Volunteers are integral to the success of LESA programs. As we eagerly await LESA’s Employment Law Fundamentals program, we would like to thank and spotlight our program chair, Roger S. Hofer KC. We recently reached out to Roger to learn a bit more about his background, his current practice, and why he is inspired to volunteer at LESA.
Roger practices employment and labour law at Neuman Thompson, having joined them in 2004 after articling and practicing at the City of Edmonton for many years. Starting as a general litigator, he soon became interested in the engaging and dynamic nature of labour and employment matters and practiced in that area for the City for many years before becoming head of its Litigation Section. Since joining Neuman Thompson he represents both public and private sector employers in labour, employment, human rights, and more. Roger was recognized for his contributions in the profession and the community with a King’s Counsel (KC) appointment and has been recognized by Lexpert Canada and Best Lawyers.
Meet Roger S. Hofer KC
What inspired you to practice law?
My father was the sole proprietor of a small business, and incredibly hardworking. He always regretted that he did not have a chance to pursue higher education, which he saw as a route to a fulfilling livelihood without the need for hard physical labour. He inspired me to pursue law as a first-generation university student.
What motivates you in your practice?
Employment law is both interesting and important. Work, and by extension, employment law principles, are fundamentally important to most employees. Almost all businesses must rely on the efforts and support of their employees to prosper, or even survive, and knowing how to properly address issues involving employees can be vitally important for them as well.
What challenges exist for lawyers advising clients on employment law issues?
The importance of the issues for the client or for their business, and the “human element” that is almost inevitably involved in an employment matter, can give rise to a lot of emotion. This needs to be recognized and carefully addressed to manage expectations and help achieve the best results for the client.
What do law firms and lawyers acting as employers need to be aware of?
Surprises can occur when not familiar with employment law principles. For example, while lawyers, as employees, are not entitled to overtime, they still have a lot of statutory entitlements, and their employers have statutory obligations, under the Employment Standards Code. For a great example, see: RG Bissett Professional Corp v Kusick [2017 AESUD No 1, judicial review dismissed 2018 ABQB 406], in which a law firm was found to owe tens of thousands of dollars in vacation pay and general holiday pay to one of its former associate lawyers because they did not recognize all their obligations as employer.
Why attend Employment Law Fundamentals?
We work in a field where the accumulation of knowledge over time makes us of increasing value to our clients. This program is intended as an introduction to the fundamentals of employment law. While employment law is grounded in contract principles, it is also shaped by statutory regulations and a wealth of common law principles that have evolved over time. Even for those not specializing in employment law, grasping the fundamentals enhances a lawyer’s overall knowledge and equips them to better assist clients (and often themselves) in recognizing and avoiding potential issues. In addition, you will get to meet other lawyers with an interest in the area, exchange information, and gain knowledge that could open doors to potential opportunities.
Topics will include:
- The very basics of employment law
- Making and amending employment contracts
- Key employer and employee duties during and post-employment
- Termination of employment relationships
- Damages for wrongful dismissal and duty to mitigate
- Overlap with human rights and intro to duty to accommodate
Why Volunteer for LESA?
“In my years of practice, I have always found value, and often great value, in every LESA seminar I have attended. Having personally found the practice of law to be rewarding in every possible respect, I want to give back by sharing some of what I have learned over the years in hopes of helping to make others’ practices similarly rewarding.”
Find program details below, with more information on topics and faculty on the Edmonton and Livestream program pages.
Date: October 8, 2024
Location: Edmonton (in-person) or Livestream (online)
Early Bird Price: $475 (General) | $427.50 (New Lawyer) | $356.25 (Student)
Early bird pricing ends on September 9, 2024. Regular Price: $525-393.75
