Who initiates an LPS conservatorship?
In Kern County this type of conservatorship can only be initiated by the Public Conservator. Referrals for LPS conservatorship are only received from Kern Medical Center (KMC) Ward 3-B, and the Superior Court. KMC can only initiate a conservatorship referral for an individual who has been involuntarily held on the unit via a 5150, and certified for an additional 14 days of intensive treatment via the 5250. At the conclusion of the probable cause hearing, the KMC physician can initiate a referral for investigation into the appropriateness of establishing an LPS Conservatorship. If after a thorough investigation by Public Conservator staff there exists a need for conservatorship, a petition will be filed with the Superior Court for a 30 day Temporary Conservatorship. The Court may appoint a Temporary Conservator, Ex Parte (without hearing). The Public Conservator is appointed the temporary conservator in all cases.
