An LPS conservatorship is for a person who is gravely disabled as a result of a diagnosed mental health disorder, a severe substance use disorder, or a co-occurring mental health disorder and severe substance use disorder, as defined by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR) and is unable to provide for his/her basic personal needs for food, clothing, shelter, personal safety or necessary medical care as a result, and therefore requires placement in a facility for psychiatric treatment.

 

An LPS conservatorship may be of the person only, or of the person and estate, but not of the estate only. An LPS conservator has the authority to place his/her conservatee in a state hospital or psychiatric treatment facility involuntarily.

 

Prospective LPS cases are referred to the Public Guardian’s Office by designated psychiatric treatment facilities. The designated referral agencies within Santa Cruz County are Community Mental Health and other licensed psychiatric facilities.

 

Once a case is referred, the Conservatorship Investigator evaluates the case, makes a recommendation, and, if appropriate, petitions the court for the appointment of a conservator.