There are a lot of variables. What has the parent done? Is the child ready to forgive?

My father was outright abusive (emotionally and physically) and I haven't spoken to him in something like 3 years. In the end he tried to have me arrested for something he asked me to do.

However, I am a relatively forgiving child. I understand why he is the way he is and I can't hate him for that.

So for me I'd need him to stop drinking, actively start working on his problems, acknowledge the wrongs he did me and apologize.

There is absolutely nothing he will get from me until he can admit he was wrong. (Without any poor me sob stories, like I said I already know. I don't need or want to hear excuses.)

I think the key for me would be for him to actually try and build a relationship with me.

The absolute worst thing he could do is walk in with gifts. That would feel a little too much like trying to buy my love.

His money can't fix the issues he's left me with, him finally admitting he was a bad father might at least bring some closure.