Geoffrey R. Ryans

Executive Summary

Geoff has been a partner since 2013. He articled with the firm in 2006 before joining as an associate in 2007.

Geoff practises in all areas of labour and employment law. He acts for a wide variety of union and non-union clients, including federally-regulated clients. Geoff is proficient at handling labour and employment issues arising from complex restructurings.

Geoff has led collective bargaining as the spokesperson at the bargaining table (both in first collective agreements and renewal agreements), and he has provided advice on drafting collective agreement language.

He has also acted as counsel in many significant arbitrations, wrongful dismissals, and proceedings before the Ontario Labour Relations Board and the Human Rights Tribunal. He has also advised on and coordinated litigation strategy with employer associations and their members, both during the open season/raiding period and during the subsequent litigation.

Geoff’s practice has a particular focus on the construction industry and occupational health and safety matters. He regularly appears before the Ontario Labour Relations Board representing construction industry clients in section 133 grievances, jurisdictional disputes, related employer/sale of business matters, applications for certification and unfair labour practices. He has also successfully defended employers in several occupational health and safety prosecutions, including on motions to dismiss due to Crown delay and failure to disclose information.

Geoff is Vice-President of University Settlement’s Board of Directors, having been a Board member since 2015.

Selected Publications, Presentations and Media Mentions

Canada Labour Code: Quick Reference – 2018 Edition, Carswell, Co-author

“Avoid the temptation: Workers hired through temporary staffing agencies are less educated on workplace safety, more afraid to speak up”, Canadian Occupational Health & Safety Magazine, June/July 2018, Quoted

“Data Breaches: What Employers Need to Know”, FWTA Client Seminar, September 2018

“Workplace Violence and Harassment”, FWTA Client Seminar, February 2018

“Practical Tips for Drafting Employment Contracts”, FWTA Client Seminar, April 2017

Memberships and Professional Affiliations

• Law Society of Ontario

• The Canadian Bar Association

• Ontario Bar Association

• Canadian Association of Counsel to Employers (CACE)