3,300 Californians With Severe Mental Illness Diverted Into Treatment Through CARE Courts

Between October 2023 and April 2025, 3,366 people with untreated or undertreated schizophrenia or other severe psychotic disorders engaged with California’s new civil court process through the Community Assistance, Recovery, and Empowerment (CARE) Act, according to a recent report. CARE courts in state counties offer a voluntary alternative to divert people with severe mental illness from conservatorship or incarceration. Services that are provided in partnership with the courts can include short-term stabilization medications, recovery support, and connection to social services, including a housing plan.  

CARE courts are intended for people with qualifying diagnoses and impairment who are . . .