One year ago, I launched my own feminist law firm, and almost missed the anniversary because I was buried in hearings. Starting Bird Bolt Law has been one of the hardest and most meaningful things I’ve done. This post is a reflection on the toll, the growth, the why behind it all, and what I hope to build in year two: a law practice that honours both the work and the people doing it.

You don’t have to be perfect to be believed. Courts and tribunals don’t expect flawless memory, polished speech, or a lawyer’s vocabulary; they want truth, grounded in your experience. This blog walks you through how decision-makers assess testimony, what ‘credibility’ really means, and how to prepare to give evidence in a way that honours your voice.e’re in this together.

When resolving a human rights or employment-related claim, how your settlement is structured can make a huge difference in how much you actually receive. General damages—compensation for dignity, feelings, and self-respect—are tax-free, while lost wages or severance may be taxed at up to 30%. Understanding this distinction can mean keeping thousands more in your pocket. In this guide, we break down what general damages are, why they matter, and how to maximize your settlement payout.

Age is a protected ground under Ontario’s Human Rights Code, yet discrimination persists in subtle ways—from exclusionary workplace policies to stereotypes about ability and experience. Tackling age bias requires recognizing how systemic pressures disproportionately affect certain groups, particularly older women and racialized individuals, and fostering a culture that values contributions from every stage of life.

What does justice mean to you? In mediation, justice can take many forms—financial compensation, accountability, validation, or even the chance to share your story. This blog explores how mediation challenges us to reflect on what we need to move forward, the emotional complexities of compromise, and the hope for healing through creative, restorative resolutions.

Family status discrimination in Canada encompasses a wide range of caregiving relationships beyond traditional parent-child roles, including caring for aging parents or relatives with disabilities. Understanding the duty to accommodate under Ontario’s Human Rights Code is essential, as it ensures equal participation in employment, housing, and services. This post explores the different legal tests and recent developments in family status discrimination cases across British Columbia, the Federal Court of Appeal, and Ontario, highlighting the need for a unified approach in protecting family responsibilities in the workplace.

Workplace reprisal is a critical yet often misunderstood issue. It involves an employer punishing an employee for exercising their legal rights, particularly around human rights and safety. This blog post will explore the concept of reprisal, its applicability, enforcement of rights, and remedies, using key case studies for illustration.

In the heart of Hamilton's escalating housing crisis, a glaring disparity emerges, disproportionately affecting women and those on social assistance. According to a 2021 report, Hamilton ranks as the third least affordable housing market in North America, spotlighting the city's urgent need for solutions. Over 1,900 individuals are houseless, witnessing a notable rise in women facing 'hidden homelessness'—a dire situation exacerbated by the pandemic's economic fallout.

It all begins with an idea.