination.
Even a small error in procedure or defence can be costly.
Why Stewart Legal?
With extensive experience in human rights law and tribunal advocacy, Brooke Stewart brings:
- The ability to weigh competing arguments carefully and persuasively.
- A strong grasp of legal principles and how to apply them effectively. Clear, practical advice on your rights and obligations.
- A commitment to staying current on leading human rights cases to strengthen your position.
Known as a fierce, detail-driven representative, Brooke ensures that no argument or defence is left unturned — whether you are enforcing your rights or defending against allegations
