So, I had worked for a small computer company for aprox 2 years over a 4 year period (I left for maternity leave and then decided to upgrade my education)
While under this company's employ, I worked dillligently, and performed my given tasks above standard, and even took on extra responsibilities.
Technicly, I worked two jobs in one building, both jobs reliant on each other. One was the office and customer service side, one was computer building and repair. I went on Mat leave from the office side, and continued to work as a contractor for the repair side.. While working for the repair side however, I was rutinely asked to perform tasks for the office side. Which I did... for free, for three months.
Not only this, but I had come to discover there were points when I was under this persons employ, that I was receiving less than minimum wage!
When I left the second time, it was because her senior technician, who was my partner for several years, and the father of my child, wanted me to quit, and be at home with our child.
Over a year later, Im no longer working there, nor am I envolved with said technition, and Job hunting...
Ive come to discover that the reason I haven't been able to find a job for over 6months, is because the previous employer of the office side, has been giving me bad references...
I live in Alberta Canada, and don't know if there's any laws about that... what should I do?

Hi starved, unfortunately there are no laws governing bad references anywhere that I know of. I suggest you take this up with the person giving the references and find out why. Go to the horse's mouth, so to speak. Or, better yet, don't use that particular part as a reference.

Tick

If the bad reference is false, you will need to find out exactly what is being said, I would first ask to review your personnel file, even ask for a written letter of recommendation from the company ( will help end that)

If the info is true they are telling there is nothing you can do.

Also give the name of the person who was your supervisor that gives a good reference, do't give the other persons name