CARE Court is a program in California designed to help adults with serious untreated mental illness, particularly those experiencing psychotic disorders, connect to treatment, housing, and support. 

It was created to help individuals who may be:

• struggling to engage in treatment
• experiencing repeated hospitalizations
• at risk of homelessness, incarceration, or worsening symptoms

What CARE Court Can Do

Through CARE Court, eligible individuals may receive:

• A court-approved care plan
• Access to mental health treatment and services
• Support with medication, case management, and housing
• Ongoing court oversight to help ensure follow-through

CARE Court focuses on support and engagement, not punishment. 

Who May Be Eligible

A person may qualify if they:

• Are 18 years or older
• Have a schizophrenia spectrum or other psychotic disorder
  • (including bipolar with psychotic features)
• Are not currently stable in treatment
• Are unlikely to live safely in the community without support

Important to Know

• CARE Court is a civil court process, not criminal
• It is not the same as conservatorship
• Individuals are given opportunities to participate voluntarily
• Outreach is often the first step before a petition is filed

For Full Details and Forms

For complete information, eligibility criteria, and court forms:

Please visit: KernBHRS - CARE Act

If you're not sure what to do, you don't have to figure this out alone. 

A Family Advocate can help you:

• understand your options
• decide whether Outreach or CARE Court may be appropriate
• find other resources and support

Many families start with a simple phone call before taking any formal steps. 

Contact the Family Advocate
1-844-360-8250

If you're concerned about your loved one, you can submit a referral to request Outreach services from the CARE Court team.

You do not need to know if your loved one qualifies for CARE Court— Outreach can help determine next steps.

Outreach is a voluntary service where a behavioral health team attempts to connect with your loved one, offer support, and help them access care. 

How to Complete the Form

• Fill out as much information as you can
• You may leave sections blank if you are unsure
• You can choose to include your contact information or remain anonymous
• Be as specific as possible about where your loved one can be located

What Happens After You Submit

• The CARE team will review the referral
• They may attempt to locate and engage your loved one
• They will assess whether:
  • Outreach services can begin
  • CARE Court may be appropriate

How to Submit

Email completed form to: 
CARECourt@KernBHRS.org

Subject: CARE Court Outreach Referral

Fillable/Printable: CARE Court Outreach Referral Form

Important
(This form is for outreach and referral review only. Submission of this form does not guarantee acceptance into CARE Court or immediate intervention. 

If this is an emergency, call 911. For urgent mental health support, call 988.

Questions: 
661-558-1145

Click here to learn more about how to File a Petition