The CARE Act

The CARE Act: Here’s What to Know

By Dec. 2, 2024, California courts in all 58 counties had launched the CARE Act, a pathway to deliver mental health treatment and support services to the most vulnerable Californians.

The law established a new, non-criminal process that authorizes certain people—such as family members or first responders—to petition a civil court for treatment and services for those with schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders.

On Oct. 10, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed SB 27, which broadens eligibility under the CARE Act to include individuals who have bipolar I disorder with psychotic features, starting January 1, 2026.

What is the court’s role?

Specified people can request court-ordered treatment, services, support, and housing resources under the CARE Act for another person. There are seven eligibility criteria for a person to receive services, including being an adult with schizophrenia or another psychotic disorder.

These proceedings allow a court to create a voluntary CARE agreement or a court-ordered CARE plan. The court holds regular status hearings to review the progress of the person under the agreement or plan.

How is the Judicial Council of California involved?

The Judicial Council allocated funding for all courts to implement the CARE Act, as well as funding for representation of respondents by qualified legal services providers and public defenders. The council also approved rules and forms, including a mandatory petition form, to support the program. The council is tasked with collecting data on the program’s implementation, as well as training and technical assistance for judges and court staff.

Frequently asked questions are available on our Self-Help Guide to the CARE Act, including:

  • What is the CARE Act?
  • What are CARE agreements and CARE plans?
  • CARE Act eligibility requirements for the petitioner and respondent;
  • How to start CARE Act proceedings;
  • Where to get help filling out a CARE Act petition;
  • Process after filing the petition;
  • What are your rights if you started CARE Act proceedings?
  • What are your rights are if someone has started CARE Act proceedings for you?