Welcome to CARE Court
Under the Community Assistance, Recovery and Empowerment (CARE) Act, qualifying individuals or entities can petition the Superior Court of Kern County to help connect eligible individuals to a broad array of services, including mental health and housing services, via a voluntary CARE Agreement or CARE Plan established and overseen by a judicial officer.
The CARE Act Court Concept
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.
The CARE Act Court Process
CARE Act petitions may be filed starting October 1, 2024 in Kern County
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 Thursday afternoons at 1215 Truxtun Avenue, in the Metro Justice Building. The Honorable Stephanie Childers will be presiding over all CARE Act Court matters. Care Hearings will take place from 1:30 p.m. until 3 p.m. in Division K. CARE Act Court proceedings are not open to the public.
CARE Act Eligibility
Who is eligible to participate in CARE Process?
Petitioners and respondents must meet certain criteria to be eligible to participate in the CARE process.
What is required to be a Respondent:
What is required to be a Petitioner:
Filing a New Petition
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. Form CARE-101 (Mental Health Declaration) filled out by a Mental Health Professional or Evidence that the respondent was detained for at least two periods of intensive treatment, the most recent period within the past 60 days, must be included with your CARE petition for filing. 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.
Completed CARE Act Petitions and supporting documentation can be filed at the Courthouse. The window where you should file a paper copy is at the LPS CARE window on the first floor of the Metropolitan Justice Building.
You may also drop your completed CARE Act Petitions and supporting documentation in the LPS CARE drop box located near the LPS CARE window on the first floor of the Metropolitan Justice Building.
Completed CARE Act Petitions and supporting documentation can be filed by mail using the address below:
Kern County Superior Court - Metropolitan Justice Building
ATTN: CARE Act Clerk - 1st Floor
1215 Truxtun Ave.
Bakersfield, CA 93301
Self Help
The Court has a self-help program that provides information and assistance to self-represented litigants.
Visit our self-help center for assistance with your CARE Act filing.