CARE: The Community Assistance, Recovery, and Empowerment Act.  The CARE Act seeks to provide mental health services, support, and accountability for Californians living with untreated schizophrenia or other psychotic disorders. The act aims to divert and prevent restrictive conservatorships or incarcerations through a court-ordered CARE plan or court-approved CARE agreement for up to 12 months that is initiated via a petition through the courts.

CARE Act Court will help community members who have been diagnosed with Schizophrenia and Other Psychotic Disorders. As a result of these disorders, many people who would benefit from help may not recognize that they need it. CARE Act Court will build a relationship with each participant, motivate the participant to develop a treatment plan, and support them on their journey to a happier, healthier life. Each treatment plan will consider the individual’s needs, preferences, and goals.

When the person who needs the support of CARE Act Court accepts a treatment plan, everyone involved in CARE Act Court will collaborate with that person to succeed. As soon as the person who needs the help reaches a point in treatment where the Court’s involvement is no longer necessary or beneficial, the case will be dismissed.

A party that initiates a petition with the court is called the petitioner.  The party that either agrees, or disagrees with the information the petitioner has submitted to the court is called the respondent. Form 050-INFO has more information for CARE Act Court petitioners, and form 060-INFO has additional information for CARE Act Court respondents. 

CARE Act Court matters will be heard on Tuesdays in Department 1 at 8:45 A.M. CARE Act Court proceedings are not open to the public. 

To start a CARE Act Court case, a petition must be filed by someone who is familiar with the person who needs help. The initial petition, and other forms pertaining to CARE Act Court are available on the California Courts'  website linked here: CA Courts. The petition must be filed using the mandatory petition form.  The petition also must have certain documents attached to it that support the claims made in the petition. Form CARE-100 gives you more information regarding what documents should be submitted with the petition. If you do not use the mandatory form, or if you do not attach the supporting documents, the petition may be rejected or dismissed without a hearing.

The Court has a legal self-help program that provides information and assistance to self-represented litigants. Please visit Here for information about the Self-Help Center location and hours of operation.