A specialized focus on culturally responsive workplace investigations has helped Nathaniel Marshall build a distinctive employment law practice addressing complex discrimination issues.
After gaining experience at prominent employment and labour firms, Marshall founded his own boutique employment law firm in 2022, focusing on workplace investigations, assessments, audits, training, restoration and mediation services.
“Nathaniel is sought out for his expertise in conducting investigations related to applicable human rights legislation, specifically with regard to anti-Black racism,” his nomination states.
His practice spans diverse environments, conducting investigations in organizations ranging from small businesses to large enterprises in both unionized and non-unionized settings. He has worked with clients across sectors including police services, school boards, universities, hospitals, municipalities, and crown corporations.
Marshall brings particular expertise in trauma-informed investigative approaches. In one case involving a police officer’s disability discrimination complaint, he implemented specialized techniques to gather information sensitively, including allowing support persons during interviews and meeting at locations chosen by the complainant.
“Recognizing the many negative effects of workplace conflict—as well as the potential impact of investigations on those involved—he draws on his education, training and experience to help clients navigate complex circumstances with confidence,” his nomination notes.
Beyond investigations, Marshall delivers in-house training and presentations on workplace issues, including one-on-one training for individuals found to have engaged in inappropriate conduct.
His background includes experience as a prosecutor in police disciplinary proceedings and as counsel in police grievance arbitrations. He is certified by the Toronto Police Service to conduct use of force investigations involving Special Constables.
Marshall has represented clients before various tribunals including the Ontario Superior Court, the Ontario Labour Relations Board, the Ontario Civilian Police Commission, the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario, and the Workplace Safety and Insurance Appeals Tribunal.
He has also demonstrated commitment to increasing diversity in the legal profession. As a member of the Indigenous Blacks and Mi’Kmaq initiative at Dalhousie University, where he earned his Juris Doctorate, Marshall created the Keith & Gail Marshall IB&M Bursary, donating $30,000 to provide financial support and information on financial literacy for Black and Indigenous law students.
“In an exceptionally competitive field, he has built a successful practice surrounded by supportive, like-minded professionals,” his nomination concludes.
