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Vivian Liu

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Vivian Liu is an employment lawyer who advises both employers and employees on a wide range of employment law matters. Her practice includes employment contracts, workplace policies, terminations, compliance, and human rights issues. Vivian brings a practical, business-minded approach to workplace challenges, with a strong focus on clear advice and efficient outcomes.

Before joining SpringLaw, Vivian gained experience in private practice advising clients on employment and labour matters. Originally from mainland China, she brings an international perspective to her practice and is fluent in multiple languages, allowing her to communicate directly with clients across different backgrounds and remove barriers in complex legal situations. This perspective strengthens her ability to understand and address the real-world needs of both employers and employees.

Vivian is known for her thoughtful and approachable style, and her ability to guide clients through complex situations with clarity and confidence. Outside of her legal practice, Vivian enjoys getting creative in the kitchen with mixed but enthusiastic results, cuddling with her dog, and exploring local trails.

For years, Ontario employers have had good reason to worry about their termination clauses. Even clauses intended to comply with the law have been found unenforceable because their wording fails to meet the requirements of the Employment Standards Act, 2000 (the “ESA”). The consequences can be significant when that happens: the employee…

Psychological safety has evolved from an HR buzzword into a recognized area of legal risk. In Ontario, employers are increasingly expected not only to prevent physical injuries but also to take reasonable steps to protect workers from psychological harm. Mental health in the workplace is not an issue employers can afford to treat lightly. When…

Technology has made it easier than ever to monitor how work gets done. With the rise of hybrid and remote work, digital productivity tools, and AI‑enabled systems, workplace monitoring has become a key compliance issue for Ontario employers.  

Ontario does not have a single, comprehensive statute governing employee privacy in the workplace. However, under the Employment Standards Act, 2000 (“ESA”), employers with 25 or…

Ontario’s introduction of long-term illness leave (“LTI Leave”) significantly expands statutory leave entitlements. While the statutory framework appears straightforward, the real legal risk lies in how it intersects with human rights accommodation obligations. 

The Statutory Framework 

Effective June 19, 2025, the Employment Standards Act, 2000 (“ESA”) provides eligible employees with up to 27 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave …

Ontario employers should be preparing now for an upcoming minimum wage increase that will take effect later this year. 

Ontario minimum wage increasing October 1, 2026 

On April 1, the Ontario government has announced that the general minimum wage will increase from $17.60  to $17.95 per hour effective October 1, 2026. This annual increase is tied to Ontario’s…