Jon Pinkus

M.A., J.D.

Partner

Practice Areas

Employment Law

Location

Ottawa, Toronto, Vancouver

Your Resolute Advocate

Jon Pinkus, a Partner at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP, stands out as a premier employment lawyer, celebrated for his relentless dedication and exceptional client service. Operating within the firm’s Labour and Employment Law practice group through the Toronto, Ottawa and Vancouver offices, Jon represents clients across Ontario and British Columbia with a resolute commitment to achieving justice and favorable outcomes.

Jon’s practice covers a comprehensive range of employment matters, including:

A Legacy of Success

Jon has earned a reputation for his tenacious approach and personalized legal strategies that consistently yield successful outcomes for his clients. His knack for delivering prompt resolutions without compromising on quality and professionalism is widely recognized. Clients appreciate Jon’s methodical and strategic assertiveness, combined with his empathetic communication, which provides reassurance during challenging times.

Jon boasts a remarkable track record of representing clients successfully before the Ontario Labour Relations Board, the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario, and all levels of court in Ontario, including the Court of Appeal.

Client-centric Approach

Clients praise Jon for his exceptional responsiveness, often noting his constant availability. They appreciate his ability to explain complex legal concepts clearly, making them feel empowered and confident in their decisions. Jon’s genuine empathy and dedication to his clients’ well-being set him apart, as he goes above and beyond to ensure their emotional and professional recovery. His ability to secure better-than-expected settlements has earned him a reputation for excellence and unwavering client advocacy.

Professional Journey and Personal Interests

Jon’s background at a boutique employment law firm in Toronto has refined his ability to develop personalized and pragmatic solutions for both employees and employers.

Outside of his legal practice, Jon enjoys skiing and playing music, balancing his professional achievements with personal passions that reflect his dynamic personality. He is a former ski instructor, a guitarist, and a classically trained pianist.

Don’t face your employment issues alone. Reach out to Jon Pinkus today for a consultation and let his expertise and dedication work for you. Your path to justice and peace of mind starts here.

Education

Before embarking on his distinguished legal career, Jon Pinkus pursued his passions for music and business at the University of Western Ontario, where he excelled academically. He then honed his professional skills working for a prestigious national entertainment talent agency, where he developed a keen eye for talent and negotiation.

This unique background enriches Jon’s approach to law, allowing him to blend creativity with strategic thinking in his practice.

Notable Cases

Jon has secured several court victories for both employees and employers. His representative work includes:

Pham v. Qualified Metal Fabricators

Jon and National Practice Leader David Vaughan achieved a groundbreaking and precedent-setting victory. They successfully argued that their client’s silence during a temporary layoff — even after multiple extensions — did not equate to consent.

Papp v. Stokes

A landmark ruling that affirms that employers can and should provide honest job references without the looming fear of liability for defamation lawsuits. Jon’s adept handling of the case has fortified the integrity of professional references, benefiting both employers and employees across the industry.

Hoekstra v. Rehability Occupational Therapy

Jon for an employee whose disability tragically became permanent, leading to a “frustration of contract.” When the employer heartlessly refused to provide the rightfuld severance pay, Jon’s relentless dedication and legal prowess compelled the court to award the employee the full amounts, securing justice and financial stability for his client.

Nemirovski v. SoCast Inc.

Jon secured a remarkable 9 months’ pay for an employee with less than 2 years of service. Faced with the significant hurdles imposed by a restrictive non-competition agreement, Jon’s strategic acumen triumphed, ensuring his client received the compensation they deserved despite the challenging circumstances.

Radio Hosting

The Employment Law Show on Radio

Jon is often called upon to host the Employment Law Show on Global News Radio 640 Toronto and 980 CFPL in London, which airs Mondays and Wednesdays at 7 p.m. ET. He provides valuable insight to employees and employers, and answers caller questions about workplace rights on the employment law show heard across Canada.

Listen to episodes of the Employment Law Show

Interviews & Media

Jon is regularly called upon by professional associations and media outlets, including CTV Toronto and Global News, to share his insights about current developments in the law. Jon’s publications and feature interviews include:

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More from Jon Pinkus

Discover more about your employment rights with additional resources from Jon.

Blog

Employment lawyer Jon Pinkus is interviewed by Global's Farah Nasser about layoffs at Via Rail, and why they're owed severance pay.
Employment Law February 20th, 2020

Temporary Layoffs, CN Rail Blockades & Employment Law – Global News

By Jon Pinkus

Discover the general rights of employees when they are placed on a Temporary Layoff. Partner Jon Pinkus discussed on Global News.

Read Article
View Blog

The Employment Law Show

Employment Lawyer Jon Pinkus hosts the Employment Law Show on Global News Radio.
Employment Law Show - Radio August 24th, 2020

Employment Law Show 640 Toronto – S8 E67

By Jon Pinkus

Employment lawyer Jon Pinkus takes your phone calls on S8 E67 of the Employment Law Show on Global News Radio 640 Toronto.

Listen Now
View The Employment Law Show

Fast Facts

forced-pay-cut-ontario
Employment Law February 3rd, 2022

Forced to accept a pay cut in Ontario? Next steps

By Jon Pinkus

Understand your rights in Ontario if your employer has reduced your salary or commission without your approval.

Read Article
View Blog

See What Jon's Clients Are Saying

I needed a lawyer to dispute the severance package from my previous employer. Three different sources recommended Samfiru Tumarkin LLP and, in particular, Jon Pinkus. I was very satisfied with the speed at which my case was resolved and with the amount of my final settlement. Jon was always extremely responsive to all of my enquires and I would strongly recommend him and Samfiru Tumarkin to anyone.
Mark L.
  • 5 / 5
Review from
Jon Pinkus is a patient and highly knowledgeable lawyer. He takes time to go through your case and explain things to you in detail. He is trustworthy and always has his client's best interest at heart. He is passionate about his work and a true professional. If you need a very reliable, honest and experienced Employment Lawyer, I highly recommend Jon.
Jinel S.
  • 5 / 5
Review from
I consulted with 3 other lawyers before choosing Jon Pinkus. His approach is methodical and logical. He is calm, cool and collected. Thank you Jon for believing in my case and for working on my claim with such integrity.
Ron H.
  • 5 / 5
Review from
I had worked for my company for almost 14 years and I was totally blindsided. I had listened to the Employment Law Show and contacted Samfiru Tumarkin LLP right away. Jon Pinkus took my case and he was very professional, down to earth and gave me all of my options. I felt he took very good care of me and I ended up very happy with the outcome!
Myles S.
  • 5 / 5
Review from
I felt I was being wrongfully treated at my job of 18 years, and I needed some guidance. I called 2 other employment lawyers locally and they never called me back. Jon Pinkus took the time to review my situation and answered my questions. I am very happy with the outcome, and would strongly recommend Jon as an employment lawyer.
Jennifer P.
  • 5 / 5
Review from

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