Resources, Articles, & Advocacy
Article | January 15, 2026
Why Copyright Protection Matters in Franchising
When it comes to protecting intellectual property in franchising, trademarks tend to dominate the conversation, largely because the franchise system’s name and logo are often the key drivers of brand recognition and success. However, one of the assets in franchised businesses that is often overlooked are copyrighted materials.
Article | January 15, 2026
Navigating Unexpected Employment Liability for Franchisors
This article explores the key aspects of a common employer finding and outlines the potential pitfalls and mitigation strategies for franchisors seeking to evaluate their own internal practices and protect their business. Ultimately, there are ways to avoid a finding of common employer status, but doing so typically requires franchisors to forego at least some level of operational control. This is not an easy decision, as franchisors must balance the need to control certain employment practices to maintain brand consistency against the risk of being deemed a common employer. This is a highly individualized balancing act and should be assessed within the context of each franchisor’s unique model.
Legislative Update | January 12, 2026
Your OBA LegUp Policy and Legislative Update Week of January 5
Premier Ford to Turn Over Personal Phone Records: The Ford government’s request for a judicial review of two IPC rulings on access to the Premier’s private phone logs was dismissed. In their decision, the judges wrote, “The conclusion that the Premier used his personal cellphone to conduct Cabinet Office matters is a finding of fact that attracts a high degree of deference.” The Premier’s office will be seeking leave to appeal the decision.
Legislative Update | December 19, 2025
Your OBA LegUp Policy and Legislative Update Week of December 15
CRR Final Report Released: The Civil Rule Review (CRR) Working Group's Final Policy Report, is now available online. The 200+ page document proposes a broad range of reforms across core areas of the civil litigation process to help reduce delays and costs and increase access to the civil justice system for Ontario litigants.
Advocacy | December 12, 2025
Your OBA LegUp Policy and Legislative Update Week of December 8
Central East Civil Trial List: The January 2026 Central East Civil Blitz Trial List has been released. This list details the matters that may be called during the upcoming civil trial sittings, scheduled to commence on January 5, 2026, and continue for three weeks.
