A service to assist our members in managing disputes with clients

A growing number of freelancers face work-related issues, usually around non, or slow payment of fees. The Canadian Freelance Union will assist its members in managing the situation. We will intervene to help resolve the dispute, and to get what is owed to you.

Although every case is unique, the general approach we will use goes like this:

1. The Canadian Freelance Union receives a complaint or request for help from member. We first talk with the member to determine the scope of the problem, and to get their explicit permission to act on the member's behalf.
2. The Canadian Freelance Union collects all available documentation from the member. This should include a copy of the freelance services contract, but can also include emails, correspondences or other supporting material.
3. The Canadian Freelance Union contacts the client/publisher, informing them of the dispute. The Canadian Freelance Union requests an explanation from the client within three weeks.
4. If the client fails to respond within three weeks a second, more formal, attempt is made. The same message is repeated, but in slightly stronger language. At this point the Canadian Freelance Union hints at further action should the client chose not to cooperate.

a) If the client responds, the Canadian Freelance Union works towards a resolution,

b) If the client fails to respond, or if negotiations fail due to client intransigence, the Canadian Freelance Union will advise and support our members around taking further legal and collective action. The Canadian Freelance Union will also issue a Red Flag against the client, alerting the freelance community as to the facts of the case. This can be via a press release, website publication or email notice to members.