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Relatives, extended family, friends

Conflict with someone close: where to start?

Brother, sister, in-laws, friend, roommate: these conflicts hurt because the relationship matters. They often touch several things at once: money, inheritance, values, roles, old wounds.

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Free, about 5 minutes. Your answers stay in your browser.

What the assessment can offer in this situation

  • What feeds the situation: facts, relationship, values, interests or context.
  • Your readiness to talk, and what holds you back.
  • Your needs named, and a question to ask yourself about what matters to you whatever happens.

What to do, in order

  1. 1

    Spot what is at stake

    A family conflict often mixes a disputed fact, a hurt, a difference in values and a question of money. Telling them apart can help avoid fighting over one while thinking about another. The situation sheet separates facts, interpretations and needs.

  2. 2

    Decide what you want from the relationship

    Repair it, take distance or settle one specific point: these three goals call for different steps. You can change your mind along the way.

  3. 3

    Open the conversation with a gentle message, if it is safe

    Describe a fact, say what you feel and what you need, then make a request the other can refuse. The tool "Prepare an invitation to talk" guides you. If you fear reprisals or control, do not do it on your own.

  4. 4

    Try free citizen mediation

    It covers disputes with friends, colleagues or family members, except those handled by family mediation (separation, divorce, child custody). It is offered free of charge by alternative justice organizations such as Équijustice.

  5. 5

    For an estate or money, get informed

    If the conflict involves an estate, a notary or lawyer can explain the applicable rules. Mediation can then be used to talk about the human stakes and look for an agreement.

Civil mediation between individuals

Onesence offers civil mediation between individuals: relatives, neighbours, friends, colleagues, partners. It is not only for businesses. Thalia Lamhene is an IMAQ-accredited mediator. Fees are given at first contact.

Separation and divorce: we do not offer this service. The Government of Québec's family mediation program offers sessions free of charge depending on the situation (see the Resources page).

See all servicesBook a meeting

Frequently asked questions

Can you do mediation with a family member?
Yes, for conflicts that are not about separation, divorce or child custody: siblings, in-laws, parents and adult children, for example. Everyone must agree to take part.
Does Onesence do family mediation?
Not for separation, divorce, child custody or child support. We offer civil mediation between individuals and parent-youth mediation.
What if the other person refuses to take part?
Nobody can be forced. You can invite the other with a gentle message, or start on your own: the assessment, the situation sheet and, if you wish, individual meetings with a mediator prepare a future conversation.
Is it useful if we have not spoken for years?
It can be. The assessment takes duration and intensity into account. When a conflict is old, the first step is often individual preparation before any joint meeting.

Take stock before choosing a next step

The quick overview takes about 5 minutes. You get one possible reading of your situation, and tools that may help you move forward even if you never book a meeting.

Take the quick overview

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This content is informational. It does not replace legal advice or professional follow-up.