Petition to Begin CARE Act Proceedings
Judicial Council of California · Mental Health
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Last updated August 1, 2026
This form starts the legal process to help someone who is experiencing a mental health crisis or substance abuse problem get court-ordered treatment and support services instead of going through the criminal justice system. Prosecutors, law enforcement, social workers, or other authorized people use it to petition the court to intervene and provide care and treatment to someone who needs help.
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