Interview with Labour Law and Employment Lawyer, Stephen Gleave

Stephen Gleave, a respected Canadian attorney hailing from Ancaster, has risen to prominence as an authoritative figure in Canadian employment law. With a career spanning 33 years, he has been at the forefront of numerous pivotal employment cases across the nation.

After his tenure at Hicks Morley, Gleave transitioned to DLA Piper (Canada) LLP in 2019, where he currently serves as a partner. His clientele includes a diverse range of organizations involved in both commercial and employment disputes. Over the years, Gleave has skillfully managed countless arbitration cases. He’s lent his legal expertise to dozens of labour and civil injunctions, as well as an impressive fifty trials, showcasing his distinguished career in the legal field.

Gleave is an esteemed member of the Law Society of Ontario and the Canadian Bar Association. His legal achievements have consistently earned him recognition, securing placements in the Best Lawyers in Canada guide, the Best Lawyers Global Business list, and the Canadian Legal Lexpert® Directory for Labour and Employment.

Notably, several of Gleave’s cases have captured the attention of the media, establishing him as a sought-after commentator on Canadian employment law matters.

Having relocated his practice from Toronto to Hamilton, Gleave now resides with his family on a picturesque farm in historic Ancaster. Here, he indulges his passion for agriculture by raising Highland cattle and tending to his orchard. He also engages in various outdoor activities such as running and fly fishing.

What inspired you to pursue a career in labour law, and what keeps you passionate about it today?

Stephen Gleave: I was drawn to labour law due to its direct impact on people’s lives. The ability to advocate for workers’ rights and fairness in the workplace continues to drive my passion. I find immense satisfaction in ensuring that individuals are treated justly within the framework of the law, all while making sure I can achieve a favourable outcome for them.

Could you share a significant or particularly challenging case that you’ve handled in the realm of labour law? What made it memorable or unique?

Stephen Gleave: One of the most memorable cases involved representing a group of employees facing wrongful termination due to their union involvement. The complexity lay in navigating the nuances of employment contracts and labour laws to prove the retaliatory nature of the terminations. It was challenging but rewarding to secure justice for these people who were genuinely unsure of their future. 

From your experience, what are some common misconceptions or misunderstandings people have about labour law, and how do you address them?

Stephen Gleave: A common misconception is that employees often believe they have fewer rights than they actually do. I often educate individuals on their rights regarding fair wages, discrimination, or wrongful termination. It’s crucial to empower them with the knowledge they need to navigate the complexities of labour laws.

Given the ever-evolving nature of labour laws, how do you stay updated and adapt to changes in regulations and precedents?

Stephen Gleave: Continual learning is essential. I regularly attend legal seminars, subscribe to legal publications, and participate in professional networks to stay abreast of changes in labour law. Constant research and engagement are key to adapting and providing up-to-date counsel.

What do you find most rewarding and most challenging about working as a labour lawyer?

Stephen Gleave: The most rewarding aspect is being able to make a tangible difference in individuals’ lives by ensuring justice prevails, whether you’re representing the employee or the employer. The challenging part is managing the emotional aspects of cases, especially when representing individuals facing injustices in the workplace, that can be a bit challenging, especially if you’re new to the industry.