Changing Workplaces, Changing Classifications: Increasing Relevance Of The Dependent Contractor

The classification of workers has become an increasingly relevant consideration for both hirers and workers in today's rapidly changing economy. Traditionally, workers have fallen into one of two distinct categories for payment in exchange for their labour: employees or independent contractors. These categories are strongly fact-driven and have important legal ramifications for both the hirer and worker, especially with regards to issues such as worker protections, dismissal, human rights, vacation pay, reasonable notice, worker accommodations, and even tax treatment.

A key difference between employees and independent contractors is the fact that employees have less control over their work and the employment relationship than independent contractors. In exchange, employees receive certain workplace protections under both statutory and common law. On the other hand, independent contractors are not entitled to the same legal benefits and protections but have greater