Nextstep Law

About Nextstep Law

Nextstep Law is a Toronto employment law firm founded by lawyer Sentil Thomson, who is licensed to practice in Ontario and was called to the bar in Manitoba as an inactive member. The firm works out of an office in the Simpson Tower at Bay and Queen streets in the downtown core, and it practices employment law only, acting for both workers and employers rather than covering a wide range of legal areas. Before starting the firm, the founder worked at another downtown Toronto employment law firm, building experience in workplace disputes, mental health related claims, and severance strategy.

On the employee side, the firm reviews and negotiates severance packages, handles wrongful and constructive dismissal claims, and advises on workplace harassment, discrimination, and accommodation issues that can arise under Ontario's Human Rights Code and Occupational Health and Safety Act. It also reviews employment contracts and job offers before clients sign them, and it works through layoff questions under the Employment Standards Act. On the employer side, the firm drafts and reviews employment contracts and workplace policies, advises on termination strategy and progressive discipline, conducts workplace investigations, and helps plan layoffs and restructuring in a way meant to meet ESA notice obligations. Employee matters are generally handled on a contingency basis, so clients don't pay a fee until there's a settlement.