Regarding not receiving wages owed, what is the difference between filing an Employment Standards claim versus a Small Claims Court claim vs a civil claim?
for background this is for a non-unionized employee, still employed, and owing $20K and counting.

It is best that you contact our office to discuss the viability of each of these options with one of our lawyers.

On the most basic level, and without the necessary information for us to speak to this situation specifically, there are potential cost consequences to filing a civil claim if you are unsuccessful (a Small Claims Court filing is part of the civil legal system just as one filed in the Superior Court would be). These potential cost consequences vary depending on where they are filed. Generally are no cost consequences attached to an Employment Standards claim unless the decision is inappropriately appealed.

Cost consequences refer to a costs order made against you in favour of the successful party in the event you take the matter to trial and lose. They are not always awarded but can be substantial. Evaluating this risk would require a conversation with someone at our office.